Does your dog shy away from the water? Would you like them to be more comfortable at Kent's beaches?

Here are things you can do to get them safely confident, even if it's just in the bath!

Most dogs are happy to jump in the water and go for a swim, however, there are many pooches that shy at the thought of even getting their paws wet.

It could be down to their breed, a negative past experience, a nervous temperament or simply because they’ve never seen it before.

Experts at Canine Cottages have put together five top tips to get your pup into the water, plus safety advice for swimming outside this summer.

1) Start them early

If you have a puppy it's important to try and get them used to the water as soon as possible.

Five to 12 weeks old is a critical socialisation period for puppies and they are more likely to accept new experiences, such as water, without being scared.

During this time bath your pup, have them splash around in a paddling pool in the garden or if they’ve had their vaccines and are safe to do so, take them to a beach or lake and familiarise them around water.

2) Spend time near the water to gain confidence

One of the best ways to build up your dog’s confidence surrounding water is to spend time together in it or by it.

Play by the waterline at a beach or lake to help them get used to it. You can also walk your dog on an extendable lead and encourage them to walk in the water, knowing you are right there to pull them back if needed.

You could also throw a toy or ball into the shallow water and encourage your pooch to retrieve it.

Just remember to stay at a distance your dog is comfortable with, don’t push them too hard!

3) Teach your dog to swim

Many owners think their pets will take to water and be able to swim straight away, but that isn’t always the case.

Most dogs have the natural ability to paddle and swim around in water, but for those who don’t, it’s important to teach them to swim.

A dog’s first instinct will be to paddle with only their front legs, so owners should encourage them to kick with their back legs too.

When doing this make sure your dog is all the way in the water and hold them around the belly, you can either try this in a pool or the sea if it is safe.

If your dog looks scared or is panicking, then get out and try another day.

Until you know your dog can use all four legs underwater, you should consider a dog buoyancy aid (life vest).

4) Reward your pooch’s hard work

Positive reinforcement is a great way of encouraging your dog to be safe and confident in the water.

Pair it with lots of praise, pats and give your dog a treat every time they face their fears and go into the water.

This will help them to go in time and time again, knowing there’s a tasty treat at the other side!

5) Practice

As always, practice makes perfect!

It’s important to remember that building your dog’s confidence in water will take time.

It could take weeks, months or even years, it really does vary from dog to dog.

Don’t push them, if they are noticeably scared make sure to encourage and reward them as much you can.

By doing this you’ll be sure to have a water baby on your hands in no time!

If you’re heading out with your pooch in open water this summer, remember these crucial safety tips:

• Never take your dog swimming in a stagnant body of water as there is a risk of them picking up a parasite.
• Be wary of water that may contain blooms of blue-green algae. This can produce harmful toxins which stop a dog's liver from working.
• Make sure to check that beaches and bodies of water you want to take your pooch swimming in are dog-friendly.

• Ensure your dog doesn’t get too cold in the water. Look out for key warning signs such as shaking or shivering, and don’t swim on a particularly cold day.

• Avoid reservoirs, fast-flowing rivers and rough seas.

• Be alert of strong currents – check warnings before swimming in open water.

• Check beach flags for warnings before swimming in the sea.

• Sea water can make dogs sick so bring fresh water with you to the beach.

• Be wary of uneven surfaces/rocks in open water which could hurt your dog.

Shannon Keary from Canine Cottages said: “It is surprising to many dog owners that their pooch may not naturally be able to swim.

"I’s important to take the appropriate steps to ensure your dog is safe and confident in any body of water before going in.

“During the summer months, many owners will take their dogs to a beach, lake or river, and will want their furry friend to cool off, but it’s so important to know the risks beforehand.

"We hope these water confidence tips will help dog owners get their pooch safe in the water for this summer and beyond!”

For a helpful dog beach checklist or more advice on all you’ll need to pack for your trip click here.

To read more about Kent’s furry, flying and finned friends, click here.

Read more: All the latest news from Kent