8 Best Dog Swimming Pools to Keep Your Pup Cool
by Ysolt Usigan
Published on May 09, 2022
As the weather begins to warm up, keep in mind that you’re not the only one who may be feeling the heat. Dogs need relief from soaring temperatures, too! And since dogs don’t sweat the same way humans do to cool down, it’s even more important to provide relief for your furry friend when it’s hot out.
There are plenty of ways to help your dog beat the heat. But one of the most enjoyable options — hands (and paws) down — is with a dog swimming pool. Find out how this summertime staple can help pups have fun in the sun and keep them safe from high-heat hazards. Plus, we’ll share our top picks for the best dog pools for every budget, need, and breed size.
8 Splash-tastic Dog Swimming Pools
After scouring the web and talking to dog owners, here are our top picks for the best dog swimming pools to help you and your pup stay cool, safe, and happy this summer:
- Best Overall Dog Swimming Pool: Jasonwell Foldable Dog Pet Bath
- Best Value Dog Swimming Pool: lunaloo Foldable Dog Pool
- Best Foldable/Collapsible Dog Pool: Chasing Tails Dog Pool With Carry Bag
- Best Dog Splash Pad: Peteast Splash Sprinkler Pad for Dogs
- Most Adorable Dog Pool: Unido Foldable Dog Pool
- Best Dog Pool for Large Dogs: Portable Collapsible Pet Dog Bath Pool
- Best Dog Pool for Small Dogs: Polygroup Wading Dog Pool
- Best Dog Pool With Canopy: K&H Pet Products Dog Pool And Canopy (Sold Separately)
Dog Overheating? How Dog Pools Can Help
Most pet parents are well aware that high temperatures or being confined in closed spaces, such as cars, can increase the risk of heat exhaustion or heat stroke in dogs.
However, the weather doesn’t have to hit triple digits for it to impact your dog. Even slightly elevated temperatures could cause your dog to overheat if they don’t drink enough water, remain exposed to direct sunlight, or are highly active on hot days.
It’s easy to miss the warning signs of overheating — which include excessive drooling, panting, and labored breathing — so prevention is key. Always provide plenty of fresh water, shade, and rest on hot days. And if you’re looking for a super-fun, super-effective way to provide a quick, full-body cooldown, a dog swimming pool is a great way to help your pup chill out.
What is a Dog Swimming Pool?
So what exactly is a dog swimming pool? Most products on the market are small wading pools designed specifically for dogs. For safety reasons, they’re typically not too deep, so don’t expect your dog to do much “swimming.” But there’s still plenty of room for a dog to play, sit, stand, and soak in a dog swimming pool.
Dog pools come in different sizes, shapes, and materials to fit every budget, breed, and purpose. You’ll find options in hard plastic, metal, vinyl, and PVC-covered boards. Some are portable so you can cool your dog down wherever you roam, while others are designed for home use. You can use them on a hot day so your dog doesn’t overheat or just for fun. Dog swimming pools can also double as doggy bathtubs for those who prefer to keep all that sudsy splashing outside.
How We Chose Our Top Dog Pools
At first glance, you might think that there’s not a lot to dog swimming pools. But as we started exploring the different options available to pet parents, we found a lot of variety in materials, features, design, and durability.
To choose our top recommendations, we looked for dog swimming pools with high ratings and plenty of thoughtful reviews. We also tried to include a variety of different types of dog pools, considering different uses, dog sizes, portability, unique features, materials, and more.
Dog Swimming Pools: Our Top Picks
All featured products are chosen at the discretion of the author. However, Vetstreet may make a small affiliate commission if you click through and make a purchase.
Best Overall Dog Swimming Pool
Our Pick: Jasonwell Foldable Dog Pet Bath
| Sizes and Dimensions (LxWxH) | Small – 32 x 32 x 8 inches Medium – 39.5 x 39.5 x 12 inches Large – 48 x 48 x 12 inches Extra Large – 55 x 55 x 12 inches Extra Extra Large – 63 x 63 x 12 inches |
| Color | Blue |
This dog pool landed at the top of our list (with a splash!) because it’s got everything pet parents tend to look for in a dog pool. First off, it’s foldable for easy portability and storage. The wall segments are made of thick, high-density fiberboard for stability and are covered with heavy-duty PVC. The extra-tough pool floor is slip-resistant and designed to stand up to plenty of play. It features dual drain ports for fast, easy drainage, plus an adaptor you can attach to the end of your garden hose to make filling up the pool super easy, too.
