Can My Dog Drink Pool Water?

Find out how much pool water is too much

can dogs drink pool water

During the hot summer months, you might have noticed your dog lapping up some pool water and wondered: Can dogs drink pool water — and is it safe for them to do so?

To find the answer, we spoke to Dr. Andrea Y. Tu, medical director of Behavior Vets NYC in New York City about what pet parents should know about dogs and chlorine.

Can dogs drink pool water safely?

Luckily, if your dog is drinking minimal amounts of pool water — just like humans accidentally do when they swim — you don’t have anything to worry about.

“In general, ingesting a small amount of pool water is not a concern,” Dr. Tu told The Dodo.

According to Dr. Tu, most of the chemicals found in both regular and saltwater pools shouldn’t be a concern and “are safe if the amount swallowed is minimal and part of the regular swimming activity.”

That being said, there are times where you should intervene — like if your dog is gulping down pool water like it’s his only source of hydration.

“You should discourage your dog from drinking large amounts of pool water, as this could cause vomiting and diarrhea, or even electrolyte imbalances that could result in serious conditions including hyponatremia (low systemic sodium levels),” Dr. Tu said.

If you do notice that your dog loves drinking from a pool more than his own water bowl, you might want to consider getting him his very own water foundation.

“Just like with cats, if you find that your dog appears to prefer drinking from the pool instead of their bowl, obtain a water fountain for your pup so that they have access to constantly running fresh water,” Dr. Tu said.

If you're interested, you can try a fountain like this one:

PetSafe Drinkwell Cat and Dog Water Fountain from Chewy for $55

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