When we talk about rescue dogs it is inevitable to think of water and snow. We can count on the help of these animals when it comes to undertaking a rescue, since they have tracking abilities incredibly superior to ours. We are talking about a sense of smell up to 100,000 times more effective than that of humans and a swimming capacity with resistance to cold and highly superior towing power as well.
In this article on our site we want to tell you how they do this work and what they need, as well as show you that for these water rescue dogs it is much more than a game. Let's get to know them and learn all about this discipline that more and more dogs practice:
The most popular water rescue dog breeds
Among the most popular races, we have the languid-eyed giants with whom it is impossible not to fall in love, we are talking about the Newfoundland, breed very adaptable to water rescues. There are other breeds that can also perform this type of training, such as the golden retriever, Labrador or Spanish water dog, among the most popular.
The Newfoundland breed is chosen by experts due to certain characteristics that we cannot fail to highlight. We have female specimens that weigh 55 kg and the males are close to 70 kg. On the other hand, they have a large size and traction force in the water, being able towing around 1,500 kg with a high resistance to cold, very important in the Nordic countries, where temperatures become unbearable for humans.
They have a perfectly adapted physical structure, thanks to their double-layer fur which insulates their skin and prevents it from getting wet even when submerged. Another advantage that the Newfoundland has over other dogs lies in its webbed feet with interdigital membranes, wider than other canine breeds, which allows it to swim faster, similar to that of ducks, and with greater kick power in swimming. These dogs can swim for hours, tow boats with people, and solve rescues on their own due to instinct.
Another of its advantages that we cannot fail to mention, when referring to the best water rescue dogs, is the formation of its head, along with the alignment of its eyes, which give it a look straight to your rescue target. Adding up all these characteristics, plus a docile character and superior intelligence when learning new concepts, the Newfoundland is the most chosen breed for this activity. This does not mean that other races can do this job well and we train them for it.
Rescue dog training
Physical training begins by the hand of experts from one year of life We must have the muscles ready to start training the dog water rescue without injuring our "student". We must not only build our muscles, but also work on our little one's aerobic capacity and attention.
There are 2 types of training for water rescue dogs:
- Sport-recreational, for anyone who wants to spend some time in the water with their dog.
- Operative, intended for lifeguards or rescue groups dedicated to social security.
The best training is given in specialized lifeguard schools, so we must look for the one that is closest to us and offers a complete and reliable course, since there are in almost all countries, in especially in those that have sea or rivers.
The main training is between the first and second year of life, then comes the refinement. Rescue maneuvers are combined with training in the water, always hand in hand with a lifeguard so that they learn to respond to the orders issued. These are advanced obedience exercises, play, bonding, and most importantly, hours shared by the dog and the human rescuer who trains him. Generally both coexist and not only share work, but also the other tasks of daily life.
A lifeguard's rescue equipment is essential: they must be made with a neoprene suit, gloves and booties and in some cases helmets, something that will depend on whether they are on board or at the water's edge. Lifeguard dogs must have a harness with rings that will offer the necessary buoyancy for their safety, a lifeline to their trainer and reflectors or lights for times of poor visibility.
Deep down, they're still dogs
We have talked about the benefits that these breeds have to practice this type of work and that is that their specific characteristics make the work and training to which we must subject them to be successful in their work easier. But we must not forget that they are very noble dogs, ideal for families with children and, especially, families with children with disabilities, such as autism. The training and being able to spend time with whoever is their coach greatly benefits them.
Their nature is "to be a simple dog" but we cannot ignore that they must have a task, they must feel useful, which they carry in their genes and this will be the key to keeping them he althy. We cannot choose these breeds and force them to live in an apartment, without any work to do, in the long run, behavioral problems will appear.
The importance of correctly advising new owners so that they know what type of animal they will have and what their needs will be is well known. It is not that everyone should have specific training, but understand the importance of giving them a task or carrying out activities with them so that they are busy.
