German Shepherds are the most energetic breed I have seen and they also need a lot of exercise to maintain fitness. Just like human beings they also need a change in their daily routine as most of you must go for a long walk with your German Shepherds, just for a change you can try swimming.
But Can German Shepherds swim? Yes, German Shepherds can swim but they need proper training. However it depends on the German Shepherds whether they enjoy water or not, all we know is that German Shepherds are quick learners and if taught to swim then they will enjoy it.
Though swimming is not hereditary among German Shepherds they can learn the initial stage naturally. They are not a natural swimmer like other breeds but if given proper training they can get the skills of swimming easily.
If provided with proper training then they can get the swimming skills much more comfortably and become a good swimmer.
This article is all about the swimming skills of German Shepherds, whether they are natural swimmers, do they like water, do they like swimming, and many more.
Let’s dive into the topic that you were searching about the swimming skills of German Shepherds:
Table of Contents
Is German Shepherd A Good Swimmer?
Yes, a German Shepherd is an excellent swimmer. The breed is known for its athleticism, endurance, and strength which make them skilled swimmers.
The double-coat of the German Shepherd helps insulate their body from cold waters and provides buoyancy that helps them stay afloat during long periods in the water.
They are also known for their tracking abilities underwater and have been used to assist in lifeguard duties.
With proper training, your German Shepherd can become a capable swimming companion who loves nothing more than splashing around in the pool or lake with you and you will also realize your German Shepherd loves swimming.
Are German Shepherds natural Swimmers?
Every dog owners want their German Shepherd to do all the physical activities they want from them. You may have dived your German Shepherd into the water when you were in the pool thinking to make them swim. But Are they natural swimmers? Can they swim naturally?
No, German Shepherds are not natural swimmers like other dog breeds. They can develop their swimming skills after some exercise or training. It’s hard to believe most people that German Shepherds are not natural swimmers.
You must understand that every dog breeds have a different personality. Though German Shepherds can step their foot forward by doing initial steps in does not, it does not mean that it does, not natural swimmers. swimming requires special skills that they can cover only after proper training.
They can’t be natural swimmers because they have not been bred to do so. They were bred specifically for dog herding and at present-day also they are good at doing different activities.
German Shepherds are good at providing protection and they are used as guard dogs more often. The police and military train them for various operations because of their strength.
Since German Shepherds are working dogs, there is no such reason to be a natural swimmer at all. However, they have got good physical traits, if given proper swim teaching and they will learn quickly because they are a highly intelligent breed and a quick learner.
What Makes German Shepherds To Swim? Their Physical Ability!
German shepherds are a natural athlete breed with a lot of energy and stamina. Because of their athleticism, they can do any cruise. Yeah, of course, they enjoy swimming if trained but what makes them swim?
Let’s know the physical abilities with that help they can enjoy swimming :
Body Shape
German Shepherds have sturdy and elongated bodies with solid bone structures. Their bodies are well-proportioned which makes them true swimmers and because of this ability, they can swim.
Despite not being natural swimmers, they develop this skill with the right training. Your German Shepherd is naturally athletic and can be an excellent swimmer so you should gradually introduce them to swimming pools.
Long Legs Or Snouts
They have long muscular legs which allow them to swim in the water much more comfortably. Their snouts help them in breathing by keeping their head above water while swimming and this may be the reason German Shepherds love swimming.
Naturally lean and athletic
German Shepherds are naturally lean and athletic. As they are the best athletes, they can do all canal activities much easier. Atheism provides them with the tools that are needed to swim in the water.
Webbed Feet
According to American Kennel Club, German Shepherds don’t have webbed feet though this breed has compact feet with well-arched toes. There is an actual gap between toes that connects their paw which highly helps in swimming.
Double Coated Hair
German Shepherds have double-coated hair that protects them from unnatural weather conditions. These double coats are water-resistant that ultimately helping them swim helping
The fluffy inner layer of the German Shepherd works as an insulator while the outer layer helps in repelling the water. They can tolerate colder water due to their double-coated hair and make your German Shepherd swim.
Also Read: Is German Shepherd A Good Dog For First-Time Owners? 7 important facts!
How To Teach A German Shepherd To Swim?
As a dog owner you also want your German Shepherd to swim but what about the technique your German Shepherd should know before swimming?
Swimming refers? to a very relaxing exercise that not only relaxes the whole body of German Shepherds but also boosts overall fitness.
Let’s see some of the swimming techniques that you should teach your German Shepherds:
Getting a doggy life-vest
The initial step for your dog is to make them comfortable before swimming and provide proper safety. You can try to get a doggy life vest when you are providing initial training as it allows for proper safety in the water.
You can also look at these doggy life vest jackets from amazon with great reviews by customers.
- Ord Hound Dog Life Jacket
- HAOCOO Dog Life JaThinkPadt
- ThinkPet Dog LiKooserket
- Kooser Dog Life Jacket
Initially, you can try swimming your German Shepherd in still water as it will be less draining for them and will be easier to learn.
You should bring your German Shepherd into the water gradually, throwing them in the water suddenly may fear them, and it’s not a good thing. You should start with their toes wetting them in the water and making them comfortable making
Provide Companion
It is also a great option to make your dog comfortable, you can go with them into the water while teaching. The only thing to notice is see all four limbs on the water.
