Can Bearded Collies Swim? Mine Swims Like a Pro!

It’s a question that has puzzled pet owners for years – can bearded collies swim? The answer may surprise you. In this blog post, we will take a look at the evidence and provide a definitive answer to the question.

You may think that naturally, all dogs love the water. However, you might be surprised by the actual truth.

In this article, I am going to talk about Bearded Collies and whether they can or can’t swim.

Key Takeaway

• Bearded Collies are typically good swimmers and they generally enjoy water, but like all dogs, they should be supervised and introduced to water gradually and safely.
• To teach a Bearded Collie to swim, introduce them gradually to shallow water, always maintain a supportive and encouraging presence, and use toys or treats as motivation, ensuring they wear a doggy life jacket for safety until they are confident swimmers.

Can Bearded Collies Swim?

Bearded Collies are a hearty breed and can definitely swim, but they may not be the best at it. Their thick coat of fur can make them quite buoyant, which can work against them in the water. With some practice, however, Bearded Collies can become strong swimmers. They may even enjoy taking a dip in the pool or lake!

Be sure to keep a close eye on your furry friend while he or she is swimming. Any dog can get into trouble if left unsupervised near water.

As a bearded collie owner, you must understand that Bearded Collies love being around water. They can spend a whole day playing at the beach or in a swimming pool.

One of the best ways to associate your Bearded Collie with water is by filling a kid’s pool with water. They can dip in there all day.

However, one important thing to note is that this love of water is not generic to all. Not all bearded collies are going to be happy around water. This can perhaps be due to certain past experiences.

Do Bearded Collies Play in The Rain?

Bearded Collies do not mind playing in the rain. They have fluffy coats capable of keeping them insulated even when the downpour is heavy. However, some bearded collies may most like be soaked after the heavy rain.

Bearded Collies love to play in the rain, but they don’t always enjoy getting wet. Some Bearded Collies will run through the rain and get soaked, while others will try to avoid getting wet by running back inside as soon as it starts raining.

Whether or not your Bearded Collie likes playing in the rain depends on their personality and how much they enjoy being wet. Some dogs seem to think that getting wet is part of the fun, while others clearly hate it! If your dog falls into the latter category, you may want to avoid taking them outside when it’s raining unless you have a good way to keep them dry.

One thing to keep in mind if you do let your Bearded Collie play in the rain is that they can get cold very quickly if they get wet. Make sure they have a warm place to go inside and dry off when they’re done playing. And don’t forget to give them a good bath afterward!

How To Teach a Bearded Collie To Swim

Swimming is a great way to exercise your dog and have fun at the same time. Here is a step by step guide on how to teach your Bearded Collie to swim:

1. Prepare yourself for the swimming lessons

Teaching your Bearded Collie how to swim is not an easy task. Although most dogs like the water and their natural instincts for swimming kick in, it is not guaranteed for all dogs. However, this is the reason why I am writing the article. My goal is to make this experience as smooth as possible.

Prepare for the swimming lessons. Whether you are taking your Bearded Collie to the beach, or to a swimming pool, there are some items that you have to bring along the way.

1. Dog Life Jacket. First of all, you shouldn’t even think about teaching your Bearded Collie how to swim without a dog life jacket. (You can get a life jacket on amazon.com). The life jacket doesn’t have to be fancy, but it has to be the right size for your dog.
2. Food and water. Bearded Collies have a lot of fur and they can overheat quite easily. If you are planning to stay all day long in the open, you have to bring enough food and water. Make sure that your dog has access to fresh drinking water at all times.
3. Treats. Offering treats when teaching your Bearded Collie to swim will go a long way. Make sure to bring your dog’s favorite treats.

2. Start by getting your Bearded Collie comfortable around water

Take them for walks near bodies of water and let them sniff and explore. Bearded Collies are quite energetic and curious dogs that will simply love to explore the water.

However, even if they show interest in water, do not let them jump in right away. A wave or simply their body weight can pull them underwater and can cause them a traumatic experience which might result in not getting near a body of water ever again.

3. Introduce your Bearded Collie to the water gradually

Start with letting them get their feet wet. You can either let your Bearded Collie go into the water alone, or you can pick them up in your hands and gently lower their feet in the water. Once you notice that your Bearded Collie is getting comfortable, move on to shallow waters where they can stand.

Make sure that you are not initiating anything that your dog won’t enjoy. Finally, take them into deeper waters where they will need to start swimming.

Note: If you are teaching your dog how to swim in a pool, make sure to show them where the exit is.

4. Encourage your Bearded Collie to swim by calling their name and offering treats.

Treats are very effective when training your Bearded Collie to swim. Bring your dog’s favorite treats and let the party begin. When you establish that your Bearded Collie is feeling safe and relaxed while being in the water, it is time to move to the next step.

Try backing up a few feet and call your Bearded Collie to come to you. If they are not responding, call their name and offer them a treat. However, be sure to stay close by in case they need help.

5. Play games like fetch in the water

Once your Bearded Collie is comfortable swimming, you can start playing games like fetch in the water. Just make sure that you are not throwing too far into the deep water.

Just observe how your Bearded Collie is handling the swimming and decide when it’s time to take a break. With a little patience and practice, your dog will be swimming like a pro in no time!

6. Use swimming as an exercise

If you have a pool or access to a lake or beach, swimming is a great way to exercise your Bearded Collie and have fun at the same time.

Most of us don’t live near a lake or a beach. However, if you are one of the lucky ones, make sure to take your Bearded Collie out for a swim as a way to exercise them.

Can Bearded Collies Make Good Swimmers?

