Is your Swimming Pool Safe for your Dog?

When the pool is busy in the middle of the summer, it can be so much fun for the whole family to hop into the pool. Some dogs simply won’t accept being left out of the action and will do anything to join the family in the water. But, is it safe for your dog to join you in the pool? For some dogs, the swimming pool is a safe and fun activity. But, there are some risks to having your dog in your swimming pool. If you are thinking of giving your pup access to your pool, there are a few important things to keep in mind.

Keeping your dog safe in the pool

Many people believe that all dogs can hold their own near the water. We often rely on dogs to use their instinct to take care of themselves. But, it is important to remember that dogs have been bred for all kinds of reasons, and not all dogs can actually swim. Breeding, physiology, or simple lack of experience might mean your dog is at risk of exhaustion or even drowning in the water.

Always test out your dog’s swimming ability before they get into the water, and assess how they handle the activity. Some dogs may need help to get in and out of the pool, or may need a lifejacket to enjoy the water. Some dogs simply love swimming so much that they will need you to tell them when to take a break. Water-loving dogs have been known to swim so hard that they sprain their own tails.

Even if your dog seems totally disinterested in the water, you should never leave your dog unattended to access the pool. Dogs that are too excited or having too much fun can fall in, consume water, get too tired, and encounter any of the hazards of a human swimmer who is in the pool alone.

The risks of having your dog in the pool

Some people have no trouble with chlorine, and others find it very irritating to their eyes and skin. Dogs are very similar, and some can have issues with their skin, ears, and eyes when exposed to chlorine. If your dog loves the water but has chlorine sensitivity, you may have some options. Some owners have been able to get custom goggles (doggles) that allow their pups to enjoy the water without irritation.

Some dogs tend to swallow a lot of water when swimming, and this can cause serious digestive issues if they are in a swimming pool. If your pup tends to drink water compulsively, you may want to keep them out of the swimming pool or limit the time that they spend swimming.

Vinyl liners are often damaged by happy dogs who scrape the side of the pool during a summer swim. Some owners are able to guide their dog away from the sides of the pool and trust them around steps, but many others have had to pay to replace a damaged pool liner. If you are thinking of getting a new swimming pool, a concrete pool can be a bit safer from dog damage.

Dogs love nothing more than spending time outdoors playing with the people they love. Some dogs can get overexcited in the pool, and this can be overwhelming to small children and inexperienced swimmers. If your dog is in the pool with other swimmers, make sure you’re there to keep an eye on things, and make them take a break if necessary.

Swimming pools that are perfect for dogs

If you’re thinking about getting a pool that your dogs can also enjoy, a concrete pool is likely your best bet. Choosing a concrete pool will allow you to avoid damage to a vinyl liner when your dog is paddling around the edges of the water.

If your dog simply can’t be in your swimming pool, you can get a pet-friendly pool or set your dog up with their own kiddie pool. For dogs with dedicated owners, there are even more options for swimming.

Public swimming pools for dogs

If you’ve decided that your swimming pool needs to be off-limits to your dog, your dog has other options to get in a swim. There are many pools designed to allow dogs to swim. These pools are often for weight-loss or physiotherapy, but also allow swims just for fun. This means your dog can enjoy swimming fun even in the winter season.

In many cities, public pools will allow dogs to swim on the last day that pools are open for the summer. Before local pools are drained take your dog to enjoy a pool party with all of his local friends. Make sure to check in with your local community centre to see if there is a dog-friendly pool party for your best friend to attend.

Pets in the swimming pool

Some dogs really can’t be stopped from getting into the water. If you decide to let your pet in the pool, be sure that you take responsibility for keeping them safe at all times. Dogs need supervision around the pool just like your human family does, and it is even more important that you monitor your dog for any health concerns.

Many pool owners have made their swimming pools dog-friendly. With a little responsible care and planning, your dog can spend the summer happily paddling in the pool.