Toys & Confidence

Why toys matter

A toy gives your dog a reason to swim. Without one, swimming is just an exercise you are asking them to do. With one, it becomes a game they choose to play. That shift from obligation to choice is the difference between a dog who tolerates water and one who loves it.

Choosing the right toy

The best water toy is one your dog already loves on land. It should float, be easy to see on the water surface, and be the right size for your dog to carry comfortably. Bright colours — orange, yellow, or red — are easiest for dogs to spot against blue water.

Good options include buoyant rubber balls, floating tug ropes, and purpose-made water retrieval toys. Avoid tennis balls in deep water because they absorb water and can sink. Never use sticks from the ground — they splinter and can cause serious throat or stomach injuries.

Short retrieves first

Start by throwing the toy just one or two metres from shore or the ramp — close enough that your dog only needs a few strokes to reach it. Let them grab it and return to shallow water. Celebrate like they just won the Olympics. Gradually increase the distance over multiple sessions as their confidence grows.

Play tug in the water

Once your dog is comfortable in chest-deep water, play a short game of tug with a floating rope toy. This keeps them engaged, builds confidence because they are focused on the game rather than the water, and strengthens their grip and neck muscles. Keep it gentle — you do not want them swallowing water while tugging.

Recall through play

Toys are also your best recall tool in water. If your dog swims too far out or will not come back, do not shout or chase. Instead, splash the toy in the shallow water near you and make excited noises. Their desire for the toy will bring them back faster than any command. Over time, this builds a reliable water recall without stress.

Keeping it fun forever

Swimming should never feel like a training drill. Mix up your toy choices, vary the distances, try different locations. Some days just wade and play — no distance goals, no technique work. Let your dog splash around and enjoy the water purely for fun. Those are the sessions that cement a lifelong love of swimming.