Newfoundland Training: Teaching Your Pet How To Swim
Many accounts have been reported about a Newfoundland saving a drowning person from the water. Even those with no formal Newfoundland training in water rescue or swimming have displayed brave deeds to assist those who are in need. This is made possible since this breed likes to swim and is known to lay in water if chance allows. Having a Newfoundland that can’t go swimming or without love for water is certainly unusual on the other hand if you are one of those who was not able to bring home a swimmer and life-saver, it is not necessary to feel bad about it since there is always a possibility that you can train your four-legged to swim.
To teach your dog how to swim, the initial step is to get the tools your dog must have - dog life jacket with d rings if possible and leash that can be attached to d rings. With life jacket, mastering how to swim can be less complicated due to the buoyancy the jacket provides. Additionally, life jacket can make it easy for you to manage and lift a frightened dog out of the water hence keeping it safe. The leash on the other hand allows your furry friend to swim a greater distance away from you yet continues to be safe. Once you have acquired the required stuff, it’s vital that you get your dog used to donning a life jacket. It is crucial to help make your dog at ease with the life jacket first prior to taking him in the water.
Next is to be in the water with your pet. Being near you in the pool or lake can raise the confidence specially if it’s scared to venture out in the water alone. Motivate it to feel comfortable while being there by saying encouraging words and praise as well as giving of treats. This will also help your family pet relate the activity with fun and something desired thus will look forward to the next swimming session.
Similar with other Newfoundland training activities, swimming need not last for hours. Make the first few sessions short not to avoid boredom but to restore energy and body heat. The training session can be extended gradually as your pet increases strength and stamina.
Training a Newfoundland how to swim is not supposed to be a hard task. With this breed’s webbed feet and water-resistance coat in addition to their calm and docile temperament and strength, certainly it won’t take months for these gentle giants to learn an activity what their breed is famous for - swimming and rescuing lives.
Alison Martin has been an owner of a Newfoundland and has been providing her dog with effective Newfoundland training. To get tips from her, feel free to visit her site specifically focused on Newfoundland training.