Dog Life Jackets: Are All Dogs Natural Swimmers

There is a common misconception among many dog owners. This is the myth that all dogs are good swimmers, after all they even have a swim stroke named after them, the doggy paddle. It can be dangerous to a dog if their owners believe that they are as comfortable and agile in the water as a fish. The human body is built for running, does this mean that everyone you know can run a mile in 7 minutes? Unlike you or I, your dog can not call out for help if they are having trouble staying afloat. Humans have the ability to move around in the water in many different ways. Dogs can't simply swim under water or do the breast or back stroke.

Yes, there are several dog breeds that are very comfortable in the water. Golden Retrievers are natural swimmers and if your pet is in good shape should do fine swimming in a lake or pond. On the other hand smaller dogs, “lap dogs”, may not have the muscle strength required to keep themselves from drowning. Grey hounds and other dogs with extremely low levels of body fat will be less boient and have more trouble swimming.

Many dogs, even natural swimmers like Labradors, will have trouble getting around in the water if the are old or sick. Most dogs over the age of 3 or 4 are out of shape and overweight. This can cause them to become fatigued or short of breathe very easily. What would happen if your dog was several yards away from shore and suddenly became exhausted? Without a dog life jacket there is a good change that they could drown.

Dog life jackets are great devices to use if you want to make sure that your dog isn't put under any strain or stress when swimming. The device will simply make them a bit more boient and help them keep their head above water more easily. This will reduce the risk of inhaling water or drowning. Allow your pet to have more fun in the water. Use dog life jackets to make swimming easy for you pet and lot less stressful on their legs and paws.

Dog life jackets can be the difference between life and death for your cherished pet and taking that chance isn't very responsible. Protect your pet and make sure that when you take them out into the water that they are wearing a dog life jacket.

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