How to Throw the Ultimate Dog Pool Party
Create a dog pool for your furry friend.
Give your pup a chance to beat the heat this summer by throwing a dog pool party. It's the perfect opportunity to invite a few canine pals (and their humans) over for a fun-filled get-together that everyone can enjoy. We've garnered a list of must-haves to help you get your four-legged friends swimming in their very own dog pool while you enjoy a little down-time in your backyard.
1. Start With the Pool
You can't have a dog pool party without a dog pool! Choose a pet-friendly swimming pool that is lower to the ground to make it easier for your pooch to hop in and out of the water. Plastic is a great tear-resistant material that will withstand claws, although many inflatable pools come with patch repair kits just in case. If you intend to have a big group of pups over, you would do well to get a large pool for more to enjoy at the same time.
If you have a high-sided dog pool, you might want to consider a ramp to help your furry friend get in and out more easily. Small dogs may also require a ladder so they too can join in on the fun. These will also give them a platform for jumping into the water as they splash around and enjoy themselves.
To make your dog pool party more well-rounded, consider purchasing a kids sprinkler, so your pup can make a splash outside of the pool. It will also provide a secondary option for any dogs that aren't too keen on swimming but still want to enjoy frolicking in the water.
A little catering will go a long way, especially when it comes to your pooch and their friends. Keep a large drinking bowl filled with water at all times – you can even throw in a few ice cubes to ensure it remains cool all day. Don't forget a few dog treats and snacks for when they get hungry after enjoying all that fun in the sun.
Of course a few toys will help keep a few of your canine pals entertained, but you might want to add something a little more physically engaging for the more rambunctious pets. You might even find the opportunity to teach your pup a new trick or two while they enjoy themselves playing with the agility equipment.
After all that splashing around, you probably won't want water to be brought inside, so be sure to have a few beach towels by the door to allow your dog to dry off their paws before entering. You guests will also appreciate being able to towel their own pups off prior to heading home so they can keep their cars from getting too wet!
You want to make sure your guests don't get too hot outdoors while your pup enjoys the dog pool party. Erect a portable canopy for a quick and easy shaded space where dog owners can stay out of the sun while still enjoying the good weather. And when their canines are done playing they can come hang out too!
Make sure the human guests are comfortable too with a few camper chairs for them to sit on. And if you are the one who is attending the dog pool party, you will want one of your own to bring alone and ensure you are comfy while the pups enjoy themselves.
Since the focus of your shindig is the dog pool, you don't need to worry about going all out with food and drink, but you definitely want to put out something to sip and snack on. Fill a beverage tub with ice and some bottled drinks so everyone can remain refreshed. Add a serving platter with some chips, or any other fuss-free treats that guests can easily munch on. If you do want to go a little more fancy, a charcuterie board will go down well. Read our guide How to Build a Charcuterie Board – Everything You Need for expert tips and tricks.
If your four-legged friend doesn't already have an outdoor house, this might be a good time to get one. A dog house offers your pooch a spot to go to when they need a little privacy – something that will be especially helpful for any of your friend's dogs who are anxious or just need time to decompress. Read Dog House Ideas for Your Four-Legged Friend for some unique ideas to create the best space for your pooch.
Once they are done paddling, your dog will want a spot to rest and recharge before going for another swim. An outdoor-use dog bed will give them a comfy spot to rest while spending time outside with you. It will also provide a safe space for any dogs who don't like water, so they can still enjoy the activities without having to go near the water.
Throwing a dog pool party is pretty easy when you get down to it. So prep your backyard and invite your friends so your pets can have the time of their lives.
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