Activities For Dogs Who Like Water
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Prepare for unexpected vet bills
Introduction
While some dogs are hesitant around water, others seem to really enjoy it, gravitating to all types of water sources, including (unfortunately), giant muddy puddles. Should your dog be one who likes to take a dip here and there, there are many activities that will provide your special friend that opportunity. Water activities can be provided at home in your yard, or you and your pooch can embark on outdoor adventures together where the focus is on water. Activities involving water are great for active dogs to get their energy out as well as for them to cool off in warmer weather. There is no question that you will enjoy watching your dog frolic in the water, having a blast.
Fetch...In the Water
Most Popular
1 Vote
Any Day
Free
Normal
10 - 60 min
Items needed
Ball or Frisbee
Treats
Waste Bags
Activity description
If your pup enjoys the water, why not play fetch in the H20? Not only will your dog be able to cool off while being active, they will be able to incorporate the water into their exercise routine, adding a level of difficulty to their workout. You and your pup can enjoy playing fetch in all different water sources, from the beach, to lakes and rivers. This simple game will bring your pup great joy and you will enjoy watching your canine companion running and splashing through the water. It is also a great way for you and your pup to make new friends, both canine and human!
Step
1
Choose your water source
What water source you and your pup visit will likely be dependent upon what is available near where you live; however, you can also plan more far flung adventures once you see the joy your dog experiences when playing fetch in the water. If the option is available, you can try each one, offering your dog a variety of adventure. Remember that each river, lake or beach will be different for your pup, with each trip to the water promising a new day of fun.
Step
2
Get comfortable
Once you have decided on where you and your dog will visit, grab a ball or Frisbee and check it out together. Once you arrive, give your pup a chance to explore the water and get comfortable. This will look different for every dog; in general, once your dog appears happy to run in and out of the water, as well as through it, they have reached a level of comfort. Make sure to stay close to your pooch while they become comfortable and keep an eye on your canine while they are spending time in and near the water.
Step
3
Add fetch
Now that your dog is comfortable in the water, it is time to give the opportunity to fetch. Go ahead and show your pup his favorite item to fetch, whether a ball or Frisbee. Once you canine pal sees the item, show that it is being thrown. You can then yell "fetch" and watch your dog get the item and bring it to you. Or, depending on how much they are enjoying the water, they may instead decide to continue their romp with the ball or frisbee in their mouth! Despite the fact that you are playing in and around water, you will still want to be sure that your pooch stays hydrated; make sure to offer plenty of water for them to drink!
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Kayaking or Canoeing
Popular
0 Votes
Any Day
Cheap
Easy
1 - 2 hrs
Items needed
Harness
Dog Life Vest
Kayak or Canoe
Activity description
Should you have a dog that is comfortable in the water and enjoys spending time in and around it, your pup may enjoy spending some time exploring the water with their favorite human in a kayak or canoe. This is a great activity for water-loving pups of all ages and ability levels. A more active dog can enjoy a swim here and there as you paddle the waters, while an older or less active pooch can enjoy spending quality time with their person on the water while expending little energy. Time together in a kayak or canoe will provide the opportunity for you an your canine companion to spend time together, further building your relationship, while also exploring the outdoors.
Step
1
Choose your adventure
First, you will want to decide where you will be taking your kayak or canoe. Depending on your own ability level, you can choose to explore a river, lake or even the ocean. You will also want to decide if you will be embarking on your adventure in a kayak or canoe. This of course will depend on which you own or can easily access. Make sure that the craft that you intend to take out on the water has the space for both you and your dog.
Step
2
Get comfortable
Once you have decided what you will be taking out on the water, you will want to work with your dog on getting comfortable with the kayak or canoe. Not only does this mean getting into and out of the watercraft, but you will want to work with your pup on remaining still when inside the kayak or canoe. This can be a challenge as your pooch will need to learn to ignore the sounds of wildlife that will very likely be heard while you are on the water. Also important is that your dog is responsive to your commands. If your dog does not respond to your commands when on land, they are likely not ready for the water. After all, they may jump out as they please, requiring you to haul your pup back into the boat. A dog life jacket and a harness are key items before you and your pup hit the water.
