Nothing’s more refreshing than jumping in a pool on a hot summer day with your German Shepherd Dog. It would be a nice playing time and a chance for a good workout. But are chlorine pools bad for them?
The chlorine level in most pools isn’t high enough to cause serious issues if consumed by your German Shepherd or you. However, the dog’s ears and eyes are more sensitive than yours. Those, along with his skin, may be affected by the long exposure to chlorine.
Here, you’ll find all you need to know about the matter.
How Bad Are Chlorine Pools For Dogs?
Chlorine pools are generally safe for German Shepherds if you keep an eye out for them. However, it can show adverse effects if they consume more water than necessary or stay in the pool for a long time.
If Your German Shepherd Drinks the Pool Water
The CDC states that chlorinated water is safe for both humans and dogs if the maximum concentration is 4 milligrams per liter.
Most pools have a concentration of 1-3 milligrams per liter, which is perfectly safe for your german shepherd.
However, if your dog excessively drinks from it, it can irritate their gastrointestinal tract and cause them nausea and vomiting. The higher the concentration levels, the higher the risks are.
To prevent that from happening, make sure to give your dog enough water before he gets inside the pool. If he’s not thirsty, he won’t attempt to drink while swimming.
If Your German Shepherd Stays in the Pool for Longer Times
Chlorine pools are perfectly safe for your shepherd to swim in for short periods. However, long exposure to chlorine and other pool chemicals can be risky.
German shepherd’s eyes, ears, skin, and coat may be sensitive to chlorine. Long exposure times can dry your dog’s skin and make it irritated. Also, the moisture that builds up in their ears can cause ear infections.
The level of risk here increases with increasing time spent in the pool, especially if the pool is not chemically balanced.
Easy Tips to Protect Your German Shepherd While Swimming
To keep your German shepherd safe while swimming, follow these easy tips.
1. Clean Your Pool Properly
If it’s your house’s pool, make sure to clean it regularly and maintain its chemical balance.
The dirt, hair, fecal matter, and other substances in your pool may affect its chemical balance. The chlorine level may drop, other chemicals such as phosphates and nitrates may increase, and the pH level may increase.
Cleaning your pool frequently will keep the chlorine and other chemical substances at the necessary level for your dog’s safety.
2. Maintain the Chlorine Level
It’s not recommended to lower the chlorine level below the recommended. You may think that lower levels are safer for your pet, but it’s quite the opposite.
The chlorine is used to treat your pool and eliminate any unnecessary microorganisms. Lowering the chlorine level may increase the number of other pollutants, such as algae, bacteria, fungi, and parasites.
These microorganisms can be far more dangerous to your German shepherd than the high chlorine level.
3. Beware of Hot Surfaces
The tiles around your swimming pool are likely to be too hot on summer days. Your dog may get irritated if he feels the heat under his paws, and it may cause him to refrain from swimming.
Make sure to test the surfaces around the pool first with the back of your hand. If it’s too hot for you, it’d be too hot for them.
Cool these surfaces by pouring cold water on them before your dog steps on them.
4. Avoid Heat Strokes
Heat strokes are common in the summer, especially if your dog spends a long time around the pool, bathing in the hot weather.
Make sure to keep your German shepherd in the shade, or give him cool drinking water if the heat is too much.
If you notice any symptoms of a heat stroke, bring the dog inside immediately and consult your vet if necessary.
5. Use a Life Vest
If your German shepherd is still a puppy, or if you’re still training them how to swim, it’d be a good idea to provide them with a life vest. It’ll protect them until they gain enough confidence in the process. Plus, your mind will be at ease when they have it on.
That said, keep in mind that some dogs find these vests irritating. It’s best to keep an eye out to make sure your dog is comfortable.
6. Rinse and Dry Your Dog After Swimming
Swimming for a long time can dry your dog’s skin and drain his coat from all essential oils. Rinse him off after swimming to get rid of any excess chlorine or other chemicals to prevent skin irritation.
On top of that, you’ll have to dry the dog’s body well to keep moisture from building up. While doing so, pay extra attention to the ears. They’re highly prone to infections when exposed to moisture for extended periods.
Lastly, comb the dog’s hair to get rid of any tangles and smooth it out. If it’s too dry or stiff, you can apply conditioner.
7. Watch Out for Any Unusual Signs
Watch out for any irritation, allergy, red eyes, or coughing with your dog. Any unusual symptoms should be considered, and if it seems serious, get them out of the pool immediately.
If your German shepherd is sensitive to chlorine, there’s no need to put them at risk. You can get them a kiddie pool instead and fill it with tap water.
Summary
Are chlorine pools bad for German Shepherds? No, they are perfectly safe for your german shepherd to swim and have fun. However, be careful not to extend swimming times so that their skin won’t get dry and lose its essential oils.
Rinse your dog off after swimming, dry him carefully, and make sure to dry his ears to reduce any chance of infection.
If your dog is particularly sensitive to chlorine, it’d be best to keep him out of your pool. You could get a kiddie pool instead.
