Best Dog Pool 2020: Buying Guide – Dogs love to dive and splash around in the water, especially during these hot summers. A dog pool is the perfect accessory to keep your puppy cool and cheerful. Not to mention that, if of adequate size, the swimming pool can also become a leisure for you and your two-legged family members.

A dog pool must be durable, first of all: dogs know how to be quite restless during the game and could inadvertently put those who are bathing with them at risk. In this guide you will find some useful tips to choose the swimming pool that best suits your needs, to spend a refreshing and fun summer.

The most important things in a nutshell

A dog pool can become a real necessity in the summer, especially if the temperatures are very high. Dogs have a reduced number of sweat glands and therefore suffer a lot from the heat. Being able to bathe in fresh water is a great relief for them.
Most dogs love to bathe and in general even the less enthusiastic ones can easily be convinced to take a dip. Countering the heat is a real need for them, both hygienic and healthy.
The capacity and size of the pool are the first elements to focus on at the time of purchase, as well as the materials, the drainage system and the various accessories.

The best dog pools on the market: our selection

This guide will accompany you in choosing your dog pool, a very important accessory for your puppy’s health: you will have to choose one that lasts long and is suitable. Below you will find a list of recommended items that will inspire you for your purchase.

Femor, folding pool for dogs and children

Swimming pool made of non-toxic and safe plastic materials (PVC). Again for safety reasons, it was equipped with internal bumps, padded walls and non-slip bottom. Drainage occurs through the opening of a lateral spiral cap. The pool is foldable and therefore easy to open and close, as well as to transport (it is equipped with a special bag). It is available in three sizes (S, M, L) but in only one color variant: red / blue.

It is a very practical and versatile model: it can act as a dog pool or be used as a play corner for children on the beach, or even as a sandpit for the little ones. Practicality of assembly and transport are the other strong points of this product, appreciated both by dog owners and by parents and grandparents.

Pecute, folding and non-slip swimming pool (120 cm x 30 cm)

Made of sturdy PVC plastic and pressed wood, this pool has a diameter of 120 cm and 30 cm high by 5 kg in weight. It is equipped with a non-slip bottom for the safest use possible and it is very easy to empty thanks to the cap located at the bottom on one side. It is a folding model that is very easy to open and close and is also convenient to store. Available in a single color variant: a cheerful bright blue.

The strength of this pool is definitely its robustness: dogs play it safely without it tearing or losing pieces. Another highly appreciated feature of this model is its practicality, given that thanks to the carrying bag you can store it in your car and carry it with you almost everywhere!

YAOUBLUESEA foldable swimming pool for animals

This model is available in three different sizes: 160 × 30, 120 × 30 and 80 × 20: it can therefore adapt to a series of needs and can also accommodate large dogs. It is made of PVC and wood and is therefore both robust and easy to clean. It is a folding model and therefore easy to assemble and disassemble. For drainage, just open the side valve to empty the pool in a short time. Available in two colors: red / blue and light blue / blue.

Users who purchased this pool mainly appreciate the convenience of use and transportation. Furthermore, the fact of being able to empty it without having to put it away is considered a big plus. Dismantling it is not a problem, just fold it up and you’re done.

FULOON folding dog pool

This practical swimming pool has a diameter of 80 cm by 20 cm in height and is also available in the 100 × 28 version. In two cheerful colors (red / blue and orange / blue), it is very easy to assemble and disassemble as it is foldable and in light but resistant PVC plastic. To empty it, just open the cap on the bottom. It is equipped with padding and non-slip backdrop.

Its main quality is practicality: once folded it takes up very little space but, once opened, it turns out to be a real swimming pool for animals. Some users have reused it as a kennel or as a play corner for the beach, or even to wash their animals once at home, so it seems that it is also quite versatile.

PawHut portable folding pool for dogs (140cm x 30cm)

This model weighs just over 6 kg, has a diameter of 140 cm and is 30 cm high. It is made of PVC and wood, so it is quite robust and at the same time easy to clean. The drainage system is very practical and consists of a side cap to be opened and closed. It is a foldable model that is easy to store and transport. Available in a single variant of blue and light blue colors.

A purchase recommended precisely because of its practicality and immediacy of use. The results are also good at resistance and durability levels. Many users have been using it for years without problems and without needing to do too much maintenance. Perfect for the beach and holidays.

Buying Guide: Everything you need to know about the dog pool

A cool swimming pool in a hot summer can make a big difference in a dog’s life: the heat is stressful for everyone and it is even more stressful for him, since he cannot sweat and take a shower. A swimming pool is truly a great gift!

Dogs have a lot of fun splashing around in cool water.
(Source: Guilherme Martins: 28150680 / 123rf.com)

What is a dog pool for?

Being able to cool down is essential for a dog, especially when on hot days. After playing and walking for a long time in the sun, he physically needs some refreshment and a swimming pool and the perfect way to provide it.

In fact, dogs are almost devoid of sweat glands and unlike human beings they struggle to release the heat, so that summer often becomes a time of suffering. A swimming pool can really help them to avoid heat stroke and heat related heart problems.

