How does it differ from water rescue?
In water rescue the dog saves and tows a person. Water work stops at retrieving, towing objects and teamwork, with no rescue element.
Water sports
Water Work
Water rescue's calmer sibling: the dog brings objects back from the water, tows ropes or nets and works as a team with the handler. These are working trials for breeds built to swim.
About the discipline
What Water Work is
Water work covers the in-water trials that don't involve rescuing a person. The dog fetches floating objects, tows a rope or a net and ferries items between boat and shore.
Lots of water breed clubs (Newfoundland, Portuguese water dog, Labrador) run these trials, with levels that get harder as you go.
If you want to work in water with your dog without the physical load of rescue proper, this is a good place to start.
How it works in practice
What it contains
- retrieving floating objects from the shore and from a boat
- towing a rope or a net
- ferrying objects between boat and shore
- swimming alongside the handler on cue
- waiting calmly in the boat
- going in and out of the water under control
Which dogs it suits
- water breeds and dogs that love to swim
- dogs that cope well with cold water
- teams with access to safe open water
What you need
- a harness with a handle
- floating retrieve objects
- a towing rope
- a towel and somewhere for the dog to dry off
Frequently asked questions
Common questions about Water Work
My dog is not a water breed. Can it take part?
At club trials, often yes, as long as it enjoys the water and is fit. Water breeds still have anatomical advantages, and they show once the effort goes on for a while.
Is cold water a problem?
Yes, for dogs without an insulating coat. Keep sessions short, dry the dog off properly afterwards and stay away from very cold water.
How long can a dog work in water?
A lot less than you'd think. Swimming is hard work, and cold water tires a dog out even faster. Work in short bouts with drying breaks in between, and stop at the first sign of slowing down. A tired dog in deep water is in danger, even if from the bank it just looks like it's lost interest.
From the same category
Related sports
Surf Dog
The dog balances on a surfboard and rides the wave.
Stand-up Paddle with your dog
Paddleboarding with your dog, just for fun or in races.
Water Agility
A course of hoops and floating obstacles that the dog swims instead of runs.
Water Rescue
The dog rescues people from water and tows people or objects.
We do not run Water Work
This page is informational. We work in mantrailing, search and rescue and preparation for the TSAC and BH exams - but if you want an honest opinion on what would suit your dog, write to us anytime.