Skip to main content

Dog vs. ocean: Check out this funny video of a dog who hates water

Sure, there are plenty of dogs who love to go swimming and will happily jump into a pool or hop into your boat  (provided they’ve had the right training, of course). But then there are the dogs who hate water. Maybe they give you a hard time come bath time or they never want to go outside when it’s raining. Or maybe your pup is fine with all of that — but when you try to go to the beach with your dog, they turn into the world’s biggest scaredy-cat.

The pooch in this Reddit video is definitely not a fan of the ocean — but when it comes time to save their beloved ball from the ocean’s clutches, they’re willing to brave their fears.

Fittingly set to the Mission Impossible theme, watch as the pup stalks their prey, crouched down and inching closer and closer to the ball — that is, until the world’s slowest, softest waves gently lap up the beach. Our valiant hero backs up, clearly confused by the changes beneath their feet. But as soon as the waves recede, this dog’s back on the hunt… and running safely away from the ocean as soon as that ball is snatched safely in their mouth.

Image used with permission by copyright holder

Do dogs hate water?

It depends. Some dogs will happily play in the ocean for as long as you’ll let them, while others will do everything they can to avoid a bath. If your dog falls into the latter category there could be a number of reasons for this:

  • This is your dog’s first experience with water and new experiences are scary.
  • Your dog had a traumatic incident with water in the past.
  • Your dog wasn’t prepared for the water.

If you have a new puppy, then you know there are lots of experiences that are new to them and it’s up to you as a pet parent to introduce them responsibly. If you adopted your pet from a shelter and don’t know much about their past, there could be a traumatic event you’re not aware of. And, of course, any dog can get spooked by a surprise.

If you’d like to get your dog more accustomed to water, first, figure out where their fear comes from. This can help you address it. Then, work in steps:

  • First, take your time getting your dog used to taking a bath. You can even try a few tips and tricks if the usual methods don’t work.
  • Then, it’s time to teach your dog how to swim. Be patient and go at their pace.
  • Once your dog is used to the water, you can try taking them to the beach. There are a lot of factors to keep in mind when you go to the beach with dogs. From the right gear to water safety to watching out for extreme heat, know how to keep your dog safe.
Image used with permission by copyright holder

Tips for going to the beach with dogs

Want to have the best beach day with your dog? Follow these helpful tips.

  • Even if your dog is a strong swimmer, you need to be mindful of strong currents and riptides.
  • You should put your dog on a long leash and wade into the shallow water first. See if your dog paddles on their own and how well they take to the ocean.
  • Make sure you bring fresh water and food (do not allow your dog to eat fish that have washed ashore), as well as the necessary supplies, like travel bowls.
  • Be mindful of the sun. Bring an umbrella or shade for you and your dog, and consider heat protection for their paws.
  • Obey all leash laws. Even if dogs are allowed off-leash, be mindful of the others around you, especially if your dog is sometimes aggressive with strangers.
  • Be sure to rinse your dog of salt and sand when you’re done for the day.

Whether your dog loves the ocean or views it as a strange possible threat, you can absolutely have fun at the beach with your dog. But if your dog hates water, you can try these methods to help them overcome their fear. (After all, if this video proved anything, no dog wants to lose their toys to Poseidon.)

Editors' Recommendations

Nicole Carlino
Video: This family dog is the world’s best babysitter
This golden takes the best care of his tiny human
A dog sits outside and watches a baby

If you think family dogs don't make good babysitters, think again. While it's true a lot of pets encourage mischief, sometimes a particularly sweet animal will be perfect for the role of human watching. This adorable beastie has his child minding duties down to a science, as seen in the latest TikTok video in which a happy golden retriever follows around his little girl bestie as she plays through her day. It's called "Who needs a babysitter?" and proves that our buds are up to the task. (Okay, so you shouldn't actually leave your dog in charge of your child — but there are definitely pups out there who make perfect companions for kids.)

"Dogs can't be babysitters," reads the first title in this funny dog video. We see our golden star with his small child and then cut to her in the bounce house with the label "My dog." What follows is a look at all the ways he watches her go about the life of an active toddler, always followed by her trusty companion. (Obviously, the pup pup is not truly babysitting as presumably the parent is the one filming.) In addition to being safe, she clearly adores the attention of her furry friend.

Read more
7 dog training podcasts we’re obsessed with
Podcasts can help any pet parent with training their pooch
cute black lab puppy

Awesome news for pet parents: here are 7 fantastic dog training podcasts so you can better know your doggo and keep him happy. There are times every pet parent feels as though they’re the only ones doing “life” with their dog. Whether it’s a behavioral problem, a health concern, or simply how to find the right doggie day care, wouldn’t it be great to have an expert on speed dial to answer your every burning question?

Well, short of spending your life searching online, might we suggest finding a good podcast to listen to? Podcasts are a great way to get free advice from experts in the field, especially as you’re performing mindless chores around the house or settling in for a long plane ride. And when it comes to dog training, podcasts feature a variety of experts who can help any pet parent. Which podcast should you listen to? These are a few of our favorites.

Read more
Funny dog video: Pup has an adorable reaction to a superhero pet on TV
Do dogs understand when a pup barks on TV? We look into it
Dog barks outside in a lawn

We all love to see ourselves on the big screen, and our canines want to see themselves too. It's true that many dogs can watch television and enjoy it, particularly when they spot another furry friend up there. That's why you might show your beastie 101 Dalmations or throw on the Discovery channel if you're looking for a big reaction. This pup became particularly excited when he spotted a superhero dog on the TV in a dog video on TikTok entitled "Representation Matters."

The video starts with a clever four-legger watching Guardians of the Galaxy Volume 3 while sitting on his owner's bed. It's very clear that this movie is one of his favorites, and we're about to see why. Our dog friend is enraptured by the film but becomes even more excited when Cosmo, the pup in the film, comes onto the screen. The text tells us to "Watch my dog realize who the real hero is..." In his excitement, the little bud runs up to the screen barking and wagging his tail — thrilled to see Cosmo the dog save the day. You can see the pure joy in the pooch while he jumps up and down to celebrate.

Read more