German Shepherds can fear water, especially if they have not been properly socialized and exposed to swimming. This fear can manifest differently, from reluctance to enter the water to barking and panicking when submerged.
If a German Shepherd has never had a positive experience with water or has had a traumatic experience such as falling into a deep body of water, they may become fearful of water. In these cases, the dog must be gradually and gently exposed to the water to build trust and confidence.
If your German Shepherd doesn’t like the water, believe it or not, this is maybe because of you.
The first steps are most important, and if you don’t introduce the water to your German Shepherd puppy in the right way, they may be afraid of water later.
Start small and think big.
You should always take small steps if you have a German Shepherd dog. For example, from our experience, the best way to introduce water to your German Shepherd dog is to start with small steps.
Bathing would be ideal for the first time, and always reward your German Shepherd puppy for good behavior. Introducing your puppy to the water this way will make him realize this isn’t scary. Also, a pool is a great idea, if you have the conditions for something like that.
Later you can take your German Shepherd into “deeper waters”. The perfect time for something like this is summer, so you can be near your German Shepherd in the water when he makes the first step.
If his first experience with water was great, trust us, he will love water more than anything! Be careful, and never rush, take small steps always.
