Seals and swimming dog

snowboarder

Hope there is someone who can offer some advice on this.

I have a very lively and inquisitive 2-year old black lab that loves the water - in fact it's hard to keep him out of it, especially as I live right on the coast as of very recently. The little problem I have is that when he sees seals of which there are several in the vicinity, he takes off and tries to swim out to them.

I guess he thinks the seal's head resembles his own! But this creates a dilemma for me: it is very difficult to get the dog to come back. What I really want to know is whether a seal would attack the dog? Given the seal can easily stay out of his way, might it be inclined to attack? My young dog of course would stand no chance.

Many thanks for any suggestions anyone can offer.

Snowboarder

Karoma

Kepp your dog on a lead like you're supposed to.

snowboarder

Thanks for your helpful suggestion Karoma.

However I omitted some relevant facts. The coastline where I live is deserted, secluded. The property is open to the coast and sea and my dog remains outside during the day as he does not stray (unless it's to try to go play with a seal!). Consequently, leashing him is neither obligatory nor practical.

To reiteraet, my question is not how to prevent my dog from going into the water; rather it is whether a seal might attack.

Again, any suggestions from members more learned wrt nature and wild animals much appreciated.

Snowboarder

boneless

I have heard of humans getting bitten by seals and it is supposed to be quite dangerous, the seals have all types of bacteria in their gobs.

I think you should consult a vet, tbh. But I know how you can be exasperated by a dog swimming all the time... I have one of them too but at least its only the canal he wont get out of!!

snowboarder

Many thanks boneless.

I'd heard of seal biting incidents but always thought they were very infrequent if not unusual. Especially given all the 'blue ocean' style nature programs I've watched - seals seem pretty benign towards human divers. I was curious whether a swimming dog would represent some form of food or threat to seal.

Anyway, I guess I'll consult with the vet.

Good luck with the canal swimming!

Thanks again.

FranknFurter

They probably would bite if he got close enough, probably extra-agressive now especially, as there will be babies on the way (some already born) to protect that may not be as dog-savvy or quick as mom and dad.

Also, if one was slowed down by an injury Im sure he would see your dog as a threat.

Best keep him out of the water, least until the middle of summer when the pups will be a bit stockier.

b

snowboarder

I'd given no thought to the time of year and pups, etc. Much appreciated FranknFurter!

BolBill

I heard Seal is a dog lover, himself and Heidi Klum are big dog fans.