Easy Ways to Help Your Dog Stay Cool
Summer heat can be tough for dogs, especially those who aren’t fans of getting wet. If you want a simple, fun way to help your dog cool down without stress, keep reading! We’ve outlined 10 easy steps to introduce your dog to water play and help them enjoy it safely.
Before you start: Be patient and take it slow. Every dog learns at their own pace. Always supervise your dog around water to ensure safety.
10 Easy Steps to Help Your Dog Get Used to Water Play
1. Start the water
Choose a comfortable spot like a bathtub or outdoor kiddie pool. Turn on the faucet or hose and fill it to a shallow level.
At first, just let your dog see and hear the water running. Don’t force any interaction yet.
2. Get close
Bring your pup close to the water’s edge so they can see it.
Don’t let them run away, but don’t put them in the water yet either. If your dog seems nervous, avoid coddling—calm, neutral behavior helps reduce anxiety.
3. Interact with the water yourself
Touch the water and let your dog sniff or lick it from your hand so they learn it’s safe.
Let your pup explore the water freely but don’t force them.
4. Do a brief encounter
Gently place your pup’s paws in the water for 1 second, then take them out immediately. For large dogs, try just front paws or easier shallow water access.
Keep it very short—one step at a time!
5. Repeat brief encounters
Repeat placing your pup’s paws in the water briefly several times.
This helps your dog realize there’s nothing to fear.
6. Let your dog interact freely
Place your dog in shallow water and let go.
If they jump out, that’s okay. You can interact with the water yourself to show there’s nothing to worry about. Keep your voice neutral if your dog is nervous.
7. Repeat free interactions
Keep placing your pup in the water and letting them explore as they want. If they jump out, that’s fine.
Repeat often so your dog gets used to water without feeling trapped.
8. Add positive reinforcement
Give your dog treats and toys while they’re in the water.
If your dog is relaxed, praise them with an upbeat voice and smile.
This helps your dog associate water play with fun and rewards.
9. Encourage more play
Encourage your dog to play in the water by tossing toys or splashing around.
Only do this once your dog is comfortable and not anxious. If resistance remains, continue previous steps.
10. Increase or change interactions
Once your pup is comfortable, slowly increase water depth or introduce new locations like a bathtub or lake.
This builds calm confidence with water in different settings.
You can do these steps all at once or spread them out over several days. Every dog is different, so enjoy the process!
Feeling like a fish out of water?
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