Do Belgian Malinois Like Water?

Not Every Dog Is A Natural Swimmer

It is crucial to understand that your canine friend may or may not be comfortable with swimming. Certain breeds like Labrador Retriever and Portugal Water Dog were born to swim as they were developed for underwater jobs. They were fisherman helpers or helped in waterbird hunts. Irish Water Spaniel has a distinctive water-repellent coat. 

Some breeds like Bulldogs have a weight distribution that makes it impossible for them to swim very well without a life vest. Going out into the water voluntarily and floating around with a purpose is what classifies them as swimmers.

Then some dogs are biologically not most compatible. Like if your dog is a short-legged or long-bodied breed, or is both, like a Dachshunds, then they can struggle in the water without a vest and training. 
It is also essential to keep in mind some young puppies lack muscle development for swimming and are advised against it. It is better to wait till they grow a little older. The same situation is with old dogs too. 

Another important factor is your dogs’ personality and previous experiences in and around water. Every dog is different. 

Shier and more timid dogs may have difficulty learning to enjoy the water, while the more courageous dog might find it relatively more straightforward. Their previous experiences probably play the most significant role, though. If they’ve had a bunch of exposure and fun playing in the water, then they are much more likely to take to it like a playful sport when swimming. 

It is a myth that all dogs are natural swimmers. Some dogs can learn to swim with the right encouragement and the right temperament if they have it. Teaching a dog to swim requires patience and building confidence in them, just like a child.

Can Belgian Malinois Swim?

Belgian Malinois are solid swimmers, and many of them even enjoy swimming. They are an intelligent breed. And they will learn commands quickly. Thus it will be relatively easier to train Belgian Malinois to swim with the proper process and precautions.

Should I Teach My Belgian Malinois To Swim?

Belgian Malinois are entertaining activity partners. You will have a lot of fun spending time with them in the water swimming. It is essential to understand a few things, though.

Your dog jumping in the water without any prior training or precaution will lead to potentially fatal injuries. As a dog trainer, I have heard too many such fatalities in my years of experience, and it is soul-crushing. The incidents are mainly because the dog did not know to swim or could not get out of water. 

Thus it is essential to train your dogs to swim. Teach your dog to get in the water and getting out. If they struggle to do so, then avoid water bodies. Your Belgian Malinois learning how to swim is a life-saving skill added to their abilities. 

I am here to explain the process and give you hints and pointers which will help you train your Belgian Malinois in becoming a pro swimmer.

Where To Teach My Belgian Malinois To Swim?

The first step is to identify the teaching spot for your canine partner. It can be a lake or pool, but “The American Kennel Club” advises having a gradual slope into the water. The bright blue color of the swimming pool might make your dog reluctant to get in. A lake or pond will give them a more natural setting. But trust me, water is water, and if your Belgian Malinois is inclined to swimming, it will gradually get in.   

There are few precautions to take whenever your Malinois is near or in water. You need to check the temperature of the water and air. Both should be at least 100 degrees Fahrenheit before your dog gets in to swim. If the water is too cold, your dog suffers from a cold tail, also known as a swimmer’s tail or limber tail, where it cannot wag or lift its tail. 

Your dog can also experience hypothermia which can lead to a serious problem and even worse. Please keep in mind if your dog gets in the cold water and begins to shiver or not use its tail, immediately seek a veterinarian. 

Another crucial thing to keep in mind is water toxicity when a dog swallows too much water while swimming. You can understand this if your dog shows signs of throwing up after swimming. The suggestion is to keep the sessions small, a maximum of 10 minutes at a go. Feed your dog some dehydrated or freeze-dried food after they come out of the pool. This will help absorb the excess water in the stomach. 

Provide access to shade and fresh, clean drinking water whenever your dog is outside in the sun. Or else your dog might be tempted to sip from the pool, ocean, or lake. This isn’t the healthiest option. Do carry sun protection to avoid any form of sunburns but do not put it on your Belgian Malinois’ nose.

Choosing The Best Flotation Device

Belgian Malinois is a swimming breed. Thus it is vital to get the best-suited style of a life jacket. Your dog might become exhausted or get flustered in water. The extra buoyancy will help them with safety and security. A flotation device can be a lifesaver when you are out with your Malinois in water as they might fall overboard, and the rough, strong water current can cause extreme harm. 

It is essential to get life jackets. Make sure that they are durable and made of waterproof materials.  Ensure that it is adjustable so you can provide a proper fit for your dog. You might also consider a flotation piece under the chin to keep your dog’s head above water for any kind of additional support is needed. Get a brightly colored fabric for better visibility.

The Importance Of A Dog Life Jacket

Godlevski from the “American Kennel Club” advice, “Buy a doggie life vest that fits your dog comfortably. No matter what breed you have, you always want that first experience to be fun and not scary.” 

Your Belgian Malinois will be much more confident and feel braver in a Dog Life Jacket. It is vital to purchase a vest fitting your dog well. Your Malinois in a life vest will simply float while they get their training. It helps them realize they can paddle their feet. 

For a newbie Malinois in swimming, the vest acts as a “front-wheel drive.” Dogs under training only paddle their front feet while their back legs dangle down, trying to find the ground. If you have a life vest on your Belgian Malinois, the dog’s rear stays in level with the water. It then occurs to the dog that they do have “four-wheel-drive” and all four paws paddle together. This will help them learn smoothly and provide more effortless movement in the water. 

Ensure the device has a sturdy handle. This can help you lift your Belgian Malinois out of the water, grab them if they are struggling, and guide them as they learn to swim. Make sure it is not too tight or loose, which might cause discomfort to your dog. Your Malinois can have dislike learning to swim if the vest does not fit well, and the experience is terrible. A good fit of the handle helps you feel confident as a trainer as well. 

What To Do After My Belgian Malinois Is Out Of Water?

Get a sizable handy beach towel to dry your Belgian Malinois super dry once they are out of water. You can brush their thin coat and get them prim and proper. It is also necessary in case your dog runs into any bugs when swimming. But the essential part is drying them, or your dog will be stinky and catch a cold.