Blog Archives
Water and Your Weimaraner
~Puppy Swim
Dear Readers–this is a repost of a previous blog. We are getting ready to swim the Bernie X Boone 2019 Litter–we wanted to share this essential information to those with the young Weimaraner.
Most of you know that we try to swim puppies–time and weather permitting. Above is a GoPro Video of a litter swim taken a couple of years ago. It gives you a different perspective. Some pups are excellent swimmers; others struggle a little. Nonetheless, we have never had a puppy fail to be able to swim. Does this mean they will naturally take to the water? No! If you expect them to jump and take off, you may be disappointed. It will most likely require work to get them into the water and swimming. This effort is work we hope you invest. We deem this an essential part of the puppy raising process.
The Why and the How
Over the years, we have written extensively on how to achieve the swim. More and more of our clients have managed to do this. Sometimes to their own surprise. It is one of the best things you can do for yourself and the Weimaraner.
To expend energy. The growing Weimaraner has boundless energy; however, they cannot be beating the pavement to run off this energy. Until the growth plates close, you need to limit high impact exercise. Many experts agree that about three miles should be the limit. Imagine how quickly the Weimaraner puts in the three miles. Seriously, nearly a mile into your run they have probably gone this far. Using the swim is the ideal way to exercise without causing damage to the growing joints. We would go so far as to suggest it probably helps your Weimaraner get more years and miles from their body. That is something that serves everyone’s best interest. We think you can agree.
Hunter or not, you need to master the recall. You say what do you mean by the recall? That is coming when called. Getting the retrieve to hand is also a part of the recall. The rock-solid come when you call or give a command–verbal or otherwise. The bringing of a bumper or toy back to you is a must. Keep away it funny and laughable; however, we don’t feel this is ever in the best interest of the Weimaraner or you.
Cliff and I suggest you find an area where there is no escape route. For example–a hallway (closing all the adjoining doors) will work for this exercise. You want to make this an exciting event. Something that they look forward to doing with you. Sit down in that hallway and work on the retrieve at least every day. You want to ingrain the love of the retrieve as well as getting them to bring the dedicated item it to hand. This discipline will serve you well and help you achieve the swim.
The hallway exercise should begin as soon as they arrive. Make it an event–the same person, the same bumper or toy, and somewhat a routine. Five-Seven throws blocking the exit with your body. Toss and retoss keeping the excitement going. This activity should be fun, short-lived, and you want to stop while they are still excited. Once you have the rock-solid recall—then you can move to the yard. You may need to use a check cord in the larger venue. If you don’t know what that is, ask us. It is a long line that attaches to their collar and allows you to reel them back to you. Always giving them praise like it was all their idea.
Why the Retrieve
The Weimaraner that is in loves the retrieve then can be worked along the water–at first, make it shallow water. A pond or something similar is ideal. Sloping sides are the best. That way, the Weimaraner can play at the water’s edge and retrieve. Eventually, you can edge them out a bit, and they will take off and swim a couple of strokes. This process takes patience. You might wonder how long. Can we say it takes as long as it takes? Typically, Cliff gets the water-retrieve in two weeks or less. The rewards are almost endless. You can do this! Believe in the process. Stay optimistic. Keep it fun. Stay at it until you achieve success.
Running Companions
For the long distance runner, this is the best way to set the Weimaraner up as your running companion. The growth plates typically close around 15 months. By then you should have them swimming. The waterwork can keep your running companion in the tip-top shape you need as well as help them develop muscles which may help prevent injury.
To Burn Off Energy
For those less inclined or find themselves challenged to keep up with the Weimaraner, this is an excellent way to burn off the excess energy. The Weimaraner will still be able to join you on walks, etc. But tiring the Weimaraner out is challenging. The waterwork helps and does it without injury. Of course, there are other pros to having the water-friendly Weimaraner.
Imprinting the Idea
We swim the pups with the idea that it imprints this experience. If you wonder, the Weimaraner has webbed toes. There are hundreds of updates on our blog that feature OwyheeStar pups and adults enjoying the water–swimming, retrieving, and playing in it. We hope your Weimaraner will swim–and love the water.
