Yes, German Shepherds Can Swim! 5 Facts About These Strong Swimmers

German shepherds are known for being intelligent, loyal, and incredibly brave. You might spot them charging alongside a police officer or running outside with their owners. But can you find German shepherds in the water?

Yes! German shepherds can swim, and their powerful athleticism makes them natural swimmers. Here are five fun facts about these water-loving dogs.

1. German Shepherds Can Start Swimming as Puppies

Most German shepherds can start swimming while they’re still puppies. Some are ready at ten weeks. However, young pups are still weak, so make sure they only swim in controlled environments with warm water. 

If your German shepherd seems too frail to swim at ten weeks, try again when they’re five to six months old. They should have the necessary muscles and confidence by then.

2. German Shepherds Are Fast Swimmers

Once your German shepherd is in the water, they can paddle about 1 to 2mph. Puppies and elderly German shepherds will be slower, as will dogs with health conditions like cancer. A slow canine can still get a good swim, however.

3. German Shepherds Can Survive in Cold Water

The perfect water temperature for swimming German shepherds is about 70 degrees Fahrenheit, or a little warmer. This is the temperature for extended water games and sports. 

German shepherds can brave cooler water, too. A quick swim in water as cold as 45 degrees Fahrenheit might be okay for your pooch; just make it fast. Avoid colder water entirely.

4. German Shepherds Can Stay in the Water for a While

Swimming is an effective exercise for healthy German shepherds, and they can do it every day. Feel free to let your dog swim for 15 to 45 minutes. It may not seem like a lot of time, but it’s enough to make a big difference in their fitness.

5. German Shepherds Can Dive But It’s a Bad Idea

Technically, German shepherds can dive into deep water. They might even be able to dive for 10 feet. However, while working German shepherds may train for tough dives, there’s no reason to put your companion through the stress.

Diving can be both dangerous and uncomfortable.

Do All German Shepherds Like to Swim? 

Now that you know that many German shepherds will happily frolic in the water, the next question becomes if all German shepherds like swimming and water play. 

Unfortunately, even getting a purebred won’t guarantee that you adopt a water dog. Some German shepherds detest swimming and baths. If your little pup avoids the water at first, don’t give up, however. It might take a few attempts to determine if you have a water-avoidant dog or one that’s just nervous about new experiences. 

Owners who want to swim with their German shepherds should start early. It’ll be more challenging to acclimate them to the water when they’re older.

Are There German Shepherds That Shouldn’t Be in the Water?

Swimming is the wrong choice for some dogs. If your canine suffers from disease or pain, exercise could aggravate their condition. Diseases that make swimming impractical include hip dysplasia and degenerative disc disease.

Injuries that indicate your German shepherd should be kept out of the water include fractures and open wounds.

Why Are German Shepherds Good Swimmers? 

Even German shepherds that would rather skip a meal than get in the water are physically made to swim. Their bodies perform well in many athletic scenarios, water sports included. 

They have lightly webbed feet and well-developed muscles capable of propelling them across the water. Their high body weight and double coat let them retain heat while their native energy provides endurance. 

German shepherds have natural strengths, but it’s critical to remember that they can never be left alone in the water. Wild bodies of water like lakes and oceans are especially hazardous. A dog might easily paddle far away without thinking of how they’ll return.

Tips For Teaching Your German Shepherd to Swim 

• Start in the kiddie pool. 
• Purchase a canine life vest. 
• Pay attention at all times.
• Toss balls and toys around the pool. 
• Go slow with timid dogs. 
• Get in the pool yourself if your pup seems reluctant to jump in.

The photo featured at the top of this post is © Tony Hicks (Toasterbottom) / CC BY 3.0 DEED – License / Original