This will make swimming easier for them and also seeing the safe environment you can remove their life jacket.
What Are The Safety Measures For Swimming A German Shepherd?
German Shepherds are quick learners and teaching them swimming is an easy swim but there are some safety measures that you should not avoid.
Let’s see some of the safety measures that everyone should know:
- While teaching your German Shepherds “swimming” you will have to be patient, try to keep in pool water for some time, and develop their skills.
- Try to give them training in swimming for a short interval of time as remaining in water for a longer period may exhaust them and will not be a healthy option.
- You should also see the freshness of the water before letting the g swim. Dirty water may give birth to many other health problems and it will not be a good idea to keep them in dirty water.
- The most important point to consider is to see the moving water as German Shepherds are very energetic and if they are not well trained then they will be in danger. So never try to swim them in moving water.
Always take care of your German Shepherd when they are in the water. They should not drink water as it may contain bacteria, algae, or harmful chemicals from factories that may upset their stomach and lead to dehydration.
What are the benefits of swimming for German Shepherds?
There is a huge physical advantage for German Shepherds as they can be great swimmers if they are given proper swimming lessons. Its always going to be beneficial when teaching your German Shepherd to swim as there are many benefits of swimming that every dog owner must know:
Here are some of them:
Relaxing Exercise
This form of exercise allows your German Shepherd to free all the muscles. Regular swimming allows them to improve the movement of major joints.
It also boosts overall muscle tone and keeps hearts and lungs healthy. Swimming also boosts their stamina as a result they remain energetic for a longer time.
Helpful in Dysplasia
Swimming is also helpful for the German Shepherd who is prone to hip dysplasia. It provides a low impact on the hip and relaxes the body.
Helpful In Mental Health
Apart from their body relaxation, this exercise is also helpful in maintaining the mental health of your German Shepherds. They also remove their tension and boredom through swimming.
Helpful in weight loss
Swimming is also beneficial in maintaining weight. If your German Shepherd is overweight then this exercise helps them to remove the fat from their body as this requires a lot of energy.
However, Some of the vets also recommend this exercise for weight loss Shepherdson Shepherd but you should follow their instructions carefully.
Relaxation on Summer Days
German Shepherds find swimming to be a lifesaver during the summer because it not only keeps them cool but also improves their health.
German Shepherds are energetic breeds and this type of exercise is made for them, though they are not natural swimmers proper training makes them perfect. The y thing to take care of is always be with them when they are swimming so that there could not be any mishappening.
What breed of dog can’t swim?
Some of the most popular breeds of dogs that cannot swim are Bulldogs, Dachshunds, Chihuahuas, and Basset Hounds.
These breeds have short legs and large bodies which makes it hard for them to propel themselves through the water.
In addition, many flat-faced breeds such as Pugs or Shih Tzus tend to have trouble breathing while in the water due to their narrow nostrils and throat passages.
Dogs with thicker coats can also be at a disadvantage when it comes to swimming because their fur traps air bubbles which make them more buoyant than other breeds.
As always, it’s important to closely monitor your dog if you choose to take them for a swim! Regardless of breed, all dogs can benefit from doggy life jackets for extra safety.
Final Thoughts:
Being an athlete breed German Shepherds are capable of doing exercises swimming but only after being trained as they are more natural swimmers than other dog breeds. I tried my best to provide you with the most relevant information about the swimming technique of Shepherds.
Here is a quick review of this post:
- German Shepherd dogs can swim but after proper training.
- They are not a natural swimmer like other dog breeds.
- The webbed feet allow them to swim in the water.
- You should always be with them when they are swimming seeing the hazards in the water.
They should not be allowed to be in dirty water as it may degrade their health. I hope, your concept is now clear about the swimming techniques of the German Shepherd. That’s it from this post, stay connected with us for more info.
Related Questions:
How long can a German Shepherd swim?
German Shepherds are naturally strong swimmers and can stay in the water for extended periods. Depending on their strength, they may be able to swim for up to two hours or more without taking a break.
However, it is important to note that swimming can be very strenuous for any breed so it is important to monitor your German Shepherd’s activity in the water.
Additionally, make sure they have access to fresh drinking water after swimming sessions and plenty of rest when they come out of the water. This will help keep them healthy and safe from overexertion.
At what age can German Shepherds swim?
German Shepherds can start swimming as soon as they are old enough to have the strength and stability in their legs to help them stay afloat. This usually happens around 8 weeks of age.
However, it is important to remember that all young puppies are different and may mature at different rates. It is best to wait until your puppy has reached full physical maturity before allowing them to swim.
When introducing a German Shepherd puppy to swimming, it should always be done under careful observation, with proper supervision, and with patience. Never force a puppy into the water or allow them uncontrolled access to deep water without guidance.
Small wading pools can be used for pups who are not yet comfortable in deeper waters and adult German Shepherds who need refresher swimming lessons.
Do German Shepherds like Water?
Yes, most German Shepherds like water and they even enjoy playing in the water. They are a highly energetic breed and have no problem spending time in the water.