German Shepherds are born courageous and athletic. Although they weren’t specifically bred to swim like other dog breeds, they love spending time in the water. It’s a fun exercise to keep your dog lean and healthy. But, are saltwater pools safe for German Shepherds?
Saltwater pools are safe, as long as your dog doesn’t ingest the saltwater.
If you’re interested to know more about your German Shepherd’s safety around saltwater pools, keep on reading!
How Safe Are Saltwater Pools for German Shepherds?
Unlike ocean water or chlorinated water pools, saltwater pools contain less sodium and chlorine. Therefore, a well-kept saltwater pool is safer for your German Shepherd.
Here are the advantages of letting your dog swim in a saltwater pool:
Less Salinity Than Ocean Water
Generally, sodium can be toxic to dogs. Compared to ocean water, the salinity level of saltwater pools is really low. Moreover, a favorable amount of salinity in saltwater pools is 3,200 parts per million or ppm while ocean water has approximately 35,000 ppm of salt.
So, if you’re looking for an enjoyable activity for your German Shepherd on a hot day, a refreshing dip in a saltwater pool is a safe choice.
Less Chloramine Than Chlorinated Water
As the name implies, a saltwater pool uses salt for sanitation instead of chlorine. This means that saltwater pools have less harsh effects on your little friend.
Chlorinated pools have disinfectants that dry out human skin and hair. Your dog’s ears, nose, and fur are more sensitive, so there’s a higher chance that the chemicals will cause irritation.
Since saltwater pools don’t contain Chloramines, your German Shepherd will also be less likely to suffer from itchy skin and a dull coat.
What Should You Consider Before Taking Your German Shepherd to a Saltwater Pool?
German Shepherds are naturally strong swimmers. Yet, if you’re planning to take your German Shepherd for a splash, here’s what you need to consider:
Saltwater Ingestion
While saltwater pools have a really low amount of salt, ingesting large quantities can pose a risk to your furry friend. That’s because too much sodium can result in vomiting and diarrhea.
Sure, it’s inevitable for your dog to drink a few mouthfuls, especially when playing fetch with water-soaked tennis balls or chewing toys.
However, you should never allow your German Shepherd to drink from saltwater pools. So, keep a watchful eye when you’re spending the day at a saltwater pool.
Fresh Water Needs
Swimming can tire out your German Shepherd despite his athletic build. Typically, German Shepherds can swim for 20 minutes. But, make sure yours takes at least 5-minute intervals.
Also, keep him hydrated. A thirsty dog will be tempted to lap up water. The last thing you want is for your German Shepherd to think that the saltwater pool is a giant water bowl.
Provide fresh water bowls for him. As a treat, you can add some ice cubes to the water.
Coat Moisture
Not all dogs are genetically born to be swimmers. Unlike Labrador Retrievers or Portuguese Water Dogs, German Shepherds don’t have oily coats to keep them moisturized during long exposures to either saltwater or freshwater.
Sure, saltwater pools are less chemically harsh, but just to be on the safe side, don’t bathe your dog before he takes a dip in a saltwater pool. Instead, spray him with canine moisturizer before letting him go for a swim.
Since a German Shepherd has a double coat, it’s safer if you rinse and clean his entire body with fresh water after swimming. Also, make sure to dry off his ears thoroughly as they can lead to infection if left wet.
Why Is It Dangerous for Your German Shepherd to Drink From a Saltwater Pool?
Too much salt in your German Shepherd’s body can result in excessive dehydration and fluid imbalance. If left untreated, it might damage a dog’s organs.
Although a few slurps of saltwater may only lead to diarrhea, a large intake can be lethal. Studies show that too much salt water ingestion can lead to serious neurological problems in a dog, like brain damage or brain swelling.
What Are the Symptoms of Saltwater Poisoning?
For safety precautions, here are the symptoms of saltwater poisoning that you should look out for:
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
- Lack of Appetite
- Lack of Coordination
- Lethargy
- Dehydration
- Excessive Urination
- Muscle Tremors
- Seizure
What to Do if Your German Shepherd Has Ingested Saltwater?
If your German Shepherd is experiencing some of the saltwater poisoning symptoms, here’s what you need to do:
Offer Fresh Water
If your German Shepherd is having diarrhea with or without vomiting, chances are he drank too much salt water. Offer fresh water to your German Shepherd every 30 minutes.
Don’t give him water all at once as this will lead to further irritation of his stomach.
Check Dehydration Level
Consuming large quantities of saltwater leads to over dehydration. Check your German Shepherd’s skin elasticity by gently pinching the skin on the back of his head. If he’s getting well rehydrated, the skin should quickly revert into place.
You can also check if there’s moisture on his snout.
Stop Feeding Your Dog for Now
If your German Shepherd is suffering from diarrhea or vomiting, stop feeding him for the next 12-24 hours. But, remember to give him a few sips of water.
Monitor Your Dog’s Condition
It’s important to keep close supervision of your dog while he’s recovering. Check if he still has signs of dehydration like sunken eyes, sticky gums, and a dry nose.
Stay observant if he’s still having a runny stool.
Seek Veterinary Treatment
If your pooch starts showing signs of lethargy or unusual behavior, it’s best to seek veterinary treatment. Treatment will include tests like urinalysis and X-rays to determine his sodium level and the extent of damage to his organs.
Your German Shepherd will be hospitalized for a few days to balance his electrolyte levels through fluid therapy.
Wrapping Up
So, are saltwater pools safe for German Shepherds? Yes, they are.
However, a day at a saltwater pool with your German Shepherd will require precautions and careful supervision from you. As long as he doesn’t take in too much saltwater, he’d be safe.
Moreover, if your dog shows any saltwater poisoning symptoms, call your vet immediately.
