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Can Dachshunds Swim? Breed Facts & How to Teach Them
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The best thing to do on a hot summer’s day is to spend the day in a pool, cooling off and catching some sun, and if you have a sweet Dachshund that you would love to share the experience with, you may be wondering if Dachshunds can swim?
Swimming does not come naturally to Dachshunds because they are hunting dogs, and swimming can be an exhausting activity for the short-legged canines.
Dachshunds can swim, but it'll take some time and training because of their long body and short legs. They are not the best swimmers and will need more time to learn how to swim properly. In this article, we cover everything you need to know.
Do Dachshunds Like Water?
Dachshunds do not like water. They were originally bred as hunting dogs, and they are less inclined to climb into the water. While Swimming comes naturally to many of them, some may not enjoy being in the water.
Wet belly syndrome is also a problem for some Dachshunds. Wet Belly Syndrome sounds serious, but it’s just a behavior where Dachshunds despise going outside during the rain. They grow out of it or learn to live a normal life despite it, but others never recover.
If your Dachshund has Wet Belly Syndrome, it may influence their desire to want to learn to swim or go near water. Some tell-tale signs can help you determine if your Dachshund has wet belly syndrome, such as resisting going through a doorway that leads outside, not going potty outside, avoiding shiny surfaces that look like water, and more of an eagerness to walk when it's dry and sunny.
Can Dachshunds Swim with their Small Legs and Size?
Most Dachshunds prefer land to water. Their short bodies and legs can hamper their ability to swim. They will need to kick more often to keep them afloat, which may fatigue them quickly. They can easily sink and possibly drown if they become fatigued and exhausted. Swimming is a strenuous and tiresome exercise, and just ten minutes of continuous swimming is equivalent to a one-hour walk.
Every dog is different, and the best way to tell if your dog can swim is to expose it to water and see how it reacts.
Is Swimming Good for Dachshunds?
Despite their small size, they require regular exercise to stay fit and build strong muscles to support and protect their backs. Swimming can be a great activity for Dachshunds as it eliminates jumping.
Due to their size and shape, Dachshunds are especially prone to back injuries, so swimming can help them strengthen their backs, as well as their joints. If they had to undergo surgery, swimming can also be a great rehabilitating activity.
How To Teach Your Dachshund to Swim
Dachshunds are obedient and smart little dogs, which makes it easy to teach them how to swim.
Patience is the first thing to remember when teaching them to swim, as Dachshunds can be stubborn. They may take some time to learn, and it needs to be a fun and pleasant experience for them. If they are not enjoying it, don’t force your dog and try another day. Positive reinforcement is also crucial to making it a positive experience.
Start the process in a step-by-step manner:
For extra reassurance, consider using a life jacket; make sure it's comfortable and is the right size. They get tired quickly, so a life jacket can provide extra safety while they are learning.
How To Swim Safely With Your Dachshund?
It’s essential to keep your pet safe around water, especially if it's learning to swim or is not too fond of water.
Here are some tips for safe swimming:
Conclusion
Even though Dachshunds are small with short legs, they can swim only if they want to. The case will be different for each dog, but with patience and training, they can become great swimmers. It is a great exercise for your Dachshund, and the activity can help strengthen their backs and joints. Training should never be forced; it requires patience and positive reinforcement from the owner. Once your dog has grown confident in the water, swimming can be a fun activity for you and your companion.
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Sources
Featured Image Credit: Denis Moskvinov, Shutterstock
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Nicole is a lover of animals of all sizes but is especially fascinated with the feline variety. She’s the proud mom of Baby, a Burmese, and works every day so he can relax in the sunshine or by the fire. She’s always had a cat in her home and has spent countless days with others, observing behaviors and softening up even the grouchiest of the lot. Nicole wants to share her kitty expertise with you so you and your cat can live happy, healthy, and care-free.
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