Does your dog love the water? Are you looking for an alternative to a pool for your dog? A splash pad for dogs can offer your pup relief from the heat and fun at the same time.
This post will look at what a splash pad is, how it works, and what to look for if you decide it is a good option for you and your pup.
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Related: Dog Shoes For Summer, Pool Steps And Ramps For Dogs, Best Dog Cooling Mat To Beat The Heat, Best Dog Cooling Vests For Hot Days, Best Dog Pools To Keep Your Pup Cool
What Is A Splash Pad?
A splash pad is a pad with holes around the sides to allow for water to shoot through. This creates a sprinkler/pool area for your dog to run around or relax in.
How Does A Splash Pad Work?
To use a splash pad, you need to connect a water source to it, like a garden hose. Some splash pads come with a hose you can connect to a water source, others come with a connection that allows you to use your own hose.
Once the splash pad is connected to the water source, turn it on. The amount of water pressure you use determines how high the water comes out of the sprinkler holes.
Who Is A Splash Pad Good For?
A splash pad can be a great way to keep your dog cool in the hot weather. It is best for dogs who:
- Like to be in the water.
- Don’t mind having some water in their face.
- Enjoy running.
- Like to lay in shallow water.
- Don’t like the heat.
Are Splash Pads Safe For My Dog?
Splash pads can be a great way for your dog to cool down while also allowing them to run and play.
It is best to always supervise your dog while playing in a splash pad. Running around in water can be a little slippery for some dogs and they may get injured if they slip and fall.
What Are The Advantages To Using A Splash Pad For Dogs?
Some advantages to using a splash pad include:
- Keeps your dog cool in hot weather.
- Allows your dog to have fun in the yard.
- Offers an alternative to using a pool.
- Gives a shallow base for your dog to lay on if they just want to relax.
- Large pads can accommodate both humans and dogs, allowing them to have fun together.
- Easy to store when not in use.
What Are The Disadvantages Of Splash Pads?
While splash pads for dogs can be a lot of fun, there are a few drawbacks.
- They can puncture easily, especially if your dog has long nails or tries to chew it or if you place it on a concrete surface.
- Can get hot if they are placed in the sun.
- Dirt and mold can build up if not cleaned properly.
- Connecting the water source can be challenging for some people.
- Surface can be slippery for some dogs.
- Water left in the splash pad can be a magnet for mosquitoes and other insects.
- Can get muddy as dirt from your yard gets from your dog’s paws into the splash pad area as they run through it.
Types Of Splash Pads For Dogs
There are two types of splash pads available. There is the traditional splash pad and there is a hard plastic one. Let’s look at each.
Traditional Splash Pad
A traditional splash pad is made of PVC plastic and is usually round. The area around the pad is inflated to create the splashing area, which then fills with water. Holes are around the edges which creates the sprinkler portion of the pad.
Pros:
- Easy to use.
- Dogs can run through the sprinklers.
- Pups can relax in the pad area.
- Sprinklers are all around the pad.
Cons:
- Can puncture easily.
- Not good for dogs that like to chew or dig.
- Nails of your dog need to be kept trimmed at all times to avoid puncturing the pad.
- Cannot be kept on a hard surface, like concrete, or it can tear.
- Can be slippery.
- Gets hot if left in the sun.
Hard Plastic
There is a hard plastic option available for those who do not like the soft plastic pads. This type of pad has a raised surface that will fill with water. Instead of having holes all around the pad area, it only has one area with a sprinkler.
Pros:
- Easy to use.
- Does not have to be inflated.
- Puncture resistant.
- Can be placed on a hard surface.
Cons:
- Gets hot if left in the sun.
- Can be difficult for dogs with mobility issues to jump into and out of it.
- May be difficult to store, as you will need space big enough to hold it and it can’t be folded up.
- Can be slippery.
- Has only one sprinkler area.
- May be too small if any humans want to play on it with their dog.
Are Splash Pads Slippery?
Splash pads for dogs can be slippery. Most pads come with a non-slip surface to create traction on the splash pad. However, having water over a surface will make it slippery in general and the non-slip surface may not be enough to keep your dog from slipping.
Also, if splash pads are kept on the grass, they may also slip around as your dog continuously runs through it.
How Do I Make My Splash Pad Less Slippery?
For some dogs, the non-slip surface may be fine. But for older dogs or dogs with instability, it may not be enough.
