Many people assume that all dogs are natural swimmers and have an innate “swimming reflex” that allows them to paddle and keep themselves afloat in water. However, this is a myth – not all dogs are born knowing how to swim. While some breeds like Labrador Retrievers take to the water easily, other breeds like Bulldogs struggle and need to be taught how to swim.
In this article, we’ll explore whether dogs have an innate swimming ability or if swimming is a learned skill. We’ll look at evidence both for and against the existence of a canine swimming reflex. Factors like breed differences, when puppies develop swimming skills, and how to teach dogs to swim safely will be covered. By the end, you’ll understand why some dogs happily leap into lakes and others avoid water at all costs.
Definition of Swimming Reflex
The swimming reflex refers to an animal’s innate ability to coordinate movements and reflexes in order to swim without any prior training or practice. In particular, the swimming reflex enables animals to hold their breath, paddle, and propel themselves through water efficiently and without panic or fear.
This reflex involves a set of automatic physiological responses and adaptations that allow animals to swim and dive instinctively. According to the diving reflex (also known as the mammalian diving reflex), when an animal’s head is submerged under water, its heart rate slows down to conserve oxygen, peripheral blood vessels constrict to maintain blood supply to vital organs like the brain and heart, and blood shift from the limbs to the chest cavity (Wikipedia).
Newborn mammals like puppies, kittens, and human babies exhibit this reflex right after birth without any prior experience or practice. When placed in water, they are able to hold their breath, paddle, float, and maneuver themselves to some extent (StatPearls). This demonstrates the innate swimming reflex present across various animal species.
Evidence That Dogs Can Swim
While dog breeds vary in natural swimming ability, most dogs will instinctively paddle and propel themselves through water when necessary (Source). Even dogs that don’t swim often can self-rescue by paddling to safety or at least keep themselves afloat until helped. The dog’s natural swimming motion involves extending the front legs forward while pushing back with the rear legs, propelling the body forward through the water.
Dogs that propel their paws outward and back down, pushing the body in a smooth forward motion, show they can swim beyond just basic survival mode (Source). While individual temperament plays a role, this paddling instinct allows most dogs to traverse through water effectively.
In fact, when introduced to water gradually, many dogs can be conditioned to not just swim but to enjoy swimming recreationally. With practice, they gain endurance and technique. Certain breeds like Labrador Retrievers even excel at swimming and are used for water rescue and retrieval.
Breed Differences
Some dog breeds are natural swimmers while others struggle in the water. According to the American Kennel Club, breeds like the American Water Spaniel, Barbet, Boykin Spaniel, Chesapeake Bay Retriever, Curly-Coated Retriever, English Setter, Flat-Coated Retriever, and Irish Water Spaniel are often excellent swimmers due to their histories of retrieving from the water. These breeds have anatomical features like webbed feet, water-repellent coats, and muscular builds that make them adept swimmers.
On the other hand, brachycephalic (short-nosed) breeds like Bulldogs, Pugs, and Shih Tzus often struggle in the water and are prone to ingesting water. Their short muzzles and flat faces make breathing difficult while swimming. According to Hill’s Pet Nutrition, other poor swimming breeds include Dachshunds, Basset Hounds, Pekingese, and Chows due to their anatomy and heavy coats.
While some dogs may be naturally inclined to swim due to breeding, most dogs can learn to swim with proper introduction and training. Their comfort level in the water can vary dramatically between individuals within a breed.
Reflexes in Dogs
Just like humans, dogs have reflex actions that originate in their central nervous system. Reflexes are involuntary and automatic responses by the body to certain stimuli. Some common reflexes seen in dogs include blinking, shaking, yawning, scratching, and swallowing.
The blinking reflex protects the eyes from foreign objects or irritants. When an object comes near the eye, the eyelid will automatically close. This reflex originates in the ophthalmic division of the trigeminal nerve.
Shaking and scratching are reflexes triggered by stimulation of the skin. Nerve endings in the dermis are sensitive to touch, vibration, pressure and irritation. When stimulated, these nerves send signals to the spinal cord, which then transmits responses back to the skin to initiate shaking or scratching. This acts to remove irritants.
Yawning helps regulate the temperature around the dog’s brain and increase oxygen flow. It is controlled by the trigeminal nerve and respiratory centers in the medulla oblongata of the brainstem.
Swallowing and salivation are controlled by reflex arcs in the brainstem as well. These help dogs eat, drink and digest their food properly.
Swimming Reflexes in Other Animals
Dogs are not the only animals born with natural swimming abilities. Many mammal species exhibit swimming reflexes and instincts that help them stay afloat and paddle in the water from a very young age. Here are some examples:
Humans – Human babies display signs of primitive swimming reflexes. When placed in water, babies as young as a few weeks old will display reflexive motions with their arms and legs that resemble swimming strokes. This reflex typically disappears after 6 months old.
