Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo

  • Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!

When is it safe to let my new 10-week-old puppy swim?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed | Female | spayed | 2 months and 19 days old | 50 lbs

I recently received a labrador mix puppy from my local Humane Society and I was wondering what would be a good age be to introduce her to swimming she is approximately 10 weeks old right now

This question includes photos that may contain sensitive content. Click to view.

View more to consider that the photos may include sensitive content.

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Image profile

Answered By Andrea M. Brodie, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on April 20th, 2018

You can start now by letting her walk into the water and play in the water. eventually as she gets older and grows up she will be more daring in the water and will voluntarily go for a swim if asked. Do not overdo it, 8 weeks is like a 1 year old human toddler. Play it by ear and only let her play in the water as much as she actually wants. Bring a towel and make sure to dry her well after coming out so she will not get cold and connects the water with something nice as rubbing and drying her body.

Vote icon

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Other Answers

  • Image profile

    Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    Congrats on your new puppy, Sara is very cute! I would not introduce her to swimming until she is fully vaccinated in case you are taking her places where other dogs frequent as well. Since you got her from the Humane Society, she has likely already received one series of vaccines. She will need two more series given four weeks apart as well as two series of rabies each given four weeks apart until she is fully vaccinated. After that is done, then you can introduce her to swimming. Discuss with her vet her vaccine schedule, and that should give you an idea as to when she will be fully vaccinated. Best of luck, enjoy your new cutie!

    Vote icon

    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

See More Answers

Related Questions

Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My male dog's penis is stuck out and his scrotum has a painful rash.
Is your 11-year-old male dog experiencing a painful penis or rash? A certified vet explains potential paraphimosis urgency and why immediate care is vital.
Updated on September 23, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
What fish dog food helps dry skin if my dog eats Science Diet?
Is your dog's dry skin a concern? A certified vet offers expert advice on finding the best fish-based dog food alternatives to Science Diet for essential oils.
Updated on February 04, 2026
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
Dog licking paws, fur loss, and jaw wound: Could it be allergies?
Is your Shih-Tzu crossbreed biting his feet, losing fur, or has a wound? A trusted vet explains these classic allergy signs and advises on treatments like Apoquel or medicated shampoo.
Updated on September 23, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Food & Nutrition
Is there a chart for dog food protein biological value and digestibility?
Dog food protein's biological value & digestibility: A vet explains why data is complex. Learn to judge quality by company reputation and your dog's health.
Updated on September 23, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
Why does my puppy have bloody, mucousy stools despite diet changes?
Your 4-month-old puppy suffers from ongoing loose stools with mucus and blood. An expert veterinarian explores potential intestinal parasites and advises further fecal testing. Find answers here!
Updated on September 23, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My dog rubs belly & scratches face, no fleas. Could it be allergies?
Does your dog rub her belly and scratch her face without fleas? A certified vet discusses possible causes like allergies, infection, or mites. Get expert guidance now!
Updated on September 23, 2025
image
Have A Vet Question?

Book an appointment with the pros – our expert vets are here to help.

Book Now

Sponsored