Do Belgian Malinois Love Water?

Many Belgian Malinois owners wonder if their high-energy pups are destined to be water lovers. Will your Malinois leap into the lake with enthusiasm, or avoid getting those paws wet at all costs? In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore do Belgian Malinois love water and whether they are good swimmers

We all agree that swimming is a fun, refreshing, and low-impact activity for our pets. It’s healthy for their muscles, spine, and overall health. However, there are certain things you need to know before taking your dog to water adventures.

Can Belgian Malinois Swim?

Yes, Belgian Malinois can swim, and many are quite capable swimmers. This breed wasn’t specifically bred for water work (like retrievers or water spaniels), so they don’t have the natural advantages of classic water dogs (for example, they lack webbed feet).

However, Malinois are very athletic dogs with lots of stamina, which helps make them good swimmers. They have tremendous confidence and intelligence. Therefore, they can be taught to swim relatively quickly even if it doesn’t come naturally at first. In case your Mal is afraid of water, it’s important not to push them to swim. This activity should come naturally and your dog should create a positive association with it.

Most Mals know how to swim, and they are capable of swimming. However, some might paddle around like naturals on their first try, while others may need more time and encouragement. Never force your dog to swim if they are scared or hesitant. Instead, introduce water gradually.

Do Belgian Malinois Love Water?

Whether a Belgian Malinois loves water really comes down to the individual dog’s personality and upbringing. As a breed, Malinois are confident, energetic, and usually willing to try new activities. 

Many Malinois have a blast splashing in a creek or chasing a toy into a pond once they discover the fun of it. Swimming combines exercise and play – two things this breed typically adores – so it’s no surprise that most Belgian Malinois will enjoy water if given the opportunity. It’s a great way for them to burn off energy while also staying cool on a hot day.

That said, not every Malinois will be a water enthusiast, and that’s okay. Just like people, dogs have individual likes and dislikes. 

Some Malinois might be cautious or indifferent around water, especially if they’ve never been exposed to it young or had a bad experience. For example, a dog that was accidentally frightened by water (slipped into a pool, got in over their head, etc.) may develop a fear or aversion. 

On the other hand, a Malinois that has only positive, fun encounters with water is more likely to love swimming. Age, health, and past experiences all play a role in a dog’s attitude toward water. Puppies and young dogs tend to be more curious and adaptable, whereas an older Malinois might be more set in their ways or physically less inclined to swim.

What are the Benefits of Swimming for Belgian Malinois?

Swimming isn’t just about cooling off or having fun – it also offers numerous health and fitness benefits for your Belgian Malinois. Here are some key benefits of swimming for this breed:

1. Excellent Full-Body Workout

Swimming engages almost every muscle group in your dog’s body. It provides a full-body workout that can build strength and endurance without putting stress on joints.  This activity can be very beneficial for senior dogs who started to lose muscles or deal with painful joints.

2. Low-Impact Exercise

Because water supports the body, swimming is easy on the joints. This low-impact exercise is especially great for older Malinois or those with joint issues like arthritis. They can stay active without the pounding impact of running on hard ground.

3. Cool-Off and Heat Relief 

Malinois are active even in warm weather, and swimming gives them a way to cool down on hot days while exercising. Instead of risking overheating on a long run, a swim lets your pup burn energy and regulate their temperature at the same time.

4. Mental Stimulation

Swimming introduces your dog to new sensations. The feeling of water, the sounds and sights of a pool or lake can provide great mental stimulation. Learning to swim or fetching toys in water challenges their brain in new ways, keeping your intelligent Malinois mentally engaged.

5. Stress Relief and Relaxation

A good swim can take the edge off an energetic or anxious dog. Many owners find that their dogs are calmer and more relaxed after swimming. Swimming help them spend their pent-up energy and distract their minds from anxiety. It’s a fun outlet that can help promote calm behavior. After swimming, your Mal will be pleasantly tired and less prone to making accidents at home.

