Do Golden Retrievers Like Water?

Do Golden Retrievers like water? While swimming with friends at the lake, I found myself wondering if my new dog would be able to join us on the next trip. Happy pups paddling in the water is a common sight at the lake, but I wondered if my Golden Retriever would like it too. So I decided to do a bit of research to find out.

So, do Golden Retrievers like water? Yes, most Golden Retrievers love playing in water, and even swimming. 

It’s hard to keep most Golden Retrievers away from water. Some dogs are more hesitant than others, but almost every Golden Retriever can learn to swim. It might take a bit of effort, but these dogs will thank you!

Why do Golden Retrievers Like Water so Much?

The original job of the Golden Retriever was fetching felled waterfowl for hunters. These dogs would splash through the Scottish lakes and bring back the prey for their masters.

They were hardworking dogs who weren’t afraid of getting a bit wet!

Golden Retrievers are a mix of Yellow Flat-coated Retrievers and Water Spaniels. This breeding mixture makes these dogs clever, loyal, and very well suited to water. If you have ever seen a Golden Retriever at the beach, you will know that not much has changed! 

Golden Retrievers have a special wavy coat that makes them perfect for playing in the water. Underneath they have a thick insulating layer and a waterproof one on top. This means that Golden Retrievers don’t get wet or cold in the same way as other dogs.

But this doesn’t mean that every Golden Retriever loves the water.

Today, not every dog has easy access to water. Some live far away from lakes or the sea, and never get the chance splash around like their ancestors. Others may have taken a dip in the past and had a bad experience.

If your dog doesn’t like water, don’t worry!

It’s not unusual for a puppy to be nervous about water. Some might have a change of heart when they get older, and be aching to dive in. But others might fight to avoid getting their feet wet for as long as possible. 

If your dog has an aversion to water, don’t give up. Golden Retrievers are famous for being one of the most trainable breeds. It might take a while, but even the most water-averse pup can learn to love the water. 

Start slow and don’t force your dog into too much too soon. Most Golden Retrievers like water, but let your pup move at their own pace. Before long, your dog won’t be able to get enough of playing in the water.

Do Golden Retrievers Like to Swim?

Do Golden Retrievers like to swim? Yes! Swimming is in a Golden Retriever’s DNA. Most Golden Retrievers love swimming, and will dive into the water with glee.

But this does not mean that your dog will know how to swim on instinct alone.

Even water dogs predisposed to swimming need to learn to learn that wading through the water is safe. If you introduce water at a young age, it is likely that your dog will want to swim. But if you’re not careful, you might turn your pup off the water for life.

Throwing your dog into deep water as a puppy is never a good idea. This will associate water with negative emotions, such as fear and anxiety.

A proper introduction will make your dog far more likely to love swimming for life.

How to Teach Your Golden Retriever to Swim

Teaching your Golden Retriever to swim doesn’t have to be difficult. But there are few things to keep in mind for the best swimming experience.

First, you want to get your dog used to getting their feet wet on their own.

• Take your dog to a beach, pool or lake that allows dogs.
• Encourage them to step into the water with their favorite toy or treat.
• Keep practicing until they are happy running through the shallows alone.

If your dog is struggling with these steps, try playing a game of fetch on the shore. It might relax your dog enough that the water stops seeming so scary.

Next, it’s time to swim!

Check the water to make sure it is not too cold. If it seems fine, double-check you are somewhere public where dogs can swim.

• Pick up your dog and have a friend stand at the shore.
• Walk into the water until it reaches your thighs.
• Keep a firm grip on your dog and lower them into the water. They should start paddling as soon as they hit the surface.
• Tell the other person to start calling for the dog to come.
• Loosen your grip, but keep nearby to support them as they swim to the other person.

And there you have it!

Make sure to keep praising your dog throughout the process. You should also stay nearby for as long as possible to maintain your pup’s confidence. 

It is much easier to teach a dog to swim as a puppy. But this does not mean it’s impossible to teach a grown dog. If you want to swim with your dog, try to introduce swimming as early as you can. 

Swimming is scary for all dogs at first, but with time your Golden Retriever will come to love it.

How to Keep Your Golden Safe in the Water

While swimming is great fun, there are a few things to keep in mind to make sure your friend is safe. If you always take precautions when swimming with your dog, you will be sure to have a great time!

• Don’t throw your dog into the water. Golden Retrievers may love the water, but this will traumatize them. Instead introduce water bit by bit and make it fun for your dog!

• Be aware of the temperature. The thick undercoat of a Golden Retriever means that it does not get as cold as other dogs. But this does not mean your dog can withstand serious cold weather. If the water is getting too cold – it’s time to head home.

• Don’t go too deep. Make sure to stay in the shallows when teaching your dog to swim. Up to your thighs is a perfect depth for a puppy to learn to swim.

• Be vigilant. Always watch your dog while they are swimming. Pay particular attention when swimming anywhere with a current. You never know when they might get into trouble.

• Stop if your dog seems stressed. You don’t want swimming to be a bad experience for your pup. Make sure to keep it positive and fun at all times. 

• Think about using a doggy life vest while teaching your dog to swim. This can be a great tool to give you and your pup a bit of support while learning. It is particularly useful for adult dogs who might be more nervous. 

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