Here is Stackhouse — a strong swimmer
Cliff and Shela
Water and Your Weimaraner
~Puppy Swim
Most of you know that we try to swim puppies–time and weather permitting. Above is a GoPro Video of a litter swim taken a couple of years ago. It gives you a different perspective. Some pups are excellent swimmers; others struggle a little. Nonetheless, we have never had a puppy fail to be able to swim. Does this mean they will naturally take to the water? No! If you expect them to jump and take off, you may be disappointed. It will most likely require work to get them into the water and swimming. This effort is work we hope you invest. We deem this an essential part of the puppy raising process.
The Why and the How
Over the years we have written extensively on how to achieve the swim. More and more of our clients have managed to do this. Sometimes to their own surprise. It is one of the best things you can do for yourself and the Weimaraner.
To expend energy. The growing Weimaraner has boundless energy; however, they cannot be beating the pavement to run off this energy. Until the growth plates close, you need to limit high impact exercise. Many experts agree that about three miles is the limit. Imagine how quickly the Weimaraner puts in the three miles. Seriously, about a mile into your run they have probably gone this far. Using the swim is the ideal way to exercise without causing damage to the growing joints. We would go so far as to suggest it probably helps your Weimaraner get more years and miles from their body. That is something that serves everyone’s best interest. We think you can agree.
Hunter or not you need to master the recall. You say what do you mean by the recall? That is coming when called. Getting the retrieve to hand is also a part of the recall. The rock solid come when you call or give a command–verbal or otherwise. The bringing of a bumper or toy back to you. Keep away it funny and laughable; however, we don’t feel this is ever in the best interest of the Weimaraner or you.
Cliff and I suggest you find an area where there is no escape route. For example–a hallway (closing all the adjoining doors) will work for this exercise. You want to make this an exciting event. Something that they look forward to doing with you. Sit down in that hallway and work on the retrieve at least every day. You want to ingrain the love of the retrieve as well as getting them to bring the dedicated item it to hand. This discipline will serve you well and help you achieve the swim.
The hallway exercise should begin as soon as they arrive. Make it an event–the same person, the same bumper or toy, and somewhat a routine. Five-Seven throws blocking the exit with your body. Toss and retoss keeping the excitement going. This activity should be fun, short-lived, and you want to stop while they are still excited. Once you have the rock solid recall—then you can move to the yard. You may need to use a check cord in the larger venue. If you don’t know what that is, ask us. It is a long line that attaches to their collar and allows you to reel them back to you. Always giving them praise like it was all their idea.
Why the Retrieve
The Weimaraner that is in loves the retrieve then can be worked along the water–at first shallow water. A pond or something similar is ideal. Slopping sides even better. That way they can play at the water’s edge and retrieve. Eventually, you can edge them out a bit, and they will take off and swim a couple of strokes. This process takes patience. You might wonder how long. Can we say it takes as long as it takes? Typically, Cliff gets the water-retrieve in two weeks or less. The rewards are almost endless. You can do this! Believe in the process. Stay optimistic. Keep it fun. Stay at it until you achieve success.
Running Companions
For the long distance runner, this is the best way to set the Weimaraner up as your running companion. The growth plates typically close around 15 months. By then you should have them swimming. The waterwork can keep your running companion in the tip-top shape you need as well as help them develop muscles which may help prevent injury.
To Burn Off Energy
For those less inclined or find themselves challenged to keep up with the Weimaraner, this is an excellent way to burn off the excess energy. The Weimaraner will still be able to join you on walks, etc. But tiring the Weimaraner out is challenging. The waterwork helps and does it without injury. Of course, there are other pros to having the water-friendly Weimaraner.
Imprinting the Idea
We swim the pups with the idea that it imprints this experience. If you wonder, the Weimaraner has webbed toes. There are hundreds of updates on our blog that feature OwyheeStar pups and adults enjoying the water–swimming, retrieving, and playing in it. We hope you will achieve the swim.
