Make a Splash: The Top 8 Dog Swimming Pools for Summer Fun

Almost all dogs love to cool down by playing and swimming in the water. Except for a few breeds, our canine companions are born swimmers. Dogs would dive in for a dip or swim whenever they have the chance; however, only a few public pools will welcome your pooch. And, driving to a beach or lake destination with your pet also rarely happens. Fortunately, it is now possible to get the best dog pool that’s portable and easy to maintain! 

As the summer months start closing in, more dogs are prone to overheating. One of the best ways to stay cool is to keep them hydrated and soak their bodies in the water. Having a dog swimming pool ready allows your pets to dip in anytime they feel uncomfortable due to the heat. Moreover, pet swimming pools can quickly bring down a dog’s temperature and keep them fresh during hot days. 

Thus, pet product makers have started producing heavy duty dog pools for our canine buddies. These products are durable, pet-safe, and convenient for pet parents too. Pet pools vary widely in size, shapes, and materials. We have here some of the best dog pools as rated by pet parents around the globe. Some products were creatively repurposed to create a lovely dipping pool for all sizes and breeds. Read on for more options, details, and guides on which dog pool is the perfect choice for your pet!

OUR RECOMMENDED DOG SWIMMING POOL

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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS & BUYER'S GUIDE

large portable dog pool

Scorching weather is dangerous for humans and dogs alike. Like us, they too can suffer from heatstroke. But, they have a harder time regulating their temperature because of their coat and skin. While you can shave off long coats to help cool them down, you can instead buy them their swimming pool!

Manufacturers have thought about everything that you might need to make your pet happy and healthy at all times - so you get a variety of products to choose from. To ensure that you don’t waste your money on faulty and paltry made products, here’s a little info to help you find the best dog pools for your pooch.

WHAT ARE THE DIFFERENT KINDS OF DOG POOLS?

  • Dog Swimming Pool - this category refers to products that are large enough for dogs actually to paddle and swim around in. These are larger than other types of dog pools and are usually more durable. These products are also stable enough to hold more water while allowing your pets to move around. 
  • Dog Wading Pools - these are for dogs that are also large enough to accommodate large breeds of dogs. But the difference is the depth - wading pools are shallower and more suitable for wading in. They may come in cute shapes like bone or paw shape too. 
  • Inflatable Dog Pool - these products resemble kiddie pools and can also be used as such. These are the smallest of the dog pool options available. It is also least durable as it can be easily punctured. However, inflatable dog pools can still be used to cool your pooch during hot summer months. 

FACTORS TO CONSIDER WHEN CHOOSING A DOG SWIMMING POOL

Many dog pools you check out when you want to buy one for your canine companion. Typically, you can gauge the quality and features based on dog pool reviews that you can find online. On the other hand, you should still consider the following things before deciding to buy:

dog enjoying stay at the pool

MATERIAL USE AND DURABILITY

Like any other product that you would buy, you only want high-quality standards when it comes to your dog pool. You want it to last for a long time, so you’ll get your money’s worth for the purchase. Thus, avoid products that are made with flimsy plastic material as it might not last a day with your rambunctious pooch. Look for products durable PVC plastic or waterproof nylon. These materials are still prone to normal wear and tear, but they can outlast other products.

CONVENIENCE AND PORTABILITY

Some of the best dog swimming pools are portable, collapsible, or foldable. Some dog pools do not require inflation and are very easy to set up or takedown. When not in use, these pools can be folded in a space-saving size and placed in their storage bag. You can also bring these bags anywhere you want to go with your pooch.

SIZE AND DEPTH

The best dog pools come in all shapes and sizes. The one you should pick out should comfortably accommodate your pooch. If you have a small dog breed, it is easier to choose a pool as most products can accommodate them. However, if you have a large dog, you should always check the size before you click buy. Determine the size so that you will not buy something too small for your large pooch.

MULTIFUNCTIONAL

You also have the option to go for multifunctional pools. Determine the possible uses you can have with your pool. Is it exclusive for your pooch, or will the kids be using it too? If you need a swimming pool, then it is best to go for a larger sized pool. But if you will substitute it for a bathtub, a smaller sized pool will do excellently.  

GOOD DRAINAGE BUT LEAKPROOF

Aside from portability, easy set, and convenience, most pet parents want something easy to clean and maintain. Many pools feature twist cap drainage to make it easy for you to empty the water. It may need a bit of rinsing using your hose and have it dried up before folding and keep it in. Some designs have two drains - one on the side and at the bottom. It can be a twist cap or flip cap. If you can opt for twist cap drainage as it prevents leaking and less snagging.