Horses – Foals can often swim just hours after being born. They use their legs in a paddling, cyclical motion to propel themselves through water. Their swimming reflex likely evolved as a survival mechanism.
Cats – Kittens have an automatic paddling reflex to help them stay afloat. They often lose their affinity for water as they grow up, though some cats continue to enjoy swimming.
Rodents – Species like rats and mice are natural swimmers, using their long tails and short limbs to efficiently paddle through water. Their swimming reflex helps them survive floods.
Many animals are born with lifesaving swimming abilities they need to survive in the wild. Dogs similarly have innate skills that enable them to swim from a very young age.
When Do Puppies Develop Swimming Ability?
Most puppies develop the ability to swim at a young age. According to Cheap Surf Gear, golden retrievers in particular should be introduced to water as early as 8-12 weeks old to develop strong swimming skills. They recommend starting baths for golden retrievers when the puppy is around one year old.
Other sources indicate puppies can start swimming as young as 10 weeks old. As Barc London states, most puppies are able to start swimming shortly after they are brought home at around 10 weeks old. However, it’s ideal to wait until 12-16 weeks to take puppies swimming to allow for proper vaccination coverage.
Veterinarian advice is recommended to determine the best time to introduce a puppy to swimming. According to Animals Direct, puppies should be at least 3 months old before learning to swim, but consulting a vet first is best.
Teaching Dogs to Swim
Teaching dogs to swim requires taking it slow and being patient. according to this article “How Do I Teach My Dog to Swim?,” you’ll want to gradually allow the dog to become comfortable in the water rather than overwhelm them right away.
Start by letting your dog explore the edge and become accustomed to the feel of the water. Offer treats and praise for any interaction with the water to create positive associations. Allow them to wade in at their own pace, never forcing them in deeper than they are ready for.
Use toys or treats to encourage your dog into the water little by little. Toss a toy just a foot or two into the water so they start to reach for it. Over multiple sessions, toss the toy slightly further out as they gain confidence. Always keep sessions positive, short and low-stress.
If your dog seems afraid, don’t punish or scold them. Be patient and try again another day. Some dogs may take weeks or months to become comfortable swimming. Let them set the pace rather than overwhelm them. With positive reinforcement and incremental steps, most dogs can learn to enjoy swimming.
Dangers of Dogs Swimming
Swimming can be a fun activity for dogs, but it also comes with some risks that owners should be aware of. Some of the main dangers of dogs swimming include:
Drowning – Not all dogs are natural swimmers, especially heavy, short-legged breeds like bulldogs. Even dogs that can swim well may still be at risk of drowning if they get tired or caught in a current. Always supervise dogs around water.
Hypothermia – Swimming in cold water can rapidly lead to hypothermia. Dogs’ temperatures can drop dangerously low after just a few minutes in chilly water. Limit swims in cold water and watch for shivering.
Ingesting Water – Drinking too much pool water can cause gastrointestinal issues like vomiting or diarrhea. Lake and pond water may contain parasites, toxins from blue-green algae, or chemicals. Prevent dogs from drinking while swimming.
Ear Infections – Floppy or hairy dog ears can trap moisture and bacteria, leading to painful ear infections. Dry ears thoroughly after swimming and use ear cleaners to prevent infection.
Paw Injuries – Lakes, rivers, and oceans may have sharp rocks, broken glass, fishing hooks, or other debris that can injure a dog’s paw pads. Check feet carefully after swimming in natural waters.
Exhaustion – Dogs tire while swimming and may not be able to make it back to shore. Do not allow dogs to swim without supervision or swim for extended periods.
While swimming is great exercise for dogs, owners should take precautions to keep their pets safe around water.
Conclusion
In summary, the evidence suggests that while dogs are capable swimmers, they do not possess an innate “swimming reflex” like some other animals. Most dogs are able to paddle and propel themselves through water instinctively without any prior training. However, their swimming ability varies greatly between breeds, with some dogs naturally taking to the water and others requiring encouragement and teaching to swim proficiently.
Unlike the diving reflex seen in young mammals, dogs do not automatically hold their breath and paddle when submerged in water. They must learn to voluntarily control their breathing, close their nostrils, and coordinate limb movements for effective swimming. So while dogs can swim due to natural buoyancy, stamina, and observation of other dogs, it is not an innate reflex – they must develop comfort and skill in the water through experience and practice over time.
With proper introduction and training, most dogs can become capable swimmers. But owners should be aware of breed tendencies, provide flotation aids if needed, and take precautions around water. While an inevitable part of life for a water-loving Labrador might be splashing into a lake, an unprepared Chihuahua could get into life-threatening trouble in the same scenario. Understanding dogs’ swimming capabilities and limitations allows us to set them up for success in aquatics.
