Can boxer dogs swim?

Boxers can swim, and swimming is good exercise for them, although swimming sessions should be kept short. Swimming can be used to condition a dog for the show ring or as physical therapy for dogs with degenerative myelopathy, a progressive disease of the spinal cord.

The American Boxer Club recommends use of a good-quality canine life jacket to ensure safety while swimming. Dogs need to be taught how to enter and exit water safely and should not be left unattended near a pool. Because boxers do not have tails to serve as rudders, they need extra practice in learning how to turn in the water.