Most dogs love a good splash, but before you let Fido dive in, you have to ask yourself: is your pool safe for your dog to swim in?
Pools contain chemicals, equipment, and layouts designed for humans, not pets. You need to know exactly what risks exist in your backyard so you can keep your four-legged buddy safe as they paddle and play.
Can Your Dog Actually Swim?
It’s a common belief that all dogs are natural swimmers, but that just isn’t true. Some breeds, like Labradors, are born for the water, while others, particularly brachycephalic (short-snouted) breeds like bulldogs and pugs, can struggle to keep their heads up.
Before letting your dog have free reign, you need to know their capabilities. Try introducing them to the water slowly with a doggy life jacket on. Stay right with them in the shallow end and see how they react. If they seem confident and comfortable, you can gradually let them explore deeper areas. But if they appear scared or struggle, it’s best to keep them on dry land.
Are the Chemicals at a Safe Level?
Pool chemicals keep the water clean for humans, but what about for dogs? A well-maintained pool is generally safe for a dog to swim in.
But a pool with improperly balanced chemicals can irritate a dog’s skin, eyes, and paws, and may even cause stomach upset if they swallow the water. You can test the quality of your pool water by hiring a professional or using a home test kit. If the results show levels of chlorine, pH, alkalinity, or calcium hardness outside the ideal range, you’ll need to adjust them before letting your pet in.
Is There an Easy Way Out?
Can your dog get out of the pool on their own from any spot? Pools often have steep sides, and while you can use the stairs, a panicked dog might not find them. They can get exhausted quickly trying to pull themselves over the edge.
If you’re going to let your dog swim, teach them where the steps are. Practice with them until you’re confident they know how to get out by themselves. You can also install a pet-safe ramp or ladder if you want to give them an easier to find, easier to use way out of the pool.
Is the Water Temperature Safe?
You want the water between 75 and 85 degrees for your dog. Anything colder can make your dog shiver or get tired too quickly. If it’s warmer than that, your dog could overheat and feel weak. Use a pool thermometer and always check before letting your dog swim. If the water feels chilly to your hand, it’s probably too cold for your pup.
Keep Your Pup Splashing Safely
Is your pool safe for your pup to play in? Before letting them dive in, check key safety areas like chlorine levels, escape routes, and water temperature—otherwise, you could risk their safety. But with the right precautions, swimming can be an excellent workout and a fun, enriching activity for your dog.