What precautions should I take before I let my dog dive into the pool?

If you want your pool to last a long time while having a rash puppy, you will need to take a few precautions. Some temporary and other permanent, to protect the health of both the dog and your family (these related more than anything else to cleaning the water).

Shorten his nails: In the long run, even the most resistant pool could scratch and ruin itself (if not actually end up with holes).
Deworm him: This is something you should do anyway and at least a week before using the pool water if you don’t want it to become an outbreak of bacteria.
Vaccinalo: Vaccinating your dog is extremely important, even more so if he shares the pool with children or other puppies.
Monitor his behavior carefully during the first baths: Take it back if it bites or scratches the pool, reward it if it behaves better.
Put him at ease: Stay close to his first baths and make sure he has fun and feels comfortable. If he seems bored or frightened, guide him gently and gradually towards the water.

The capacity and size of the pool are the first elements to focus on at the time of purchase.
(Source: Dmosreg: 53757377 / 123rf.com)

Can I put chlorine in the water of my dog pool?

Of course yes, as long as you don’t go overboard. Chlorine eliminates most fungi and bacteria by sanitizing the water, but an exaggerated amount could irritate the skin and eyes of your dog and your family.

After the bath, rinse your dog’s coat with fresh water to remove all traces and dry it with a soft towel. Chlorine can cause allergies and mild irritations but with these precautions it is easily eliminated.

What is a heat stroke and how can a dog pool help?

Dogs are particularly vulnerable to summer heat stroke (sudden increases in body temperature), given the scarcity of sweat glands and the difficulty of their body to regulate itself. Numerous veterinary studies show how these episodes can lead to disability or even death.

If you notice that your dog is panting or staggering, or is hot, make sure to cool him down as soon as possible because they are the first symptoms of heat stroke. Take it in the shade and try to make it drink or wet it with fresh water (slowly immersing it in the pool would be ideal).

The dog pool can be both a playground and a cleaning place.
(Source: Dmosreg: 78196037 / 123rf.com)

In addition to the swimming pool, what can I use to protect my dog from the heat?

Dogs get tired very easily in hot weather and it is important that they always have fresh water to drink, as well as a series of cool and shaded beds. You could even create a small shelter from the sun for him.

A grooming can be a good idea, since cutting the fur favors its moulting. Also avoid playing in the sun and taking it for a walk in the central hours of the day. Always bring some water with you, to make it drink or cool.

What do I do if my dog refuses his swimming pool?

We have explained to you how a swimming pool is an important summer accessory for your dog, even if he may not think of it in the same way. In fact, some dogs do not like to bathe, although it would be better to educate them to accept water. Not only to defend against the heat, but also for a matter of cleanliness and health. In cases like this, you could:

When he is near the water, engage him with his favorite games. Use them to bring him closer to the pool and thus gain his trust.
If he does not like to play, attract him with snacks and small rewards to taste.
Try to dip his paws into the water. Doing it while engaged in a pleasant activity will help him connect the pool with pleasant memories.
Remember that even if the pool is deep and the dog is small, there is no great danger: most dog breeds are able to swim instinctively. For safety, don’t lose sight of him.
If it feels uncomfortable, get him out before he starts plugging water into fear.
If you don’t like swimming, reduce the water level so that he can play in the cool without having to dive.
Don’t force him to play in the pool or he’ll end up hating her. It does not happen often but it is better not to take this risk.

Can the dog eat when bathing?

Veterinarians advise to let at least a couple of hours pass between the snack and the bath, since the temperature change could alter the dog’s digestion and make him vomit (or cause him diarrhea). To avoid these unpleasant inconveniences it is better to avoid overdoing the edible rewards even during the game.

After the bath wash your puppy in fresh water without chlorine.
(Source: Guilherme Martins: 28150675 / 123rf.com)

Which dog breeds have the most difficulty swimming?

Generally dogs have a good relationship with water and swimming amuses them, however some breeds have morphological or character characteristics that make this activity difficult. For example those breeds that have a flattened or snub nose: bulldog, pugs, Chow Chow, Shi Tzu and the like.

There are also races that are skilled in running but curiously denied for swimming, such as greyhounds, Basset Hound or Bull Terrier. Ditto for dachshunds, because of the long body and short legs. These dogs probably find it more fun to dive into pools of water where only their legs get wet.

What should I do after my dog has come out of the water?

The best thing is to dry it as soon as possible, since the hair and ears of dogs do not like humidity. Rinse it with fresh water (if it has been in contact with salt water or chlorine) and dry it with a towel or let it play in the sun. Remember: humidity is the cradle of leaks and bacteria!

The water in the ears is also a cause of otitis, so try to dry your dog’s ears as best you can! Of course it will also be good to dry the edge of the swimming pool, to avoid diving and sliding overtime.

Always ask your vet if the pool is appropriate for your dog’s health. (Source: annaav: 30924645 / 123rf.com)

Can I host a puppy in my dog’s swimming pool?

