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Swimming with Your Australian Labradoodle? ALAEU Offers Advice

On warm days, it’s important for your dog to be able to cool down properly. Swimming is a great way to do this. Many Australian Labradoodles love the water, and it’s also a healthy form of exercise. However, not every dog naturally enjoys splashing around. One Labradoodle might dive in without hesitation, while another prefers to stay on the sidelines. Below you’ll find useful tips to keep in mind when heading out for a swim together.

Take It Step by Step

Give your Labradoodle time to explore water at their own pace. Start with a shallow area along the water’s edge or set up a small paddling pool in the garden. This gentle approach helps build confidence. It’s especially important that a puppy’s first experiences are positive. If they slip, are startled by cold water, or feel trapped, they may develop a fear of water.

Swimming is more demanding than walking. It requires strength and coordination, especially for a puppy. Begin with short sessions and keep a close eye on your dog’s condition. If they start swimming unevenly, their hind legs sink, or they pant heavily, it’s time to get out. This helps prevent exhaustion or stress.

Safe Swimming

Not all bodies of water are safe for swimming. Always pay attention to the surroundings and conditions:

• Avoid currents. Rivers, canals, and wide streams may have stronger currents than expected. Even a short stretch of fast-moving water can carry your Labradoodle away.
• Choose a gradual shoreline. A sloped bank is ideal, as it allows your dog to get in and out of the water on their own. Steep edges or walls without an exit point can be difficult or scary—especially if they can’t find a way back.
• Avoid metal grates and slippery embankments. Urban waters or ponds may have sharp edges or submerged grates. These can injure your Labradoodle or trap their paws.
• Wait before swimming after meals. Swimming on a full stomach increases the risk of gastric torsion (bloat), a serious and painful condition that requires immediate veterinary care.

Always stay nearby. Swimming may seem effortless, but your dog can tire suddenly, cramp up, or become frightened. Your presence helps them feel safe and lets them relax and enjoy the water.

Be Aware of Water Quality

Hot weather can lead to bacteria and algae growth in the water, which may cause health issues. One example is leptospirosis (Weil’s disease), which dogs can contract by drinking or swimming in contaminated water. Fortunately, there is a vaccine for this. It’s wise to check with your vet to ensure your Labradoodle is adequately protected.

Watch out for:

• Blue-green algae: Found mainly in stagnant water that heats up quickly. It can cause skin irritation, vomiting, or diarrhoea. Sometimes there’s a bluish-green film on the surface, but not always. Warning signs may be posted, though not guaranteed—stay alert.
• Botulism: A bacteria that can cause paralysis, especially in oxygen-poor water where dead animals may be present.
• Ditches and canals: These are often polluted. It’s best not to let your Labradoodle swim or drink there.

If you’re unsure about the water’s safety, choose another spot. Avoid letting your dog drink from unknown sources altogether.

Where Can You Swim Safely?

The safest option is a location specifically designed or known to be suitable for dogs. Examples include:

• Official dog-swimming areas. Some recreational lakes have designated zones where dogs are welcome to swim safely.
• Nature reserves with supervision. Visit your local government website for information on safe swimming areas and water quality alerts. For example, in the Netherlands you can use zwemwater.nl.
• Off-lead areas with water. When in doubt, ask the local council or fellow dog owners whether the water is safe.

Always check for signs indicating warnings or restrictions. In fragile natural areas, swimming with dogs may not be allowed.

If you’re heading out, be sure to bring a few essentials: clean drinking water, a towel to dry your dog, and possibly a cooling mat or blanket to rest on. Depending on your dog and the location, an extra lead or a doggy life vest may also be helpful.

Swimming in Your Own Garden

A paddling pool in the garden is a great way to help your Labradoodle cool off. Choose a shallow pool that’s easy to get in and out of, and refresh the water regularly.

Do you have a large swimming pool with chlorine? It’s better not to let your dog in. Chlorine can irritate the skin and eyes, and many dogs don’t know how to get out on their own. The water is often colder than expected, too. If you still want your Labradoodle to cool down at home, a specially designed dog pool is a safer option. A sprinkler is another fun way to cool off and play together.

Try to keep your Labradoodle’s back and head dry when playing with water. A wet topcoat can trap heat and cause overheating. Wet paws and belly usually offer enough cooling. After playing, don’t let your dog lie in the sun.

After-Swim Care

Looking after your dog post-swim helps keep their skin and coat healthy:

• Rinse them off. Especially after swimming in natural water or the sea, to remove dirt, sand, or algae residue.
• Dry the coat thoroughly. Pay special attention to armpits, groin, and between the toes, where moisture can linger.
• Check the ears. Labradoodles are prone to ear issues. Gently dab them dry and watch for redness or unusual smells.
• Check for ticks, especially if you’ve been in wooded or overgrown areas.

And If They’re Not Interested?

Not every dog loves water—and that’s perfectly okay. Never force your Labradoodle into the water. There are plenty of other ways to help them cool down, such as a cooling mat, a damp towel, or simply a shady spot. Let them choose what feels best. Enjoying time together is what matters most.