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6 Tips For a Lake Trip: From First-Aid to Dog Swimming Lessons

Pet Care Tips 4 min read
A golden retriever dog swimming happily in a swimming pool or lake.

These six tips and tricks will help you ensure a safe and fun-filled lake adventure with your little one.

Envision this: your dog swimming freely in a beautiful glacial lake with a natural backdrop of the mountains. The great outdoors can offer a plethora of enriching experiences for both you and your pet, especially when it comes to lake adventures. However, before you set out on your next escapade, there are some important considerations to ensure your pup’s safety and enjoyment.

Let’s start with the ideal packing list for a fun-filled lake trip with your pet:

  • Fresh water and a portable water bowl
  • A leash and harness for walking and control
  • Waste bags for responsible waste disposal
  • A pet-friendly sunscreen for sun protection
  • A first-aid kit with items like bandages and antiseptic wipes
  • Your pet’s identification tags with updated contact information
  • Towels or a pet-specific drying coat for post-swim clean-up
  • Favorite toys or floating toys for water play

With those in hand, it’s time to head out to the lake, right? Not yet! These six tips and tricks will help you ensure a safe and fun-filled lake adventure with your little one:

1. From Couch Potato to an Adventure Seeker Pup

Dog sticking his head out the window during car rides to lake for dog swimming.

Avoid taking your dog from a sedentary city lifestyle to an extreme outdoor activity with no preparation. Gradually expose your pet to different environments to acclimate them to new sights, sounds, and smells, which will make their outdoor experience more enjoyable.

2. Training for Outdoors Safety of Pets

Before venturing out to the lake and taking your pet outdoors, it’s essential to equip your pet with some basic training.

Simple commands like “sit,” “stay,” and “come” are vital for maintaining control and ensuring their safety. Moreover, leash training is crucial to prevent your little one from wandering off into unsafe areas or having an accident.

3. Dog Swimming Lessons

Many dogs love splashing around in the water, and swimming in lakes can be a delightful experience for them. However, not all dogs are natural swimmers, so it’s crucial to introduce them to water gradually or even take them to some dog swimming lessons beforehand. Start in shallow areas, and always keep a close eye on your pet to ensure their safety. Having a lifejacket for your novice swimmer is an excellent idea to have a safe, fun time in the lake. Additionally, if your dog has any health conditions, consult your veterinarian before allowing them to swim.

4. Keep Your Pup Hydrated

dog owner feeding his dog water before dog swimming.

Always bring fresh water for your pet, and keep them hydrated throughout the day to prevent them from drinking lake water. While some dogs may be tempted to drink from the lake, it’s essential to discourage this behavior. Lake water might contain harmful bacteria, parasites, or toxic substances, leading to gastrointestinal issues or more severe health problems. If your little one has a sensitive stomach, you can add NHV TumFlora to their regimen as proactive gut support. NHV Inulin-PK can also help heal GI issues and protect your little one from parasites.

5. Beware of Toxic Lake Plants

Some plants found near lakes could be toxic to dogs if ingested. Certain aquatic plants or algae may cause skin irritation, vomiting, or diarrhea if your pet comes into contact with them or ingests them. To prevent such incidents, keep a close eye on your dog while near plants and discourage them from nibbling on anything unfamiliar. If you suspect your pet has ingested something toxic, seek immediate veterinary attention. For post-emergency care, NHV Plantaeris can help address diarrhea, and NHV BK-Detox can help encourage your little one’s natural detoxification process.

6. Post Dog Swimming Care

A wet dog getting rinsed off after dog swimming.

After a fun swim in the lake, it’s a good idea to rinse off your dog with fresh water. This helps remove any lake water, dirt, or chemicals that might be clinging to their fur and skin. Additionally, drying their ears can help prevent ear infections, as moisture trapped in the ears can create an ideal environment for bacteria to grow. If your little one is prone to ear infections, NHV Echo Gold can be added to your pup’s hygiene routine.


With the right preparation and precautions, a lake adventure can be an unforgettable experience for both you and your beloved pet. Dog swimming lessons, correct training, providing fresh water, avoiding potential hazards, and maintaining good hygiene will ensure your furry companion stays safe, healthy, and happy during your outdoor escapades. So, pack up your gear, leash up your dog, and embark on a wonderful lake adventure together!

Reach out to us by clicking the button below if you have any questions about pet care and natural support.

Dr. Rebeca Oliveira DVM

Dr. Rebeca Oliveira DVM

Dr. Rebeca is a holistic veterinarian from Brazil with a passion for natural and integrative medicine. She’s been studying integrative medicine and alternative (and healthier) diets since 2015, and now started to study the power of herbs with the NHV Family. In her spare time, you can find her spending time with her golden retriever, Kuga.

Published: August 9, 2023

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