12/20/2024
𝐂𝐚𝐮𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐫𝐲 𝐀𝐝𝐯𝐢𝐜𝐞 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐓𝐫𝐚𝐢𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐢𝐧 𝐂𝐨𝐥𝐝 𝐖𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐫
As temperatures drop, it’s time to think carefully about water training. Cold water combined with physical, mental, or e-collar pressure can stress your dog, potentially creating an aversion to water. Here are some key points to keep in mind:
𝐖𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝐓𝐞𝐦𝐩𝐞𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐮𝐫𝐞 𝐌𝐚𝐭𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐬
Dogs may jump into chilly water, but that doesn’t mean it’s safe for training. Stick to water temperatures above 68°F for comfort. Below 65°F, evaluate your setup and adjust for lower-stress training. Below 55°F? Skip the water work altogether.
𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐬𝐢𝐝𝐞𝐫 𝐀𝐥𝐥 𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐝𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐬
Monitor more than water temperature. Wind, cloud cover, and air temperature impact your dog’s ability to stay warm. If you’d feel chilled in light clothing, it’s not a good day for water training.
𝐖𝐚𝐫𝐦 𝐔𝐩 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐂𝐨𝐨𝐥 𝐃𝐨𝐰𝐧
Start every session with a brisk 5-minute walk to get your dog’s blood flowing. Finish by toweling them off and taking a slow 10-minute walk on lead to prevent stiffness.
𝐀𝐝𝐣𝐮𝐬𝐭 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐓𝐫𝐚𝐢𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐏𝐥𝐚𝐧
Choose low-stress drills that minimize mental, physical, or e-collar pressure. Keep swim distances short (under 75 yards) and avoid setups requiring complex decisions, like shoreline blinds or double down-the-shore marks.
𝐖𝐡𝐞𝐧 𝐢𝐧 𝐃𝐨𝐮𝐛𝐭, 𝐃𝐨𝐧’𝐭
Cold water isn’t worth the risk. Taking the time to evaluate conditions and make wise choices can prevent setbacks.
Stay safe and train smart as the season changes. Happy training!