MUST READ: BEST DOG BATH TUBS

BENEFITS OF HAVING A DOG SWIMMING POOL

Do you need a dog pool? Would your kids’ kiddie pool work the same? You might be wondering whether there is a real need for a swimming pool dedicated to your pooch.

WADING AND SWIMMING IS AN ENJOYABLE ACTIVITY FOR DOGS

For pet owners, seeing that their beloved furry companions are enjoying their time playing, wading, and swimming in the dog pool is enough encouragement to get a dedicated dog pool. It is not a dangerous or destructive activity, and most dogs would love cooling down on these spots. Pool time is not just fun, and it is also a healthy activity for them. 

PLAYING IN THE WATER IS MENTALLY STIMULATING

Our pets typically live a coddled life, and boredom is sometimes associated with behavioral problems in canines. Swimming and pool time provides plenty of exciting and new stimuli. The water play will keep your dog’s brain busy and active for hours on end. 

PROVIDES RELIEF FROM SOARING TEMPERATURES

One substantial benefit of having dog pools handy is that it can help your dog cool down from the hot weather. Like humans, they also get hot and uncomfortable, and they will surely enjoy a quick dip when available. Your pups' wet fur will help them cool even better as it slowly drips and dry. If you need to cool them during scorching days effectively and pools seem not enough, you can also consider getting some cooling gels and cooling beds.    

SWIMMING IS AN EXCELLENT CANINE EXERCISE

There might not be portable swimming pools that will allow large dog breeds to swim, but these pools are perfect for exercising small and medium-sized breeds. They can paddle around a bit for a high-intensity, low-impact physical activity to stay healthy and fit.  

DOG POOL DOUBLES AS A BATHTUB

If bathing your pooch is such a chore for you, these dog pools can be used as an alternative for the human tub or hose. It makes cleaning up easier and helps prevent wet floors and carpets. Depending on the size, you can use it for indoor or outdoor bath time. 

A swimming pool for your pooch allows them to cool down anytime they feel uncomfortable on a hot day. Your kiddie pools may work, and there are no issues with those; however, they might not withstand the chewing forces of a playful pup! Most kiddie pools are inflatable and made from flimsy plastic that can be punctured easily when your pooch chews on it. 

SAFETY TIPS FOR USING A DOG SWIMMING POOL  

Almost all dogs love playing in the water, and many of them are great swimmers. However, swimming in a large pool is pretty different from staying in a tub filled with water. Here are some tips you can apply to ensure that your canine friends remain safe while enjoying a dip in their dog swimming pool. 

CHOOSE THE RIGHT POOL

As much as possible, choose a doggie pool that can withstand your pet’s rowdy and playful behavior. If you can get an almost-indestructible product, go for it. The ones you can find in the market are made of extra durable PVC and lined with fabric. As much as possible, avoid products made from flimsy plastic. They can burst or get punctured after a few uses. If you have a bigger budget, you can opt for once-piece designs to lessen the risk of bursting seams and injuring your pooch. Heavy-duty plastic is an ideal choice, as they are puncture, scratch, and chew - proof.

Additionally, if your pet is not yet a good swimmer, don’t pick a pool that's too deep for them. Consider dog pools to be an introductory phase to swimming.

TRAIN YOUR PET IN OBEDIENCE

Take some time and effort in getting obedience training for your pooch before any rigorous swimming activities with them. Even if you have a shallow pool, your pet should learn simple commands first, which can help ensure their safety when using the pool.

DON’T LEAVE THEM OUT OF YOUR SIGHT

Even if you already trained your dog, make sure you should still keep an eye on them when using the doggie pool. Accidents can happen anytime especially for small dogs.

KEEP THE POOL IN A SHADED AREA

Dog pool helps your pet cool down. But when the weather is hot, they may still be exposed to extreme heat when they get out of the pool. Make sure you have plenty of shade around and have their water bowl filled for them to hydrate regularly. 

LEARN PET CPR

As a responsible pet owner, you should also learn how to perform CPR on your pooch. It is imperative, especially during accidents. The water on the doggie pool may be shallow, but your pet may still drown when water enters the lungs. Thus, you should never leave them unattended when using the dog swimming pool. 

HOW DO I ENCOURAGE MY DOG TO GET INTO THE DOG POOL?

Some pet parents need to train their pets in obedience to prevent them from being too playful and mischievous as they play in the water. But there are pet parents who cannot entice their pooches to try out the swimming pool. Some dogs tend to have reservations about new things and experiences. 

And in case you have a dog that is hesitant to take a dip, use some of your training tricks to encourage them. Use treats, praises, and get into the pool. When they see that you are enjoying the experience, they will think positively about joining you. Soon, you’ll be able to train your pooch to associate pools with positive experiences. 

