Safety Tips for Playing in the Water with Your Dog:
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Always supervise your dog during water play, especially in lakes or rivers with currents.
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Know the water temperature—alpine lakes are cold! Even strong swimmers can tire quickly.
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Make sure your dog knows how to get in and out of the water safely.
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Be mindful of water intoxication in dogs who ingest too much while retrieving.
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Rinse your dog after swimming to remove dirt, bacteria, or algae.
Water-Friendly Toys that Make a Splash:
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Floating fetch toys like the Ruffwear Hydroplane or Gnawt-a-Stick are easy to spot on water and gentle on your dog’s mouth.
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The Zisc Disc by West Paw is a durable, soft frisbee-style toy that’s great for high-flying fun and won’t sink.
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The Jive Ball is an ultra-tough floatable ball perfect for aggressive chewers.
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Chuckit! Launchers keep the fun going with minimal effort and keep your hands dry and slobber-free.
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Stick-shaped toys like the Gnawt-a-Stick mimic natural wood but are safer and more durable, perfect for dock or lake fetch.
When and Why to Use a Dog Life Jacket:
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Your dog is new to swimming or unsure around water.
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Breeds with short legs, heavy bodies, or short snouts (like Bulldogs or Pugs).
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Senior dogs or dogs with joint or mobility issues.
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Boating, kayaking, or paddleboarding.
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Open water adventures where fatigue or current may be a risk.
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Life jackets provide visibility with bright colors and handles to help lift or guide your pup.
Breeds That May Love Water (and Swim Well):
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Labrador Retrievers, Golden Retrievers, Chesapeake Bay Retrievers – bred for water and love to retrieve.
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Portuguese Water Dogs and Newfoundlands – built for buoyancy and strong swimmers.
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Australian Shepherds and Border Collies – agile and athletic, often love fetch and water.
Breeds That May Need Extra Support:
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Brachycephalic breeds like Bulldogs and Frenchies – short snouts and heavy bodies make swimming hard.
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Dachshunds and Basset Hounds – short legs and long backs are not built for strong swimming.
Wrap-Up: Whether you're headed to the lake, the beach, or just splashing in the backyard, the right gear and a little preparation can turn a swim into an unforgettable summer adventure. Stay tuned for our product highlights featuring our favorite floatable toys, high-visibility life jackets, and dog-tested water gear!
Visit us in South Lake Tahoe or online at www.dogdogcat.com for expert guidance and curated gear for your alpine-loving pup.