Swimming with your dog – things to be aware of.

Many dogs love a cold dip in lakes or at the beach – especially in summer.

A swim can be cooling, stimulating, and good exercise for your dog, but there are a few things worth noting before your four-legged friend jumps in the water.

That's why we've put together some advice so both you and your dog can have a safe and enjoyable swim.

Where can my dog swim?

Rules regarding dogs on beaches vary from area to area, so it's always a good idea to look out for local signage.

On many public beaches, dogs must be kept on a leash during the summer, and some beaches do not allow dogs at all during certain periods. Also, pay attention to beach flags and information boards.

Fortunately, there are plenty of dog beaches where dogs are welcome, and where they can run, play, and swim in freer conditions – provided, of course, that you have control over your dog.

Some of our favorites in Zealand:

• Amager Dog Beach (off-leash area north of Amager Strandpark)
• Hornbæk Dog Beach
• Smidstrup Dog Beach (Gilleleje)
• Høve Dog Beach (Asnæs)

Remember fresh drinking water

For many dogs, the beach is one big playground, and when high activity is combined with warm temperatures, they quickly get thirsty.

This can cause some dogs to drink seawater. Small amounts are usually not a problem, but larger quantities of saltwater can make the dog sick and cause vomiting, diarrhea, or discomfort.

Therefore, always make sure to bring fresh drinking water.

A little extra tip is to bring floating toys so the dog doesn't have to try to retrieve sticks or things from the bottom.

Bathe your dog after the beach trip

Saltwater can dry out skin and coat, and some lakes and beaches can at times contain algae, which can be harmful to dogs.

A quick rinse after the swim helps remove salt, sand, and any residues from the coat.

If your dog seems listless, starts vomiting, or behaves differently after a dip in the water, you should contact your veterinarian.

Swimming aid – also for swimming trips

A life jacket is not only practical on boat trips.

It can also be very useful for swimming trips – especially if your dog is not used to swimming, gets tired quickly, or swims far out.

A life jacket helps with:

• Extra buoyancy
• Better visibility in the water
• A handle so you can more easily help the dog out or in

Beware of swimmer's tail

If your dog's tail suddenly hangs down, seems sore, or doesn't move normally, it could be a sign of swimmer's tail.

Swimmer's tail is a painful irritation in the muscles around the tail, often seen after prolonged swimming or if the dog has gotten cold.

You can try to prevent it by:

• Taking breaks between swims
• Limiting very long swims
• Drying the dog well after swimming
• Keeping the dog warm after the trip

A bathrobe can be a great help, as it both absorbs moisture and helps the dog stay warm after a dip in the water.