Most animals love to swim. They typically are not afraid of water on those hot summer days once they discover that playing in the pool can be cool, fun. Boston Terriers are no different. They can swim and may take the opportunity when you least expect it. However, with these K-9s, you have to think about their needs before allowing them to enter into your pool area. They have short legs, which can make it very hard for them to swim and getting in or out of the pool can cause specific challenges for them. Therefore, we suggest learning what you can about terrier-friendly dog pool setups.

Small Dogs and Pool Safety

We often hear that dogs are born knowing how to swim and most have a love of water since birth. This may or may not always be true, but for dogs; swimming does often come naturally. All it takes is a little encouragement to get them going and then it can be hard to keep them dry. For a terrier who may be very playful, it can prove to be even more impossible if you have a pool area that they are allowed to enter. The issue that you could find yourself in isn’t always going to be getting them into the water. You have to think about their safety in the water. The biggest issue is whether they have a way to get out after they dive in. If the answer is no, then your beloved K-9 could be at serious risk every time that they go near your pool.

K-9 Add-ons for Your Pool

If you want to encourage a skeptical Boston Terrier to take the dive into your pool, you should also have a plan in place for helping them get back to you safely. Some dog owners can toss a ball into the water and their pet will go for it. Others have to work it in a little slower. For this, you may want to have an above ground pool dog ramp put in for your pooch. This ramp will make it easy for them to walk in slowly, when they are ready, but it will also give them an easy place to get out. If you have an inground pool, you already have steps that should be Fido-Friendly. You simply have to show your terrier where the steps are located and let them know by example that they can walk up or down when they want to. This often means putting them in or out of the pool and then calling them to that area of your pool. If you do not want to put in a dog ramp on your pool, you can still prevent un-supervised swimming by setting up a kiddy pool in an area that they do have access to. A small bone shaped pool will ensure their legs can touch bottom and you can rest easy knowing they are safe.

Playing It Safe

Your dog is an extension of your family. Therefore, if you cannot make the pool safe for them; you may consider blocking that area unless you are going to be there. It works the same way as you would do with a small child. You have to do what you can to ensure they are safe at all times.