So, you’re thinking of taking your Jug to the beach, or you want a good way to keep them cool in the yard during the summer months. But before you plonk your pooch in the paddling pool, it’s worth finding out, can Jug dogs swim? Are they able to? What do I need to do to keep my Jug safe when we swim together?
Were Jugs bred to swim?
No. This cross between the Jack Russell Terrier and the Pug was primarily created to produce a healthier dog with all the charm of the Pug. That being said, the Jack Russell itself was made to excel at hunting, and is agile, and adept at swimming, while the Pug has followed their owner absolutely wherever they venture as a constantly-shadowing companion since ancient times.
Do Jugs like to swim?
A combination of a dog bred as a lazy lap dog and a tireless frenetic hunter, the Jug’s personality is a mixed bag. Many Jugs have the nap and snuggle-loving mentality of the Pug, but with some of the more hyper, active traits of the Jack Russell Terrier.
You may find that your Jug barks at the doorbell or chases that squirrel or remote control toy at the park just like any Jack Russell. Or your Jug may prefer to snuggle up with you on the couch like a true Pug, snoring loudly.
When it comes to swimming, your Jug may jump straight into the water, paddle after a bird for miles, or be content to bob in the shallow end. Other Jugs may detest water, running a mile as soon as they see it!
Are Jugs physically adept at swimming?
Neither the Pug nor the Jack Russell Terrier are dogs made for swimming. Both breeds are small dogs, not intended to swim. But does this mean that the Jug can’t swim?
Jugs generally have a broad, barrel chest. Though their large chest helps the breed to breathe better and gives them the stamina needed for extensive paddling, having this broad chest and unusual shape can also mean that a Jug struggles with buoyancy.
On top of this, many Jugs have the Pug’s flat, squished-in face. This is called brachycephaly. Being brachycephalic makes it difficult for your Jug to breathe efficiently. Particularly brachycephalic Jugs struggle to keep going during brisk walks or while playing fetch.
Some Jugs also do not have a strong enough neck to hold their head above water while swimming. This makes even paddling in a kid’s pool dangerous for them.
That being said, Jugs also have large paws that may help them to paddle with aplomb.
Jugs also do not struggle with brachycephaly to the same extent as a Pug would.
How can I help my Jug to swim?
Whether your Jug is an avid water-splasher or a reluctant pool-floater, spending some time in the water is beneficial for all Jugs. Not only can bobbing about in the pool help your Jug to cool down during a scorching day, but the low impact activity is also perfect for keeping your pooch strong. And, of course, playing in the pool is always lots of fun!
Yes, swimming together is lots of fun. But first, you must make sure your Jug is safe in the water. A Jug can get thirsty, not least during the warmer months of the year. This means good access to clean drinking water is paramount. If you’re at home in the yard, floating a bowl in your pool may be an option. At the beach, keep a drinking bowl at the shore.
Since the Jug struggles to keep their head held above the water, a proper doggy lifejacket or float is a must. The Granby Ripstop lifejacket from Outward Hound is perfect for keeping your Jug’s head held above the waves at all times, with its chin-supporting float. This lifejacket also features a convenient handle for you to quickly pluck your Jug from the water if they get into any distress.
Some Jugs have the thin, sparse coat of the Pug. But even if they don’t, you can never be too careful when it comes to the sun. That’s why you should always use a sunscreen when you go swimming together. Sunscreens designed for human use aren’t appropriate for your Jug. Instead, a sunscreen like this portable sunscreen dog balm from Lucky Pup is perfect for those summertime trips to the sea. Just rub it in and go!
How can I get my Jug started with swimming?
Whether your Jug is the kind of pooch to start paddling in your arms as soon as they smell the sea air or more the kind of dog to sprint away from a breaking wave, you know by now that you can’t just chuck your Jug into the water and expect them to be fine!
Letting your Jug explore the water on their own terms is the best idea. Allow your Jug to walk into the water by themselves at first.
Later on, you can try supporting your Jug as they take their first paddle into the water. Hold your Jug’s sides or use their lifejacket’s handle as they power into the waves. Then, let go if you feel they’re ready!
If you’re in a pool, consider using a ramp or slide so that your Jug can get out when they want a break. You could also scatter some floats around and place your Jug on one when it’s time to rest.
Throwing your Jug’s favorite floating toy into the water will make swimming fun for your Jug and will help keep things familiar too. Your Jug will tire easily the first few times they try swimming, especially in the heat. So keep these early paddling sessions short.
You can get your Jug used to water when you groom them at home in your bath or shower. If you have a bath or basin, every once in a while, try filling it with enough water for your Jug to begin paddling in. This will help your Jug get used to the motions of swimming at home.
Above all, have fun splashing around together!
