As summer sets in, more and more dog parents are heading out to lakes, beaches, and streams with their four-legged companions. There’s nothing better than a splash in the water on a hot day. But as with any outdoor activity, water fun comes with its own set of risks. 
 
At PawTrk, we love outdoor adventures, but safety is always a top priority. In this blog, we’re sharing helpful tips inspired by expert guidance from the American Kennel Club (AKC), alongside our own field-tested experience. Whether your pup is a seasoned swimmer or just dipping their paws in the water, these are essential tips to keep everyone safe and happy. 

1. Not All Dogs Are Natural Swimmers 

Contrary to popular belief, not every dog is born knowing how to swim. Breeds with shorter muzzles, like Bulldogs or Pugs, often struggle in the water due to their body structure and breathing challenges. Even water-loving breeds like Golden Retrievers or Labs can experience fatigue, panic, or disorientation if they venture too far. 
 
Start slowly in shallow areas and keep a close eye on how your pup reacts to water. Let them build confidence and comfort before diving in—literally. 
 
📖 Reference: AKC - Water Safety Tips for Dogs 

2. Never Let Your Dog Swim Unsupervised 

Even if your dog swims like a pro, they should never be left alone in the water. Strong currents, unexpected fatigue, or even a floating stick could turn a fun splash into an emergency. Open water, like lakes or the ocean, can be especially unpredictable. 
 
Always supervise your dog, and when in doubt, stay close. 

3. The Right Gear Makes a Huge Difference 

When it comes to water safety, reliable gear gives you peace of mind. Our Trail X Jacket was born out of real Pacific Northwest adventures and designed with wet, rugged environments in mind. While it’s not a traditional quick-dry swimsuit, it features a durable, water-repellent shell that resists saturation and avoids clinging uncomfortably to your pup’s body when damp. 
 
What really makes Trail X a smart choice for water play is the reinforced D-ring on the back. It allows you to attach a long leash, so if your dog swims too far, gets tired, or becomes disoriented, you can gently guide them back to shore. It’s a simple but powerful tool to prevent scary moments before they happen. 

4. Watch Out for Water Hazards 

Natural bodies of water can hide unexpected dangers—sharp branches, broken glass, submerged rocks, or even toxic blue-green algae, which is more common in warm months and can be deadly to dogs if ingested. 
 
Before letting your dog jump in, take a moment to scan the area. And after swimming, give them a rinse to wash off anything harmful. 
 
📖 Reference: AKC - Blue-Green Algae Poisoning in Dogs 

5. Post-Swim Care Is Just as Important 

Whether they’re splashing in saltwater, lake water, or a chlorinated pool, dogs need a good rinse afterwards. Residue like chlorine, sand, or salt can irritate their skin and coat, and don’t forget their ears! 
 
Gently dry your dog’s ears to help prevent infection, especially for floppy-eared breeds like Golden Retrievers, Cocker Spaniels, or Doodles. 

6. Always Carry Clean Drinking Water 

When your dog gets thirsty during playtime, they might be tempted to drink from the lake or sea. But untreated water often contains parasites, bacteria, or harmful algae that can make your dog seriously ill. 
 
Bring a portable water bottle and collapsible bowl so your pup always has access to clean, safe drinking water. 
 
📖 Reference: AKC - How to Keep Your Dog Hydrated 

7. Take Breaks, and Watch for Fatigue 

Swimming is a full-body workout, and dogs can tire out faster than you might expect, especially in hot weather. If your pup starts to swim slower, whine, or try to exit the water, don’t encourage them to keep going. They might just need a break in the shade. 
 
Providing a designated rest area and keeping them out of the sun between swims helps prevent overheating and exhaustion. 

In Summary: A Safe Pup Is a Happy Pup 

Water adventures are one of the best parts of summer, but they should never come at the expense of safety. The Trail X Jacket isn’t a swim vest or fast-drying gear, and we won’t pretend it is. What it is, though, is a thoughtfully designed outdoor layer that holds up to water, brush, and real-life adventure, while keeping you connected to your dog when it matters most. 
 
With a strong leash loop, rugged exterior, and non-restrictive design, it’s our go-to pick for summer excursions. 
 
Here’s to a season full of tail wags, safe swims, and memories made by the water. 🌊🐾