DOG NON-SWIMMERS - 6 BREEDS THAT CANNOT SWIM

You might have thought that all dogs can swim. It's not entirely true. Some breeds seem to be born for swimming, but there are also those that, despite their best efforts, can't even pace themselves. Which ones are they?

Canine non-swimmers usually have several characteristics in common. For example, brachycephalic breeds – those with short snouts – should generally avoid water. There is too great a risk of water getting into their noses while staying in it. Breeds with barrel-shaped or long bodies and short legs can also have problems. And it's not just about body type that matters. Even dogs with long shaggy fur can have trouble on the surface of the water.

Breeds that should prefer to stay on land:

1. BULLDOGS

Both English Bulldogs and French Bulldogs have all three traits that make it difficult for them to swim. They have a barrel-shaped body, a flat snout and short legs. Bulldogs simply weren't made for swimming.

2. Pugs

Pugs often enjoy wading in shallow water, but their short snouts cause them trouble and they can quickly run out of strength. Many brachycephalic breeds, including pugs, have to tilt their heads back a lot when swimming, which results in the rear of the body sinking too much under the water.

3. BULL TERRIERS

Although the bull terrier belongs to the group of active dogs, the combination of short legs and a wide chest makes it difficult for him to stay afloat. Even its related breed, the Staffordshire Bull Terrier, which is much larger, is not necessarily a better swimmer. Their heavy muscles and too big head cause them problems when swimming.

4. BASSETS

You can probably guess what kind of problem the Bassets will have. Big head, short legs, elongated body. But this breed also has large ears where water can flow in and cause infection.

5. BOXERS

Another large active breed that you might think would be a natural swimming talent. Here, however, there is again a problem with a short snout, just as, for example, with a pug. Difficulty breathing and keeping the nose above the water can cause the dog to tire quickly in the water, so it is necessary to keep him under control.

6. CORGI

Although these cute furries often like the water, they are not good swimmers either. The combination of a long body, a wide chest and disproportionately short legs is to blame.

SAFETY FIRST

If you are the owner of one of these breeds or have another dog with similar physical characteristics, it is important to be much more careful around water. Here are some helpful tips on what you can do for your furry friend:

1. Get your dog a quality life jacket . Put it on him whenever you go around the water and make sure it's the right size.

2. If you have the aforementioned breeds and they love water, always let them run in the shallows and prevent them from submerging their heads.

3. If you have a pool at home where the dog could fall, fence it.

4. For some dogs, even a fence is not an obstacle and they can easily jump over it, so consider putting a ramp in the pool, along which the dog can easily climb out if he falls into the water.

5. It is also good for the dog to try swimming and know what to do. One of the effective methods is that swimming dogs look away from other furries. Take him to the water with someone he knows and don't forget to always wear a life jacket.

6. Do not leave your dog unattended near water.

The fact that the given breed does not have a body structure for swimming does not mean that it will not like water. In that case, all safety measures must be taken. It also doesn't mean that all other breeds will love the water and be great swimmers. You'd be surprised how a water dog that has water in its breed name can have an aversion to it. Every dog ​​is different and you should never force them into the water. Anyway, safety always comes first!