🐾 Swimming & Bathing Your Doodle Puppy

Partnering with you for successful dog ownership

Doodle puppies often love water, but like children, they should be introduced slowly and positively. Early experiences with swimming and grooming help build confidence and make future care much easier.

---

🏊 Introducing Your Puppy to Swimming

Many Doodles enjoy swimming because of their Retriever heritage, but not every puppy is naturally confident in the water.

Start Slowly

✅ Choose calm, shallow water

✅ Allow your puppy to enter at their own pace

✅ Stay close and provide encouragement

✅ Keep sessions short and fun

✅ Use treats and praise

Never force a puppy into water. Positive experiences create confident swimmers.

Safety First

• Always supervise around water

• Avoid strong currents or rough waves

• Use a canine life jacket for boating or deep water

• Rinse after swimming in lakes, ponds, pools, or salt water

• Dry ears thoroughly after swimming

Benefits of Swimming

🐾 Excellent low-impact exercise

🐾 Builds muscle and coordination

🐾 Great mental enrichment

🐾 Helps burn energy without stress on growing joints

🐾 Fun family activity

Young puppies tire quickly, so keep swims brief and allow plenty of rest.

---

🛁 How Often Should You Bathe Your Puppy?

A healthy Doodle puppy does not need frequent bathing.

Generally:

• Every 4–8 weeks is sufficient

• Bathe when visibly dirty or smelly

• More frequent rinsing with plain water is fine after swimming

Over-bathing can strip the natural oils from the skin and coat, leading to dryness and irritation.

---

🧴 Should You Use Shampoo?

Yes — but only when needed.

Choose a gentle, dog-specific shampoo that is:

✅ Mild and moisturizing

✅ Free of harsh detergents

✅ Free of strong perfumes

✅ Designed for puppies or sensitive skin

Avoid human shampoos, as they are formulated for different skin pH levels and may cause irritation.

After Bathing

✔ Rinse thoroughly

✔ Dry completely

✔ Brush the coat once dry

✔ Pay special attention to ears, feet, and underarms where moisture can become trapped

---

🐶 Doodle Coat Care Tip

Many Doodles have dense, curly or wavy coats that can trap moisture.

After swimming or bathing:

• Check ears for moisture

• Brush thoroughly once dry

• Remove small tangles before they become mats

• Schedule regular professional grooming every 6–8 weeks

Consistent grooming helps keep your puppy comfortable and looking their best.

---

❤️ Remember

The goal is to make both swimming and bathing positive experiences. Patience, treats, praise, and short sessions will help your Doodle puppy develop confidence around water and grooming for life. 🐾💦🛁