Thinking about getting your dog a swimming pool for the hot summer months but not sure where to start? No worries! Choosing a good dog swimming pool isn’t terribly hard, you just have to consider your budget and yard space. We’ll walk you through the different types of swimming pools to look into and the benefits (and drawbacks) to each one. Before you know it, Fido will be having a splashing good time!
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Guide to Choosing a Dog Swimming Pool
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When it comes to dog swimming pools, your options are limited by two things: claws and teeth. Right off the bat, you know that certain materials are out! You’re obviously not going to do well with a giant blow-up pool, for example. Beyond that, it all comes down to how much money you want to spend and how much space you have in your yard. Let’s start with the cheapest option for dog swimming pools and work our way up, shall we?
Plastic swimming pools
Plastic swimming pools are those little kiddie pools you buy for your kids. While these can be used for dogs, they are not very durable in the long run. They’re a good option if you’re looking at a sweltering hot summer and just want something Fido can dip into really quick to cool off. Don’t expect to get more than one summer out of it. In fact, you might want to buy a couple of them while they’re on sale because I’ve found that they don’t often last long even when it’s just the kids playing in them!
If you’re willing to spend a little extra, you can find specific dog swimming pools
The great thing about plastic pools: they’re easy to set up just about anywhere in your yard. You only need a small flat spot. Plus, again, they’re the least expensive option.
Metal swimming pools
When we’re talking about metal swimming pools, there are two entirely different options: metal dog swimming pools and metal-framed above-ground pools. The difference? Oh, about $1,000+! Metal dog swimming pools are just that: metal pools for dogs. They’re typically not very big, more often resembling bath tubs than pools. However, I did find one pretty cool one on Amazon that’s made from truck lining material, aptly named the Bone Pool
It comes in a few different shapes and sizes (some are paw-shaped), but all are made by a company called One Dog One Bone. Check the reviews before buying, as some of them are highly rated while others, not so much. Prices range from about $150-350.
On the other end of the metal pool spectrum, we have the above-ground pools with metal frames. If you’re going to let your dog in your above-ground pool, you need to make sure it’s an incredibly good pool with a strong lining. Those one-summer blow-up deals aren’t going to cut it. Of course, a good above-ground pool can cost thousands of dollars.
In-Ground Swimming Pools
Finally, on the “super sturdy yet oh-so-expensive” end of the spectrum, we have our in-ground pools. This is something for the whole family to enjoy and a massive investment. It’s also something you need to plan for. You can’t wake up one day and say “Gee, it’s hot, let’s dig a pool in the back yard.” Of course, you could just build a small in-ground dog swimming pool if you don’t want to go with a whole giant pool.
These pools are great, though, especially if your dog loves to be in the water. It is important to note that you need to purchase a filtration system for the pool that is chemical free, such as ozone filters or salt water filters. The reason for this is that normal; traditional pool chemicals may not be ideal for your dog.
So there you go, three different types of dog swimming pools to fit just about any budget and backyard! Whichever you choose, your dog will have a great time getting wet and cooling off. Well, unless he’s afraid of water. That’s a whole different story!
Do you have experience in buying dog swimming pools? Which option did you choose? Tell us in the comments!
