Splish, Splash: Keeping Your Cavoodle Safe Around Water

Cavoodles are known for their charm and playful personalities, however, they aren’t always known for their love of water. While some Cavoodles are natural-born paddlers, others need a little encouragement (and supervision!) to stay safe around water.

So, before you let your pup leap into the deep end or chase waves like a pro surfer, let’s talk about water safety for Cavoodles. 

Why Cavoodles Aren’t Always Natural Swimmers

It’s tempting to think all dogs can swim, but Cavoodles but being a mix of Poodle and Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, don’t automatically come with Olympic swimming skills built in.

• The Poodle side: Poodles were bred as water retrievers, so many Cavoodles inherit a love of splashing about.

• The Cavalier side: Cavaliers are lapdogs and may prefer lounging poolside to actually getting wet.

This means your Cavoodle might dive in headfirst, or they might sit on the sand and give you the “you must be joking” look. Either way, you’ll need to keep an eye out, because even the keenest paddlers can tire quickly or misjudge conditions.

Dangers at the Beach

The beach can be heaven for a Cavoodle, but it comes with some hidden risks.

1. Strong currents and rips – Even in shallow water, a Cavoodle can get swept off their paws. Their small size means waves that look gentle to you can be overwhelming to them.

2. Saltwater ingestion – Cavoodles are curious and may gulp seawater while playing. Too much can cause tummy upset (or what we call the “post-beach zoomies and poops”).

3. Hot sand – Those little paw pads can burn on scorching sand. If it’s too hot for your feet, it’s too hot for theirs.

4. Shells, seaweed, and rubbish – Sharp shells or hidden nasties can cause cuts or make your Cavoodle sick if swallowed.

How to minimise risks:

• Stick to calm, patrolled beaches.

• Keep your Cavoodle on a long lead near the water if they’re new to swimming.

• Rinse off salt and sand afterwards to prevent skin irritation.

• Pack plenty of fresh water so they don’t drink the sea.

Dangers Around Pools

Pools might seem safer, but they come with their own challenges.

1. No easy exit – Unlike a beach, a pool has slippery sides and no shoreline. Your Cavoodle could struggle to climb out if they fall in.

2. Chemicals – Chlorine and pool chemicals can irritate skin and eyes. A rinse-off after swimming is a must.

3. Accidental plunges – Cavoodles are curious and playful. An unguarded pool can look like a giant water bowl or play area.

How to minimise risks:

• Teach your Cavoodle where the pool steps or shallow ledge is.

• Install a pool fence or cover to prevent unsupervised swims.

• Never throw toys into the deep end if your pup isn’t a confident swimmer.

The Importance of Swimming Lessons for Cavoodles

Yes, doggy swimming lessons are a real thing and they can be a game-changer for water-loving Cavoodles!

Swimming lessons help your pup:

• Learn confidence in water – Especially if they’re hesitant.

• Build strength and stamina – Swimming is great low-impact exercise.

• Practice safe entry and exit – Teaching them how to get in and out reduces panic if they fall in.

Start small. A calm, shallow pool or quiet beach is perfect for puppy paddles. Pop a doggy life jacket on your Cavoodle so they float easily, and keep sessions short and fun. We love these aussie made Sandy Snoots life jackets.

And if you’re not sure how to work out what size life jacket you need, check out this article 

Spotting Trouble: What if Your Cavoodle Struggles in the Water?

Even confident swimmers can get into strife. Keep an eye out for:

• Rapid paddling without moving forward

• Panicked splashing or head dipping under water

• Whining or looking towards you for help

What to do:

1. Stay calm – Dogs pick up on your panic.

2. Call them towards the exit – If they know where steps or shore are, guide them there.

3. Use a lead, long stick, or pool net – Sometimes you can guide them out without jumping in.

4. If you must jump in – Approach from behind, support their chest and belly, and guide them out.

If your Cavoodle has inhaled a lot of water or seems lethargic afterwards, a vet check is essential. Secondary drowning (fluid in the lungs) can happen hours later.

Fun Ways to Enjoy Water Safely

Water safety doesn’t mean you have to keep your Cavoodle dry! Here are safe ways to let them enjoy splash time:

• Shallow paddling pools – Perfect for backyard fun on hot days.

• Life jackets – Not just for boats, they give your Cavoodle buoyancy and style points.

• Floating toys – Fetch games are much safer with lightweight toys that don’t sink.

• Calm beach walks – Let them paddle along the shoreline instead of swimming in the surf.

Cavoodles + Water = Fun (with Safety First!)

Cavoodles can absolutely enjoy beach days and pool parties, but they rely on you to be their lifeguard. With a little preparation that include swimming lessons, supervision, fresh water, and a cute life jacket, you’ll give your Cavoodle the confidence to splash safely.

Think of it this way: while you’re working on your tan or perfecting your paddleboard pose, your Cavoodle can be splashing around like a furry little dolphin - safe, happy, and ready for a post-swim cuddle.

So pack the sunscreen, grab the doggy towel, and let the good times roll… just remember, for Cavoodles, water fun is always better with safety on the side.