Labs and the water

Discussion in 'Labrador Behavior' started by sabri.1996, Sep 19, 2018.

  1. sabri.1996

    sabri.1996 Registered Users

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    My boy is now about 4 and half months. He loves water but still don't swim he just enter in the water. It is normal? When your labs start swim? Some tips to help him to construct confidence.
     
  2. Michael A Brooks

    Michael A Brooks Registered Users

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  3. Jojo83

    Jojo83 Registered Users

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    I would just let him take the next step in how time as his confidence grows. My girl only swims if she is on a retrieve other than that she will just splash around in the water for a minute or so and then come out again. As with all development and achievements our pups have their own timeline and it is important not to pressure them to the next step if they aren't ready.
     
  4. sabri.1996

    sabri.1996 Registered Users

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  5. sabri.1996

    sabri.1996 Registered Users

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    Thanks I don't pressure him I let them do what he want in the water. Thanks
     
  6. Diane Hess

    Diane Hess Registered Users

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    Dobermans are not real fond of water .....but Hoss is like yours just likes to jump and play around.....over time he has gone a little farther into the water ....usually will go in when he is chasing me or his favorite toy. As far as pools.....start with the pool steps......important for them to know how to get in and out of a pool......via steps.....all in baby steps...........and lots of fun.
     
  7. Ski-Patroller

    Ski-Patroller Cooper, Terminally Cute

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    If he retrieves tennis balls on land, just toss one a little way into the water so he can wade to it. Then work for more distance and deeper water. That way it is his choice to go in swimming. Being around other Labs that swim may help also.

    All of our labs were hard core swimmers, who would go into any water they came too. We started both of the pups in small creeks and ponds, and let them decide when they wanted to go deeper, mostly bringing back tennis balls.
     

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