Start with the Basics
You may just think throwing your Puggle puppy in the pool and hoping for the best is the way to teach them how to swim, but it's not. Take things step by step, there's no need to rush into anything that could potentially hurt them. Start off by introducing them to the water and letting them get a feel for what it is first. If you just throw them into it, they will become fearful and won't want to try it ever again. Show them that there is nothing to be afraid of and that it can be fun and a cool way to enjoy the hot days of summer.
Stay Calm & Patient
Bring your Puggle puppy into the water with you and let them decide for themselves on whether they will enjoy it or not. Of course if you're nervous or afraid, you can strap a pet life jacket on them to give you some peace of mind.
Once they are in the water, they will most likely start kicking and know to keep their head above water. You should be there next to them just in case they need a little push or some extra support under them. Smaller Puggle puppies and other breeds may have shorter legs and may not be able to paddle or swim properly, so keep that in mind when teaching your puppy how to swim.If you have a breed with shorter legs who hates to swim but you want to give them the opportunity to have fun and cool off, purchase a baby pool. These are perfect for giving your puppy a nice, cool area to play in while you work on your tan outside.
They also double for an outside area to bathe them in during the warmer months. This is also a great idea if you have a larger breed or a dog that is afraid of baths all together. It will help them relax knowing they are outside and aren't closed in.
Be Positive & Give Rewards
If your Puggle puppy is listening to you and is showing you that they love the pool, give them positive praise and reward them with treats. There are so many games you can play with them in the pool; fetch and Frisbee are just a couple. Teach them how to swim faster to catch you or play other games with them. Keeping them outside on beautiful days will help them burn off some excess energy and will keep them as happy as can be!
Also, if you are planning a vacation to a beach or a lake, teaching them this skill will help them to enjoy those bodies of water also! Giving them the freedom to explore these areas with confidence will help them learn new skills and teach them to listen and trust you. Of course, if you are nervous with them being in a larger body of water, put a life jacket on them and let them go. Always keep an eye on your Puggle puppy and never let them in the water without supervision, no matter how great of a swimmer they are.
Teaching Puggle Puppies the Doggie Paddle