You maybe wondering if you can take your doodle to the lake? Or maybe you have a pool, are nervous about the risks of having a Goldendoodle near the water? I have great news! Yes, your Goldendoodle can swim. In fact, they might even LOVE swimming!
One of the reasons Goldendoodles love the water is because their parents do, too! Golden Retrievers and Poodles are both water retrievers, originally bred to work in the water. Your doodle has webbed feet, just like their ancestors, which allows them to move plenty of water with each stroke.
I simply adore my Mini F1 Goldendoodle, Junie. When she saw water for the first time, she new exactly what to do, and jumped right in. Luckily for Junie, we have a 1 acre pond in our backyard. It is guaranteed, if we head to the back of the property, she will go swimming.
No doubt, Junie is a water enthusiast, but it is hard to beat Lucy’s passion for swimming. Our Golden Retriever Mama is always the first one in the water. Lucy has also figured out that the shortest way from one side of the pond to the other, is through it! And she is happy to take that short cut.
Introducing Your Goldendoodle To Water
If your Goldendoodle has never been near the water, they might not be sure what to think of it at first. That is okay. It may take a few trips for them to warm up to the water. Do you know anyone whose dog does love the water? Being around another dog that loves to swim, might help break the ice for your doodle.
We will take tennis balls out back by the pond for our dogs to retrieve from the water. If we forget a tennis ball, they are quick to find a stick for us to throw instead. This makes swimming a fun game for them!
Never force your dog into the water. Also be careful of allowing them to drag their leash into the water. You don’t want them to get caught in or under the water. You want your Goldendoodle to have a positive experience near the water. Let your doodle lead their own water exploration. While your Goldendoodle can swim, they may choose not to.
You will also want to check the water quality of where your dog is swimming. A good rule of thumb is, if you wouldn’t swim in it, then your dog shouldn’t either!
Best Places to Take Your Goldendoodle Swimming
- Your Swimming Pool – or maybe the neighbors? Just like humans, Goldendoodle hair can get matted from the chlorine in a pool. Be sure to wash and brush your doodle after a dip in the pool.
- The Little Miami River – There is a rocky beach right off the bike trail in loveland that allows you and your doodle to dip your toes in the water. Not local to Loveland? Check out your local river or creek for easy entry points for your pup.
- The Lake – Do you vacation near a lake? Try taking your doodle to the lakeshore with you!
- A Pond – If you are like us, and own a pond, starting in your backyard might make your doodle feel more comfortable.
- The Backyard Sprinkler – Do you love splashing around in the backyard hose with a kiddy pool or sprinkler? Your doodle may think that is a refreshing treat as well!