April 19, 2011

I was wondering if it is possible to train a lab to stay out of the pool. Do you have any tips or suggestions on how I can train him to stay out of the pool?

Full Question:
Hi Cindy,

I was wondering if it is possible to train a lab to stay out of the pool. My chocolate lab is a year and 4 months old and I cannot keep him out of my pool to save my life. The main reason I don't want him in the pool is because when the kids are in the pool he wants to swim with them and of course he usually ends up on top of them creating an unsafe environment. And of course when we chain him up while the kids are in the pool, he whines, cries and barks.

If you have any tips or suggestions on how I can train him to stay out of the pool, I would be forever in your debt.

Thank you so much for your time.

Sincerely,
Gina
Cindy
Cindy Cindy's Answer:
Dogs can be trained to stay out of the pool if you are supervising them. It’s pretty unrealistic to think that a dog that loves swimming in the pool (and has been allowed to do it at his own discretion in the past) will NOT get in the pool unless you are present.

I feel that the dog needs a safe place to be when the kids are in the pool. If he hasn’t been crate trained, then I would start there. We have a pool, and ALL of our dogs would be in it all the time if I didn’t supervise OR put them inside where they can’t see and hear what’s going on. It’s a highly stimulating activity for most dogs.

I’d start by establishing rules and leadership, which means crate training - Pack Structure for the Family Pet.

Then obedience training and maybe even going to the remote collar so you have a way to influence him when he’s off leash.

Basic Dog Obedience
Electric collar Training for the Pet Owner
For times that you CAN’T supervise him 100%, then he needs to be crated.

Cindy

67% (2 out of 3)
respondents found this answer helpful
Did you find this Q&A helpful?
Expert Dog Trainer Cindy Rhodes
67% (2 out of 3)
respondents found this answer helpful

Did you find this Q&A helpful?

Recommended Products
Scroll to Top