Here’s a comprehensive guide that covers all that you need to know before buying a new pool float for your dog.
Things to Consider Before Buying a Dog Pool Float
You will need to keep the following considerations in mind when getting a new dog pool float.
Weight Limit
The most crucial thing to consider is the weight limit of the dog float. You need to look for the upper most weight limit of the pool float. Some floats are designed only for small dogs, while others are designed specifically for bigger ones.
Material
Your dog’s claws are the biggest enemy of any pool toy. You can neatly trim them before a pool day to make sure they don’t tear the surface. When buying, look for a float that has been coated with puncture-resistant material at the least. A ruggedly built float with multiple layers and a repair patch kit is a good buy.
Stability and Shape
The pool float should be able to stay in a place and offer enough support for an energetic dog. It shouldn't be too lightweight to flip around if your dog moves on it.
For shapes, a round shape is best for any size dog.
Tethers
If you have a big pool or you plan to take your dog with you on the lake, make sure you check for a secure tether point on the float. These points should be on the underside or side of the float. Make sure it is securely attached to the body of the float if it’s made from a separate material.
What Are Pool Floats Made of?
Pool floats for dogs are usually made of a strong material called PVC or Polyvinyl Chloride. It’s also sometimes labeled as vinyl. Almost all inflatable floats have a PVC construction for durability. PVC is a synthetic plastic type that is one of the most common material for above-ground pools and pool floats.
You can also find pool floats for dogs made of polyethylene, which is a great material for molded or hard-surfaced floats. It is stiffer and thicker than the soft and flexible PVC material. Very few pool floats will also have a rubber latex coating, usually the non-inflatable ones, you should always check to see if your dog or you are allergic to latex.
Types of Dog Floats for Dogs
There are different kind of dog floats for big dogs and completely different kind of dog floats for small dogs. But apart from the size, we can broadly categorize pool floats into two main categories, the chair floats, and the flat floats.
Chair Floats
Chair floats for dogs come with raised edges on two or all four sides so your dog can comfortably sit in the middle. The raised edges make a visible barrier between the water and the dog. Some will also incorporate a mesh seating area. This is common in floats that have holes at the base to allow slight submersion into water. This is only good for dogs who are familiar with water and love to get wet.
Flat Floats
The name is pretty self-explanatory. A flat float doesn’t come with walls, mountings, or raised edges. It floats flat on the water and might be submerged in water as your dog sits on it. They are less safer than the chair floats but enjoyed more by bigger dogs and dogs who love water.
Conclusion
Pool floats are a great way to relax and enjoy the water with your fur baby. However, there are a lot of considerations you need to keep in mind to choose the right one.
Pool Float for Dog FAQ
Some frequently asked questions are:
Q: How to inflate a dog float?
A: You can inflate a dog float by blowing air into the inner air tube through the air valve. You can use a blower or your mouth to inflate. We recommend purchasing an electronic inflator to save time and your lungs.
Q: Are dog floats resistant to claws?
A: Dog floats are designed to resist claw punctures with special, additional layers that make the upper surface thicker than normal pool floats.
Q: What is the most durable material for dog float?
A: Vinyl and PVC both make durable pool floats for dogs.