As temperatures rise and more families head to beaches, rivers, lakes and canals, Dogs Trust has launched its new "If in Doubt, Keep Your Dog Out" campaign to raise awareness of the hidden dangers open water can pose to dogs. Recent figures show the RNLI responded to 308 dog-related water incidents between 2021 and 2025, while the Canal & River Trust reported a 39% increase in dog-related water incidents during 2025.
Not Every Dog is a Natural Swimmer
Many people assume that all dogs instinctively know how to swim. While some breeds love the water, others can quickly become tired, struggle with strong currents or find it difficult to get back out once they're in.
Even calm-looking water can hide unexpected dangers.
Hidden Risks to Watch Out For
Before letting your dog take a dip, take a moment to check the surroundings for potential hazards, including:
- Strong currents that can quickly sweep dogs away.
- Steep or slippery banks that make it difficult to climb out.
- Hidden debris beneath the surface, such as branches, fishing line or broken glass.
- Blue-green algae, which can be highly toxic to dogs.
- Fast-moving boats on canals and rivers.
- Deep or cold water that can quickly lead to fatigue.
If Your Dog Gets Into Difficulty
As frightening as it can be, don't enter the water yourself. Many serious incidents occur when owners attempt to rescue their dog. Instead:
- Stay calm.
- Call your dog towards the nearest safe exit if possible.
- Contact the emergency services if your dog cannot get out safely.
Protecting yourself is just as important, as entering the water could quickly turn one emergency into two.
Simple Ways to Keep Your Dog Safe
Before your dog enters any natural body of water, ask yourself:
- Is the water clean and free from algae?
- Can my dog easily get back out?
- Are there warning signs nearby?
- Is my dog a confident swimmer?
- Does my dog have reliable recall if I need to call them back?
If you're unsure about the answer to any of these questions, it's safest to keep your dog on the lead and find another way to help them cool down.
Looking for a Safer Way to Enjoy the Water?
Swimming can be fantastic exercise for many dogs, helping to keep them fit while providing great mental stimulation. The key is making sure it's done in a safe, controlled environment.
At Rags & Bert's, our private Swim Club offers dogs the chance to enjoy the water in a secure setting, giving owners peace of mind while their four-legged friends have fun.
Whether you're heading to the beach this summer or enjoying a local riverside walk, taking a few moments to assess the risks can make all the difference.
If in doubt, keep your dog out.