Our baby started crawling two months ago.  Up until now, the dogs have been able to out run the baby.  Just recently he has started to pull on the dogs and chase after them.  My youngest Golden Retriever is extremely tolerant letting our baby crawl over him, hug him, and pull on him.  I wish I could say the same for our other three dogs who look like they are being tortured.

A few days ago, my cocker spaniel started growling and nipping at the baby.  Our first instinct was to scold the dog, after all the baby’s safety is first priority.  We then started giving our dog options for escape such as going outside or laying on the back of the sofa.  This worked for a little while, but the baby is persistent.  So, I have started to train our cocker spaniel to respond to the baby’s advances by giving kisses.  The dog licks the baby’s face, the baby laughs and then goes on about his business – so far, so good.

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I attended my first doggie dip at a neighborhood swimming pool. This is a common event that occurs at the end of the season once the pool closes for the season. It’s a fun event where the dogs get the run of the local swimming pool. The event I attended had contests like ball retrieving, diving board jumping, and race across the pool. While most of the dogs had a great time, there are three rules I would suggest the organizers and pet owners should follow at a doggie dip.

1. Don’t throw your dog into the pool.

I was shocked at how many people pushed or threw their reluctant dogs into the water. Forcing your dog into the water teaches him two things: (a) to dislike and avoid water, and (b) to distrust you. Most people would think that throwing a fearful child into the water is child abuse, yet we are okay with doing it to our dogs?

2.Only dogs with dock diving experience can go on the diving board. Otherwise, it’s off limits.

While the diving board contest was fun with dogs that were willing to jump, it was downright scary for those that were forced onto (and off of) the board. I saw more than one dog hit the side of the pool in an effort to get off of the diving board without entering the water. Some of the dogs were truly frightened – see my “abuse” comment above….

3.Have an experienced dog trainer on hand to help dogs reluctant enter the water.

I witnessed a twelve year old girl teach her dog to jump into the water using positive dog training methods. She instinctively knew to encourage her dog through reward (tennis ball) and assistance. She guided him gently into the water the first few times (this dog wasn’t afraid of the water, just the jump) by holding him and praising him as he stepped off the side. Later, I successfully helped a couple of ten-year old children encourage their six month puppy into the water using positive reinforcement – kind words and treats.

Remember everything you know about positive dog training when getting your dog to swim. If the experience is positive for your dog, he’ll be paddling in no time. And if not, remember that every individual – whether human or canine – has different passions and abilities. Some of you love to play baseball, or hike steep mountains, or bike long distances, or swim, or play video games. Some dogs just don’t enjoy swimming, so find another activity that he will love!

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