Can Rottweilers Swim? How to Train Them (Vet-Reviewed)

People often think that swimming comes naturally to dogs. Labrador Retrievers provide proof of that assumption. Sometimes, it’s hard to get them out of the water. However, answering the question of whether Rottweilers can swim requires some digging, and generally depends on the dog’s breed group, personality, and early experiences. We can also consider the role of selective breeding.

The short answer about whether Rottweilers can swim is generally yes, in most cases. Whether your pup likes it or not depends upon their experience with the water.

Canine Evolution

Domesticated dogs share a common ancestor with wolves in a relationship that goes back at least 27,000 years.1 While it’s not common, the latter can swim.2 It makes sense that our canine friends would inherit this ability, too. Instinctively, a Rottweiler would know what to do to stay afloat by dog paddling. Whether the pup liked it or not is subjective.

The Rottweiler’s Job

The history of the Rottweiler goes back to Roman times. Then, as now, the dog excelled at guarding and herding livestock. The pup is big enough to move animals and presents a formidable challenge to any predator or intruder. Of course, the Rottweiler’s job has changed through the years, with selective breeding leading the charge.

This dog still finds work as a guardian. However, the pup also makes an excellent therapy animal because of their keen intelligence. Who wouldn’t feel safe with this 100-pound or more pooch by your side? People also train Rottweilers as search-and-rescue animals. Swimming is a skill that would indeed come in handy on some occasions.

The Rottweiler’s Personality

Several aspects of the Rottweiler’s personality make them capable of learning how to swim. It is a muscular dog that can handle the physical and mental effort it takes. As we mentioned earlier, it is an intelligent breed that you can easily train for a broad range of tasks. It is an adaptable pup and eager to please. This breed needs mental and physical stimulation, which swimming could provide.

The Rottweiler is a confident and courageous animal, traits that are part of the breed standard. The pup is athletic with excellent endurance and agility. All these things make it possible to teach your dog to swim.

Training a Rottweiler to Swim

This breed isn’t a natural swimmer like Labrador Retrievers. That means you are going to have to train your pet to get used to the water. The key is to make it a positive experience. Treats can certainly take off the edge. We also recommend starting them young.

It is believed that there are two critical fear impact periods in a puppy’s life: between 8–12 weeks and 7–14 months. Those are also the times you’d probably first introduce your pup to the water. Therefore, it’s essential that you take it slow to let your pet take on the experience on their terms. Don’t force a dog to go into the water against their will. It may leave a negative impression that won’t go away anytime soon.

Exposing your puppy to new situations benefits both you and your pet. Your dog will be less likely to develop unwanted behaviors and be more willing to try different things, such as swimming. A life vest is a must-have before you head to the water. We suggest getting your pup used to wearing it before the swimming lesson. Let your pet focus on one experience at a time.

You should begin at the shallow end of the pool or lake first. Remember that putting their feet in the water for the first time is something new in itself. It’s also essential to minimize distractions. Go someplace where it’s quiet, preferably with no other pets around the area. Then, let your dog explore the surroundings on their own time. Don’t rush your pup to go into deep waters to avoid a negative experience.

Liking the Water

So, we know Rottweilers can swim and that they can learn if you take the correct approach. The next question is whether they will like it or not. There are two things going in their favor: your pup’s eagerness to please and their dislike of heat. If your pet senses your pleasure with their new skill, they will likely enjoy it just as much as you.

The coolness of the water is another attractive lure, particularly on warm summer days. Your pup will soon learn to associate the comfortable feeling with the water because of their keen intelligence. You may find that your pet isn’t unlike that Labrador Retriever splashing around in the lake!

Final Words

Modern dogs, including the Rottweiler, have inherited the ability to swim from their ancestor, shared with the wolf. Taking your Rottweiler swimming is another way to add mental stimulation to your pup’s routine. It can expose your pet to new experiences that will make them a happier and more fulfilled canine companion. It is another form of play that you may find that both you and your dog enjoy. It’s merely a matter of making it a positive experience with your pooch calling the shots.

Featured Image Credit: cynoclub, Shutterstock