Paddling pool treasure for dogs: how to play

Float treats and toys in a shallow paddling pool and let your dog fish them out. A cooling summer game.

You'll need

Fill the pool only a few centimetres deep the first time, in shade.

Put an empty pool on the grass and toss treats into it, so your dog steps in on dry ground.
Add a little water, ankle deep. Toss treats in again.
Float toys and carrot chunks. Let your dog bob and paw for them.
Hide a toy under a floating towel for a harder find.
Empty the pool after playing.

Make it easier: No water at all, just treats in the empty pool.
Make it harder: Sinking toys a few centimetres down, or a ball pit pool with half water.

Splashing, pouncing, play bows at the water.

Avoiding the pool, shivering, or frantic gulping of water.

Never leave a dog alone with water, even shallow.
Empty the pool after every use so it doesn't grow algae or breed mosquitoes.
Heat: play early or late on hot days, give shade and water, and stop at heavy panting. Flat-faced breeds overheat fastest. Heatstroke is an emergency: call your vet now.
Never let your dog drink lots of pool, sea or pond water, or gulp water while retrieving; too much can make them very ill. Avoid ponds with blue-green algae.

Written from these sources and checked against vet and trainer guidance. General guidance, not veterinary advice.

Game · 15 min

Step by step into calm, shallow water with a life jacket. Never thrown in, always at your dog's pace.

Game · 15 min

Toss a floating toy just out into calm water and let your dog bring it back. For confident swimmers.

Game · 20 min

Freeze toys and treats in a tub of water or broth. Your dog licks and paws the block to free them. A cool game for hot days.