With Summer here in full swing, we all would love to spend some time in the pool with our Frenchies! But wait! Frenchies are infamous for their overheating and inability to swim, so is it smart to play with them outside during the summer heat? Well... yes and no. All dogs need exercise, but Frenchie owners need to take extra precaution when playing with their dogs during summer.
For more information on how to take care of your Frenchie during the heat, check out this blog; https://www.americaskennelcompany.org/post/heat-tips-for-your-frenchie
But back to the main issue; Frenchies and swimming. To make it very clear, Frenchie cannot swim. You may have seen videos on YouTube showing French Bulldogs swimming in pools or lakes without a life jacket. These are the exceptions, not the rule! Never expect your Frenchie can swim without aid, or be let near deep bodies of water without supervision.
Speaking of aid, one thing you can do to let your Frenchie join you in the water is a life jacket. Life jackets are the #1 way to let your Frenchie have fun in the water without a fear of drowning. It should go without saying that putting a life jacket on a Frenchie and letting them swim unsupervised is not a good idea. A Frenchie's body is not meant to swim, due to their front-heavy physique, and short snout which makes it difficult to keep their nose above water while swimming.
When using a life jacket with a Frenchie, it is necessary to swim with your Frenchie and guide them with their swimming so they feel more comfortable in the water. Another thing you can do to help your Frenchie is getting in and out of the water, and a kiddie pool is perfect for that.
With all this in mind, you should have plenty of fun with your Frenchie in the pool. Always remember, never let a Frenchie swim without a life jacket or supervision, and you will always have a good time in the pool!