Yes, Bearded Collies can definitely make good swimmers. They have webbed feet and a water-resistant coat that helps them stay afloat in the water. Bearded collies are also strong swimmers, and they love swimming!

However, If your Bearded Collie had a traumatic water experience as a puppy, it will most likely affect its reaction to water.

A lot of bearded puppies love playing in shallow waters. However, not every dog loves to swim when it comes to going into deep waters.

If you have a bearded collie, be sure to take him or her to the pool or beach often so he or she can enjoy a good swim! Swimming is a great exercise for dogs and it’s a lot of fun too says The BC Club of America.

What Happens To The Coats When The Bearded Collies Get Wet?

The coats of bearded collies become matted and tangled when they get wet. This can cause discomfort for the dog and make it difficult for them to move around. To prevent this from happening, it is important to brush the coat of a bearded collie after each bath or swim.

If the coat is already matted, it may need to be clipped short by a professional groomer. Bearded collies are also prone to ear infections, so it is important to check their ears regularly and clean them if necessary.

While most dogs enjoy playing in the water, bearded collies are especially fond of swimming. They have a waterproof undercoat that helps protect them from cold water temperatures. Bearded collies are strong swimmers and can even participate in dog sports such as dock diving and water rescue.

If you have a bearded collie, be sure to provide them with plenty of opportunities to swim and exercise their natural swimming ability. Thanks for reading! I hope you enjoyed learning about the unique characteristics of the bearded collie breed.

How To Get A Bearded Collie To Like Water

One way to get your dog to love water is by gradually introducing him or her to it. Start by bringing them close to the water and letting them take a few sniffs. Next, give them a small amount of water to drink from a bowl. Once they’re used to that, you can start taking them swimming in shallow areas. As they get more comfortable, you can gradually introduce them to deeper waters.

Another way to get your dog comfortable with water is by playing with them in it. Throw some toys into the pool for your pup to fetch, or take them on a walk along the beach. The more time they spend around water, the more likely they are to eventually enjoy swimming in it.

If your dog is still apprehensive about getting wet, try using a doggie life jacket. This will help keep them afloat and make them feel more comfortable in the water.

Eventually, with some patience and perseverance, your dog will love swimming just as much as you do!

Safety tips for Bearded Collies in water

Safety is very important, especially if you are just teaching your dog how to swim. Here are some safety tips that you should take into consideration:

1. Never leave your Bearded Collie unsupervised around water. Even if they know how to swim, things can happen quickly and they could wind up in trouble.
2. Make sure your dog has a lifejacket on if they’re not a strong swimmer. This will help keep them afloat in case of an emergency.
3. Teach your dog how to get out of the water safely. If they fall into deep water, they may not be able to make it back to shore on their own. Show them where the edge of the pool or lake is, and have them practice getting out.
4. Be aware of the dangers of cold water. Dogs can get hypothermia quickly in cold water, so make sure they’re not swimming for too long or going into water that’s too cold.

FAQs

Q: How often should I bathe my Bearded Collie?

A: Bearded Collies have a weather-resistant coat that can become matted if over-bathed. It is recommended to bathe them only when necessary, such as when they are dirty or have a strong odor. Regular brushing and grooming can help keep their coat clean and healthy.

Q: Are Bearded Collies good with children?

A: Bearded Collies are known for their friendly and playful nature, making them generally good with children. However, as with any dog, it is important to supervise interactions between Bearded Collies and young children to ensure safety for both the dog and the child.

Q: Do Bearded Collies require a lot of exercise?

A: Yes, Bearded Collies are an active breed and require a fair amount of exercise to keep them physically and mentally stimulated. Daily walks, playtime, and activities that challenge their intelligence and agility are recommended to keep them happy and healthy.

Q: Are Bearded Collies prone to any specific health issues?

A: Bearded Collies are generally a healthy breed, but like all dogs, they can be prone to certain health issues. Some common health concerns for Bearded Collies include hip dysplasia, hypothyroidism, and progressive retinal atrophy. Regular veterinary check-ups and a balanced diet can help minimize the risk of these issues.

Q: Are Bearded Collies easy to train?

A: Bearded Collies are intelligent and eager to please, which makes them generally easy to train. They respond well to positive reinforcement techniques such as rewards, praise, and repetition. Consistency and patience are key when training a Bearded Collie.

Q: Do Bearded Collies shed a lot?

A: Yes, Bearded Collies are moderate to heavy shedders. Their long, thick coat requires regular brushing to remove loose hair and prevent matting. During shedding seasons, they may shed more heavily, so extra grooming may be needed to keep their coat in good condition.

Q: Can Bearded Collies live in apartments?

A: Bearded Collies are an active and energetic breed, making them better suited for homes with a yard or access to outdoor space. However, with sufficient exercise and mental stimulation, they can adapt to apartment living. It’s important to provide them with regular opportunities for exercise and playtime.

Q: What is the average lifespan of a Bearded Collie?

A: The average lifespan of a Bearded Collie is typically between 12 and 14 years. With proper care, a healthy diet, regular exercise, and routine veterinary check-ups, some Bearded Collies have been known to live even longer.

Q: Are Bearded Collies good with other pets?

A: Bearded Collies are generally sociable and can get along well with other pets, including cats and other dogs. Early socialization and proper introductions are important to ensure positive and harmonious relationships between Bearded Collies and other pets.

In Conclusion

In conclusion, Bearded Collies are not only capable swimmers but tend to enjoy water-based activities.

However, like with any breed, it’s important to ensure they are introduced to water safely and gradually and monitored closely during swimming sessions.

Their natural aptitude for swimming can be enhanced with proper training and positive reinforcement, making it an enjoyable experience for both the dog and the owner.