The Pomsky breed is a relatively new designer dog breed that has captured the hearts of many pet lovers. A cross between a Pomeranian and a Siberian Husky, the Pomsky is a small to medium-sized dog with a beautiful coat, an adorable face, and a charming personality. One of the best things about owning a Pomsky is that they love water and are excellent swimmers. In this article, we will discuss how you can teach your Pomsky to relax at the water.
Why Do Pomskies Love Water?
Pomskies have inherited their love for water from their Husky parent. Siberian Huskies were originally bred as sled dogs in the Arctic region, where they would often have to swim across icy rivers to get to their destination. As such, they have developed excellent swimming abilities and an affinity for water.
Pomeranians, on the other hand, are not known for their love of water. However, when crossed with Huskies, the resulting Pomskies tend to inherit their Husky parent’s love for water.
How To Introduce Your Pomsky To Water
While most Pomskies love water, not all of them feel comfortable around it from the start. Some may be hesitant or scared of jumping into the water. However, with patience and proper training, you can teach your Pomsky to relax at the water.
Begin by introducing your Pomsky to shallow water. Take them to a lake or beach where the water is calm and there are no waves. Allow them to explore the shoreline and gradually get used to the feel of the water on their paws.
Reward your Pomsky with treats and praise every time they show curiosity or interest in the water. This will help them associate water with positive experiences.
Don’t rush your Pomsky into the water. Let them take their time and get used to the idea of being in the water. If they seem hesitant, stay with them and encourage them to take small steps towards the water.
Once your Pomsky is comfortable with shallow water, you can start going into deeper water with them. Get in the water with them and support them as they swim around. This will make them feel safe and secure.
Teaching Your Pomsky To Swim
Pomskies are natural swimmers, but they may need some guidance when it comes to swimming in deeper water. Here are some tips on how to teach your Pomsky to swim:
Even though Pomskies are good swimmers, it’s always a good idea to use a life jacket when teaching them to swim. This will provide extra buoyancy and keep your dog safe.
Begin by taking your Pomsky to a shallow area where they can touch the bottom. Encourage them to paddle around and get used to the sensation of swimming.
As your Pomsky becomes more confident, you can move into deeper water with them. Support them under their belly as they swim around until they feel comfortable swimming on their own.
As always, praise and reward your Pomsky for their efforts. Give them lots of encouragement and treats so that they associate swimming with positive experiences.
The Benefits Of Swimming For Pomskies
Swimming is an excellent form of exercise for Pomskies. It provides a full-body workout that can help keep them healthy and fit. Here are some of the benefits of swimming for Pomskies:
Swimming is a low-impact form of exercise that is easy on your dog’s joints. This makes it an ideal form of exercise for older dogs or those with joint problems.
Swimming can improve your Pomsky’s cardiovascular health by increasing their heart rate and improving circulation.
Swimming uses all the major muscle groups in your dog’s body, which can help build strength and endurance.
Swimming can help improve your Pomsky’s flexibility by stretching their muscles and increasing their range of motion.
Pomsky Water Safety Tips
While swimming can be a fun and healthy activity for your Pomsky, it’s important to take precautions to ensure their safety. Here are some water safety tips for your Pomsky:
Never leave your Pomsky unattended near water. Always supervise them closely, even if they are good swimmers.
As mentioned earlier, use a life jacket when teaching your Pomsky to swim or when swimming in open water.
Avoid swimming in areas with strong currents or undertows. These can be dangerous for both you and your dog.
After swimming, rinse your Pomsky thoroughly to remove any salt or chlorine from their fur. This will help prevent skin irritation.
Conclusion
Pomskies are excellent swimmers and love water. With patience and proper training, you can teach your Pomsky to relax at the water and enjoy swimming. Always take precautions to ensure your dog’s safety, and remember to have fun!
