Last summer, my neighbor’s golden retriever almost drowned in their backyard pool. Thank God I was there to help. This scary moment taught me how important pool safety is for our dogs.
Living in Colorado Springs means dealing with really hot summers. When it hits 95 degrees, everyone wants to cool off. Your dog feels the same way. However, pools can be hazardous if you’re not careful.
Dogs and Swimming – What I’ve Learned
My buddy has three dogs, and they’re all different around water. However, pools can be hazardous if you’re not careful. Makes sense because poodles used to help hunters get birds from lakes way back when.
But his bulldog? That poor guy sinks like a rock. A heavy physique and short legs don’t mix well with water. And the beagle just stands at the edge barking at the water like it’s some kind of enemy.
Here’s the thing – even dogs that swim well get tired. I’ve seen it happen. One minute they’re having fun, the next minute they’re struggling to keep their head up. Water doesn’t care if you have four legs or two.
Building a Safe Pool Area
Getting the Right Fence: After that scary day with the golden retriever, I put up a fence around my pool. Cost me about $1,200, but it was worth every penny. Got one of those mesh fences you can see through. A friend loves it because it doesn’t block the view of our garden.
Make sure your gate shuts by itself. Dogs are smart. My sister’s lab figured out how to push open gates that don’t latch properly. That dog is dangerous but clever.
Teaching Pool Rules: I started training my German Shepherd when she was just a puppy. Every time we went near the pool, I’d walk her to the steps. “Steps, Bella, use the steps.” Took about two weeks, but now she never jumps in from anywhere else.
Also taught her where to get out. Point to the same spot every time. Practice makes perfect, especially when panic sets in.
Baby Steps Work Best: Don’t throw your dog in the deep end and hope for the best. That’s just cruel. In your yard, start with a kiddie pool. Let them walk around, sniff it, maybe step in when they’re ready.
My friend tried forcing his dog into the pool. Now that dog won’t go near any water. Took months of treats and patience to fix that mistake.
Read more: Cool Off Your Dog: Best Inflatable Pools for Summer Fun
Health Stuff You Need to Know
Pool Water Makes Dogs Sick. I caught my dog drinking pool water last week. She threw up twice that evening. Chlorine tastes awful to us, but dogs will drink anything when they’re thirsty.
Keep a big water bowl by the pool. Change it twice a day in the summer heat. Fresh water beats chemical water every time.
Heat Problems in Colorado Springs. Our altitude makes things tricky. Dogs overheat faster up here than at sea level. Learned this from my vet after my previous dog got heat stroke three years ago.
Watch for heavy panting, drooling, or your dog acting confused. These are danger signs. Call your veterinarian and get them in the shade right away.
Ear Infections Suck My neighbor’s cocker spaniel gets ear infections every summer from swimming. Those floppy ears trap water like crazy. She now uses a towel to wipe his ears after each swim.
Some dogs get red, itchy skin from pool chemicals, too. Quick rinse with the garden hose after swimming helps a lot.
Read more: Dog Day Care Pool: Ultimate Guide for Pet Parents
Safety Gear That Works
Life Jackets Aren’t Just for Boats: Bought my dog a bright orange life jacket after that close call. She looks ridiculous but stays safe. Get one with a top handle. Makes lifting a wet, scared dog much easier.
Puppies outgrow them fast. Had to buy three different sizes for my nephew’s lab puppy last year.
Pool Alarms Save Lives: Installed one after hearing about a dog that fell in at night. Cost $150, but it screams when anything hits the water. Neighbors probably hate it, but my dog’s life matters more than their sleep.
When Things Go Wrong
Real drowning doesn’t look like the movies. Dogs don’t splash around making noise. They paddle hard but don’t move. Their eyes look glassy and scared.
Happened to my friend’s dog last month. Lucky I know what to look for. Used the pool skimmer to pull him toward the steps. Although we were all shocked, Dog was OK.
Keep a long pool net handy. Don’t jump in unless you have to. Drowning people and animals can pull you under, too.
Keeping Watch
Never leave your dog alone by the pool. Not even for five minutes, while Dogs can panic fast, and panic kills.
Pool Maintenance Matters
Check your chlorine levels every few days. Too much burns their skin and nose. Too little grows nasty bacteria.
Remove toys and floats when not using the pool. Dogs see floating things as toys they need to get.
Cover your pool at night, but don’t trust covers alone. My neighbor’s cover couldn’t hold his 80-pound retriever. Good thing the fence was there.
Read more: Dog and Human Swimming Pools Near Me: Splash Together
Local Help in Colorado Springs
Dr. Martinez at Broadmoor Animal Hospital knows everything about water safety for pets. She’s the one who taught me about altitude affecting dogs differently.
Rocky Mountain Dog Training offers swimming lessons. Sounds silly, but they helped my rescue dog overcome his fear of water.
Year-Round Thinking
Pool safety isn’t just a summer thing here. Had 75-degree days in October last year. Dogs don’t understand seasons.
Winter brings ice problems. Thin ice looks solid but breaks easily. Keep that fence up all year.
What I Tell Other Dog Owners
Swimming is a great exercise for dogs, especially older ones with joint problems. But safety comes first, always.
Take time to train properly. Use good equipment. Stay alert when your dog’s in the water.
Been living with dogs and pools for fifteen years now. These simple rules have kept all my dogs safe and happy. Hope they help keep yours safe too.
Conclusion
Pool safety for dogs isn’t rocket science, but it requires constant attention and proper preparation. I’ve learned through experience that a good fence, basic training, and staying alert can prevent tragic accidents. The $1,200 I spent on fencing and safety equipment was nothing compared to potentially losing my best friend. These safety measures should be taken carefully by every dog owner in Colorado Springs who has a swimming pool. Remember, your dog depends on you to keep them safe – don’t let them down when it matters most.
Read more: The Easy Guide to a Hassle-Free Garden Dog Pool in 2025
FAQS
1. Can all dogs naturally swim in pools?
Most dogs can do a basic dog paddle, but not all breeds are good swimmers. Bulldogs and other heavy-bodied dogs struggle more than breeds like poodles or retrievers.
2. Is pool water safe for dogs to drink?
No, pool water contains chlorine and other chemicals that can make your dog sick. Always keep fresh drinking water available near the pool area.
3. How long can I let my dog swim without breaks?
Never let your dog swim for more than 10-15 minutes without a rest. Dogs get tired quickly in water and need frequent breaks to avoid exhaustion.
4. Do I really need a fence around my pool for my dog?
Yes, a proper fence is essential even for good swimming dogs. Dogs can panic, get tired, or accidentally fall in when you’re not watching.