Several stories have been explained about a Newfoundland saving a person from the water. Even those with no professional Newfoundland training in water rescue or swimming have shown heroic deeds to help those people who are in need. This is made possible since this breed likes to swim and is known to lay in water if opportunity permits. Having a Newfoundland that cannot go swimming or without love for water is certainly unusual on the other hand if you are one of those who was not able to bring home a swimmer and life-saver, there’s no need to feel bad about it since there’s always a possibility that you can train your four-legged to swim.
To teach your pet how to swim, the first thing is to get the stuff your pet must have – dog life jacket with d rings if possible and leash that can be linked to d rings. With life jacket, knowing how to swim can be less complicated because of the buoyancy the jacket brings. In addition, life jacket can make it easy for you to control and lift a distressed dog from the water therefore keeping it safe. The leash on the other hand permits your furry friend to swim a greater distance from you yet stays safe. Once you have procured the necessary things, it’s necessary to get your pet used to donning a life jacket. It’s necessary to help make your canine comfortable with the life jacket first before taking him in the water.
Next is to be in the water along with your furry friend. Being near you in the pool or lake can boost the confidence specifically if it is nervous to venture out in the water by itself. Motivate it to feel at ease while being there by saying encouraging words and praise as well as giving of treats. This will also help your pet associate the activity with fun and something desired thus will anticipate the next swimming session.
Similar with other Newfoundland training activities, swimming don’t need to last for hours. Make the first few sessions brief not to prevent boredom but to restore strength and body heat. The training session can be lengthened gradually as your canine increases strength and endurance.
Training a Newfoundland how to swim is not meant to be a hard task. With this breed’s webbed feet and water-resistance coat in addition to their calm and docile character and strength, certainly it will not take months for these gentle giants to know an activity what their kind is famous for – swimming and saving lives.





