Can Chihuahuas Swim? 9 Important Precautions to Take

Chihuahuas are adorable, fun-loving dogs that enjoy a good adventure. However, if you plan to take your Chihuahua swimming, you must remember some special precautions to accommodate them adequately. Below, we’ll explore whether or not these unique dogs can swim, how skilled they are at swimming, and what you should keep in mind to ensure you both have a great time in the water.

Can Chihuahuas Swim? Are They Good Swimmers?

To be clear, yes, Chihuahuas can swim. However, as far as dogs go, they aren’t the most well-equipped breed for swimming. Their small bodies and small paws mean they have to exert a lot of energy while swimming to stay afloat, and they can quickly become uncomfortable and anxious if the water is too hot or cold.

All dogs can learn to become strong swimmers–some breeds are better suited for it than others. Swimming with your Chihuahua can be a great way to bond with them and get them exercise to prevent obesity and weight gain-related health issues. Additionally, because Chihuahuas can be prone to anxiety, swimming with them can help them build more confidence while keeping them active.

However, because their bodies and temperaments aren’t especially well-equipped for swimming, you’ll need to remember several important precautions. Let’s go over all of them below.

1. Invest in a Durable, Easily Visible Doggy Life Vest

Before you take your Chihuahua for a swim, investing in a high-quality doggy life vest is a good idea. This can help keep them afloat so they don’t have to exert as much energy while swimming. In turn, they can stay in the water for longer and enjoy it a lot more if they aren’t constantly overwhelmed by the water’s depth or current.

When shopping for a dog life vest for your Chi, remember it should be brightly colored, high-quality, and durable. It should also have handles so you can quickly and easily spot and grab your pup in an emergency. Finally, make sure to get your dog’s measurements so you can purchase a vest that fits them perfectly.

2. Bring Plenty of Fresh Drinking Water and Treats

You must train your Chihuahua to avoid drinking the water they’re swimming in. This goes for chlorinated swimming pools, freshwater, and especially salt water at the beach. Drinking unsafe water can make them very sick very quickly. This is especially true for very small dogs like Chihuahuas.

This is why bringing plenty of fresh drinking water, a portable water bottle and bowl, and treats is important. Keeping your Chi hydrated and well-fed will ensure they don’t need to drink the pool, lake, or salt water. You can also use treats to redirect them if necessary.

3. NEVER Throw Your Chihuahua in the Water; Take it Slow!

Since Chihuahuas aren’t natural swimmers, it may take some time to acclimate them to the water. You’ll want to avoid abruptly throwing them in the water, as this can make them very anxious and less likely to enjoy swimming. It can also injure them if the water is too deep, too cold, too hot, or if the current is too rough for them. 

Additionally, throwing your dog in the water can cause them to swallow large amounts of water and unintentionally make them sick. As mentioned earlier, this is incredibly dangerous for small breeds like Chihuahuas.

Ideally, you’ll want to acclimate your dog to the water as slowly and gradually as possible. Pay attention to your Chihuahua’s body language and reward them with treats often if they are hesitant initially.

4. Stay Close to Your Chihuahua While They Swim

In addition to taking things slow when introducing your Chihuahua to water, you’ll always want to stay close to them. Small dogs can get overwhelmed when swimming very quickly. It’s a good idea to be within arm’s reach of them at all times, especially if they’re still learning to swim. Since they are prone to anxiety, your presence can also help build their confidence.

5. Keep Swimming Sessions Short; Take Breaks Often

Another important precaution when swimming with your Chihuahua is to keep sessions short and take frequent breaks. Remember, Chihuahuas’ bodies aren’t especially well-suited for swimming. This means they tire out quickly and can get overwhelmed very quickly. When you take breaks, offer them water and treats to keep their energy up. 

Depending on your Chihuahua’s age, experience level with swimming, and size, you may need to take a break every 10 to 30 minutes. Again, paying attention to your dog’s body language can be helpful here.

6. Stay in Shallow Water While Swimming

In addition to staying close to your Chihuahua and taking frequent breaks while swimming, ensure the water they’re swimming in is shallow with little to no current. The best place to take your Chihuahua swimming is a pet-friendly pool–chlorine is safe if your dog doesn’t ingest the water (and you give your dog a quick bath afterward). Stick to the shallow end and near an exit to remove your pup from the water quickly if they tire out or become anxious.

Alternatively, you can purchase a plastic kiddie pool and fill it with water up to your dog’s chest. This can be a great way to acclimate your dog to swimming if they’re especially nervous about it!

7. Closely Monitor Your Chihuahua While They Swim

This precaution goes along with the number 4 we covered above, but be very attentive while your dog splashes about in the water. Watch for other dogs or swimmers if you’re swimming in a pool. If you’re at the beach or a lake, watch out for animals like snakes or fish or even sharp rocks they could step on. Overall, just keep an eye out for any potential dangers.

8. Bring a First-Aid Kit

In an emergency, you’ll want a doggy first-aid kit close by when you take your Chihuahua swimming. Here are some of our favorite first-aid kits for dogs, cats, and pets. It should include bandages, alcohol wipes, tweezers, hydrogen peroxide, Benadryl, an ice pack, and a blanket or towel, among other items.

9. Wash off Your Chihuahua After Swimming

Finally, when it’s time to go home, bathing your Chihuahua after their swim is a good idea. This can wash off any chlorine from the pool water, any other contaminants or irritants in a fresh lake or river water, and even excess salt from saltwater at the beach: all things you don’t want lingering in your dog’s coat.

Regardless of where you go swimming, a quick bath post-swim is essential for your pup.