Cathy, thank you so much for telling me how Einstein did with pool training.
We did try a kiddie wading pool, and to no avail, he would not even get in there.

I would love to try a lake, as the gradual entrance with feet on the ground at first might be the best way for him. The lakes around here are pretty murky, and I have hesitated until now.
I think once we can show him not to panic and swim, he will understand the pool better.
I like the life vest idea, so I am going to get him one and try it this weekend. The hardest part is getting him to be calm enough to enter. In the past he panics really badly, very extreme fear.

I want to try the vest and a lake and see if that can make the difference. It is helpful to know that the life vest helps with calming the dog.

It is so important to get him to learn to swim so I can teach the stairs. He is never outside without me with him, but I just would like him to learn to enjoy the pool. Being that it is such great exercise etc.

Thank you Cathy, and thanks Barbara, I will give the zip lock bad a try.

Joyce, your mail box is full and won't accept any more PM's!

Thanks Barbara, I cleaned it out, thanks for the reminder!