Safety Around Water

August 08 2025, 2 min reading time

We all know that one of the best ways to cool off on a hot summer’s day is to take a dip in a pool, in the ocean, on a lake or dam or by a river. Water safety for humans is well-publicised, but the same isn’t true for dog safety around water.

Although it’s hard to keep some dog breeds out of the water, like Labrador Retrievers, Border Collies, and Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retrievers, there’s a misconception that all dogs can naturally swim. Some breeds, particularly those with long bodies like Dachshunds and short noses like French Bulldogs, find swimming difficult, particularly in deep water.

Pets Domain is here to help you identify water hazards for your pup this summer.

Scout’s Honour

Before letting your dog off the lead when you’re out and about near water, it is a good idea to scout the location for any potential hazards.

Be Sun Safe

Some dogs, particularly those with short fur and exposed skin on their face, can get sunburnt. Pets Domain has dog-safe sunscreen that will help protect their skin.

A Day at the Beach

Supervising your dog around any body of water is essential, and the beach is no exception. Even the strongest swimmers can be caught unawares by rips or powerful waves at the beach.

Be on the lookout for potentially toxic marine animals like Stingrays, Blue Bottles, Pufferfish and Toadfish.
Like humans, dogs should not ingest salt water, which can lead to salt toxicity. A mild case will result in vomiting and diarrhoea.

Down By the River

Rivers and dams are a quintessential part of regional Australia. If the coast is
hours away, they offer a refreshing reprieve from the heat of summer. However, they do come with hazards.

Before allowing your pup to enter the water, check the depth with a long stick and monitor how fast the water is flowing.

As most rivers’ water is dark in colour, it can be hard to see what’s on the bottom. Be aware of submerged branches, trees, and rocks that could harm your pet.
Importantly, scan the area around rivers and dams for snakes.

Splish Splash

Taking a dip in a pool is a convenient way to cool down. All pools must be fenced, and keeping your pool secure is the best way to protect your dog.

An adequately maintained chlorine pool generally has low levels of chlorine. However, if your dog has ingested too much chlorine, you should be aware of signs like diarrhoea and vomiting.

Sail Away

To avoid ‘dog overboard’ situations, ensure your dog is tethered on a short lead or chain when the boat moves.

Now that you know some of the hazards around water. Get out there and have some fun!

Pets Domain’s friends at WagTime have a great range of floatable water toys, and if you’d like added safety around water, Pets Domain stocks Dan & Sam Dog Life Jackets.