Do Yorkies Like to Swim? (Proper Approaches & Tips)

Yorkies areknown for their bold personality and love of all things fun – but does that extend to swimming? Do Yorkies like to swim? The answer is a resounding ‘may be’. Some Yorkies love nothing more than a dip in the pool, while others would rather stay on dry land.

Below, we’ll discuss how much they like swimming and how you can train them if needed and how to look after them while they swim.

Are Yorkies Good Swimmers?

Yeah, the Yorkies are pretty good swimmers!

Most of the canine fellas are likely to do doggie bathe if you put them in water. The Yorkies, on the other hand, are excellent swimmers with above-average potential.

This is due to the breed’s petite, slender form and not-so-heavy bones. Trust me on this, these facts are quite beneficial for them while swimming. You can also check on the American Kennel Club to learn more about this.

Furthermore, the Yorkies’ coat is so downy. This is an advantage while swimming since other breeds get pulled down the water because of their heavier furs.

Another thing to consider is the Yorkshire Terriers’ perseverance. Even though they have diminutive stature, these canines are quite determined and courageous.

Therefore, you can rest assured that your Yorkie will be delighted to engage in swimming in summer and will enjoy them just as much as you do.

Do All Yorkies Like to Swim?

As previously noted, all Yorkies might not enjoy swimming, despite their natural ability. Some of them enjoy swimming, while others do not.

Because most of the time they’re just terrified of water. Yorkies, like most other dogs, dread being pulled to water for a bath.

What’s worse, if they’re dragged to the pool or the beach during the summer? They might get shocked and traumatized by you.

Always remember that they’re terrified of water. So it’s best to allow them plenty of time to become used to it.

Allow them to test the water before throwing them in. Tossing them into the water out of the blue isn’t much of a help for them and can result in serious issues.

You’re actually making them despise water more. Yorkies will like swimming once you allow them to become accustomed to the water.

Also, keep assuring them that you’ll constantly be nearby. If the Yorkie seems to enjoy it, first step into the water and carefully invite them to swim with you.

Also Read: Do Maltese Like to Swim?

How to Ensure Your Yorkie’s Safety While Swimming

Here are some tips you must follow to keep your Yorkie safe while it’s swimming :

Tip 1: Start with allowing Your Yorkie to Swim in a Kid’s or Small Pool.

Well, the dog is experiencing something new, and in this case, you shouldn’t startle it. You can grab a kiddie pool for your dog.

These small pools will help your dog to keep itself cool during the scratching heatwave in summer and entertain you as well.

Allow the dog to swim in the sandbars at first. Once it’s comfortable, transfer it to the deeper. Relax, in the kiddie pool, it’s not very deep.

You can also buy some rubber dog toys for the dog and let them play while swimming. However, in all circumstances, you should always keep an eye on it.

Tip 2: The Water Temperature Should Be at Least 25.5° Celsius or 78° Fahrenheit

Low temperatures might be pleasant and exciting to you. However, it might freeze your dog.

Mostly in villas and resort pools, the water temperature is kept between 27° and 29° Celsius or around 82-85° Fahrenheit. This is a great place for your dog to learn to swim.

Remember to check the water temperature. Because, while the air may be scorching in the summer, the water within the pool may be much colder than usual.

In short, the water temperature should be around room temperature. Therefore, your dog won’t fall sick easily after swimming.

Tip 3: Don’t Throw Your Dog Directly into the Pool or Water

If you throw your dog directly into the water out of the blue, it’ll start to doggie paddle to survive because they have incredible instincts.

However, for the Yorkies, trust me – there’s no pleasure in it.

It’s good to simply take your pet into the pool with you. So that it can become comfortable with the water condition.

Tip 4: Don’t Forget to Put a Safety Vest on the Yorkie

With the help of the best, the Yorkie will have no trouble keeping itself above the water and returning to you even if you are in the opposite direction of the pool. This way, you won’t need to be stressed about your pet all the time.

Moreover, the vest will encourage your dog to swim and keep itself in the water for quite a long time.

If you’re wondering if a Yorkie can wear a life jacket, the answer is yes. Actually, there are numerous high-quality life jackets for dogs on the market. Yes, they come in different sizes. And these are designed specifically for little canines like the Yorkie.

Tip 5: Keep an Eye Out on Your Yorkie

You see, you don’t need to keep your eyes on it all the time, particularly when you’ve put a life jacket on it.

However, check on it frequently and don’t leave it alone in the water. Try to take the dog into the pool with you whenever you can.

But if you’re accompanying it and letting it swim on its own, then you must keep an eye on it.

Tip 6: Use the Dog Sunscreen

We use sunscreen when we go to the beach or the pool, and the same is true for our pets. They’re just as susceptible to sunburn as we are. Mostly if your dog has a really thick haircut.

So buy an appropriate dog sunscreen for your Yorkie. And don’t forget to take it with you whenever you go on a water trip along with your dog. Applying sunscreens with a spray bottle on your dog is the best way actually.

They’re simple to use and come with great scents. When you think it’s essential, use sunscreen on your dog.

Tip 7: Give Your Yorkie a Good Shower After the Swim

Usually, the pool’s water is chlorinated. Therefore, it needs to be washed off your dog’s body.

If you don’t do so, your Yorkie’s skin will be scorched. You need to wash out the chemicals thoroughly and use a dog shampoo if necessary.

Do the same when your Yorkie paddled in the sea as well.

This suggestion also applies if the Yorkie was swimming in the sea. Because the sea salt can dry the fur and coat of it, therefore bathing your dog after swimming is quite essential.

Related: Are Yorkies Good With Cats?

Final Words

So, do Yorkies like to swim?

Some do like to swim, while some are afraid of water. However, with a little patience and encouragement, most Yorkies can learn to enjoy a dip in the pool. Who knows, you might even have a little lifeguard on your hands!