6. Rehabilitation and Therapy 

Swimming is often used in canine rehabilitation. If a Malinois has had surgery or an injury, hydrotherapy (controlled swimming exercise) can help them rebuild muscle and recover without strain. Even outside formal rehab, regular swims can strengthen muscles and improve flexibility.

How to Help a Belgian Malinois to Love Water?

What if your Belgian Malinois isn’t so sure about water at first? Don’t worry – with a bit of patience and encouragement, you can help most dogs become more comfortable and even learn to love swimming. Here are some friendly, step-by-step tips to get your Malinois’s paws wet in a positive way:

1. Start Early & Go Slow: 

If possible, introduce your Malinois to water when they’re young. Puppies are often more curious and open to new experiences. Begin with very shallow water. 

You can install a kiddie pool or a few inches of water in a bathtub and it will be a good start. Let your pup get used to the sensation of water on their feet without any pressure. Keep initial sessions short and fun, and always stay at your dog’s side so they feel secure.

2. Make it Fun and Positive: 

The goal is to have your dog associate water with good things. Use toys and games at the water’s edge to pique their interest. 

For example, play fetch near a pond or splash around in that kiddie pool together. If your Malinois is toy-driven, try tossing a favorite ball just a little bit into the water – shallow enough that they can wade in and grab it. 

Praise them enthusiastically for any attempt to step into the water. Have plenty of tasty treats on hand and reward even small progress, like dipping a paw or wetting their belly. This positive reinforcement will help your dog build happy associations with water.

3. Join Them in the Water: 

Dogs learn a lot from our behavior. If you show confidence and calmness in the water, it will reassure your Malinois. When the water is safe and shallow, get in the water with your dog. This might mean wading into a lake alongside them or even getting into the pool (if you don’t mind getting wet!). Stay close, speak in an upbeat tone, and support them gently if they start to paddle. Your presence can give them the courage to venture a bit further.

4. Use a Canine Life Vest 

Many pet stores sell dog life jackets in various sizes. A well-fitted life vest can help a hesitant swimmer feel more buoyant and secure. It’s an especially good idea for deep water or if your Malinois seems nervous. With a life jacket, your dog can learn to float and paddle without the full fear of sinking. It’s like giving them training wheels for swimming. Plus, it provides you peace of mind regarding safety.

5. Gradually Increase the Challenge: 

As your Malinois becomes more comfortable, slowly increase the depth or distance. Encourage them to wade a little deeper to retrieve that toy, or gently guide them a bit further from shore over repeat sessions. Always do this gradually – maybe a few inches deeper each time – so your dog builds confidence. Continue to offer lots of praise, play, and treats as rewards. If at any point they seem scared or hesitant, back off to a level where they were comfortable and try again another day. Patience is key.

6. Never Force It: 

One of the most important rules – make sure it’s always your dog’s choice to go into the water. If your Malinois is reluctant, coax with encouragement or take a break. Forcing a dog into water can be traumatizing and set back your progress significantly. Always go at your pup’s pace. Some dogs take to water in a single afternoon, while others need several short introductions over weeks.

7. Keep Sessions Short & Sweet: 

Especially when learning, keep water sessions brief and end on a positive note. 5-10 minutes of successful wading or paddling is plenty for a beginner. You want your dog to leave the water still having fun and wanting more, rather than exhausted or stressed. Gradually, as their stamina and love for water grows, you can extend the swim time. Even then, periodic breaks are a good idea.

8. Practice Consistently: 

Like any training, consistency helps. If you only try swimming once a summer, your Mal might never get comfortable. Try to practice in water regularly (weather permitting) so that it becomes a familiar activity. Frequent, short, happy exposures will build your dog’s confidence and enjoyment.

What to Pay Attention to When Belgian Malinois Swim?