HOW MUCH DOES DOG SWIMMING POOLS COST?

Dog pools come at different sizes, shapes, and prices. There are kiddie pools that you can alternatively use as pet pools too. If you are more creative, you can use ordinary products like the water reservoir for the barn as a wading pool for your pet. Commercial dog pools can vary from $25 to $100. Larger pools may be more expensive. The prices are influenced by several factors including brand, material, and size. Depending on your needs, you can easily find a suitable dog pool for your canine buddy within this price range. 

DOG SWIMMING POOL REVIEW

#1. JASONWELL FOLDABLE COLLAPSIBLE DOG SWIMMING POOL

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This foldable pool from Jasonwell has impressed many pet parents with its durability and high-quality materials. The price is just right, and you will not consider buying this product as a splurge. It can stand up to big or small dogs and provide an enjoyable cooling experience. Its side panels remain rigid, and the pool stays stable even when you have the most active dog around. It uses heavy duty PVC construction and does not need any inflation. It also has two drain plugs for quick and efficient drainage. It comes in five sizes; it is portable and multifunctional for choosing the perfect one for your dog.

FEATURES

  • Heavy-duty PVC construction
  • Environmentally-friendly and pet safe
  • Easy to set up, no inflation needed
  • Non-skid, extra-thick bottom

Pros

  • Portable and easy to store
  • Available in five sizes
  • Durable, convenient and affordable

Cons

  • Some users noticed drainage issues
  • Some were easily damaged and chewed on

#2. FULOON FOLDABLE PORTABLE DOG BATHING POOL

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If you are looking for an inexpensive yet sturdy pet pool to help your pet cool down during humid weather, this Foldable pool from Fuloon is an excellent option. It uses durable PVC material liked with a lightweight casing; thus, it is portable, easy to fold, and store. You can carry and use it anywhere you want too. It has an efficient water drain plug, leakproof construction, and watertight seams. You can use it for other purposes such as a kiddie pool, ball pit, water pond, and dog bathtub for large dogs.

MUST READ: BEST SHAMPOO FOR PUGS

FEATURES

  • Safe and durable PVC construction
  • Slip-resistant, and leakproof
  • Built-in plug for ease of draining
  • Lightweight and portable design

Pros

  • Easy to set up and store
  • Spacious, multipurpose and foldable dog pool
  • Available in four sizes

Cons

  • Not chew proof for overly excited pups
  • Some find it not sturdy enough

#3. PECUTE OUTDOOR PORTABLE PLAYING DOG SWIMMING POOL

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Pecute is a maker of dog pool with that stand-out bright blue color. It uses non-toxic, heavy-duty PVC with a 0.5cm thick bottom portion for extra durability. It is safe for children and pets to waddle on. The ideal water level when using it should be 60 to 80 percent. This way, it won’t spill over the sides and keep your pooch cool effectively. The company recommends that you trim your pet’s nails before allowing them to use the pool to prevent punctures or scratches. It is portable, foldable, and easy to store when not in use. Finally, it also has a built-in spiral drain, leakproof, and comes with extra repair patches. 

FEATURES

  • Heavy-duty PVC plastic material
  • Non-toxic and safe for pets or kids
  • Non-slip, extra strengthened bottom panel
  • Foldable, easy to set up and store

Pros

  • Lightweight, convenient and durable
  • The pool comes with extra gifts upon purchase
  • Durable, leakproof and multipurpose

Cons

  • Not chew resistant for some pets
  • Not sturdy enough for some pet parents

#4. NHILES PORTABLE SWIMMING COLLAPSIBLE DOG POOL

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Nhiles provides us with another great option using a different material for the dog pool. Their portable and collapsible pool use waterproof nylon instead of ordinary PVC plastic materials. It is a more eco-friendly choice, but there are risks of punctures and scratches if your dog nails are not clipped beforehand. One great advantage of having a nylon pool is that it does not absorb too much heat like PVC and is deep enough for a complete dog soak. Thus, it effectively provides a cooling spot for your fur babies. Additionally, the company offers a 100% satisfaction guarantee and excellent after-sales service to alleviate your doubts about this product.

FEATURES

  • Durable waterproof nylon material
  • Eco-friendly, safe and non-toxic
  • Easy drainage with twist-off cover
  • High-density fiberboard inner material

Pros

  • Lightweight, convenient and collapsible
  • Easy to set up and store
  • Comes with a 100% Satisfaction guarantee

Cons

  • Non-chew proof for excited puppy
  • Some had issues with poor quality seams

#5. ZARCO FOLDABLE SMALL DOG SWIMMING POOL

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Last on our list is the Zarco Foldable Small dog bathing pool. If you are looking for a product worth investing this pool is made with top qualities that can prove its durability. It is stable enough to keep your pooch happy without the risk of breaking or collapsing. It features high-quality, scratch-proof materials that are strengthened to withstand an active canine. It is very portable too, and you can fold it up to take it with you on your travels. This multifunction pool is easy to use, clean, and store. The size is also enough to accommodate bigger dogs making it one of the best dog pools you may want for your pets.

