Mastiff Puppy's Confused Swim Lesson with Sister Is So Adorably Awkward
It's a dog's rite of passage to learn how to swim, whether it's in the ocean waves or in a backyard pool. For Benny the English Mastiff, swimming isn't exactly working out yet, but it's not for lack of trying—he just doesn't understand what he's supposed to do with his feet!
Thankfully @bennythemastiff shared the funny TikTok video that shows Benny's confusion over the activity and it's so awkward you can't help but root for the sweet fella. Take a look!
In the 5-second clip that says, "Benny is still figuring out this whole swimming thing," the giant 5-month-old Mastiff stands with his hind legs on the pool stairs and his two front paws on his sister's shoulders in the most uncomfortable, awkward swimming attempt on record. To make it even better, his big brother Bowser watches from the sideline, almost judging him.
This little cutie may not be the best swimmer yet, but he's not concerned. With so many videos showing off his pup-tastic personality, fans don't care what he's doing as long as he's fully being his hilarious self. In this case, he absolutely is!
"He nailed the attempt!" one person said. "Benny!!!! Benny!!!! Benny!!! Benny and the poooooooooooooooolllllll," another joked. "Benny needs to bully Bowser into the water," another added.
Despite his confusion, however, he keeps on keepin' on and for that, we salute you, Benny!
English Mastiffs Aren't Naturally Good Swimmers
Mastiffs like Benny have a lot of amazing traits, like guarding, but not when it comes to swimming. Dogster notes that Mastiff breeds were never bred as water dogs like Retrievers, Spaniels, and the aptly named Portuguese Water Dogs. That, plus their big, heavy bodies make swimming a little more difficult if it's not part of their regular training.
On the other hand, a Mastiff's size also means they have strong legs that can help propel them in water. If they've taken swim lessons or had proper swim training, anything is possible. In fact, most dogs can learn to be excellent swimmers—with training. But dogs the size of Benny have to learn how to move their joints and muscles in conjunction with their size to stay safe in water.
If you want a water pup, teach them young—with the use of a plastic kiddie pool, and practice swim safety by also showing them how to enter and exit a pool safely. Above all else, always watch them when they're in the water as they can tire quickly and need a helping hand.
We know Benny will get the water moves down soon. In the meantime, he looks awfully cute trying!
🐶 SIGN UP for Parade’s weekly pet newsletter for more inspiring and entertaining stories about our furry and feathered friends 🐾
Trending Stories
