How to Keep a Dog out of a Swimming Pool

For some of our furry friends, nothing looks like more fun than a splash in the family swimming pool. However, those paws with claws can be deadly weapons -- tearing, and even ruining, a pools liner. Learn how to keep a dog out of the swimming pool.

Instructions

1. Never leave a pet unattended around a unattended swimming pool. Keep the pool covered when no person is around, and tie up or kennel your dog if it will be in a backyard with the pool while no one is home.

2. Provide a fresh water drink supply for the dog when it is outdoors near the pool. Many pets are simply curious and drawn to swimming pools because they look like the perfect place to get a nice drink of water. Providing another source of water for drinking will keep your pet away from the pool, and also keep it from drinking the harsh chlorine-saturated contents.

3. Teach the dog as early as possible to sit or lie down and stay when near the pool if the pet is allowed outside near the swimming area. Complete this training in this exact location, even if the pet already knows the commands in different environments. Train the pet when there are noises, splashes, children playing and toys flying as well. The dog will learn not to react to these distractions.

4. Don't ever let the dog in the pool if you want to establish a rule for keeping he or she out. Once they've been in and had fun, they'll want to join you again. Pets love being near people, especially their owners. If they've been in the pool once, training them to stay out will be all the more difficult.

5. Consider installing a pet security fence if you feel it's difficult to train your pet to stay away, or if there is any chance you pet could get near the pool when no one is around.