Hydrotherapy for dogs is a great way to manage all sorts of health ailments. Whether you beloved family member is suffering with dog arthritis or is an older dog that has just slowed down with age, swimming will increase their mobility. Hydrotherapy will also have them feeling years younger than they are!

Dogs in a pool will each vary as to how great they float or sink! I can truly attest to that when I have witnessed dogs who just cannot keep their rear end up and float in the water. Then there are those canines who glide like an eel, ever so smoothly amongst the surface! How can there be such a difference?!

Here are some reasons:

• very lean animals will tend to sink
• very well muscled animals will also tend to sink
• dogs with a greater percentage of body fat will float better
• dogs with osteoporosis will have reduced specific gravity and will float easier
• adding flippers or weights will increase the specific gravity and also cause the dog to sink

So when considering hydrotherapy for your dog, be it in a dog pool or in a lake or river, be aware of their abilities. For a first time swimmer, it could scare them enough to never want to go back in the water again. In dog hydrotherapy pools, it is controlled and professional therapists work one on one with your dog in the water. In my e-book, “The Ultimate Rehabilitation & Physiotherapy Guide for Dogs,” I explain all about hydrotherapy treatments.

Watch my videos on canine hydrotherapy and how it has helped countless dogs recover from many conditions. There is so much more to be said on this topic…

Does your dog float or does your dog sink? Share your observations below!