age for puppy to swim

Question
Hi,
When is it OK to introduce our 9 week old yellow female lab to the water? We live on a tidal salt river and wonder if it is just too early to take her to the dock with us. What do you think?
Also. What about taking her in the boat. She doesn't like riding in the car yet but getting better about that.
thank you for your help.

Sarah McDaniel

Answer
I would try to find a place where the water is still and has a shallow, sloping bottom and let her take the water at her own pace.  Many of my Labs were never introduced to water until they were almost a year old and didn't like it.  

Go ahead with her in the boat.  Wear life jackets yourself so if anything happens, you will be better able to look after her.