Step
3
Start your adventure
Once you feel confident with your dog's ability to follow commands as well as his comfort level with the kayak or canoe, it is time to get on the water. Get started paddling with your pal in the kayak. Ideally, your dog will relax while you do the work. If your dog is not a great swimmer or not in good shape, make sure to have your adventure where they will not have a hard time should the watercraft get overturned. It is a good idea to start slow when doing this for the first time (or first few times) to ensure that your pooch is comfortable and enjoys the experience. For a dog that enjoys swimming, make sure to make some stops where your pup can take a dip.
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Backyard Pool
Popular
0 Votes
Hot Day
Cheap
Easy
60 min
Items needed
Kiddie Pool
Activity description
It may not always be convenient to take your dog to a place where there is water. Fortunately, you can bring the water to your dog! A kiddie pool made of hard plastic (so your pup does not puncture it) filled with water will make a great place for your pooch to play. Your dog can run in and out as they choose as an opportunity to cool off, or can play on their own or with you in the pool. A water-loving dog will enjoy this opportunity in the water and you will appreciate the ease of being able to keep you dog happy with minimal cost and effort.
Step
1
Find a hard plastic kiddie pool
First, you will want to do some shopping for a hard plastic kiddie pool. You can purchase one used or new, and the size you choose will be dependent on the size of your pup. For a larger dog, a bigger pool will offer the opportunity for more splashing and swimming. While there are also many soft plastic pools that are inflatable, you will want to avoid these as it will be easy for your excited canine to accidentally puncture a hole in the plastic while enjoying a romp in the pool.
Step
2
Fill the pool
Once you have your pool you will want to find a place to put it. If it is really hot and sunny, seek a place where there will be shade for your dog as they play in the water. If the weather is more moderate, being in the shade will be less important. Once you have found the right spot (and remember, your pool can always be moved), you can fill it up with water. Start with a small amount of water, so that your dog can become comfortable with the pool and in the water. As your pup's comfort level increases, so can the water level.
Step
3
Play time
Once your dog is comfortable with the pool, they can have a blast in the water. You can allow your pup to swim and place on their own, or join in on the fun yourself. Let your dog dictate the activity; if your pup seems comfortable, try throwing items into the water that can be caught. Your pup may love cooling off and then want to play outside the water for a bit and then jump back in once they are feeling hot again. It is important that you keep an eye on your dog while they play in the water to ensure their safety.
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More Fun Ideas...
Long Walks on the Beach
A dog who enjoys the water will love to take a long walk on the beach. No fetch required. Take your pal to your favorite beach and enjoy a long walk at the pace of you and your pup's choosing. Depending on the weather, your pooch may make a run for the ocean water and remain in the water, keeping pace with. you as you walk, or you pup may walk with you on the sand until they warm up, after which they can be very enthusiastic about taking a dip in the ocean. A walk on the beach provides the chance to spend time together while you both get the benefit of exercise.
Go Boating
While there are boating opportunities like kayaking that require you to make a good amount of physical effort, you can also take your dog on a motor boat ride. You will be able to take the boat out at varying speeds, which will allow your dog to experience the breeze blowing through his fur. You will love seeing the joy on the face of your pup as they experience new things. And you can stop any time that you like so that you and your pooch can take a swim. A boat ride, and the accompanying activities, will be a perfect way for you and your pup to enjoy one another's company while on a quest together for adventure.
Paddle Boarding
Do you enjoy paddle boarding or have had an interest in trying it? Why not have your dog join you? This is a great opportunity for a dog that enjoys the water. Paddle boards resemble large surfboards that you can stand on and use a paddle to move as you choose. Allow your dog some tie on the paddle board prior to getting into the water to be sure that they are comfortable. You will also want to be sure that your dog is responsive to your commands and will be willing to sit still while on the paddle board in the water. Your typical paddle board will have plenty of room for you and your buddy, who will enjoy spending time with his favorite person as you explore water sources that interest you.
Conclusion
If your pup is a fan of the water, fortunately there are plenty of ways to keep them occupied, which include the opportunity to further develop the bond that you have with one another. Activities range from being free, to a more moderate cost, as well as simple to requiring a bit more ability for your dog to follow commands. What your receive in return for your efforts, however, is something that you cannot put a price tag on. During the time you spend with your pup involved in these water activities, you will further get to know one another, build trust in each other and continue to develop your relationship.