Keep flat-faced dogs on short leash around water say vets after tragic deaths of two French bulldogs

Maggie and Ralph, both French bulldogs, are believed to have drowned after falling into water while walking off-lead with their owners.

Two-year-old therapy dog Ralph disappeared on Halloween last year while on a walk with his owner, Sharon Mather, in Poulton. More than 9,000 people joined in the search for him before his body was found last week on the bank of the River Wyre.

Meanwhile, one-year-old Maggie was exploring Stanley Park with her owner Teresa Cunliffe in late December when it is believed she fell into the lake after mistaking some green algae for land. Her body was found by a fisherman in the park on January 18, just a few days before Ralph was found.

While many people assume that all dogs are natural swimmers and will 'doggy paddle' in deep water, heavy, flat-faced breeds like French bulldogs sink like stones. Their heavy heads and stubby legs make it almost impossible for them to stay afloat.

RSPCA dog welfare expert Dr Samantha Gaines said: “It’s incredibly sad to hear about the deaths of these two French bulldogs and our thoughts go out to their families. It’s difficult to know exactly what happened without knowing the full circumstances here as they may have drowned due to the water or weather conditions or because of their own strength, stamina or health.

“Many dogs enjoy swimming and are capable of doing it well but we always encourage owners to be cautious around water, particularly as the sea and rivers can have strong currents, as well as hidden objects that could cause injury. Even if your dog loves to swim then we’d encourage you to always supervise and keep your pet close by.

“Some dogs will be stronger at swimming than others while some - who have been bred to have extremely exaggerated features - may struggle in the water due due to the disproportionate size and weight of their heads, or due to being flat faced which can cause difficulty in breathing."

A spokesman for the PDSA said: "Swimming can be great exercise for dogs, especially if they have stiff or painful joints, but not every dog is a water baby. It doesn’t matter what breed your dog is, some will adore the water and others will prefer to keep all four paws on solid ground - you should never force them to swim if they don’t seem keen.

"However, the flat faces of breeds such as French bulldogs often results in restricted breathing, and this can mean that they struggle with any exercise. The effort of swimming plus this restricted breathing means that they have to pant, which can put them at risk of inhaling water and lead to dangerous lung infections or even drowning.

"If you have a flat faced breed take extra care around water – ideally only let them in shallow water where they can touch the bottom. If they don’t really love to swim it might be best to keep them away from the water altogether.

"Always keep your dog on a lead around water, even the best-behaved pooch can be tempted to go for a dip sometimes or could fall in accidentally. Keep them by your side until you can check any water is safe for them. If your dog is keen to try swimming, they will need to learn. Start them off in shallow water, never let them out of arms’ reach and always supervise them. Don’t push them to do anything they don’t want to and let them take to the water at their own pace.

"If your dog is a swimmer, choose your spots carefully; avoid stagnant water, fast flowing areas, floods, rough seas, or anywhere with a strong current. It’s also important to avoid water if you can’t see to the bottom to check for debris or sharp rocks that could cut or injure your dog. By taking these simple steps, you can reduced any risks to your dog so they can enjoy their swim."