Of course yes! In the chest, however, that other adult dogs accept it and do not appear aggressive. And above all that he has received and completed the first cycle of vaccination and pesticides (fundamental thing).

Sometimes puppies can feel distrust of water, which is why it is better to dip them gradually in a little water, especially if other adult dogs are present. If you have any doubts or uncertainties, do not hesitate to seek advice from your veterinarian.

Can I use my dog’s pool to wash him?

Yes, the dog pool can be both a place for recreation and cleaning for your puppy. Although of course you will have to use different products and avoid putting chlorine in the water. Remember that for optimal cleaning you must always use a special shampoo for animals.

A dog pool can be a real lifesaver in the event of a summer heat stroke. (Source: damedeeso: 32316530 / 123rf.com)

Purchase criteria

You will have noticed that choosing a swimming pool for dogs is not so easy: the right one must be resistant and suitable to host both your puppy and your family. Below you will find a number of factors that we believe are important to consider when making a successful purchase:

Capacity and dimensions
seabed
Drainage
Materials
Accessories

Capacity and dimensions

The diameter of the dog pool is one of the most important factors to take into account when purchasing: if it is not round, you must also think about the difference between one side and the other. Equally important for its positioning are the height of the edges and the maximum capacity.

Possibly the measures of the swimming pool must be commensurate with those of the dog, especially if you have more than one or you plan to host those of friends and family. And if you plan to use it together with your family, you have to buy a nice large one. In short, also take into account the reason and the subjects for which you decided to buy it.

seabed

The bottom of the pool must be sturdy enough to offer strength and stability, even when it is placed on surfaces that are not perfectly horizontal (such as a lawn or clay). It is important that the pool is balanced and not staggering if you don’t want it to tip over.

Fortunately, most dog pools have a non-slip bottom that prevents the risk of tipping over even when their guests move briskly. In any case, make sure not to exceed what is the maximum weight indicated on the package: exceeding it almost certainly means breaking or tearing the pool.

Drainage

The pool must be able to be emptied simply and quickly, as this type of maneuver is also important for safety and hygiene reasons. So make sure to choose one that has a practical and intuitive drainage system: otherwise, given the weight of the water, you could risk spilling water everywhere and take a lifetime to dry everything.

The most common system involves the presence of one or two side pipes closed by a cap that is easy to open but watertight. For greater safety, you can also place a waterproof sheet under the swimming pool or buckets near the unions. There are also electronic drainage systems.

Materials

Plastic is certainly the most used material in the construction of swimming pools for dogs, especially in the form of PVC or PET (polyethylene terephthalate). This usually allows for the creation of rigid pools that don’t need to be inflated. Of course there are also other types of plastic but, since animals can be impetuous, these are the most resistant.

Accessories

If you want your swimming pool to work even better, you can enrich it with a series of accessories that we will list below. These objects are intended to make your and your dog’s aquatic experience even more fun and light, as well as to improve the hygiene and durability of the pool:

Covering cloth: ideal for covering the pool when you are not using it but it remains full, to prevent the water from getting dirty. This way you will have to empty and fill the pool fewer times.
Platform / Ladder: some dogs are unable to dive directly into the water, or are unable to do so. A small ladder will simplify things for them.
Non-slip mat: Ideal for the safety of your family and your puppy in those cases where the swimming pool is placed on potentially slippery surfaces. It must surround the entire swimming pool and the area in which you will move.
Bowl for water: The pool water, full of chlorine and bacteria, is absolutely unsuitable for drinking: make sure that you have drinking water handy that your puppy can drink when he is thirsty.
Patches: It can happen that the swimming pool gets holes or tears and that, for various reasons, it is impossible to buy a new one: a waterproff adhesive tape patch is what you need!
Hose with adapter for emptying: A valuable aid to obtain a more practical and faster drainage, thanks to a simple hose you can drain the water in no time.
Purifier: It is used to keep the water clean without having to empty the pool, especially suitable for large ones (it is a great way not to waste water).
Network: It is used to manually remove debris from the water (leaves, twigs, insects and anything else that may fall into the pool).

Conclusions

Most dogs love to dive into a swimming pool to splash around in cool water, especially in the warmer months, when high temperatures even become dangerous for their health. Fortunately there are swimming pools for dogs of many different shapes and materials, more or less resistant.

A swimming pool for dogs, if of adequate size and well cleaned, could also be an opportunity for recreation for you and your family, so also think about this possibility when buying. Make sure your dog is as enthusiastic as you are, and if you see him uncertain or scared, gradually get him used to this novelty.

If you liked this article, share it on your social networks and tell us about your experience with the dog pool in the comments. We can’t wait to read it.

(Source of the highlighted image: Romolo Tavani: 23531934 / 123rf.com)

Dog

Best Dog Pool: Buying Guide

The most important things in a nutshell

The best dog pools on the market: our selection

Femor, folding pool for dogs and children

Pecute, folding and non-slip swimming pool (120 cm x 30 cm)