DIY Dog Pools: How to Create a Fun and Safe Swimming Spot for Your Furry Friend

For many dog owners, finding ways to keep their energetic pups cool and entertained during the hot summer months can be a challenge. While trips to the dog park, hiking trails, and beaches offer respite, sometimes you just want your dog to be able to take a refreshing dip right at home.

Installing an in-ground pool may be out of the budget or impractical for renters, but with a bit of creativity and effort, you can craft a DIY doggie pool that provides a safe and enjoyable swimming space for your furry friend.

Benefits of DIY dog pools

Having an at-home pool option for dogs offers many advantages:

• Provides physical activity: Swimming is a great exercise for dogs and an enjoyable way for them to burn off energy. This is especially helpful for high-energy breeds like Labradors or Jack Russell Terriers.
• Cools dogs down: On blistering hot days, dogs overheat easily. A pool lets them take a quick dip to lower their body temperature and prevent heat stroke.
• Fun for water-loving breeds: Certain breeds like Retrievers, Poodles and Spaniels tend to love the water. A DIY pool lets them indulge their aquatic preferences.
• Adds enrichment: For smart, easily bored dogs, a pool provides mental stimulation and enrichment. Figuring out how to get in and out of the pool keeps dogs engaged.
• Convenience: At-home pools mean you don’t have to pack up the car and drive to a lake or beach every time your pup needs some water time.
• Customization: With a DIY pool, you can tailor the size, shape and depth to suit your dog.

6 DIY dog pool options

If you’re handy and want your pup to have a personal pool without the cost of installing an in-ground option, then check out these 6 different DIY dog pool ideas.

1. Baby pool

For small spaces or budgets, a plastic kiddie or pet pool is the easiest DIY pool option. Look for durable, thick plastic that can withstand your dog’s claws. Consider adding a pool ramp or steps to make it easier for your dog to get in and out.

Fill the pool with just a few inches of water for safety. Keep in mind that plastic pools are very portable – you can move them around your yard to always be in the shade.

2. Stock tank pool

For large or giant breed dogs, plastic children’s pools are probably too small. A great DIY solution is converting a galvanized steel or tough polyethylene stock tank into a pool. Stock tanks are available at farm supply stores.

Choose a tank at least 42-50 inches across and 12-16 inches deep so your big dog can really swim. Building a deck or ramp allows easy access in and out of the tank. Just be sure to add a filter and routinely replace the water to keep it clean.

3. Pond or stream

If you have the space and resources, creating a dug pond or diverting part of a stream to make a doggie “swimming hole” is a wonderful DIY pool idea. Include a gradually sloped entry and exit area your dog can comfortably walk in and out of.

Line the pond bottom with plastic and add rocks and pebbles for interest. The moving water of a stream is especially enticing to dogs on hot days. Just be sure to provide adequate filtration and monitoring to keep the water clean and safe.

4. Container pond

For a smaller-scale DIY pond, look for tough plastic or galvanized tubs or stock tanks at least 32 inches across and 24 inches deep. Pick a container big enough for your dog to move around in.

Add rocks, submersible pumps to circulate water, and aquatic plants to oxygenate the water. Position near a hose or faucet so you can easily refill as needed. This mini pond mimics a natural look on a smaller scale.

5. Raised garden pond

For a charming in-ground look without the cost, create a raised garden pond from wood, rocks or poured concrete. Make it at least 4 ft by 6 ft and at least 1 ft deep for medium dogs. Include a ramp or stairs for easy access.

Line the bottom with a plastic or rubber pond liner. Disguise the sides with attractive rocks or stones. A small recirculating pump will keep water clean and clear. Grass or pebbles around the edges complete the natural look.

6. Splash pool

Free-standing splash pools are a simple DIY swimming option for small dogs who don’t need to swim laps. Use a plastic basin or wide bucket at least 12 inches deep. Add a few inches of water and let your little doggie splash and cool off on hot days.

For added interest, incorporate fountain attachments into your plastic tub to create streams of falling water. Just be sure to empty it and refill it with clean water daily.

Design & safety tips

Beyond choosing the right pool type, following some basic design and safety guidelines will ensure your DIY dog pool provides an enjoyable yet secure space for your pet:

• Include a gradual entry point like built-in steps, a ramp, or a shallow end so your dog can easily get themselves in and out of the water.
• Place the pool in a flat, level area of your yard to prevent tipping accidents.
• Select a plastic, concrete or steel pool liner that cannot be easily punctured by your dog’s nails.
• Avoid small, cramped pools your dog will have trouble moving around in.
• For ponds, measure and mark gradual drop-offs so your dog doesn’t unexpectedly fall into deep water.
• Fit ponds and stock tanks with water filtration and pumps suitable for pets to keep water clean.
• Check water pH and chlorine levels regularly to ensure chemical safety.
• Empty and refill small splash pools daily to prevent bacterial growth.
• Provide shade via trees, awnings or umbrellas, so your dog has relief from the sun.
• Prevent unsupervised pool access with fencing or gates. Always watch your dog when they are in the pool.
• Have towels ready to wipe down and dry your dog once they exit the pool to prevent chill.

Setting up & maintaining DIY dog pools

After choosing the right DIY pool design for your dog, proper setup and maintenance is crucial. Here are some key steps:

• Select the right location – Choose a level, sunny spot with good drainage. For portable plastic kiddie pools, move to shady areas as needed.
• Assemble materials – Gather all needed equipment like hoses, pumps, plastic liners, lumber and tools.
• Level the ground – For permanent pools, till and level the ground. Compact and add gravel as needed.
• Build foundation/structure – Follow your design plans to build any decking, edging or structural elements.
• Install pre-formed liner or plastic sheeting – Line in-ground pools with durable plastic pond liner. Plastic pools don’t need liners.
• Fill the pool safely – Use a hose to slowly fill portable pools. Carefully flood in-ground pools, checking for leaks.
• Install filter/pumps – Ponds and stock tanks need water circulation. Install pet-safe pumps and filters according to manufacturer instructions.
• Monitor water chemistry – Test water frequently. Maintain proper pH and chlorine levels. De-chlorinate if needed.
• Check for hazards daily – Scan for sharp objects, biting insects, algae, feces and other hazards before letting your dog swim.
• Drain and refresh water – Empty portable pools daily. Drain in-ground pools periodically and refill them with clean water.
• Remove leaves/debris – Use nets and skimmers to keep water free of leaves, dirt and other debris that collects.

Make a splash!

With the right design and preparations, a DIY dog pool can provide your four-legged friend with hours of watery fun while keeping cool during hot weather. Customize your pool to suit your space, budget and your dog’s size and swimming abilities.

Monitor use and invest some elbow grease into regular maintenance to ensure your DIY pool provides a safe and enjoyable oasis all summer long for your water-loving pup! With a backyard pool, even dogs who aren’t fortunate enough to live near lakes or beaches can take the plunge for some aquatic adventure.