water 🐶 friend or foe?

Hello, and welcome back.

Ending out our water focus this month, I thought I’d share some simple tips on how we can help any water-phobic dogs. Whether it’s bath-time or walks in the rain - some dogs just simply don’t enjoy the sensation of water.

First off, let’s talk rain. If, like us, you’re here in the UK you might be well and truly fed up with the rain we’ve had of late. And that might go for your dog too!

Rain creates environmental changes that some dogs don’t enjoy. It can amplify sounds and smells - creating a more overwhelming experience when a dog goes out on their walk. Physically, rain of course can leave our dogs wet and cold - something puppies or older dogs will particularly not enjoy. For dogs that are low to the ground, with shorter legs, it can make walks more difficult as they’re wading through mud or puddles. And just the sensation of droplets falling onto their fur can leave some dogs feeling uncomfortable, connecting with the sensory nerves in their hair follicules and skin.

Keeping walks shorter on wet days, while utilising a coat to keep older or young dogs warm can be of benefit. But if your dog really detests the rain - then try to avoid walking them when there’s real downpours. Swap out your walks for an indoors game of tuggy or set up some scentwork around your home.

Doggy bathtimes can be problematic for a number of reasons: the slippery surface of the bath can leave some dogs feeling insecure; the water from a shower head can irritate those nerves again; their human leaning over them can feel intimidating; the echo-y sounds within a bathroom can be unnerving; and of course there’s just the general discomfort of being wet.

Keeping water levels low and using a jug to clean your dog instead of the pressure from a shower-head can be helpful. Sitting down on the floor by the bath, rather than standing and leaning over the top of your dog can help them feel more comfortable. A simple towel or bathmat placed into the base of the bath can mean they feel more sturdy. And adding something yummy like squeezy liver paste smeared around the edge of the tub might distract them from the sensation of getting wet.

Let us know in the comments if your dog is a water-lover or hater! We know that for all the dogs who hate the rain and water, there’s plenty who will dive into any puddle or stream they can find.

Until next time, stay dry!

Caroline