The Dog Water Safety Guide You Need Today
Vet Reviewed by Dr. Jacob Klos, DVM
Summer and water go together, and so do dogs and water. But the assumption that every dog can swim safely in every body of water is one that sends dogs to emergency vets every year.
Here's what you need to know before your dog's first splash of the season.
Not every dog can swim
This surprises a lot of owners. While many breeds are natural swimmers (Labrador Retrievers, Portuguese Water Dogs, Golden Retrievers), others are not. Brachycephalic breeds (Bulldogs, Pugs, French Bulldogs) have body structures that make swimming difficult and dangerous. Short legs, heavy chests, and flat faces create a combination that makes staying afloat exhausting.
Even breeds that "should" be good swimmers may not be confident in water. Every dog should be introduced to water gradually, in a controlled setting, with close supervision.
Pool safety
The most common pool danger for dogs isn't swimming itself. It's getting out. Many dogs can jump or fall into a pool but can't find the exit. They swim in circles, exhaust themselves, and drown.
What to do: Teach your dog where the steps or ramp are. Practice pool exits multiple times so your dog knows the route instinctively. Consider a pool ramp designed for dogs. Never leave your dog unsupervised near an open pool. After swimming, rinse your dog thoroughly to remove chlorine, which can irritate the skin and dry out the coat.
Lake and pond hazards
Natural bodies of water carry risks that pools don't: blue-green algae (cyanobacteria), parasites, strong currents, and underwater debris.
Blue-green algae is the most dangerous. According to Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine, some cyanobacteria produce toxins that can cause rapid liver failure, and others produce neurotoxins that can be fatal within minutes of exposure. If the water has a greenish cast, visible scum, or an unusual smell, keep your dog out.
What to do: Avoid stagnant or discolored water. Don't let your dog drink from lakes, ponds, or puddles. After lake swimming, rinse your dog thoroughly. If your dog shows signs of illness after water exposure (vomiting, diarrhea, seizures, lethargy), get to a vet immediately.
Ocean and beach safety
Saltwater ingestion is a real risk. Dogs that swallow too much saltwater can develop hypernatremia (elevated sodium levels), which can cause vomiting, diarrhea, seizures, and in severe cases, death. The magnesium in seawater also acts as a strong laxative.
What to do: Bring plenty of fresh water to the beach and offer it frequently. Take regular breaks from swimming. Watch for signs of saltwater ingestion: excessive thirst, vomiting, or lethargy. Rinse your dog after ocean swimming to remove salt from the skin and coat.
Water intoxication
Yes, dogs can drink too much water. Dogs that repeatedly fetch toys from the water, bite at waves or sprinklers, or gulp water while swimming can develop water intoxication (hyponatremia). This is a medical emergency.
Signs include: loss of coordination, bloating, vomiting, glazed eyes, excessive drooling, and lethargy. If you suspect water intoxication, get to a vet immediately.
What to do: Limit continuous fetch sessions in water to 10 to 15 minutes. Take breaks. Use flat toys instead of balls (dogs tend to swallow less water retrieving flat objects).
The life jacket question
If your dog is a weak swimmer, an inexperienced swimmer, elderly, or going on a boat, a dog life jacket is not optional. Even strong swimmers can benefit from one in open water with currents.
Look for: bright colors for visibility, a handle on the back for lifting, proper fit around the chest and belly, and D-ring attachment points.
The bottom line
Water is one of summer's greatest joys for dogs. Make it safe by knowing the risks, supervising closely, and preparing for the specific type of water your dog will encounter.
