Best dog paddling pool to have fun and stay cool

Apr 18, 2024

Most dogs enjoy playing in water, especially on hot summer days. Anyone looking after pets during the heatwave of 2022 will know how important it was for dogs to be able to access water and be able to cool down – and not all are content with a dog cooling mat. But, as with humans, water safety is always an issue. One of the best ways to develop a dog’s love of water in a safe environment is to set up a dog paddling pool in your own back yard or garden. That way, you can control the depth, the water quality (no added chemicals, sewage, tangling weed) and he can cool down whenever it suits.

It can also be a valuable safety tool. Many people assume dogs innately know how to swim, but not all breeds take to it like ducks. A pool enables a dog to learn to play and enjoy water at shallow depths, cope with the splashing, and generally become at ease with getting wet. Initially you can leave it empty and throw in his favourite toys so that he is familiar with the pool.

It’s sensible to acquire a paddling pool appropriate for dogs rather than to let him use ones designed for humans. Claws and inflatables are never a happy mix. Dog-specific pools are typically made of durable PVC with slip-resistant bases, and with firm rather than inflatable sides.

Sizes: 80x20cm; 120x30cm; 160x30cm | Colours: Dark grey or light grey | RRP: From £25.99 |

No need to inflate, just unfold and use. It is made from high-grade industrial strength PVC material to stand up to doggy paddles. It has built-in 45mm high-density fibre boards to make the pool durable and stable. Non-slip material on the base for security.

There are built-in drains to make filling and emptying a breeze. A protective cover is also available.

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Sizes: 51in (130cm); 59in; 67in; 87in | Colour: Dog bones, blue, ocean theme, pink donut or star-spangled | RRP: From £21.99 |

Water sprays up from the base of the pad, like a garden sprinkler, to provide fun and the benefits of cooling water on a hot day. Easy to install, by plugging in the garden hose to the sprinkler pad.

Made from heavy-duty PVC, able to withstand claws as well as hot weather. The soft material makes it easy for your dog to jump in and out of the pool without hurting themselves on sharp edges, and it has a slip-resistant, textured surface to provide a secure and durable play area.

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Sizes: 80x20cm, 100x30cm, 120x30cm, 160x30cm | Colours: Green, blue, grey or pink | RRP: From £19.99 |

This pool is made from thickened PVC with polyester mesh. The MDF for the sidewalls will maintain its shape and not collapse. The base has a non-slip texture, to prevent your dog sliding.

It is foldable and can easily be packed away while not in use or for travelling.

In the UK? View at amazon.co.uk

Sizes: 68x13cm, 80x20cm, 120x30cm, 160x30cm | Colours: Light blue | RRP: From £29.99 |

Made from scratch-resistant material, the Trixie pool has sidewalls with MDF inserts for stable construction, and non-slip bottom inside.

It is easy to set up and pack away with no air pump required. Also comes with a cover to keep leaves and other debris out while not in use.

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Sizes: 80x20cm, 120x30cm, 160x30cm, 180x30cm | Colours: Green or blue | RRP: From £22.99 |

A great option for larger dogs, or those households with more than one pooch as the largest size has a whopping 180cm diameter.

This collapsible pool has been upgraded to feature thicker PVC mesh fabric, providing increased wear-resistance and reduced likelihood of scratches. Pecute has also added a 6mm thickened thermoplastic board to enhance stability. Features anti-slip material on the inner wall and bottom to prevent slips.

No air pump required, just unpack and it’s ready to use, making it ideal for camping or travelling.

Comes with a silicone bath brush perfect for bathing your pet, and repair patches in case of tears. A cover is also available.

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Sizes: 120x30cm, 160x30cm | Colour: Blue | RRP: From £69.99 |

This pool is equipped with self-cooling gel, which provides extra coolness.

Made from extra tough PVC for lasting use, and has a non-slip bottom to help your pet feel safe. The pool folds down for easy storage, and is simple to fill and drain.

All For Paws also does a Chill Out Sprinkler Mat.

In the UK? View now at amazon.co.uk or viovet.co.ukIn the US? View now at amazon.com