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How to Teach a Dog to Swim in a Bathtub?

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Best Dog Swimming Accessories to Buy in October 2025

1 Outward Hound Granby Splash Dog Life Jacket, High-Buoyancy Dog Life Vest for Swimming, Boating, and Water Safety, Medium, Orange

Outward Hound Granby Splash Dog Life Jacket, High-Buoyancy Dog Life Vest for Swimming, Boating, and Water Safety, Medium, Orange

  • MAX BUOYANCY FOR SWIMMERS, ENSURING SAFETY FOR ALL SKILL LEVELS.
  • ADJUSTABLE STRAPS PROVIDE A SNUG FIT FOR VARIOUS DOG BREEDS.
  • BRIGHT COLORS WITH REFLECTIVE TRIM ENHANCE VISIBILITY AND SAFETY.
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$20.99 $22.49
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Outward Hound Granby Splash Dog Life Jacket, High-Buoyancy Dog Life Vest for Swimming, Boating, and Water Safety, Medium, Orange
2 Bienbee Dog Bathrobe, Quick Drying Super Absorbent Dog Robes for After Bath, Warm Keeping Dogs Towel, Dogs Bath Supplies, Dark Purple XL

Bienbee Dog Bathrobe, Quick Drying Super Absorbent Dog Robes for After Bath, Warm Keeping Dogs Towel, Dogs Bath Supplies, Dark Purple XL

  • QUICK DRYING FABRIC: ABSORBS 2X MORE WATER, DRYING DOGS FAST!

  • SUPER SOFT & COZY: DOUBLE AS WARM PAJAMAS FOR ULTIMATE COMFORT.

  • ADJUSTABLE FIT: EASY ON/OFF WITH MAGIC-STICKER, NO FUR CLINGING!

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$20.99
Bienbee Dog Bathrobe, Quick Drying Super Absorbent Dog Robes for After Bath, Warm Keeping Dogs Towel, Dogs Bath Supplies, Dark Purple XL
3 Vivifying Floating Long Dog Leash, 20ft Dog Training Leash for Swimming and Lake, Reflective Long Rope Lead with Soft Handle for Outside, Yard, Camping, Hiking and Beach (Green)

Vivifying Floating Long Dog Leash, 20ft Dog Training Leash for Swimming and Lake, Reflective Long Rope Lead with Soft Handle for Outside, Yard, Camping, Hiking and Beach (Green)

  • ENJOY 20 FEET OF FREEDOM FOR YOUR DOG DURING TRAINING AND ADVENTURES!

  • STAY SAFE WITH REFLECTIVE THREADS FOR VISIBILITY ON NIGHT WALKS!

  • LIGHTWEIGHT AND FLOATING DESIGN MAKES IT PERFECT FOR WATER FUN!

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Vivifying Floating Long Dog Leash, 20ft Dog Training Leash for Swimming and Lake, Reflective Long Rope Lead with Soft Handle for Outside, Yard, Camping, Hiking and Beach (Green)
4 VIVAGLORY Neoprene Dog Life Vest, Dog Life Jacket for Swimming & Boating, Lightweight & Buoyancy for Puppy Doggy, Swimming Vest with Handle, XS, Blue Wave

VIVAGLORY Neoprene Dog Life Vest, Dog Life Jacket for Swimming & Boating, Lightweight & Buoyancy for Puppy Doggy, Swimming Vest with Handle, XS, Blue Wave

  • UNMATCHED COMFORT & STYLE: NEOPRENE DESIGN ENSURES WARMTH AND FREEDOM.

  • ULTIMATE SAFETY FEATURES: DURABLE HANDLE AND REFLECTIVE PRINTING FOR VISIBILITY.

  • QUICK & EASY FIT: FAST-RELEASE BUCKLES MAKE ON-AND-OFF A BREEZE!

