Are puppies afraid of water? A Complete Guide

by

Water Worries

If you have ever gotten upset at him for playing in a dirty puddle, or ended a walk short when the rain started falling, you may have unintentionally taught your dog that water is bad. Dogs can also develop a fear of water if they’ve ever been in a situation where water was poured directly over his face, thus making it hard for him to breathe or see.

The unknown can be scary, but there are simple ways you can slowly introduce your dog to water to make it less frightening:

  • Play fetch with the sprinklers on
  • Let him explore puddles on walks
  • Don’t hold the umbrella over him when it rains
  • Pet him with a wet washcloth
  • Take him on walks around a lake or by the ocean
  • Feed or give him dog treats in the bathroom while water runs in the bathtub
  • Show him that baths aren’t scary by leading by example

    • Why Are Some Dogs Afraid of Water?

    There are many reasons why dogs may be fearful of water. It could simply be that its a new experience for them or that the water feels different under their paws or on their fur. Your pet may have also had a traumatic experience with water. Or, maybe they were forced to get wet when they werent ready. If youre thinking your dog is afraid of water but dont know how to help, the first step is simply helping your dog unlearn any negative water connotations. Then, you can slowly acclimate your pet to the water until they feel safe enough to bathe or swim on their own terms.

    Then, get some treats and get in the water yourself. If you are using a kiddy pool in the backyard (a good second choice if you do not have access to a doggy pool), put something in the water that can act as a ramp for your dog, so he doesn’t have to jump in – a board with a brick under it works for most dogs.

    We did the second with my dog Merlin. He would go the edge, but just wasn’t ready to take the plunge, partly because of the stranger element. So, once he was on the ramp, I gently put my arm around him and handed him off to Fish, who slowly lowered him in the water.

    While cats have the reputation for hating water, most dogs do not just run and jump into a body of water either, regardless of their breed.

    All of these are reason why I, even as a dog trainer, took my dog to a pool before we head out on a kayak.

    The good news is, that most dogs can overcome their fear of water and many even get to the point where the like being in the water.

    How I Get A Dog Over Their Fear Of Water In MINUTES!!