There’s nothing quite like spending a hot summer afternoon in your above ground pool—but if you have a dog, you might be wondering if your faithful friend can join in the fun. There’s a reason these wonderful pals are called man’s best friend… they want to go everywhere you go. And, honestly, you probably love them as much as they love you. After all, your pup is part of the family, and watching them splash around and play happily in the pool sounds like a dream come true. But is it safe? What about chlorine? And could your dog damage your new above ground pool?
At BrightWater Pools, we know pet owners want the best for their furry friends, and we’re here to help you enjoy your beautiful hard sided above ground pool worry-free. Let’s break down what you need to know about dogs, chlorine, and your BrightWater above ground pool, so you can make the best decision for backyard fun for everyone involved.
Can My Dog Swim in My Above Ground Pool?
If you’ve ever opened your Facebook or Instagram, you already know that owners across America let their dogs swim in their above ground pools, and many love it. Whether they’re natural-born swimmers or just learning to enjoy the water, your pup will probably be thrilled to join you for a splash. However, there are a few things to consider before letting your furry friend cannonball in.
First, not all dogs are strong swimmers. While breeds like Labradors and Golden Retrievers were practically made for the water, others—like Bulldogs and Dachshunds—may struggle to stay afloat. If your canine isn’t used to swimming, introduce them slowly, always supervise, and consider a doggy life jacket for added safety.
Another important factor? Getting in and out of the pool. Unlike inground pools, an above ground pool has raised sides, making it trickier for dogs to exit. A good above ground pool entry system, like wide steps that lead to a deck or a dog-friendly ramp, can help your pooch get in and out without a struggle. Teaching them where the exit is before they swim can make the experience safer and more enjoyable.
Finally, always rinse your dog off before and after pool time. If your dog is an outside dog, there’s bound to be contaminants on their fur and paws that you won’t want in your water. After your pool time, give them another rinse. Just like chlorine can dry out human skin and hair, it can do the same to your pup’s coat. A quick rinse with fresh water can help keep them comfortable until their next bath.
Is Chlorine Harmful to My Furry Friend?
Chlorine is a big concern for many pet owners, but the good news is that a properly maintained above ground pool is generally safe for dogs. The chlorine levels used in swimming pools are typically low enough that they won’t harm your pet if he’s not drinking the water directly. However, there are a few things to keep in mind.
Some dogs are more sensitive to chlorine than others. If you notice your pooch scratching more than usual, experiencing red eyes, or showing signs of skin irritation, they may need shorter swim sessions—or a more gentle alternative like a saltwater above ground pool.
Drinking too much pool water can also lead to an upset stomach, so always keep fresh water nearby and have them take a drink before pool time to discourage your dog from taking big gulps while they swim. Take care to store chemicals up and away from doggy access so they do not accidentally get into something they should not.
We definitely can’t make any guarantees about the safety of your pup’s swim time, but there are some things you can do to maximize safety and minimize the risks. Research your pet’s breed, and see if there are any special requirements that need to be considered, such as skin sensitivity, double-coat breeds, or extreme sensitivity to pool water that may cause harm to your loyal companion.
What Other Above Ground Pool Sanitation Alternatives Are There?
If you’re worried about chlorine, switching to a saltwater above ground pool can be a game-changer. The Bright Icon+ Salt™ is one of the best options available today, offering a more natural and gentle swimming experience for pets and people alike.
Saltwater pools generate chlorine naturally from salt, maintaining cleaner water with lower chlorine levels than traditional pools. This means:
- Less skin and eye irritation
- Softer water that won’t dry out your dog’s coat as much
- A more comfortable swim for the whole family
Plus, saltwater systems require less frequent chemical adjustments, making them a great low-maintenance option for busy pet owners.
If you’re considering a new above ground pool, the Bright Icon+ Salt™ saltwater above ground pool might be the perfect solution for you and your furry friend. Just give them a bath right after to remove the salt from their fur.
Will Letting My Dog Swim Void My Warranty?
A big question for many pool owners is whether allowing their dog in the water could impact their warranty. BrightWater Pools are designed for durability, featuring some of the thickest and strongest above ground pool liners on the market.
Every BrightWater pool liner comes with a 100% lifetime warranty against seam separation, meaning your pool liner is built to last. However, the warranty does not cover damage from dog claws or teeth. While our above ground pool liners are incredibly tough, a dog’s nails can scratch or tear them or damage the metal or resin rails, especially if they try to climb in and out.
To keep your pool in great shape:
- Trim your dog’s nails before swimming.
- Use a dog-friendly above ground pool entry system like wide steps or a ramp.
- Keep an eye on how your pup interacts with the liner and top rails to prevent unnecessary wear.
Well-trained dogs can help make your BrightWater pool last—and a little extra care can help ensure your pool stays in top condition for years of backyard fun.
What Other Above Ground Pool Equipment Can Make Swim Time Safer for Pets?
If your dog will be a regular pool buddy, a few above ground pool equipment upgrades can make swim time safer and more enjoyable.
- Above Ground Pool Entry Systems
Standard pool ladders aren’t designed for dogs, which can make it difficult for them to exit the pool. A dog-friendly above ground pool entry system with wide steps provides an easy way for your pup to get in and out of the water safely. - Above Ground Pool Lights
Evening swims? No problem! BrightWater above ground pool lights improve visibility, making nighttime swimming safer for both pets and humans. LED lighting is an easy, energy-efficient way to upgrade your above ground pool experience while lending better visibility to both your pets and your family. - Above Ground Pool Robotic Cleaners
We all know it: dogs shed—and that hair has to go somewhere. A robotic above ground pool vacuum helps keep your above ground pool clean by capturing pet hair, dander, and debris. This can help keep fur out of your above ground pool skimmer, pump basket, or filter.
Adding these above ground pool accessories can make swimming safer and more convenient, so you and your pup can enjoy worry-free water time together.
Get a Pet-Friendly Above Ground Pool from BrightWater Pools!
A new above ground pool should be fun for the whole family—including your four-legged friends*! At BrightWater Pools, we specialize in hard sided above ground pools that offer durability, top-tier materials, and customizable options to fit your needs.
With a variety of above ground pool kits for sale, you can choose the perfect pool size, liner thickness, and above ground pool equipment to create a backyard swimming experience that’s built to last. Save big by bundling your favorite size and shape Bright Classic™, Bright Hybrid™, Bright Icon™, or Bright Icon+ Salt™ pool with your choice of above ground pool accessories for the perfect backyard retreat.
Whether you prefer a chlorine pool or a saltwater above ground pool, BrightWater Pools has the best American-made options available—all from a trusted online above ground pool store that delivers nationwide to the 48 continental states.
Ready to upgrade your backyard? Shop BrightWater Pools today and get a high-quality, pet-friendly above ground pool you and your dog will love!