You can try to put grippers on the bottom for extra anti-slip texture, like these.
In terms of where to place your splash pad instead of directly on the grass, you can get pool cushions. This can create a non-slip area to put your pad on top of, while also creating a barrier from concrete (if you wish to put it there), which can puncture the pad.
How Dirty Are Splash Pads?
Splash pads can harbor bacteria if they are not cleaned properly. It is important to keep your splash pad clean and dry between uses to prevent the spread of bacteria to both your dog and any humans that may be playing with your dog in the splash pad.
Do Splash Pads Get Moldy?
Splash pads for dogs can get moldy. Empty out any water from the splash pad each time you are done using it and thoroughly clean it on a regular basis.
How Do You Clean And Store Splash Pads?
Follow the manufacturer’s instructions on how to clean the splash pad. Simple soap and water should work fine to clean it.
First, empty any water that may be left on the pad.
Next, go over the pad with a clean cloth with mild soap, making sure to clean off any dirt they may be left behind on the pad. Then, wash off with a hose. Finally, dry with a cloth.
An unused splash pad can be either folded or rolled up for storage. Make sure to take any air out of it before storing.
What Should I Look For When Choosing A Splash Pad For Dogs?
Here are a few things to keep in mind when choosing to buy a splash pad for your dog.
Size
Splash pads come in a variety of sizes. Look for one that will accommodate the size of your dog and their play style. If you think any humans will want to play in the splash pad with your dog, look for a larger size.
Material
Most splash pads are made of PVC plastic. This makes them easy to store, but they can puncture easily. If you know there is a possibility your dog may puncture the pad or you wish to use it on a hard surface, look for a pad made of hard plastic.
Non-Slip
The non-slip surface can help create traction for your dog’s paws as they run through.
Attachment
Look at how the pad attaches to your water supply. Will it need to attach to your water supply directly or can you use your garden hose? Check that any adapters that might be needed are included with the pad.
Air
Does any portion of the pad need to be filled with air? How big of an area? Are you able to blow it up manually or will you need a pump?
Storage
Can it be rolled up or does it need to be folded? Depending on the size, you will need to make sure you have sufficient space to store it when not in use.
Patches
More likely than not, your splash pad will get a hole in it at some point. Look for a pad that comes with patches so you can quickly fix the hole to continue to let your dog have fun.
Best Splash Pad For Dogs
Here are 5 top choices of splash pads for your dog. Product information is according to the manufacturer. We have included pads of various sizes and one made of hard plastic for those that prefer that option.
Best Hard Plastic
Step2 Water Bug Splash Pad
- Pool and sprinkler in one.
- Wipe clean with wet cloth and soap.
- Attaches to a garden hose.
- Can run through the spray or sit in the pool.
- Water sprays up to a 45 degree angle.
Best Traditional Splash Pads
Ftocase Splash Pad
This pad measures 87 inches and includes a hose to attach to your water supply.
- 87 inches round.
- Sprinklers around the rim.
- Made of PVC material.
- BPA free.
- Phthalate free.
- Non-slip design.
- Attach the included hose to your water supply.
- Adjusting the water pressure will adjust the height of the sprinklers.
Arfbear Splash Pad
- 66 inches round.
- Made of PVC material.
- BPA free.
- Phthalate free.
- Height of the spray is determined by the pressure of the water.
Eooqi Pet Splash Sprinkler Pad
This pad includes a water inlet on the bottom for uniform sprinkler spraying.
- Made of PVC material.
- Adjusting the water pressure will affect the angle of the sprinkler.
- BPA free.
- Phthalate free.
- 59 inches round.
- Includes a water inlet in the bottom for uniform sprinkler spraying.
- Non-slip bottom.
QPAU Non-Slip Splash Pad
This pad comes with a variety of designs to choose from.
- 67 inches round.
- Available in two colors.
- Available with different designs.
- Made of PVC material.
- BPA free.
- Height of the sprinkler is determined by the water pressure.
A splash pad for dogs is a great way to help your pup cool down on a hot day. It is a good alternative to having a pool and is easy to use. Your dog will be able to run around and keep cool at the same time, but can also just relax in the pad area if they want.
Please check out our other posts on Health, Indoor, Outdoor, and Travel accessories for your dog, as well as Reviews of various products and travel destinations.