Caring for a hot tub can be an intimidating responsibility, and protecting it from dogs can be especially tricky. With a few precautionary measures, however, the task of safeguarding a hot tub from curious canine noses doesn’t have to be a daunting one. If your furry friends have a penchant for soaking in your spa water, you’ll be glad to know that there are several steps you can take to prevent them from getting too close. Learn how to protect hot tub from dogs with these helpful tips.
How to Protect Hot Tub from Dogs
Dogs and hot tubs aren’t always the best of friends. Whether they’re attracted to the splashing water, hoping to take a plunge, or simply curious about the bubbling machine, they can be a nuisance to hot tub owners. To ensure that your canine companion doesn’t cause any harm to your hot tub, there are a few proactive steps you can take to protect it. From creating protective barriers to introducing your pooch to the tub in a safe way, read on to learn how to best protect your hot tub from dogs.
Create a Barrier Around the Hot Tub
Creating a barrier around the hot tub is an effective way to make sure your dog doesn’t accidentally jump in. Fencing is the most common way to create a barrier, as it can be customized to fit the size and shape of your hot tub. It can easily be attached via stakes in the ground or mounted on posts for additional stability. Additionally, metal fencing or plastic mesh fencing can be used to create a more permanent barrier that is difficult for your dog to breach.
For hot tub owners with more limited space, other alternatives may be more suitable. A baby gate around the hot tub is an excellent way to keep pups out. It is also easy to install, as it simply attaches to the sides of the hot tub or posts in the ground. Additionally, freestanding pet gates are a great alternative that work well if you need to temporarily close off access to the hot tub.
Another option is to use outdoor curtains or blinds circa hot tubs. This works well if you’re not ready to commit to a permanent barrier such as fencing. You can also choose a color and material combination that matches the aesthetics and feel of your outdoor space. Not to mention, these curtains and blinds can also be used to protect you from the sun’s UV rays during hot summer months.
Train Dogs to Stay Away from Hot Tub
Training a pup to stay away from the hot tub is critical for preventing accidents. Begin by teaching the “stay” command: when your pup displays their desired behavior, use vocal reinforcement and treats to reward them and reinforce the behavior. Make sure to be consistent in your commands and rewards and use different types of rewards so they stay encouraged rather than expecting the same type each time.
When you are confident your pup understands the “stay” command, position yourself between them and the hot tub and say “stay”. When they obey, reward them and increase the distance between them and the hot tub until you are blocking access. You can also make the hot tub area unpleasant or off limits by using deterrents like water spray bottles or citronella.
Make sure to practice these commands frequently with your pup, keeping the sessions short and rewarding to encourage them to obey. The more familiar they are with these commands, the better chance of success you have at keeping them away from the hot tub.
Secure Doors and Gates Near Hot Tub
Keeping doors and gates closed is an important aspect of keeping your hot tub safe from determined pups. Installing a latch or doorknob on all of the doors and gates will prevent pups from slipping through. Consider adding a sliding latch, tubular latch, hook-and-eye latch or deadbolt in addition to the existing locks for maximum security.
For additional security, look for weather stripping or pet guards for the bottom of the gate or door. This will prevent gaps that furry friends can squeeze through. Additionally, ensure all hinges on the doors are properly aligned and in good condition to prevent any movement of the door jamb that could give pets access.
If your hot tub is located near a window, consider bolting a grate for extra security or purchase pet-proof screens. Here is a list of do’s and don’ts to help you secure your doors and gates:
- Do Install metal grates or pet guards at all potential entry points.
- Do Weather strip the gaps of your sliding door or gate.
- Do Install a sliding latch, hook and eye, tubular latch.
- Do Check the alignment of your door hinges to prevent any security gaps.
- Do Replace any worn or broken locks and deadbolts.
- Do not leave any doors or gates unlocked.
- Do not install locks that your pet could easily figure out.
- Do not leave any windows or screens unlocked.
