Covers: Cocker Spaniel, Springer Spaniel, Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, Weimaraner, Vizsla.
Working drive, controlled
Springers and working Cockers can run all day and still pace the kitchen at night. Half an hour of swimming is concentrated effort that takes the edge off far better than another lap of the park. Because they will keep going regardless, we manage the rests so eagerness does not become a strained shoulder.
Toys can be useful for focus, but reactive or obsessive dogs sometimes do better with a plain swim so the session is exercise rather than a frantic chase.
Thin coats and warm water
Weimaraners and Vizslas carry very little body fat and a fine, short coat. Outdoor water in a Lancashire spring can chill them quickly. Our indoor pool sits at 28–32°C, and every dog is towelled and dried before leaving. These dogs also tend to tire faster in the first few visits than their fitness on land suggests, so we start short and build.
Ears after swimming
Long, feathered spaniel ears trap moisture. Dry them gently after each session and follow any ear-care routine your vet recommends, especially if your dog has a history of ear infections.
Cavaliers need a gentler plan
Cavaliers are usually willing swimmers, but heart conditions are common in the breed. If your dog is under a vet's care for their heart, ask whether swimming is suitable, tell us when you book, and we will keep effort modest with a coach in the water.
Pre-season conditioning for shooting and trial dogs works well as a weekly block for six to eight weeks before work starts, building fitness without extra miles on hard ground.
Settling a spaniel before and after
Many spaniels arrive wound up by the car journey and the smell of water. A few minutes on lead at the poolside, sniffing and watching, usually produces a calmer first entry than rushing straight down the ramp. For dogs that bark or spin with excitement, we start without toys and introduce one only once the dog is swimming evenly.
Afterwards, gundogs tend to shake, roll and want to run. Let them settle in the car rather than heading straight out for a field session; muscles that have just worked hard in warm water are better rested. A regular slot at the same time each week helps high-drive dogs know what to expect, and many owners find the evening after a swim is noticeably calmer at home.
Spaniels & Gundogs: owner questions
Which session suits a working Springer?
Many owners use Owner In Pool; if your dog needs firm control of pace, a Swim Coach session at £40 puts one of our team in the water.
Will a Weimaraner get cold?
The water is warm and the building indoor, but thin-coated dogs still need thorough drying, which is included.
Is swimming safe for a Cavalier with a heart murmur?
That is a question for your vet. With their agreement we keep sessions gentle and short.
Usual starting point: Owner In Pool (£35). See availability