Here is Stackhouse — a strong swimmer
Olli and Indi
Two Longhairs
~ From The Same Parents
Olli does not share his sticks with anyone…except, now, his sister Indi. After we got the good news of Indi’s titer test, we took her to Olli’s favorite dog park along the Mississippi River. He loves to swim and amass a stick collection; Indi is learning to do the same. She is not at the point of wanting to swim but she goes deep into the water to help Olli carry back his stick prize.At just over 4 months, Indi is growing like a weed and highly trainable. She hates to have Olli go anywhere without her so going for a run in the morning can be a challenge as she wants to run after us. She is a snuggler and keeps hoping that we will give in and let her just sleep on the big bed. Olli gives her the “been there done that” look…!All in all, she is doing fine and the crate training concerns of the early days are a distant memory. We are so happy that Olli and Indi are a part of the family!Hope all is well with both of you.MaryPS: The connection that these animals bring us is amazing. From western Oregon and beyond – it is a community that comes together over the love of a breed. You and Cliff have done an outstanding job of keeping the connections and ensuring that the puppies are of the highest quality. Every day is not always perfect and there are plenty of trying times but the sun always comes up and we start all over again. With the tails a-wagging and puppy licks for everyone 🙂
Breeder Comment
We are thrilled to hear that Olli has adjusted and that he more than accepts Indi. We are happy to hear that the Vaccine Titer Test came back with good results. It is always a good feeling to know the titers indicate they have good immunity.
I am confident that the two get a lot of positive comments. We are ever so thankful for people like you–our loyal Weim-loving folks mean more than words can express. We are indeed blessed. There are more and more people discovering the Longhair. We love all things, Weimar. What can we say? I suppose as addictions go, I prefer this one to others. (Haha)
Another
Water Weim
~ in the works!
Willow just discovered the joys of water! She was apprehensive at first, but we lured her into the baby pool with a floating rubber ducky. The trick was acting as if we didn’t notice her.Naturally, she thought she was getting away with something 🙂 It was so much fun watching her splash around and discover it on her own.Later, she tried jumping in the hot tub, so we know she’s ready to take to the lake this weekend! We are overjoyed that she may love the beach as soon as her boosters are done!Much love – Renee & Tony
Breeder Comment
We (along with the world) have been watching Willow’s adventures. Thank you, Renee. I love that you have not forgotten Roxy–I see those posts honoring her life. We met so very long ago. Who knew we would be able to stay connected over the years?
Cliff and I are ever so thankful for your loyalty and friendship. We don’t take it lightly. We know Willow will have every advantage available. We sincerely hope she continues to delight your heart. I am positive Roxy is watching over everything–possibly shaking her head and patting her paw to give direction.
Friendliest
Zelda is the Greatest
~California Weimar Girl
Two years ago we received a beautiful blue female Weimaraner from you folks. We met Cliff in Burns Oregon, we are from California. Zelda is what we named her. Stackhouse was there when we picked her up. Her docked tail has a very notable flip to it. Everyone loves it, as she trots, most friendliest to everyone, except cats and raccoons.
Eye on the Sky
We live in a pretty normal Weimaraner home. Zelda has been very vocal these days, I can only guess what all the bumbling is about, urban raccoons and skunks.
Dog Park Star
Star of the dog park is Ms. Zelda. As most know, when puppies run into the park the other dogs come over to check her out, sniff, she runs over to the dog’s parent who seems to bother her the most, and plants herself between their legs, they become taken by her and protects Zelda. LOL LOL! Zelda leans into pet parents, they think she loves them. She is very sociable there, everyone knows her by name.
She is a Standout
We have come across two other young Weimaraners. What separates her from the other weims is temperament and physical appearance, her tail flips up as she moves around, she is outstanding.
The Beach; the Ocean and Miss Zelda
This is Zelda doing one of her favorite outings. Carmel by the Sea is where this video was taken. Her parents are Stackhouse and Livee, she was born July 12, 2016.
