If you have a dog, you’re probably used to them going everywhere with you. From the grocery store to the park to family road trips, your dog is always by your side.
When it comes to hot tubs, though, your furry friend definitely shouldn’t join you in the water.
Here, we’ll explain why, then give you some tips for keeping your dog safe around the hot tub.
Why Shouldn’t Dogs Use Hot Tubs?
The biggest reason why dogs shouldn’t get in hot tubs has to do with thermoregulation, or the ability to maintain a steady core temperature.
When humans get hot, the heart pumps blood closer to the skin, while the skin produces sweat. When that sweat evaporates, the blood underneath is cooled, thus helping to lower the body’s core temperature.
Dogs, however, don’t have the ability to sweat all over like we do. While they do sweat through their paw pads, their primary cooling mechanism is panting, a rapid type of breathing through the mouth.
Although panting can be enough to keep them cool during a warm day, they can easily get far too hot when placed in a hot tub. This can result in heat exhaustion and even heatstroke, which can be dangerous and potentially life-threatening.
Plus, if your dog isn’t a strong swimmer, they could be at risk for drowning in your hot tub. Remember, the hot tub may not be deep to you, but it is to most dogs.
In addition to safety issues, you should also think about damage to your hot tub. With their sharp nails and abundance of fur, dogs can easily scratch up your hot tub or cause its filters to become clogged.
How to Keep Your Dog Safe Around the Hot Tub
While your dog might not be able to go in the hot tub with you, you can certainly keep your dog safe if you own a hot tub, and can even have some fun with your canine companion at the same time.
Here are our tips for enjoying a hot tub while owning a dog:
Keep Your Hot Tub Covered
One of the best things you can do to keep your dog protected is keeping your hot tub covered.
A good, sturdy hot tub cover will serve to keep your pup out of the water, even when you’re not around to supervise.
Plus, hot tub covers have lots of other uses, too. They’re able to:
- Keep children, debris and electronic devices from falling into the hot tub.
- Prevent your hot tub from losing heat, which in turn helps to save electricity.
- Reduce the amount of maintenance you’ll need to do.
Click here to read more about the benefits of hot tub covers.
Set Up a Dog-Friendly Pool
Your dog shouldn’t go in the hot tub with you, but there’s no reason they can’t enjoy a little aquatic relaxation of their own.
To provide your dog with a pool they can splash and play in safely, simply pick up a kiddie pool from a local or online retailer.
Typically available for $25 or less, these types of pools are perfect for children and pets alike. Plus, they can be great for helping your canine friend cool down on hot summer days.
If it’s cold out, simply fill up the bathtub with warm (not hot) water and let your dog kick back and relax.
Although dogs and hot tubs don’t mix, these tips can help you keep your dog safe and your hot tub in tip-top shape.
