wearing a life jacket

[red poodle]

I am going to attend the auburn event BUT my year old poodle that loves to jump in the water is still not a real good swimmer we have been practicing but she likes the life jacket as she can focus on the jump and not sinking is this hopeless will she learn to swim better? any help appreciated.

[DogMom]

I think it's mostly a matter of confidence and every dog is different as far as that time frame goes. My dog (a retriever) wasn't swimming until he was 1 1/2, that was less than a year ago and now we can hardly keep him out of the water. It just took him longer to get his confidence up. If your dog is comfortable with a life jacket on, then let him keep it on......as long as he/she is having fun and not afraid is what is most important.

Hope this is helpful.

[red poodle]

I was worried she was some freak all other dogs i have had swam like nobodys business and here i get a dog to do water sports and she sinks , There is no fear and i have to drag her out when her legs start shaking I will keep working with her thanks again

[daftershock]

lol They wont think your pup is a freak... I have a 29 pound bowling ball...lol Her 1st year she had to have a vest... I would always laugh and say she is a sinker not a swimmer...
Bubbles with vest
http://i141.photobucket.com/albums/r49/daftershock/bubblesdock.jpg
Bubbles getting better with vest jumping 14 ish
http://i141.photobucket.com/albums/r49/daftershock/SplashDogBubbles2.jpg
bubbles hitting 15 to 17's without a vest
http://i141.photobucket.com/albums/r49/daftershock/bubbleswagsjump11.jpg
bubbles daughter Alley Cat and good friend Lily
http://i141.photobucket.com/albums/r49/daftershock/pigraces.jpg

[red poodle]

SHe has been praticing all week she is getting the hang of butt up when swimming but she is still happiest with her security vest we will just grin and bear it this first time Thanks for the replies.