When Your Dog Likes to Swim

For some people, the family pool is for the whole family . . . including the furry members. 

Yes, believe it or not, some people who install pools want to ensure that their dogs will be able to swim too. If you happen to be one of them, read on to learn how to make a more pooch-friendly pool.

Skip Vinyl Liner Pools

First things first, you absolutely cannot have a vinyl liner pool if you’re going to allow your dogs in the pool.

Those sharp little toenails spell disaster for even the most high-quality, expensive liner.

You can let your dogs swim, or you can have a vinyl liner, but you definitely can’t have both.

Keep the Chemicals

A lot of people are concerned that pool chemicals, like chlorine, will have some kind of adverse effect on their furry friends.

And, while there hasn’t been a lot of research done in this area, the general consensus is that, if a chemical is safe enough for humans, it’s safe enough for dogs.

Plus, you can’t just not treat your pool. However, if you’re really concerned, you could opt for a more natural saltwater pool.

Either way, just wash your dog’s fur after each swimming session. This will remove residue and keep your pooch’s hair and skin irritation free.

Stay Safe

Most dogs are naturally very good swimmers. However, accidents can happen.

As such, treat your dogs just like you would small children. Never let them swim alone, and keep a close eye on them anytime they are in or around the pool area.

Also, try to keep your pooch from ingesting too much pool water, which can sometimes cause stomach upsets and other problems. Instead, keep fresh drinking water nearby and make sure your pet knows where it is.

As you can see, sharing your pool with your pup really isn’t all that hard, nor is it that unheard of. And, besides, the best part of having your own pool is that you can do what you want with it. So, if you want to swim with your dog, then go for it!