There is no question that hot tubs are an enjoyable and relaxing experience for most humans, and those of us with four-legged companions often like to do everything we can with our canine friends, so you may wonder can my dog hang out with me in my hot tub? The decision is up to you as a responsible pet and hot tub owner, but it’s our opinion that it’s best to keep your hot tub a pet-free zone and find other ways to hang out with your pets. Let’s explore why we came to this conclusion.

Can I Take My Dog in the Hot Tub? 

Unlike humans, dogs can’t easily regulate their body temperature by sweating. They cool down primarily through panting, and can sometimes use the pads of their paws to perspire, but in a hot tub, those pads would be underwater and unable to do their job. Dogs don’t tolerate high temperatures as well as humans do. Hot tubs are typically kept at temperatures around 102 degrees, and although this might feel good to you, it can cause your dog to get overheated very quickly. Generally speaking, the water temperature in a hot tub is too high for dogs and can lead to overheating, heat stroke, or even death.

You should also consider how your dog might be affected by the sanitizing chemicals in your hot tub water. Even if you lower the water temperature in your spa, chlorine and other chemicals that help keep hot tub water clean and safe for us, are harmful to your dog. These chemicals can irritate your dog’s skin, eyes, and respiratory system, and some pets might be tempted to drink the water, which would be harmful due to the cleaning chemicals present. Hot tubs are also often slippery and with high walls which could make it difficult for your dog to get out safely on their own. 

Dogs don’t typically like being confined in tight spaces, and especially if the water is too hot, or the jets are scary, they may scramble to get out, causing them to potentially hurt themselves or scratch your hot tub shell. However vigilant you are about grooming your pet, their fur will never be 100% clean, and if you allow them in your hot tub or pool, contaminants and plenty of hair will end up in your delicately balanced water and filter. Dog hair in your filter requires more frequent cleaning, and when your filter is working harder, or less efficiently, it can damage your hot tub. 

Hot Tub Alternatives for Your Dog

While it may be tempting to bring your dog into your hot tub, it’s generally not a good idea due to the numerous safety and health concerns involved. Even though your dog may not be joining you inside your hot tub, you can always encourage your pet to hang out alongside so it can be involved and keep you company while you’re soaking. There have been many games of fetch played while humans enjoy their spa and their dogs enjoy companionship and romping around their yard.

Let your four-legged friends hang out by the hot tub instead of in it. Set up a comfortable spot for your dog to flop down beside you like on an elevated outdoor doggie bed, with a bone or toy to chew on. This way your dog can still get a pat on the head while you relax in your hot tub. If you want to help your dog cool down or enjoy water play on a hot day, a great option is to let them splash around in a shallow kiddie pool filled with clean, fresh water, or let them run through your sprinkler system. 

Maybe you want to give your dog their own special spa right by yours. In addition to kiddie pools, there are also splash pads with built in sprinklers designed specifically for our canine family members and kids tend to enjoy them as well. Toss in some of their favorite water toys, and make sure they have plenty of shade, and access to clean drinking water so they can relax after their water adventures. 

We’re here to help ensure your whole family can enjoy the relaxing benefits of having a hot tub. Give us a call with questions at 970-879-4390 or contact us here.