Highlights
- Foldable pool is easy to set up, break down, and store
- Edges are wrapped and reinforced to prevent punctures
- Made of thick, high-density fiberboard and tough PVC
- Available in five different sizes
- Comes with a hose adaptor designed to fit securely into drain port for fast fill-up
Things to Consider
- The manufacturer recommends trimming your dog’s nails before using this pool
- The hose depicted in the packaging is not included
Sample buyer review… “I am really happy with this dog pool! I ordered the XXL size so it was big enough for my two dogs (60 pounds and 40 pounds) and quite honestly, for me to sit in too! The pool is plenty large enough for the dogs to splash around and lay down in, even with me sitting in there. The pool came with a patch, so I was concerned that it could easily rip, but it seems very durable. There is a lighter blue line around the inside bottom edge of the pool, and my 60-pound dog sees it and keeps ‘digging’ at the bottom edge and he hasn’t ripped it. It’s been 90+ degrees here for the past week and we’ve been using the pool every day. It’s a great way to keep the dogs cool!”
Best Foldable Dog Pool
Our Pick: lunaoo Foldable Dog Pool
| Sizes and Dimensions (LxWxH) | Medium – 31.5 x 31.5 x 7.9 inches Large – 47.2 x 47.2 x 11.8 inches Extra Large – 63 x 63 x 11.8 inches |
| Colors | Dark Gray, Light Gray, Navy Blue |
When your dog needs relief from the heat, the last thing you want to do is work up a sweat getting the pool set up. This well-designed foldable pool is so easy to set up and take down that you can do it in seconds. It’s crafted with industrial-strength PVC over durable fibreboard and features oversized drainage ports that empty the pool fast. Whether you’re gearing up for a pool day with your pup or cleaning up afterward, this pool makes it a snap.
Highlights
- Simply unfold to set up in seconds
- Made with sturdy three-ply fiberboard and thick, non-slip PVC
- Easy to fill and drain
- Comes with hose connector for fast fill-up
- Available in three sizes
- Choose from three different colors
Things to Consider
Sample buyer review… “Very easily to unfold, we love that it drains, and provides some traction for their paws as opposed to the cheap plastic kiddie pools that we’ve always used. Our younger mutt was in it before I was done filling it up so I think she approves! This XL size will accommodate both of our dogs should they choose to lie down in it at the same time (and with our Florida heat, it’s a given.) This seems like a solid product so hopefully it will stand the test of time.”
Best Portable Dog Pool
Our Pick: Chasing Tails Dog Pool With Carry Bag
| Dimensions (LxWxH) | 47 x 47 x 11.8 inches |
| Color | Gray |
Whether you’re heading to a neighbor’s pool party or on vacation, this foldable, on-the-go option makes it easy to travel with your dog’s swimming pool in tow. Like many of the foldable pools we reviewed, this one is made with PVC. But it boasts a thickness that’s 50% greater than most of the competition, for even greater durability. Best of all, it comes with a bonus zippered carry bag that’s the perfect size to bring on the road, on the trail, on the beach…anywhere!
Highlights
- Extra-thick PVC designed to withstand sharp teeth and nails
- Quick and easy drainage
- Comes with a zippered carrying bag
- Made from non-slip, non-toxic materials
- Reviewers love how thick and sturdy this pool is
Things to Consider
- Only comes in one size and color
- Manufacturer recommends drying before storing in bag
Sample buyer review… “Delighted to discover wading pools that fold up for storage. This one is just like it looks, with the foldable panels and the drain hole. Easy to set up, fill, and drain, though I hope to figure out some way to cover it to keep the cruft out when it’s not in use. Nice that it comes with a sturdy storage bag as well.”
Best Dog Splash Pad
Our Pick: Peteast Splash Sprinkler Pad for Dogs
| Sizes and Dimensions (LxW) | Large – 51 x 51 inches Extra Large – 59 x 59 inches Extra Extra Large – 67 x 67 inches |
| Color | Blue |
Perhaps your dog would prefer to run around and splash rather than lounge around in a pool. This splash sprinkler pad offers the best of both worlds. Simply hook it up to your garden hose and the water pressure creates a “sprinkler zone” within the pad’s shallow retaining wall. So your dog can zoom around and hop in or out as they please. This innovative option from Peteast is made from environmentally friendly PVC and comes with an adapter you can attach to your hose for a no-leak connection.