Swimming can be great fun and exercise, but safety should always come first. Here are some important things to pay attention to when your Belgian Malinois is swimming:

1. Supervise at All Times

Never let your Malinois swim unsupervised. Stay close and keep an eye on them whenever they’re in or near water. Even strong swimmers can get into trouble (like getting tired or caught on something), and a watchful human can make all the difference. If you’re at a lake or beach, be mindful of currents, deep drop-offs, or hidden hazards like rocks or weeds that your dog could get tangled in.

2. Use a Canine Life Jacket in Deep Water 

If you’re in a deep pool, on a boat, or at a lake with no easy exit, put a life vest on your dog. This keeps them buoyant and can save their life if they get exhausted. Many dogs won’t naturally know how to find the pool steps to get out, so a life jacket with a handle on the back allows you to guide or lift your Malinois if needed. It’s an especially good idea for novice swimmers. So, next time, before you ask yourself a question ”Do Belgian Malinois love water?”, make sure you bring a dog life vest with you.

3. Avoid Overexertion

Malinois have a ton of energy and sometimes don’t know when to quit, especially if they’re having fun. It’s easy for dogs to overdo it and exhaust themselves in the water. Take frequent breaks during swim sessions and keep them relatively short. Watch for signs your dog is tiring – like slower paddling, heavy panting, or looking for a way out – and help them exit the water before they reach the point of exhaustion. Remember, swimming is hard work (10 minutes of swimming can tire a dog out as much as a long run would).

4. Provide Fresh Water & Rest

Dogs often get thirsty while swimming. Bring along fresh drinking water and offer it to your Malinois regularly during and after swimming. This discourages them from drinking pool water or lake/sea water, which can upset their stomach. (Pool chemicals, saltwater, or even pond water with algae can all be harmful if ingested in large amounts.) Also, make sure to give your pup a chance to rest in the shade between swim sessions to prevent overheating.

5. Check Water Conditions and Temperature

Before letting your Mal jump in, assess the environment. Is the water too cold? If it’s too cold for you, it’s likely too cold for your dog and could cause muscle cramps or hypothermia. Also, avoid days or times when the sun is extremely intense – dogs can get sunburn or heatstroke around water just like we can. Apply a pet-safe sunscreen on thin-coated areas (like the nose or ears) if you’ll be out in strong sun, and consider swimming in the morning or evening to avoid peak heat. Only let your Malinois swim in areas known to be safe for dogs, and obey any local warnings about water quality or wildlife.

6. Rinse and Dry Your Dog After Swimming

Once pool time is over, it’s cleanup time. Rinse your Malinois’s coat with clean water (especially after swimming in a chlorinated pool or saltwater) to remove any chemicals or irritants. 

Most importantly, dry their ears and fur thoroughly. Malinois have a thick double coat, which can trap moisture. If left damp, it can lead to skin irritation or that infamous “wet dog” smell. Moisture in the ears can foster bacteria and yeast, causing ear infections in dogs that swim often. 

Gently towel-dry inside the ear flaps and consider using a vet-approved ear cleaner after swimming to help prevent infections. Your Malinois will appreciate a good towel rub-down – and you’ll have a clean, comfy dog.

7. Stay Attentive to Your Dog’s Signals 

Lastly, always pay attention to how your Malinois is feeling in the water. If they seem panicked, shivering, or unwilling to go further, respect that. Not every day is a swim day for every dog. 

Never push your dog beyond their comfort level. The goal is to have fun safely. By watching your pup’s body language, you can help them have a positive experience and call it quits before any trouble starts.

Do Belgian Malinois Love Water? Conclusion

Belgian Malinois can absolutely learn to love water and become good swimmers, even though they aren’t traditional “water dogs.” Their natural athleticism and confidence give them a great foundation for swimming, and with patient, positive training most Malinois will happily splash around when given the chance. Swimming is not only a fantastic way to exercise this high-energy breed, but also provides mental stimulation, cooling relief, and pure enjoyment for many water-loving Mals.