• Always check for blue-green algae warnings and avoid contaminated water

• Keep vaccinations up to date to protect against leptospirosis

• Never let your dog swim in dangerous water

• Bring fresh water to prevent your dog drinking from unsafe sources

• Monitor water temperature and limit swimming time in cold water

Spaniels were originally bred to retrieve game from rivers and marshes, and that instinct remains strong today. While swimming is wonderful exercise and enrichment, water safety is critical. This guide will help you to understand the risks and keep your spaniel safe while enjoying their natural love of water.

Always check for blue-green algae and avoid contaminated water

Blue-green algae (cyanobacteria) is one of the most dangerous water hazards for dogs in the UK. It thrives in warm, still or slow-moving water during summer and warm autumns, particularly after hot, sunny periods. It's found in ponds, lakes, rivers, canals and occasionally the sea.

What it looks like: Green, blue-green or brown scum on the surface (often described as being like pea soup), green flakes, brown dots or a paint-like film. It often has an unpleasant earthy smell and may not always be visible on the surface.

Why it's dangerous: Certain types produce toxins that can be fatal to dogs within hours, even in tiny quantities. Dogs are exposed by drinking contaminated water, swimming in it or licking their fur afterwards. Symptoms appear within 15 minutes to a few hours: vomiting, diarrhoea, drooling, disorientation, muscle tremors, seizures and difficulty breathing. There is no antidote.

How to stay safe: Never let your dog swim in or drink from water where you suspect algae. Look for Environment Agency warning signs. If you see unusual water colour, visible blooms, dead fish or scum, keep your dog away. After any swim, rinse your dog's coat immediately and prevent them from licking their fur. If you suspect exposure, contact your vet immediately. Report sightings to the Environment Agency on 0800 80 70 60 or via the Bloomin' Algae app.

Keep vaccinations up to date to protect against leptospirosis

Leptospirosis (Weil's disease) is a bacterial infection spread through infected animal urine, particularly from rats and farm animals. The bacteria survive for months in water, soil and mud.

How dogs get infected: Through drinking from, swimming in or paddling through contaminated water (puddles, ponds, canals, rivers, flooded areas). Bacteria enter through cuts, wounds or mucous membranes (eyes, nose, mouth).

Why it's dangerous: Causes serious liver and kidney damage and can be fatal. Symptoms include lethargy, loss of appetite, vomiting, increased thirst, jaundice and collapse. Even with treatment, some dogs develop chronic organ disease. It can also spread to humans.

How to protect your spaniel: Annual L4 vaccination is essential, especially for water-loving dogs. Standard puppy vaccines include L2 (two strains), but L4 covers four strains and is recommended for dogs who swim regularly. Immunity only lasts 12 months, so keep boosters up to date. Always bring fresh water on walks and discourage drinking from puddles, ponds or canals.

Never let your dog swim in dangerous water

Rough seas: Strong waves, currents and rip currents can drag dogs out to sea. Check for warning flags (red means dangerous) and wave conditions before allowing swimming. If your dog gets into trouble, do NOT go in – call 999 for the coastguard. Going in puts you both at risk.

Fast-flowing rivers: Strong currents can sweep dogs downstream. Flooded rivers are especially dangerous due to debris and sudden current changes. Even normally calm rivers can have strong undercurrents after heavy rain or around bends and bridges. If the water looks high, fast or murky, keep your dog out.

Reservoirs: Extremely dangerous due to very deep, cold water (causing cold water shock), strong currents, hidden hazards and steep sides that make it impossible for dogs to climb out. Many are fenced for a reason – avoid entirely.

Canals: Often contain stagnant, polluted water with debris, broken glass and rubbish beneath the surface. Steep sides make it difficult for dogs to exit. Canal water harbours leptospirosis and other contaminants. While some have designated swimming areas, it's generally safer to avoid them.

Bring fresh water to prevent your dog drinking from unsafe sources

After exercise or swimming, spaniels will head straight for the nearest water – which might be unsafe.

• Salt water: Causes dehydration, vomiting and diarrhoea. Large amounts can lead to salt poisoning (symptoms: tremors, seizures, confusion, excessive thirst).

• Stagnant water: Can contain bacteria, parasites, algae toxins and chemical pollutants.

• Chlorinated water: Small amounts won't harm your dog, but large quantities cause stomach upset and throat irritation.

Always carry fresh water and a collapsible bowl. Offer water regularly, especially before and after swimming.

Monitor water temperature and limit swimming time in cold water

Cold water shock: Jumping into very cold water causes a sudden temperature drop that can lead to gasping, panic and drowning. UK coastal waters typically range from 6-15°C even in summer. Lakes, rivers and reservoirs stay cold until July and drop quickly by September.

Hypothermia: Prolonged time in cold water drops body temperature below 37°C/99°F. Symptoms include shivering, lethargy, weakness, stumbling and shallow breathing. Small breeds, puppies, elderly and thin dogs are most vulnerable.

How to stay safe:

• If the water feels too cold for you to wade in, it's too cold for your dog

• Let your dog enter gradually, not jumping from height

• Limit swimming time in cold water – even 10-15 minutes can be too long

• Watch for shivering, reluctance or slow movement

• Have towels ready to dry your dog immediately

Post-swim care

Always rinse your dog to remove salt, chlorine, algae, bacteria and debris. This prevents skin irritation and stops them licking harmful substances from their coat. Always check paws for cuts or debris, brush coat to remove tangles and sand. For frequent swimmers, bathe with dog shampoo every few weeks to prevent skin issues.

Ear care is critical for spaniels: Water trapped in floppy ears causes infections. Gently dry ears with a towel, lift ear flaps for air circulation and consider a vet-recommended drying solution. Never insert cotton buds or anything into the ear canal.

Additional safety essentials

• Not all dogs swim naturally: Introduce gradually in shallow water. Never force them.

• Choose safe locations: Shallow entry and exit points are essential.

• Use a life jacket: Look for jackets with a sturdy handle on top for lifting your dog out in emergencies.

• Build strong recall: Essential for calling your dog out if conditions change.

• Watch for fatigue: Call them out for regular breaks.

• Check beach restrictions: Many UK beaches ban dogs May to September (varies by council).

• In emergencies: Never go in after your dog. Call 999 (coastguard for sea, fire and rescue service for inland water).

When to avoid water entirely

• Blue-green algae reported or suspected

• Rough seas, red flags or warnings

• Fast-flowing, flooded or high rivers

• Reservoirs or canals

• Dead fish, foul smell or unusual water appearance

• Dangerously cold water

• Your dog is unwell, injured or recovering from surgery

• Your dog shows exhaustion or reluctance

Swimming provides wonderful exercise, mental stimulation and bonding time for water-loving spaniels. The key is being informed, staying vigilant and making smart decisions about when, where and how your dog swims. Trust your instincts – if something feels unsafe, it probably is.