Highlights
- Perfect for dogs who would rather play than wade
- Control the height of the sprinklers by turning your hose water pressure up or down
- Easy to set up, fold up and transport
- Made with PVC that’s free of BPA and phthalates
- Comes with patch kit
Things to Consider
- The manufacturer recommends timing your dog’s nails before using the mat
- If your water pressure is too high, the spray won’t fall into the pool.
Sample buyer review… “We bought this for our shih tzu and small kiddos and they all LOVE IT! The plastic material is very heavyweight and seems like it will be durable. The water pressure inflates the walls, which creates about a 3-4 pool of water in the middle. Perfect as a splash pad! The water jets shoot up about 24-30 depending on your water pressure. It’s definitely a unique alternative to the generic baby pool and a bonus is it folds up for quick and easy storage. Definitely a good find!”
Most Adorable Dog Pool
Our Pick: Unido Foldable Dog Pool
| Sizes and Dimensions (LxWxH) | Small – 32 x 32 x 8 inches Medium – 48 x 48 x 12 inches Large – 63 x 63 x 12 inches |
| Colors | Blue, Red |
We love this outdoor dog pool because it’s sturdy, collapsible, and easy to fill and clean. But what really sets it apart is its cute doggy print. While most dog pools come in simple designs or solid colors, this one features a playful design with paw prints, dog bones, classic dog houses, and more. And it comes in your choice of blue or red. It’s the perfect choice for cooling down in style!
Highlights
- Features festive pattern pet parents will love
- Made of puncture-resistant PVC and extra-thick fiberboard
- Foldable, space-saving design
- Can be used indoors, outdoors, in backyards, on balconies, and more
- Easy to drain
- Available in three sizes and two colors
Things to Consider
- Manufacturer recommends filling only to 80% maximum
- May have a strong plastic odor when used for the first time
Sample buyer review… “We love the quality of the material and sturdiness when we filled with water. Sheba jumped in twice when we were filling. Love the color and design. We ordered the medium size and wish we would have gotten the largest size as Sheba is 80# boxer/shar mix and could have used more space. This will work great for her during the summer heat. A must buy.”
Best Value Dog Pool
Our Pick: Heavy Duty Foldable Dog Pool
| Sizes and Dimensions (diameter) | Small: 32 inches Medium – 39.5 inches Large – 48 inches Extra Large – 55.1 inches Jumbo – 63 inches |
| Color | Blue |
This folding pet swimming pool for dogs will help you beat the heat without breaking the bank. Made of durable PVC to prevent leakage and reduce wear-and-tear, the pool features an anti-slip bottom and a draining port with an attached plug for total convenience. It has all the bells and whistles of most foldable dog pools, but at a budget-friendly price. (The smallest size is less than $20, and the jumbo size is less than $40!) Just think: you can use the money you save to splurge on some cute pool toys for your pup!
Highlights
- A bargain compared to similar dog pools
- Foldable and easy to store
- Drainage port with attached plug
- Anti-slip bottom
- Available in five sizes
- Comes with a scrub brush
Things to Consider
- One customer found this pool a little tough to drain
Sample buyer review… “This is a great value; highly recommend!!”
Most Durable Dog Pool
Our Pick: Polygroup Wading Dog Pool
| Dimensions (LxWxH) | 35 x 35 x 6 inches |
| Color | Blue |
Dogs that love to chew, dig, and scratch deserve to swim, too! And with this durable doggy pool, even the roughest pups can splash to their hearts’ content. This super-tough dog wading pool looks a lot like the hard plastic baby pools of the past. It’s made of durable, long-lasting polyethylene, so you don’t have to worry about punctures, rips, or tears. And it features a rounded edge to keep your pup safe and sound while they splash. This option doesn’t feature a lot of extras, but if you’re looking for a pool that is almost indestructible and attractively priced, it’s a great deal.
Highlights
- Stands up to plenty of use
- Extra-thick polyethylene walls offer sturdy support, unlike flimsy plastic pools
- Easy to clean
- Attractively priced
Things to Consider
- Requires a lot of space to store
- At this size, this pool is only ideal for small to medium-sized dogs
- Under extreme stress, this pool could crack, making it unusable
Sample buyer review… “I love this pool! Big enough for my mini dachshund and his buddy. Can’t wait for splashes the rest of the summer!”
