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My dog is scared of the paddling pool. How can I encourage him to go in?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Large (61lb +) | Male | unneutered | 3 years and 10 months old | 62 lbs

my dog is afraid of the paddling pool and ont go in, we have tried going in first and reassuring him, putting toys in there, treats, put little bits of water on him but he still wont go in, any ideas on what to do?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Sarah Box, BVSc

Veterinarian

Published on June 19th, 2017

Poor Rocky! I have a dog who was deathly afraid of water when she was young too! Whilst she still won't actually go swimming voluntarily she has no problem with creeks and rivers, and will go in the lake up to her middle! I would continue what you have been doing, with treats and encouragement. Also try having only a very small amount of water in the bottom of the pool and see if that helps. If you have any bodies of water nearby, such as a creek, then taking Rocky for walks nearby and through the water can be very helpful.

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