Dog Drowning and Water Safety: Prevention and Rescue

By Tailwisp Editorial TeamUpdated October 17, 20263 min read

Water is fun for many dogs but brings real risks, and a few precautions go a long way.

Which dogs struggle

Bulldogs, pugs, basset hounds, dachshunds, corgis and other short-legged or heavy-chested dogs often swim poorly. Young puppies, seniors and dogs with heart or joint problems tire quickly. Even strong swimmers such as retrievers can be caught by cold water, currents or exhaustion.

Common situations

• Backyard pools, where dogs fall in and cannot find the steps
• Lakes, rivers and the sea, with currents, waves and cold
• Boats and docks
• Frozen ponds and thin ice
• Bathtubs and buckets for puppies

Prevention

1. Fence pools and use covers and alarms.
2. Teach pool exit: show where the steps are and practice from several spots.
3. Use a canine life jacket with a handle and bright color near open water and boats.
4. Supervise constantly.
5. Avoid strong currents, tides and cold water.
6. Keep dogs off thin ice.
7. Rinse after swimming to remove salt, chlorine and algae. See dog blue-green algae and water hazards

See how to teach a dog to swim.

If your dog goes under

Get your dog out safely without risking yourself. Lift him by the hindquarters to let water drain from the nose and mouth, then check for breathing and a heartbeat. If he is not breathing, begin rescue breaths and CPR. See dog CPR and rescue breathing.

Near-drowning

Even if your dog recovers quickly, take him to the vet. Water in the lungs can cause pneumonia, swelling and breathing problems for up to 24 to 72 hours. Signs include coughing, fast breathing, lethargy, vomiting and blue gums. See pneumonia in dogs.

Keeping warm

Wet dogs can become hypothermic, especially in cold weather. Dry him with towels, wrap him in blankets and warm him gradually. See dog hypothermia and frostbite.

Water intoxication

Dogs that gulp lots of water while playing can develop dangerous sodium imbalance. Signs include vomiting, bloating, weakness and seizures. Use shorter sessions and avoid games that make him swallow water.

Questions to ask your vet

Ask about your dog's fitness for swimming, which life jacket suits his build and whether heart or joint conditions limit water activities. Ask what to watch for after a near-drowning.

Common mistakes

• Assuming all dogs can swim
• Skipping life jackets
• Leaving puppies alone near water
• Ignoring coughing afterward

Troubleshooting

• My dog panics in water: use a jacket and go slowly.
• My dog coughs after swimming: call your vet.
• My dog slips on pool edges: add a ramp or steps.

A simple plan

1. Make water spaces safe.
2. Use a life jacket.
3. Supervise closely.
4. See the vet after any near-drowning.

Real-life examples

A pug is saved by a jacket on a boat. A retriever tires in a river and is pulled out in time. A terrier falls in a pool and learns the steps after a few practice sessions. Preparation helps.

Enjoying water safely

Many dogs love swimming. Prepare, supervise and keep it fun.

Choosing a life jacket

A good canine life jacket fits snugly without restricting breathing or movement, has a sturdy handle on the back and flotation under the chest and belly to keep the head up. Bright colors help you spot your dog. Test it in shallow water first and let your dog get used to wearing it with treats and short sessions before a boat trip.

Teaching pool exits

Place your dog in the water near the steps, guide him to them with a treat and praise as he climbs out. Repeat from several spots, each time moving farther away, until he exits reliably. Keep sessions short, calm and rewarding, and never force a nervous dog into the water.

After the swim

Rinse salt, chlorine or lake water from the coat, dry the ears to reduce infection risk and offer fresh water. Watch for coughing, vomiting, lethargy or unusual breathing over the next day or two, and call your vet if any appear.

The takeaway

Fence pools, use life jackets and see a vet after any near-drowning.

This article is general educational information, not veterinary advice. Every dog is different. If your dog is unwell, or you are unsure about a symptom, diet change or medication, contact your veterinarian.