Maintain Cleanliness of Hot Tub
It is important to maintain the cleanliness of a hot tub when it is shared with pets. Keeping the water clean with regular chemical treatment and chlorine shock treatments can help ensure that the water is free of bacteria that can be dangerous to both humans and animals. It is also important to make sure to regularly scrub the sides of hot tubs and remove pet hair or debris that may have accumulated. This will help to keep the hot tub pool looking inviting, as well as hygienic.
In order to keep the water clean and safe, use the following list of supplies:
- Chlorine shock
- Test strips
- pH balance
- Algaecide
- Bromine tablets
- Filter cleaner
- Cartridge filter
- Pool brush
- Skimmer Rake
Ensure that the pH balance remains within the optimal range and shock treat the water as necessary to shock any chlorine levels that have dropped. Using the filter cleaner and cartridge filter will help to eliminate debris and pet hair that can accumulate in the filter. Be sure to use the skimmer rake to collect any larger debris that may have fallen into the water.
Regularly testing the water temperature and pH balance can help to make sure that the water remains safe, as too hot of a temperature can be harmful to pets. Utilize the filter system to keep the water clean. By following these steps on a consistent basis, the hot tub can remain safe and comfortable for human and canine companions alike.
Familiarize Dogs With Hot Tub
Introducing your dog to your hot tub can help them understand it is not an area for them to explore. To do this, start by having your pup observe and sniff around the tub but not to actually enter it. Then reward them for their good behavior. You can give them a positive verbal command and plenty of treats.
Next, guide your pup away from the hot tub and reward them again. Over time and with frequent repetition, your dog will learn not to enter the hot tub.
Additionally, you can start giving your canine companion their own pool or a kiddie pool to enjoy. This will give them something to do and keep them away from your hot tub.
Ultimately, familiarizing your pooch with your hot tub is important in keeping them safe. The more trained and comfortable they are around it, the more knowledgeable they will be about its boundaries. Taking these steps will help protect your hot tub from your four-legged family members.
FAQ
Can dogs damage hot tub?
Yes, dogs can damage hot tubs if they jump in when the water is too hot or if they scratch the shell with their nails. It is important to ensure that all safety measures are in place before allowing a dog into a hot tub in order to minimize potential damage.
What happens if my dog jumps in the hot tub?
It is not recommended for dogs to jump in hot tubs, as the temperature of a hot tub is kept at 104-106 degrees Fahrenheit which is higher than what is comfortable for most dogs. Being in water that hot for a prolonged period of time could lead to overheating and dehydration, especially in smaller dogs. Additionally, the chemicals in the hot tub, such as chlorine and bromine, can also be harmful to pets. If your dog does jump in a hot tub, you should try your best to remove them as soon as possible and keep them cool by providing them plenty of water and shade.
How do I protect the outside of my hot tub?
To protect the outside of your hot tub,clean the surface regularly with a soft cloth or sponge using a mild detergent. Avoid using harsh chemicals as they can damage the surfaces. Additionally, you should apply a sealant or a waterproofing product regularly to protect the finish of your hot tub from fading, cracking, and other damage caused by water and sun exposure.
How can I protect my inflatable hot tub?
To protect your inflatable hot tub, you should always cover it when not in use. Make sure to purchase a cover that’s designed for your specific model and follow the installation instructions. You should also pressure-test the tub when you get it and on a regular basis to check for leaks, and make sure to store any plugs and caps somewhere away from the hot tub when it’s not in use. Additionally, it’s important to keep your hot tub at an appropriate water level, as an overly-full hot tub can lead to popping and bursting. Finally, don’t forget to check the temperature before each use and monitor for excessive heat.
Conclusion
In conclusion,there are several ways to protect a hot tub from dogs. By creating a barrier, using vocal reinforcement with treats and rewards, properly maintaining doors and gates, keeping the hot tub clean, and by familiarizing pup with the tub, hot tub owners can protect their favorite soaking spot from their furry friends. Taking these proactive steps and applying some dog-friendly trial and error will result in a good outcome and provide protection on how to protect hot tub from dogs. By following the steps above and utilizing preventative measures, hot tub owners and their canine companions can coexist happily.