Love sharingYvonne
Breeder Comment
We are delighted to hear from you. The videos are fun and the photos delightful. It is good to know Zelda is doing well–that she is living a perfect Weimar life. Thank you, for thinking of us, as well as for all you do for your OwyheeStar girl.
Water, Again
Jaeger’s 1st
~water retrieve.
It took about 6 tosses and Ruger going in before he’d go beyond chest deep.
He’s been introduced to and been in the water all spring, just nothing swimmable until today…. Annnnnd here are a couple more just goofy Weimie pics.
Breeder Comment
Jaeger is about four months old. We feel this is exceptional. He didn’t swim at OwyheeStar before leaving–it was too cold. Jaeger was born in mid-October of 2017. Cliff is dually impressed that he is swimming and water retrieving. We appreciate the video capture of the moment as well as these great photos. Thank you!
Water Weims
Webbed Toes
~Propel them through the Water
The Weimaraner is a powerful swimmer once they get going. The trick is getting to take the first step. Their toes are webbed making them better equipped to paddle.
There is no one way to get them to swim; however, we find having a love of the retrieve ingrained goes a long way towards accomplishing this discipline. (Sorry to some of you!) For the non-hunter, many times the retrieve is not viewed as essential. All too many of you allow the Weimaraner to abscond and run around the yard with the toy or the bumper–instead of bringing back to hand. Yes, this is a hoot–although it is just one more Weim antic, this is one we suggest you not allow to take root. The idea of achieving the swim is only one reason in a myriad of why you need to get the rock-solid retrieve. We won’t list those as we are speaking about achieving the Water Retrieve.
The Recall
You want the Weimaraner coming when called. The Recall is a safety issue and the underpinning of compliance. Two areas where compromise cannot be allowed (in our opinion). Depending on your approach to training there are various ways to get this done–we will forgo the discussion on methodology. Let’s just say get this done! It is going to help you with achieving more than a Water Retrieve.
Early On
Cliff suggests you find a place to do this exercise. One location that works well is a hallway. Close all the adjoining doors (so they cannot take off with the bumper of the toy). Make this a special event and stop before they tire–while they are still begging for more. He also suggests you use a dedicated toy or bumper you save for this activity only. Depending on your pup’s attention and skill level keep the number of reps down–at first maybe as few as three. Bear in mind; the idea is to make this celebratory and fun. You want them having the desire. This activity will serve you well on so many levels and enhance your training outcome positively.
Water Exposure
Weather Permitting the OwyheeStar puppy will see the water before they depart. You saw the video we shared, if not we included it here. Nevertheless, this is not going to ensure that your pup will swim. It will still require time, effort, and patience to get your Weimaraner to swim–plus a bit of knack. A few suddenly jump in but don’t wait for that to happen. Oh–and if you doubt, the Weimaraner is more than likely going to read your thoughts and agree with you.
You might wonder how to begin. Cliff does it this way–your situation may require you to adapt. Using the reliable retrieve, you work along the edges of a pond. Just play in the water’s edge–a tiny bit on their feet initially. Slowly ease them into the water beyond their comfort zone. It might take a few tries, a few days, or a few weeks. It takes as long as it takes, but if you follow this protocol, you will achieve the goal. Like anything with the concrete thinking Weimaraner, you want to make this part of the early life training. Then it becomes the norm. Oh, and you notice he mentions using the pond. Waves could spook them. You want to avoid that scenario.
Imagine the possibilities!
A Few Final Thoughts
- Weims who balk at the sight of rain or a sprinkler often achieve the swim.
- Don’t go in with the *pre-conceived idea that it cannot be achieved.
- Select the venue to work on this carefully.
- Go in with the idea it takes as long as it takes.
- Make this part of your young pup’s agenda.
- If you *failed to achieve the swim early on, don’t believe it is impossible.
- Some people use a life vest**. The vests are not necessary.
