A familiar waterside walk can become an emergency when a dog slips into the water. A Royal Kennel Club and RNLI warning published on 12 October 2026 focuses on the owner's next decision: rushing in can put another life at risk.
Understand what the survey measures
The Royal Kennel Club release says 74% of dog-owner respondents would enter the water after their dog despite a risk to themselves. It identifies research by Censuswide among 2,000 UK adults. This is a report of stated intentions, not a count of rescues or proof of what every owner would do. The release does not provide a complete methodology or detailed subgroup table.
Have a safer response ready
The RNLI's dog-walking safety advice says to stay out of the water, move somewhere the dog can reach safely and call it. At the coast, if the dog cannot get out or you are worried, call 999 or 112 and ask for the Coastguard. The advice also covers dogs stuck in mud; entering after them creates another risk.
Plan the walk around the dog
The new warning cautions against assuming all dogs can swim or feel comfortable in water. It highlights conditions, hazards and ways out. The RNLI advises a lead near cliff edges and fast-flowing rivers. A dog's enthusiasm is therefore only one part of deciding where to walk.
Use the warning before an emergency
For owners, the useful moment to discuss the route and the emergency plan is before leaving home. For dog-care professionals sharing this story with clients, link to the original safety guidance rather than implying that a breed or coat makes swimming safe. Our seasonal walking article covers a different outdoor hazard; local listings help with grooming enquiries, not emergency rescue.
Sources checked 13 October 2026: Royal Kennel Club warning, 12 October; RNLI dog-walking guidance, 18 July 2019. Corrections: support@groomnear.com.
