It’s summertime, and the living is easy. If your best fur friend is staring at you with those puppy dog eyes asking to join you for some pool playtime, you might wonder if it’s a good idea. Can my dog swim in my above-ground pool? Good news! The answer is yes, your pup can swim in the pool with you. With a little preparation and a consistent plan to keep your water clean, you can enjoy long afternoons in the pool with your dog all summer long.
Can My Dog Swim?
First, before you decide to bring your pup in the pool, make sure they can swim and tread water. Not all dogs are born natural swimmers. Furthermore, even dogs who know how to swim get tired and need to stop and rest periodically.
Some dog breeds that are known to be natural swimmers include English setter, golden retriever, poodle, Nova Scotia duck tolling retriever, Newfoundland, Chesapeake Bay retriever, Labrador retriever, Irish setter, Irish water spaniel, and Portuguese water dog. On the other hand, dog breeds that may have difficulty swimming include Shih Tzu, pug, Doberman pinscher, bulldog, Alaskan malamute, chow, Basset hound, and Siberian husky. You can do a little research or ask a pet professional about your dog breed’s swimming abilities.
Moreover, it is important to note that even if your dog’s breed is known to swim well, your dog has their own swimming abilities specific to them. If you’re bringing your dog swimming in the pool for the first time, it’s a good idea to introduce them to the water slowly. Support them while they feel out the water and decide if swimming is best for your dog.
How Do I Prepare My Above-Ground Pool for My Dog?
Before pool time with your pup, it’s a good idea to rinse your dog off with water. This will wash off any excess dirt and hair and minimize pool debris from your dog. You can also put a bowl of fresh water near your above-ground pool for your dog to drink so they are less tempted to drink a lot of pool water.
Once pool time has begun, try to keep your dog from scratching the lining of your above-ground pool. Dog owners recommend keeping your dog’s nails trimmed or training them not to scratch the pool walls. To prevent your dog from scratching the pool walls or ledge, provide them with ways to rest in the pool. Some dogs might enjoy resting on a pool float. You can also include pool steps and ladders in your above-ground pool that provide enough space and support for your pet to rest on.
How Do I Clean My Pool After Swimming with My Dog?
There is a reason it feels like a pool party every time you swim with your dog! Experts say having one dog in the pool can release debris and dirt equivalent to anywhere from 10 to 50 people into your pool’s water.
To keep your water clear and clean when swimming with pets, skim it for visible debris daily. Also, test and balance your water daily to keep it healthy. You should clean out your filter of dog hair after every swim. You may find you need to shock the pool water after every puppy pool hour, as well.
For dog owners in Appleton, Juniper has everything you need to keep your pool ready for playtime all year. Our loyal customers can get free water testing and consultation at our store! Stop by today or contact us with any of your pool and spa questions. We can’t wait to hear how your sweet swim time goes.