- Often Cliff is teaching a Weimaraner who has not swum since they were a puppy. They might be 2 years old or older. They always learn. Cliff knows it can be achieved. Sometimes it is challenging but, with patience, it always happens.
- Deem this as invaluable to your process. It is a healthy activity that can burn off the excess energy and not take such a toll on the hips and joints. It is good for their cardiovascular as well.
~ We hope this helps someone achieve the swim! ~ Cliff and Shela
*You would be shocked to learn how many folks achieved the swim after they told us it was impossible.
**Life Vests–just a note here that Cliff never uses one. The only vest he might use is a Neoprene one if he were to swim them in inclement weather–like for Duck Hunting. Some of you need this for peace of mind. It might help the Weimaraner take their first few steps, but again–it is not necessary. A lot of clients who live in cold water regions cannot keep their Weims out of the water. This scenario is true even in the winter.
Extraordinary
Weim Families
~ Like Virginia
Here is a picture of the pond I had built for my babies Dusty and Stormy (Weims).
Breeder’s Comment
Maybe you follow OwyheeStar Weimaraners both here and on Facebook. If so, you know about the late Stormy and our aging Dusty.
These are not the same Weims–they are Virginia’s Stormy and Dusty. Ours and Virginia’s Weims are all the Blue Weimaraner. Virginia’s Stormy is a Blue Longhair Weimaraner.
OwyheeStar’s Dusty is the father of both of Virginia’s pups. He is a smooth-coated Weimaraner (pictured to the left), but he carries the DNA marker for the Longhair. This Story originally ran some time ago.–click here to read the full story.
Looking Ahead
Cliff and Winnie have been in the farm pond already. Cliff wears hip waders, and sometimes he records the swim with our GoPro. I still take the individual videos of each pup’s first swim. Of course, the prospective owners love it.
Eventually, most folks attempt to get their Weimaraner in the water. Some are more successful than others. Regardless, anyone willing to be patient and work through the process can get their Weimaraner to swim. We believe this shows you how natural it is and at the same imprints the experience on the pup’s psyche.
It won’t be long, and we will be swimming pups. Just so you can see kind of what we do, here is last year’s first litter swim of the year. We sincerely hope you enjoy it!
Stella
Not Short on Adventures
~ Digging for Sport
I think Stella’s about nine months old now and we just moved into our brand new, very own home! That’s some good news. The bad news is that we are working on our backyard. Of course, Stella thinks it’s awesome because she has a lot of dirt to bury bones in. She is so silly and dirty.
Running Free and Swimming
Another piece of good news is that Stella’s been on lots of adventures with her dog pals! Here are some pictures from our last trip up the Deschutes River. There’s no bad news to that. Stella runs free and happy through the woods and eagerly swims in the river! She’s also ‘almost’ stopped jumping on all the people she meets. Maybe that’s some bad news….
Snacking on the Stairs
Anyway, the worst news is that on the day she was contained in our new dog run and had access to our garage in case of rain…. she opened (or we left open) the door to our new house. There were builders in the backyard putting up the new fence. Anyway, long story short…SHE ATE A STAIR! She’s never chewed anything! Yikes! I included a picture!
Looking Pretty or Contemplating her next Antic
Anyhow, through that whole adventure, we love our beautiful girl still. That’s the best news. I attached a picture of her posing. Or maybe, she was contemplating her next move! Hahahahahaha.That’s the scoop from our family! We hope your family is doing well.
Breeder Comment
Relocating a Weim can be laden with pitfalls. They don’t do change well, but it seems Stella is adapting well. The most significant concern may be that she is developing the habit of digging. The concrete-thinking Weimaraner is tough to retrain once they get the idea that something is the norm. (oops) This way of thinking can carry over into all areas. Well, such as chewing the stairs could transfer to fencing, etc.
It is outstanding that she is water-friendly–swims in the river. Jumping up on people she greets is not pleasant for those being welcomed; however, at least she is super friendly. We would Prepare these jumping-up issues rather than dealing with a Weimaraner that is not people-friendly. Thank you, for the great share. We truly appreciate it!
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