Swimming Puppy question

[onthefly]

I have a 14 wk old black lab. He swims well as was properly introduced to water. He does not, however, swim independently. I have to run in the water and he chases me. If I stop, he'll cry and jump up on me (in shallower water of course).

Is this something I can stop? Or, just a puppy anxious about swimming?

I assume once he's bigger and stronger this will stop. Just don't want to prolong the pain if it's something I can stop.

[Gordie]

I have had to train one full grown dog to swim and it was about the same as your puppy and once he got it no worrys.

Time is all that is needed IMO It will get better each time out.

[LABS4ME]

He's 14 weeks old and does not have his confidence yet. Just keep him swimming and fun and all will be well. Just being a puppy...

Good Luck!

Ken

[Ufatz]

Just here to back up what the gents above have said. I fear too many people expect too much from a young dog sometimes. From the sounds of it he is acting just as he should.

Fear not. Your next problem is going to be keeping him OUT of the water! LOL!!

[onthefly]

Thanks guys! Just wanted to be that wasn't atypical behavior. Having a lot of fun with the little guy. Can't wait to duck/goose/pheasant hunt with him in 2013!