When you are outdoor having fun in the water, you might be tempted to let your Corgi join you. But, their long tube-like body and short legs can make you wonder whether they can swim or it is a bad idea.
Scroll down to know whether corgis can swim and what the precautions to be exercised in water are.
Can Corgis Swim?
Though they were not made to be water dogs, Corgis make excellent swimmers. Their strong short legs enable them to propel through the water. Some of the corgis are reluctant to swim and require training. They also have a lot of energy that is needed in the water.
What Makes Corgis Good Swimmers
Powerful Legs
Corgis, despite their small height, have muscular legs that make them great swimmers.
Corgis were bred for herding cattle in the past, and their muscular legs helped chase the animals in the field.
Corgis still have the same type of legs today, and their strength aids them in swimming.
When you immerse a dog in water, he will immediately begin paddling to stay afloat. However, paddling does not guarantee that the dogs will remain afloat for an extended time.
Corgis, on the other hand, have a better chance of propelling themselves and staying afloat thanks to their muscular legs and thighs.
High Energy
Corgis are an active, lively, and energetic dog breed. If given the opportunity, Corgis will run and play all day and will not tire easily. Swimming is an exercise that needs a lot of energy, which corgis have plenty of.
Corgis require 45 minutes to an hour of physical activity per day to be well-behaved and healthy. Corgis’ unlimited energy is important for swimming well for lengthy periods.
An active dog is more likely to be a good swimmer and to have the stamina and energy to keep going even when tired.
Swimming is an excellent sport for corgis due to their high energy levels. Swimming can help them get to work.
Swimming Gears needed By Your Corgi
Life Jacket
The main thing to consider when your dog is swimming is his safety. a life jacket is important even if your dog is a great swimmer, or the waters are shallow, you should prevent your dog from any unseen danger, or in case they get tired easily.
You should make a life jacket compulsory whenever your dog is swimming. Fortunately, there are many life jackets available for different dog breeds. This means that your dog will fit well in his life jacket making him comfortable while swimming.
Paddle Board
This one may sound surprising, but it is a tremendous aid in your dog’s first attempts at swimming.
Because water is a new environment for your Corgi, having something solid to rest or stand on can make them feel more secure.
These are especially useful for smaller dogs since you can enter the water with them while standing on the board, making them feel safer when they are just learning to swim.
There are no swimming paddle boards designed specifically for dogs, but there are ones designed for children.
Dog Toys That Float
Getting your dog to even enter the water (especially if it’s their first time) can be difficult. Getting assistance is advisable.
Dogs enjoy playing with their toys. So, whenever you can turn a semi-uncomfortable situation into a game, you win.
Tips To Use When Your Corgi Is Swimming
Shallow Water First
Your Corgi will need to become used to being in water before they can swim.
Take them to a shallow body of water or a pet-friendly pool to give you more control and reduce the risks.
If your dog has determined that swimming is not their favorite sport, shallow water is a terrific way for them to have fun and cool down without doing what they don’t like.
Be Calm
First and foremost, you must remain calm. Dogs pick up on and reflect our energy and emotions. So, if you’re nervous, an already nervous dog will become even more so.
If you are cheerful, calm, and encouraging, they will most likely follow suit. You must demonstrate that you are in command of the situation and that it is enjoyable rather than harmful or frightening.
This may not be the easiest task, and taking your dog swimming for the first time can be stressful for owners who are unsure of what to expect. It’s natural to feel this way, but if you’ve done all the essential steps, there will be fewer reasons to be concerned.
Don’t Force It
Don’t force your dog to swim if you’ve given them enough time to decide whether or not they like it.
We all have hobbies that we prefer over others, and it’s preferable to let your dog enjoy them rather than forcing them to do something they don’t like or aren’t good at.
Corgis were not necessarily intended for swimming, thus it may be physically impractical for them, which is why they avoid it.
If you still want to bring your dog to the beach or pool, remember that they can have a great time prancing around and soaking up the rays without getting in the water.
Take Your Time
Even though your pup doesn’t seem to like water at first doesn’t mean they won’t grow to like it. After the initial shock of the unknown wears off, they may realize how much there is to enjoy.
But don’t rush them in this. Allow them to decide the pace. Even if the first few swims are only a few minutes long, they can be quite beneficial.
It is critical that your dog does not become traumatized during their first swimming experiences since this will make it difficult to train them past it and encourage them to like swimming in the future.
Follow their lead, keep an eye out for any signs of discomfort, and always reassure them that they are secure.
Conclusion
Not only can corgis swim, but they also enjoy it. Because they are not water dogs, it is important to let them in the water slowly without forcing them.
You should not let your dog in water without a lifesaving jacket to avoid any unseen dangers. Being calm when your Corgis is swimming is important because he can easily pick your moods and reflect them.
Hope you can now go swimming with your Corgi, take one step at a time, and take all the necessary precautions.