A stock tank dog pool is a great way to keep your furry friend cool and entertained during the hot summer months. You can place it in a shaded area to prevent overheating.
To ensure your dog's safety, consider the size of the pool. A minimum of 4 feet by 2 feet is recommended to prevent your dog from slipping and falling. This size also allows for easy access and exit.
A good rule of thumb is to place a non-slip surface at the bottom of the pool to prevent slipping. This can be achieved with a textured mat or a layer of sand.
Always supervise your dog when they're playing in the pool to prevent accidents.
A different take: Dog Swimming Pool Safety
Choosing a Pool
First, consider the size of your yard and the space available for the pool. A 24-inch stock tank is a good size for small yards.
Think about the number of dogs you plan to use the pool with. A 30-inch tank can accommodate multiple dogs at once.
Additional reading: Is Chlorine Water Bad for Dogs
Stock tanks come in different materials, such as steel, aluminum, and plastic. Steel tanks are durable and long-lasting, but may rust over time.
Choose a pool with a sturdy base to prevent it from tipping over. A wide base is essential to keep the pool stable.
Consider the depth of the pool, which should be at least 12 inches to allow your dog to swim comfortably.
Pool Setup
To set up your stock tank dog pool, start by choosing a flat surface free from rocks, roots, and other obstructions.
Make sure the ground is even by using leveling sand and a tamper, or by digging a hole with straight sides and a flat bottom if you plan to install the tank below the surface.
Placing a stock tank pool on a deck is not recommended due to its heavy weight.
Before filling your pool, install a filter pump to keep it clean and free from mosquitoes and algae.
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Drill holes into the side of the tank for the pump's inlet and outlet, and apply a waterproof silicone seal around the holes for a permanent, leak-proof seal.
Seal the interior of the tank with a rust-proof rubber coating, such as Flex Seal, before filling it up.
Use a hose to fill your pool with water and check for leaks, applying a sealant and letting it dry thoroughly before refilling or adding more water.
If your ground is pretty level, you can just drop the stock tank where you want it – it'll be fine.
Here's an interesting read: Soviet anti Tank Dogs
Pool Supplies
Building a stock tank dog pool can be a fun and rewarding project, but it requires the right supplies to get started. A stock tank is the most essential item, and you can find them at feed or farm supply stores.
When choosing a pump and filter, consider the size and type of stock tank you're using. Some pumps and filters are designed specifically for stock tanks, so be sure to select one that fits your needs.
For your interest: Stock Dog Names
A pool skimmer is optional, but it's recommended for pools with children or pets to keep the water clean. You'll also need a pool ladder for easy access and a gasket material to seal any gaps.
To ensure the water is safe for your dog to swim in, you'll need a water testing kit and chlorine. A floating chlorine dispenser makes it easy to add the right amount of chlorine to the water.
If this caught your attention, see: Can Dogs Go in Salt Water Pools
Setting Up a Pool
To set up a stock tank dog pool, start by choosing a flat surface free from rocks, roots, and other obstructions. You can use leveling sand and a tamper to even out the ground if necessary.
Before placing the stock tank, mark the outline of where it will go using a 2x6 and a level. Tie a rope to a stake, measure 4 feet and a couple of inches on the rope, and then spray paint the grass in a big circle.
If your ground is uneven, clear and level the area by removing grass and dirt. You can also use play sand to make the spot even flatter.
To set the stock tank, tie the rope to the stake, measure 4 feet and a couple of inches on the rope, and then tie it to the can. Spray paint the grass in a big circle to mark the outline.
You'll need to drill holes into the side of the tank for the filter pump's inlet and outlet. Apply a waterproof silicone seal around the holes for a permanent, leak-proof seal.
Before filling the tank, seal the interior with a rust-proof rubber coating, such as Flex Seal. Use a hose to fill your pool with water and check for leaks.
If you see leaks, apply a sealant and let it dry thoroughly before refilling or adding more water.
Where to Buy
If you're looking to buy a stock tank pool, you can find them at agriculture supply retailers like Tractor Supply Company, Fleet Farm, and Wilco.
Most stock tanks are made of galvanized steel, but you can also find plastic tanks, which are typically more affordable and lightweight.
Smaller stock tank pools can work for a single adult or a couple of young kids, but 6- to 8-foot round stock tanks are ideal for groups of two or more.
The smallest options start at around $150, while larger sizes cost about $800.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the downside of a stock tank pool?
Stock tank pools can be uncomfortable to use on hot summer days due to extreme heat, and they require regular maintenance to prevent rust and corrosion.
Do stock tank pools last?
Stock tank pools can last over 10 years with proper care, significantly outlasting traditional above ground pools. Proper maintenance is key to extending the lifespan of a stock tank pool.
How big does a stock tank need to be for a pool?
For a single soaker, a 5x2 feet tank holding 80 gallons is recommended. For a pool accommodating 2-4 people, a 6-8 foot diameter tank is a good starting point.
Sources
- this cute stock tank hideaway (instagram.com)
- covering it in bamboo rods like this one (homebyhiliary.com)
- turned her stock tank pool into a feature (instagram.com)
- stock tank at the slide bottom (instagram.com)
- this stock tank pool (cuckoo4design.com)
- @rewhunter (instagram.com)
- Suburban Pop (suburbanpop.com)
- they spray-painted their stock tank (lollyjane.com)
- Cost to install a stock tank pool (angi.com)
- Tractor Supply Company (tractorsupply.com)
- Tarter (tarterusa.com)
- poly stock tank (behlencountry.com)
- Stock tank (redirectingat.com)
- Behlen Country 9-foot-wide poly tank (behlencountry.com)
- 8-foot-wide by 2-foot-high model made by CountyLine. (redirectingat.com)
- https://amzn.to/2FhAN2I (amzn.to)
- https://amzn.to/3lx1cJf (amzn.to)
- https://amzn.to/3lwbcmb (amzn.to)
- https://amzn.to/3dezlLf (amzn.to)
- plastic (tankandbarrel.com)
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