The Dog vs. Pool Problem

We love dogs. Big ones, small ones, fluffy ones, the kind that look like they just got caught in a wind tunnel—every single one of them is perfect. But do you know what’s not perfect? Dogs in pools.

We get it—your pup looks up at you with those big, hopeful eyes, tail wagging, ready to cannonball right in. But before you let Pretzel take the plunge, here’s why pools and pups aren’t the best mix… and what you can do instead to keep your furry friend happy and cool!

(And hey, we’re not saying never—nothing makes us happier than a happy dog! Just be mindful of the risks and take precautions.)

Clogged Filters and Hairy Nightmares

Dogs shed. A lot. And all that fur and dander can wreak havoc on your pool’s filtration system, leading to more frequent cleanings and potential damage. (And let’s be honest—pulling out clumps of wet dog hair from the skimmer basket is not a good time.)

Scratches and Liner Damage

Your dog doesn’t mean to be destructive, but those claws are basically tiny pool weapons. If you have a vinyl liner, sharp claws can easily puncture it, leading to costly repairs. Even in plaster or concrete pools, a scrambling dog can cause surface damage over time.

Chemical Chaos

Pool chemicals can be especially harsh on dogs. A dip in the pool can irritate your pup’s skin and eyes, dry out their fur, and even lead to upset stomachs if they drink too much of that chemically-treated water. (And trust us—dogs love drinking pool water.)

Doggy Paddle Problems

Not all dogs are natural swimmers! Even breeds that are known for loving water can struggle to find their way out of a pool if they panic or get tired. Without an easy exit, your pup could be at serious risk of drowning.

Bacteria and Contaminants

Let’s be real—dogs don’t wipe their paws before jumping in. They bring in dirt, bacteria, and sometimes even “biological surprises” that can mess with your pool’s chemical balance and turn your water into a science experiment gone wrong. There’s a reason most public facilities have showers for you to rinse off prior to getting in—clean water is happy water!

How to Keep Your Dog Happy (Without Wrecking Your Pool)

Good news—you don’t have to be the fun police! There are plenty of ways to keep your pup entertained, cool, and happy without sacrificing your pool’s health. But how?

Set Up a Doggy Pool

Invest in a durable, dog-friendly splash pool. These are designed to withstand claws and won’t send you into a panic every time your dog jumps in. Bonus points if you toss in some floating toys!

Create a Shady Chill Spot

Set up a shaded area near your pool with a comfy dog bed and a fresh bowl of water. Add a cooling mat to help your pup beat the Texas heat without turning your pool into a fur-infested lagoon.

Hose Play for the Win

Most dogs love playing with the hose! A gentle spray or a sprinkler can provide all the splashy fun they crave—no pool chemicals required.

Beach or Lake Trips

If your dog is a true water lover, consider a dog-friendly beach or lake. Just make sure there’s an easy exit point and keep a close eye on them.

Doggy Life Vest

If you must have your dog near the pool, consider a well-fitted dog life vest. It’ll keep them afloat and make retrieval much easier if they fall in.

 

Keep It Fun, Keep It Safe!

We love happy dogs, and we love well-maintained pools. By keeping your pup out of the water but providing fun alternatives, you get the best of both worlds—one where your dog stays safe, your pool stays clean, and no one has to fish out a soggy, shedding, chlorine-soaked pup from the deep end.

Need help keeping your pool in top shape in Austin, TX? Give us a call at 512-336-2273—we’ve got your back (and your pool filter’s sanity) covered!