Making a fun and safe pool float for your dog can be a great way to help them enjoy swimming and playing in the water during the warm summer months. With some simple materials and a bit of creativity, you can design a customized floating platform perfect for your pup. In this article, we’ll walk through everything you need to know to make your own dog pool float.
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Why Make a Dog Pool Float?
There are many great reasons to make a DIY dog pool float:
– It allows your dog to relax and float comfortably in the pool without having to constantly paddle. This is especially helpful for older dogs or dogs that tire easily.
– It provides your dog with their own designated space to play, rest, and climb on and off. This can help avoid conflicts with other swimmers.
– You can customize the size, shape, and features to perfectly fit your dog. Store bought floats are often one-size-fits-all.
– It’s a fun project you can do together with your dog or other family members. Kids will love decorating and personalizing the float.
– A homemade float is usually much more affordable than purchasing a commercial dog float. You likely already have most of the needed materials at home.
– It allows you to add fun features like a canopy for shade or attachable toys. Customizing is easy with a DIY float.
Choosing Materials for Flotation
The key to building a successful dog pool float is choosing materials that will provide enough flotation to keep your dog safely above water. Here are some of the best options to consider:
Closed Cell Foam
Closed cell foam sheets or foam noodles provide excellent flotation and are a very common choice for DIY dog pool floats. Closed cell foam is lightweight, waterproof, and very buoyant. You can join multiple pieces together as needed to support your dog’s weight. Make sure to choose a thickness of at least 2 inches.
Inflatables
Inflatable rafts, tubes, or floats also work great as ready-made bases to build upon. Choose an inflatable that is rated to hold at least 50-100 lbs more than your dog’s weight. Attach a platform on top using hardware or adhesive.
Plastic Bottles
For a really budget-friendly option, you can fill clean 2-liter plastic soda bottles with air and attach them underneath a platform. Figure about 8-10 bottles per 50 lbs of dog weight needed. Place inside protective mesh so the bottles don’t detach.
Foam Beads
Polystyrene foam beads or bean bag filler beads can be inserted into a flotation collar or pocket around the edges of a platform. The beads provide lift while conforming to the shape. Use at least 1-2 lbs of beads per 10 lbs of dog weight.
Life Vests
For smaller dogs, attaching flotation material to their life vest provides built-in flotation without needing a separate platform. Just confirm the vest is rated for the dog’s size and weight.
Choosing a Platform Material
In addition to the flotation portion, you need a sturdy and buoyant platform for your dog to stand, sit, and walk on. Here are some good options:
Marine Plywood
Marine plywood is a top choice because it’s durable, waterproof, and easy to cut to any shape. 1/2 inch thickness is ideal. Seal the edges to prevent swelling.
Coreplast
This plastic corrugated material is extremely buoyant and weather resistant. The grid structure allows for drainage and grip. Coreplast comes in 4×8 ft sheets.
Anti-Fatigue Mat
Anti fatigue or restaurant kitchen mats provide a nice tactile surface and drainage holes. Look for lightweight EVA foam mats about 1/2 to 3/4 inches thick.
Pool Noodles
For a very simple option, attach several pool noodles together in a raft shape using zip ties or rope. This works best for smaller dogs under 30 lbs.
Designing Your Dog Pool Float
Once you select the right materials, it’s time to design the shape and size of your dog’s pool float. Here are some tips:
Measure Dog Size
Consider your dog in a sitting and standing/walking position and measure the approximate length and width needed. Add at least 6 inches extra to provide enough room.
Consider Dog Weight
Factor the dog’s weight when selecting flotation materials. Use the guides above to choose enough material to keep your dog afloat.
Include Edges
The platform should have raised edges around the perimeter to prevent sliding off. 4-6 inch edges are recommended.
Add a Front Step
Having a lowered step at the front helps your dog easily climb on and off the float. Cutout a section of edge about 8-10 inches wide.
