When most people think about a day out with their dog, they picture woodland walks, country pubs or a trip to the beach. But have you ever considered taking your pooch for a swim?
Whether your dog is a natural water lover or a little hesitant around water, dedicated swimming pools for dogs offer a safe, fun, and controlled environment where they can build confidence and enjoy fantastic exercise. Unlike rivers, lakes, or the sea, swimming pools are free from strong currents, hidden obstacles, and muddy banks, making them an excellent choice for dogs of all ages and abilities.
Swimming is one of the best forms of low-impact exercise for dogs. It helps improve fitness, build muscle strength, and support healthy joints without putting unnecessary strain on their bodies. It’s also great mental stimulation, giving energetic dogs the chance to play, splash, and burn off energy in a completely different way.
While breeds such as Retrievers and Spaniels often take to the water naturally, not every dog is a confident swimmer. The good news is that, with the right introduction, a safe environment, and plenty of patience, many dogs can gradually learn to enjoy it.
Our cockapoo Winnie definitely falls into the “rather keep my paws dry” camp! He loves exploring beaches and riversides but has never been keen on getting into the water. That’s one of the reasons I wanted to put together this guide. Perhaps a purpose-built swimming pool for dogs will be the perfect place to help him build his confidence. If your dog is a little unsure too, I hope this guide inspires you to give it a try.
1. Outdoor swimming pools for dogs
SwimDog (Cornwall)
Outdoor 10m (32ft) swimming pool for dogs.
Address: Tresillian Barton (formerly Dairyland Farm), Newquay, Cornwall, TR8 5AA.
Purpose-built exclusively for dogs, SwimDog offers a safe and controlled environment where dogs can build confidence in the water or simply enjoy a fun swim. Every session is supervised by experienced staff, who are in the pool to encourage dogs according to their confidence and ability.
Owners are welcome to join their dogs in the water, although this isn’t essential. However, you must remain at the poolside throughout the session to support your dog and assist the team if required. The pool is only 4ft deep so it’s not total emersion.
Solo Swim: £40 (30 minutes);
Pool Party (up to 5 dogs): £19 per dog (30 minutes).
Canine Dip and Dive Club (Five UK locations)
Outdoor 10m (32ft) swimming pool for dogs.
Address: Suffolk, Norfolk, Essex, Devon and Kent.
www.caninedipanddiveclub.co.uk
The business was founded by Andrew and his Spaniel, Buddy, who appeared on Dragons’ Den (Series 22, Episode 3) seeking investment to expand the business across the UK. Each pool features a floating ramp, making it easy for dogs to enter and leave the water, as well as a diving platform for more adventurous swimmers. Owners are welcome to join their dogs in the pool, while secure fencing provides a safe environment for every session.
You can choose from private swims or fun group sessions, including breed-specific pool parties such as Cockapoo, Cavapoo and Poodle cross Pool Party, Dachshund Pool Party, Spaniels Only Pool Party, or Golden Retrievers Only Pool Party.
Suffolk
Pakenham Windmill, Thurston Road, Pakenham, IP31 2NF.
- Solo Swim – £37 (30 minutes);
- Buddy’s Pool Party – £17 (30 minutes);
Norfolk
Centre Paws, Barnards Farm, Barnham Broom Road, Wymondham, NR18 0RR.
- Solo Swim – £38 (30 minutes);
- Buddy’s Pool Party – £18 (30 minutes);
Essex
Gardeners Farm, Maldon, CM9 8BQ.
- Solo Swim – £42.50 (30 minutes);
- Buddy’s Pool Party – £20 (30 minutes);
Devon
Paws at the Junction, Ridge Road, Plympton, Plymouth, PL7 5AD.
- Solo Swim – £32 (30 minutes);
- Buddy’s Pool Party – £16 (30 minutes);
Kent
Reuthe’s Lost Gardens, Sevenoaks, TN15 0HB.
- Solo Swim – £37 (30 minutes);
- Buddy’s Pool Party – £17 (30 minutes).
2. Indoor swimming pools for dogs
Paws In The Pool (West Sussex)
Indoor heated 8.5m swimming pool.
Address: South of England Showground, Selsfield Road, Ardingly, West Sussex, RH17 6TL.
If you’re looking for somewhere to swim all year round, Paws In The Pool offers a heated indoor pool maintained at around 28°C. The low-chlorine filtration system is gentle on dogs’ skin, while a full range of dog life jackets is available for those who are less confident in the water.
Owners are encouraged to join their dogs in the pool, particularly during their first swimming session. Whether your dog is an experienced swimmer or taking their very first paddle, all breeds are welcome.
Weekday Solo Swim – £25 (30 minutes);
Weekend Solo Swim – £32 (30 minutes).
Doggie Dips (Surrey)
Indoor heated swimming pool.
Address: Valentines Farm, Rose Lane, Ripley, Surrey, GU23 6NE.
Doggie Dips provides a warm indoor swimming pool where dogs can enjoy the water whatever the weather. Every dog wears a professionally fitted life vest, and a selection of toys is available to encourage relaxed swimming and build confidence through play.
Sessions include exclusive use of the pool, life jacket hire, toys, and supervision from the experienced team, making it an ideal choice for nervous first-time swimmers as well as confident water lovers.
Weekday Solo Swim – £31 (30 minutes)
Weekend Solo Swim – £41 (30 minutes)
What to bring to your dog’s swimming session :
For your dog: dog towel(s), favourite floatable toys, some treats for reward purposes, fresh water and a water bowl.
For you: swimwear and a long-sleeve shirt to protect your skin from dog scratches.
Winnie’s Thoughts: Swimming pools for dogs look like a great option for pooches who are still building confidence in the water. We might have to give it a try ourselves!
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