FEATURES

  • Durable and long-lasting pool
  • Convenient, lightweight and portable
  • Large size can accommodate larger pets
  • Made of high-quality and scratch-resistant material

Pros

  • Easy to use and store
  • Multifunction pool for kids and pets
  • Safe and environmentally-friendly

Cons

  • Not sturdy enough for dogs that chew
  • Can be slippery

#6. RUBBERMAID STRUCTURAL FOAM TANK (DURABLE DOG POOL)

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The Rubbermaid foam tank is a multifunction water reservoir that’s weather-resistant and superdurable. And while it is not exactly for canines, it does make a great option as a dog pool! Many pet parents, especially those with large dogs, recommend this extra heavy-duty tank instead of other commercially made dog swimming pools. This pool is made virtually indestructible and fills up with 50 or more gallons of water. It features seamless construction for excellent durability. It is heavier and bulkier than others, but it would last you years of water-fun no matter how big, or active your pet is. So, if you are looking for something for the long-term, this is the perfect choice for you.

FEATURES

  • Super durable, heavy-duty water tank
  • Indestructible even for the most active dogs
  • Virtually chew-proof and drag-proof
  • Has textured surface to prevent slips or falls

Pros

  • An affordable option for a highly durable product
  • Sturdier than other commercial pools
  • Available in five different sizes

Cons

  • It can be cumbersome and bulky
  • It is not very attractive

#7. PIDSEN FOLDABLE POOL FOR DOGS

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Another portable and foldable option for you is the Pidsen Foldable pool for dogs. It features a durable slip-proof material that holds up to regular use and pet abuse. This pool can be set-up quickly filled with water to cool down in the summer heat. Once done, empty the pool through the side and bottom drain. The pool is big enough to accommodate several pets and kids. It has firmly sealed corners making it virtually leakproof! The bottom portion is slip-resistant for reduced risk of falls and injury to your pets or kids. More so, this highly-rated dog pool can be folded into a small size for space-saving easy storage.

FEATURES

  • Easy to set up and fold up
  • Portable, lightweight and convenient
  • Non-slip bottom material
  • Durable and long-lasting design

Pros

  • Foldable into small size for space-saving easy storage
  • Easy to drain and refill
  • Available in two sizes

Cons

  • Not chew-proof
  • Some users had issues with a collapsing wall

#8. ALCOTT INFLATABLE DOG POOL

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The Alcott Mariner Inflatable pet pool provides excellent portability and a great wading space for your pets. It is spacious when inflated, but it can be compressed into a small size when not in use. And although there is a need to inflate this pool, it works with three air bladders instead of a single large one. Thus, it is easier and quicker to inflate. It also stays rigid even if one of the sections accidentally deflates during use. It also has a scallop edge design, which allows smaller dogs easier access into the pool. It is also deep enough for big dogs to submerge their bodies, especially on a hot day.

FEATURES

  • 16-inch deep dog pool
  • Durable PVC Material
  • Easily inflatable mechanism
  • Scalloped edges for easy access

Pros

  • Portable, convenient and easy to store
  • Quick drain plug system
  • The pool comes with a repair kit in case of small punctures

Cons

  • Not sturdy enough for a chewer
  • Some items have faulty seams

CONCLUSION

Having a dedicated dog pool is beneficial for your pet; it can also be an enjoyable product for the whole family. There are dog swimming pools that are multifunctional. They serve as a bathtub, a kiddie pool, a ball pit, and a wading pool for everyone. Most of these products are designed with the dog’s convenience in mind; thus, they have features to make it easy for your pooch to access.

Likewise, these foldable dog pools are also extra-durable to withstand all the abuses that your pet can give. You can find scratch-proof, slip-proof, and chew-proof pools. But if you can find something that’s indestructible, then it would be an excellent investment! 

Our top pick for the best dog pools is the reliably sturdy and durable  Fuloon Foldable Portable Dog Bathing Pool. It is portable, foldable, and sturdy enough for playful pets. Similarly, the Pidsen Foldable doggie pool is also another affordable yet high-quality option if you want something friendlier on your pocket. We hope our review of doggie pools helps you decide on the most suitable one for your pets!

Do you have a swimming pool for your dogs too? Do you know of a product that should be included in our list? Let us know by leaving us a comment in the box below!

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