HAUPPAUGE, N.Y., March 28, 2017 /PRNewswire-iReach/ -- Safety pool cover and pool liner manufacturer, LOOP-LOC, shares the dos and don'ts of teaching a dog to swim in a LOOP-LOC lined swimming pool.

Since March holds National Puppy Day, it's the perfect time to discuss how to teach dogs to swim. Some dogs are naturally born with the ability; however, many breeds are born without that knowledge and may also fear the water. Here are some dos and don'ts that can help dog owners successfully teach their canines how to swim.

First, do allow the dog to get comfortable in the swimming area. Let it sniff around and become familiar with the water and surroundings. Secondly, make sure the water is comfortable. The water should not be too cold, and the pool's chemistry should be balanced with a chlorine level around 1.0 ppm. Show the dog where the pool steps or ramp is, and teach it how to get in and out of the pool. The dog could follow someone into the water, or the pool owner could use a floating toy to get it to enter the water.

Another do is to use a swim vest if necessary. If the dog still seems reluctant to enter the water or seems uncomfortable, consider a dog swim vest or life jacket. It should be properly sized and fit securely. Signs of the dog's discomfort may include rigidity and holding the head low or forward. Talk reassuringly to the dog while petting it. A wagging tail is a good sign the dog is ready to try again.

Do offer support. As the dog begins to swim into the deep end, give the dog some support under its ribcage, by its hips, or even hold it if necessary. Raising the back end of the dog slightly will help it learn to kick with its hind legs, which is also known as the doggy paddle!

As for what not to do, there are a couple of guidelines. Most important, don't throw it in. Don't trick the dog in any way to go into the water. Don't grab, pull, or push it in. Doing so will make them afraid of the water. Take it slow. It is important not to rush the process. Next, don't abandon safety procedures. Most dogs learn to swim very quickly, but that does not mean they are immediately safe. Don't leave a dog unattended. If the dog prefers a safety vest or life jacket, put it on every time. After the dog is fully comfortable and a proficient swimmer, it can swim without assistance and will return its owner when called.

Following these guidelines can help ensure that a dog will learn to love the water—and perhaps even be reluctant to get out when pool time is over!

About LOOP-LOC: There's only one company known for manufacturing safety pool covers strong and tough enough to support an elephant: the legendary LOOP-LOC. LOOP-LOC is a global leader in the pool industry with a 200,000-square-foot headquarters in Hauppauge, New York, and 300 employees. Through its network of dealers, the company has sold safety swimming pool covers on every continent on earth except Antarctica. LOOP-LOC now also manufactures a line of luxury in-ground pool liners—with more exclusive designer patterns than any other company—as well as the BABY-LOC removable fencing, a convenient, cost-effective additional layer of protection to help deter toddlers from gaining access to a swimming pool.

Media Contact: Katie Maroldi, fishbat, 855-347-4228, Katie@fishbat.com

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SOURCE LOOP-LOC