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should i get my dog a life jacket?
my dog has never been swimming (unless he did before he was in the shelter). There is an event at a (sort of) nearby beach for dogs, and I think it would be fun, but should I get him a life jacket in case he isnt a good swimmer? he really loves other dogs, so I feel like he would try and follow dogs out into the water even if he wasn't a good swimmer. do you think I need to get him a life jacket or just keep a close eye on him?
Asked by
Mud
on Mar 16th 2008
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in Pet Products
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Best Answer
Since you don't know whether he's ever been swimming before, I would hold off on buying a life jacket at this point and instead go and evaluate how he does in the water.
This is best done by going to an area that allows dogs to swim and keeping him on a long line. Let him go and explore the water first. Some dogs are very unsure of getting into water, especially in a beach setting, if they've never been swimming before. Many dogs are unsure about being unable to feel the ground once the water gets deeper, so he may just want to turn around and come back.
If it's warm enough for you to go into the water, wade out and have him swim to you while still on the long line, then back to the beach. This should give you a good idea how well he swims and how comfortable he is with it.
Using a life jacket makes swimming much easier because all he has to do is paddle (not keep himself afloat AND paddle), so if he's not a strong swimmer, then I'd go and buy one.
Abby K-9 answered on Mar 16th.
Other Answers
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Here's what I think....
If you're actually thinking about it, chances are it is a good idea. I think there's certainly nothing WRONG with getting him a life jacket. It is a responsible, smart thing to do, especially if you aren't as completely familiar with him and his abilities, yet.
If nothing else, it will make you feel more relaxed, and there's nothing wrong with that, either.
I say go for it.
Jack
answered on 3/16/08.
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We got our dog a life jacket when we got a boat. Our dog does not like getting in the water, but loved going out on the boat. She always wore it while on the boat. We bought the life jacket just in case there was ever an accident or she went in for some reason. On the beach I just keep my dog on a long retractable leash. She still won't go in the water LOL! Your dog would still be able to swim, if he wanted, but you would have control if things got out of hand.
Baby Girl
answered on 3/16/08.
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