Best Dog Pool With Canopy
Our Pick: K&H Pet Products Dog Pool & Canopy (Sold Separately)
| Dimensions (LxWxH) | Medium Pool – 25 x 32 x 7 inches Medium Canopy – 25 x 32 x 30 inches Large Pool – 30 x 42 x 7 inches Large Canopy – 30 x 42 x 35 inches Extra Large Pool – 32 x 50 x 9 inches Extra Large Canopy – 32 x 50 x 44 inches |
| Colors | Pool: Blue Canopy: Light Gray |
This swimming pool for dogs is made of sturdy vinyl on a metal frame for no-fuss set-up and compact storage. Plus, you don’t have to worry about the walls collapsing, which can happen with foldable pools if they’re not set up correctly. It’s easy to fill, drain, and clean, and it comes with a patch kit for minor repairs. Best of all, a canopy that’s perfectly sized to fit the pool can be bought separately, so your dog can enjoy some shade while they splash.
Highlights
- Sturdy, durable design won’t collapse like some foldable dog pools
- Metal frame is easy to set up, take down, and transport
- Pool is made from tough, non-slip vinyl
- No tools are required for assembly
- Protective shade canopy sold separately
Things to Consider
- Shallower than most other dog pools
- Combo package of pool and canopy can get a bit pricey
Sample buyer review… “This is a fantastic portable pool/bath. The plastic frame is exceptionally easy to assemble — the pieces fit together perfectly with no effort at all. When assembled, the frame is surprisingly sturdy and the fabric maintains its shape despite wriggling or squirming. The drain is a marvelous addition, making clean-up a breeze. It folds up easily and stores relatively small, which is also nice!”
Dog Swimming Pool Buyer’s Guide
Even the most placid pups tend to get pretty excited by the prospect of their very own pool. So it’s important to choose a dog swimming pool that will stand up to a lot of enthusiastic play and splashing. Here are some of the most important factors to consider when searching for the right pool to keep your pup cool and safe.
Materials: Most of the dog swimming pools on our list are made of high-quality PVC, which is incredibly durable, but not completely puncture proof. To get a sense of how pool materials hold up under pressure (or paws), be sure to read the reviews for examples of real-world performance. And if you want something completely puncture-proof, a hard-mold plastic is your best bet. We did find some metal dog pool varieties, which provide the ultimate in durability. But many lacked key features, such as portability and easy-access ports for filling and draining.
Size: Dog swimming pools come in a wide range of sizes, from small (perfect for toy breeds) to extra-extra large (great if you have more than one dog). Be sure to check exact dimensions, as they will vary by manufacturer. Generally, we found smaller dog swimming pools were typically around 32 inches in diameter, with larger pools ranging up to 63 inches in diameter. If you want something bigger than that to accommodate multiple dogs, you would have to consider pools made for people, though they might not be able to withstand sharp nails or heavy use by dogs.
Portability: If you’re going with a PVC dog pool, odds are, it can fold for easy travel. These pools typically have rigid wall panel segments that enable the pool to stay up when filled with water. When not in use, these panels simply fold up where they are joined to each other at the seams. Bonus points for collapsible dog pools that come in bags that fit them perfectly, so you can take them on-the-go.
Ease of Filling/Draining: Most dog pools (especially those that are at least 12 inches in height) feature a nozzle or port in the side, so you can insert the end of a hose for easy filling. This also makes them easier to drain, since you’re not trying to lift or tip the entire pool to dump the water.
Extras: Sometimes, the smallest details can make a big difference. Look for extra features designed to make your dog swimming pool easier to use, clean, or maintain. For example, does it come with a cover to help keep bugs or stray animals out when not in use? Does it feature a canopy to provide shade? Is a patch kit to repair rips or punctures included?
In addition to these considerations, here are some important questions to ask yourself when you’re in the market for a dog pool.
Does your dog love to dig or chew? Hard plastic can handle sharp claws and teeth far better than inflated pools.
Does your dog prefer to run around rather than stay in one spot? If so, a sprinkler might suit your dog better…especially if they often get a case of the zoomies. Or, get the best of both worlds with a sprinkler style dog pool.
How big will your dog be when they’re fully grown? A smaller pool might seem the perfect fit for your pup. But it may make more sense to buy a larger dog pool they can grow into.
With all of this in mind, you’re sure to find the perfect pool for your pooch, so they can have fun in the sun and stay safe, while they’re at it!