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VIVAGLORY Neoprene Dog Life Vest, Dog Life Jacket for Swimming & Boating, Lightweight & Buoyancy for Puppy Doggy, Swimming Vest with Handle, XS, Blue Wave
5 EMUST Dog Life Jacket, Ripstop Dog Lifesaver Vests with Rescue Handle for Small Medium and Large Dogs, Pet Safety Swimsuit Preserver for Swimming Pool Beach Boating (XS,Pool Blue)

EMUST Dog Life Jacket, Ripstop Dog Lifesaver Vests with Rescue Handle for Small Medium and Large Dogs, Pet Safety Swimsuit Preserver for Swimming Pool Beach Boating (XS,Pool Blue)

  • DURABLE, QUICK-DRYING MATERIAL ENSURES SAFETY AND COMFORT.

  • FIVE SIZES AVAILABLE FOR A PERFECT FIT FOR ANY DOG.

  • STYLISH SHARK DESIGN KEEPS YOUR PUP LOOKING FABULOUS!

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$16.19 $19.59
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EMUST Dog Life Jacket, Ripstop Dog Lifesaver Vests with Rescue Handle for Small Medium and Large Dogs, Pet Safety Swimsuit Preserver for Swimming Pool Beach Boating (XS,Pool Blue)
6 NVTED Dog Sunglasses/Goggles, UV/Wind/Dust/Fog Protection Pet Glasses Eye Wear with Adjustable Strap for Medium or Large Dog (Pack of 1)

NVTED Dog Sunglasses/Goggles, UV/Wind/Dust/Fog Protection Pet Glasses Eye Wear with Adjustable Strap for Medium or Large Dog (Pack of 1)

  • 100% UV PROTECTION & SHATTERPROOF DESIGN FOR PET EYE SAFETY.
  • COMFORTABLE FIT WITH ADJUSTABLE STRAPS FOR ALL PET SIZES.
  • STYLISH LOOK ENHANCES YOUR PET’S APPEARANCE DURING OUTDOOR FUN.
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$8.99 $9.45
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NVTED Dog Sunglasses/Goggles, UV/Wind/Dust/Fog Protection Pet Glasses Eye Wear with Adjustable Strap for Medium or Large Dog (Pack of 1)
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Teaching a dog to swim in a bathtub can be a useful skill, especially if your dog needs a bath and is uncomfortable with water. Here are some steps to help you introduce your dog to the idea of swimming in a bathtub:

Prepare the bathtub:

  • Make sure the bathtub is clean and free of any debris or objects that might scare or harm your dog.
  • Fill the tub with a few inches of lukewarm water. Ensure the water temperature is comfortable for your dog, neither too hot nor too cold.

Gather supplies:

  • Have treats and your dog's favorite toys on hand to reward and motivate them during the process.
  • Use a non-slip mat or towel at the bottom of the tub to provide traction for your dog.

Create a positive environment:

  • Start by allowing your dog to explore the empty bathtub without water. Reward them with treats and praise for being in the tub.

Gradual introduction to water:

  • With the water at a very shallow level (just enough to wet their paws), encourage your dog to step into the tub. Use treats and positive reinforcement to make it a positive experience.
  • Gently pour water over your dog's body using a cup or a handheld showerhead while providing treats and praise. Ensure your dog feels safe and comfortable.

Increase water level gradually:

  • Over several sessions, gradually increase the water level in the bathtub while monitoring your dog's comfort level. Continue to use treats and praise to reward them for staying calm and relaxed.

Introduce floating toys:

  • Once your dog is comfortable with the water, introduce floating toys or objects to play with in the tub. This can help distract them and make the experience more enjoyable.

Gradually increase bath time:

  • Gradually increase the duration of your dog's time in the bathtub, always monitoring their comfort level and ensuring they remain relaxed.

Rinse and reward:

  • After your dog has spent some time in the water, rinse them thoroughly with clean water. Use a gentle pet shampoo if necessary. Be sure to reward them with treats and praise for their cooperation.

Practice and patience:

  • Consistency is key. Practice regularly to help your dog become more comfortable with water and the bathtub. Be patient and go at your dog's pace.

Seek professional help if needed:

  • If your dog shows extreme fear or anxiety about water or the bathtub, consider seeking the help of a professional dog trainer or behaviorist.

Remember that not all dogs will take to water easily, and it's important to be patient and go at your dog's own pace. The goal is to make the experience as positive and stress-free as possible. If your dog continues to have significant issues with water or bathing, consult a professional for guidance.