Incorporate Safety Handles
Handles along the edges give your dog something secure to grasp and provide you a way to control the float. Attach rope or nylon webbing loops.
Stability Is Key
Make sure to join or distribute the flotation material so that the float sits level and stable in the water when your dog is aboard.
How to Assemble Materials
Now we’re ready to put it all together! Here are some tips for assembly:
Plan the Layers
Think through how you will layer and join the flotation and platform pieces. Draw a diagram to visualize.
Use Adhesives
Apply marine epoxy, waterproof silicone or other permanent adhesives between layers that need to bond. Allow to fully cure.
Attach with Hardware
Use stainless steel bolts, screws and poles to make attachments you may want to remove later. Avoid rust-prone metals.
Reinforce with Brackets
Install aluminum angle brackets between platform pieces and flotation pieces for maximum strength. Predrill screw holes.
Seal All Holes
Fill any holes made for hardware with silicone sealant so no water seeps through.
Test Buoyancy
Do an initial float test without your dog aboard to ensure the float is level, stable and has adequate flotation.
Adding Fun Features
The possibilities are endless when it comes to adding fun details and accessories to your homemade dog pool float! Here are some great options to consider:
Canopy for Shade
Attach a small fabric canopy over part of the float to provide shade and sun protection for your dog.
Carpeted Areas
Gluing artificial turf, outdoor carpet, or even regular carpet provides traction and comfort.
Edge Bumpers
Affix protective foam pipe insulation or pool noodles around the edges to cushion and prevent injury.
Cargo Netting
Mesh cargo netting attached to the platform sides allows stowing toys and other dog items.
Treat Dispensers
Add a bucket or other container to hold treats and kibble to reward your dog during pool time.
Water Bottle Holder
Let your dog stay hydrated with a mesh bottle holder containing fresh water.
Decorative Paint or Stencils
Customize your float with your dog’s name or fun patterns using outdoor paints or stencils.
Safety First!
While designing your dog’s pool float, be sure to keep safety at the top of mind:
Supervise Always
Never leave your dog unsupervised on the float. Maintain sight and arm’s reach at all times.
No Jumping
Don’t allow your dog to jump or dive off the float as this risks injury. Have them use the step to get on and off.
Stay Near Steps
Position the float near pool steps or shallow areas in case your dog accidentally falls or slides off the float.
Remove Hardware
Eliminate any metal parts that could become hot in the sun or possibly rust. Stick to plastic and rubber components.
Watch Behavior
Observe how your dog behaves and responds on the float at first. Make sure they are totally comfortable before leaving them alone.
Have a Life Vest
Consider having your dog wear a doggie life vest for an additional layer of protection while floating.
Tips for Use
Once your dog’s pool float is ready, here are some tips for safely using and enjoying it:
Go Slow at First
Don’t just put your dog on the float and release it. Hold it steady and allow them to gently climb aboard and get their bearings.
Practice with a Leash
Keeping your dog attached via a floating leash allows control while they get used to being on the float.
Reward Good Behavior
Give treats for sitting, staying put, and remaining calm. This reinforces what you want them to do on the float.
Start Short Sessions
Begin with 5-10 minute intervals on the float and slowly work up to longer periods based on your dog’s comfort level.
Add Fun Toys
Have sinking retrievable toys or chews available to toss in the water and occupy your dog.
Watch for Distress
If your dog whines, shakes, or tries to jump off, they may not be comfortable. Immediately end the session.
Don’t Force It
If your dog refuses to get on the float or shows no interest, don’t worry! Not all dogs enjoy pool time.
Conclusion
Building your own dog pool float is an enjoyable project that can provide your pooch with hours of water fun. With the right materials, safe design, and proper precautions, you can create a customized floating platform tailored just for your dog. The key is selecting buoyant materials that support your dog’s weight, attaching them securely, and adding thoughtful details to enhance comfort, safety, and play. While supervision is always required, a DIY dog float allows your pup to happily swim, lounge, and beat the summer heat.