Some "water dogs' need help jumpstarting their confidence


September 01, 2006|By Karen Steinrock, Special to The Morning Call - Freelance

Dear Karen: We are curious why our 6-month-old Labrador retriever doesn't like swimming. One reason we chose the breed was for their reputation as water-loving dogs, as we camp near a lake many weekends during the spring and summer. Other retrievers at the lake love the water. But Jake only wades in up to his elbows, turns around and heads for the shore.

We assumed he'd be a natural, but when we took him out in deeper water he really panicked and had trouble keeping his head up. It's a real puzzle. Did we do something wrong? Is there a way to get him to enjoy water?

Mary Ellen, Dillsburg

Dear Mary Ellen: Jake is still young. His water instincts could kick in at any moment. Until that happens, do not force him into deeper water. Contrary to popular belief, not all dogs are natural swimmers.

I see it with Newfoundlands, (from which Labrador, Chesapeake Bay and Golden retrievers are descended). We all fantasize our Newfs performing heroic rescues in the high seas, but the truth is some enjoy water more than others. Those that require coaxing are encouraged with playtime and simple retrieves in shallow water until they are comfortable enough to move farther off shore.

Thus, the label of "water dog" doesn't mean you automatically have a canine Mark Spitz or Esther Williams on your hands. Enthusiastic young dogs who dash into water the first time often turn into splashing, panicky messes when they reach swimming depth because they don't know what to do with their paws. It can be very frightening, particularly to a young dog.

Professor Barney, now 9 months, is a good example of a dog genetically wired for water work, but a clunky swimmer. He's dives in and out of the water like a porpoise, but hasn't learned how to paddle with his back legs. So I'm careful to keep him near wading depth until he figures it out. Hannah, my other Newf, is a virtual swimming machine, gliding through water with power and ease. You just never know.

When introducing any dog to water, assume a learning curve and work at their pace. Don't expect Jake to perform like the other dogs. The fact that he needs a little jumpstart is not unusual. Walk him through shallow water, let him explore, fetch things and very gradually move out to swimming depth assuring he can quickly plant his paws if he gets into trouble.

Make it fun, and give him time to learn. Good luck!

Dear Karen: Thank you for the recent column which reinforced why adoption screening is of utmost importance in placing animals in responsible loving homes, so they are not subjected to neglect and cruelty.

I often hear the public complain about the focus on "quality" adoptions. Our applicants are required to socialize with the animal in a "Get Acquainted" room, encouraged to bring other family members and pets, and complete a thorough questionnaire. A 24-hour waiting period follows to check for prior animal-related offenses or anything that may raise a red flag.

Every effort is made to find the very best homes for animals. Thank you again.

Alice M. Zuanet,

Lehigh County Humane Society


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