Can Dogs Swim in Saltwater Pools? A Guide

Saltwater pools offer a number of benefits. They tend to have less chloramines, which are the compounds responsible for causing eye and skin irritation, and require less maintenance than traditional chlorinated pools.

Before a homeowner decides to install one, though, it's important that they do their homework and ensure that every member of the family can benefit from it.

In this article, we will answer the question, "Can dogs swim in saltwater pools?" and offer some tips to help dog owners keep their furry friends safe. Our experts can also advise on what ruins a salt water pool.

What Is a Saltwater Pool, and How Does It Work?

A salt water pool is essentially a swimming pool that contains (you guessed it) salt. While it may seem like a chlorine-free alternative, the reality is that these pools still contain chlorine. They rely on salt chlorine generators to convert the salt into chlorine. When the chlorine is used up, the by-products are then converted back to salt so that the process can start all over again.

Many homeowners prefer salt water pools because they require less maintenance and are gentler on the skin and eyes because of lower chlorine levels. Our team can help answer questions like Are salt water pools hard to maintain?

Is It Okay for a Dog to Swim in Saltwater Pool Water?

Absolutely! With proper supervision, dogs can swim around in salt water without any side effects. Swimming is actually a great physical activity for dogs. It can be good for promoting good heart health, burning off excess weight, and improving the range of motion in a dog's joints.

The truth is that swimming is a way for many pool owners to bond with their canine companions. However, time in the pool can also pose a number of risks for dogs.

Firstly, there is a risk of drowning. If a dog is allowed to swim unsupervised or for long periods at a time without a clear exit, they could go under. Moreover, when moisture becomes trapped in a dog's ear, it can lead to infections.

Then, there's the risk of salt water ingestion. When a dog starts drinking salt water while in the pool, they could end up getting sick.

The truth is that a dog could end up with salt poisoning if he or she consumes too much of the water while swimming around. Unfortunately, dogs don't understand that they should not drink pool water, so when a canine is left in the water for too long, they could end up with serious health problems.

Even in small amounts, ingesting salt water can cause dehydration, vomiting, muscle tremors, and more in dogs. In extreme cases, when a dog drinks too much water, it could have fatal consequences.

How a Pool Owner Can Ensure the Safety of Their Dog

The truth is that dogs are like little children and require supervision while in the pool. Leaving a dog alone while they are in the water is definitely not recommended. Here are more tips to ensure that canines and humans remain safe while enjoying some time in the pool:

Provide a Safe Exit

If the salt pool doesn't already have them, it may be a good idea to install steps or even a ramp so that the dog can enter and exit the water safely. It's also important to train the dog to enter and exit using this designated area.

Trim the Dog's Nails

Long nails can not only be caught on pool equipment, causing pain and damage, but they can also ruin pool liners and injure human swimmers. Before their pets enter the water, owners must ensure that their nails are short.

Provide Fresh Water

As mentioned already, ingesting pool water can cause serious health concerns. Owners must ensure that the dog has access to fresh drinking water and encourage him or her to have a drink when they exit the pool. This can be crucial in preventing dehydration as it dilutes the ingested salt.

Brush the Dog

When a homeowner allows their dogs access to their swimming pool, they have to come to terms with the issue of dog hair that will inevitably clog their filters and skimmers. To prevent this from happening, it's a good idea to brush the dog to remove excess fur. In the event of a clog, consider pool maintenance in Tucson.

Use a Dog Life Vest

Dogs are at risk of drowning when in the pool, and to prevent this, pool owners can invest in a doggy life vest. This device allows the canine swimmers to float, keeping them from drowning.

Rinse the Dog After They Have Had a Swim

It's also important for pet owners to rinse their furry friends with fresh water after they have had a swim. Unfortunately, pool chemicals can affect a dog's skin, and rinsing them off can prevent this.

Purchase a Pool Cover

When not in use, pools should be covered to ensure that dogs do not have unsupervised access to them. Keep in mind that most covers can actually expose a dog to the risk of drowning, as they could mistake it for the ground and end up underwater.

Instead, owners must ensure that the cover they choose can support weight and is designed to prevent entrapment.

Saltwater Pools vs. Chlorinated Pools

Although traditional chlorine pools do not contain salt, they can still be dangerous to a dog. If the animal drinks the pool water, they are ingesting harmful chlorine, which can cause gastrointestinal upset, lethargy, and more. Chlorine also irritates the eyes and skin, causing redness.

Saltwater pools typically have a lower chlorine content, but they do have salt, which can also cause issues when digested in high concentrations.

Regardless of the type of pool a dog owner chooses, they must ensure proper supervision and limit the swimming session to prevent fatigue.

The Bottom Line

Most dogs love swimming, and the good news is that saltwater pool owners can allow their furry friends access to this area of their property. However, they should always be carefully supervised.

The reality is that allowing a dog access to a saltwater pool can have a negative effect on the water quality, requiring more maintenance and upkeep.

Fortunately, E-Konomy Pool Service & Supplies is here to help Tucson residents enjoy their pools to the fullest.

For more information, homeowners are encouraged to call us.