What do you do when you decide to build a koi pond for your dog or if you already own a koi pond and are preparing for a new furry friend in your home?
It may be a concern that your koi fish will also be safe in your pond if you have dogs in it.
Here are some tips on how to keep dogs and koi fish safe in ponds with koi fish.
The 10 Best Pond Safety Tips for Dogs
We've put together a guide to keep our furry and fishy friends safe.
1. Fence It In!
It's easy to keep your dog safe around koi fish ponds and vice versa by simply making sure he doesn't get too close to them. A low-height, unobtrusive pool fence will suffice. Consider rocks, gravel, or some type of larger plant as alternatives to fencing if you don't want it to obstruct your pond.
2. Keep Your Pond Algae-Free!
Watch out for algae growth. It is likely that you already monitor the algae bloom in the water of your pond very closely. It is important to keep an extra close eye on algae growth if you have a dog around. Even though we hope they will stay away from the pond, dogs are curious creatures that may try to drink from it. In spite of our best efforts, string algae and other algae blooms are extremely dangerous for humans and pets.
Choosing a good hiding spot for your koi is crucial!
Make sure your koi fish have good hiding spots. Koi fish need to be protected from dogs as well, so this advice is not just for the fish, but for your entire family. Our dogs can get overexcited at times, no matter how much we love them. The koi fish can hide from your dog's sight by using rock shelters or pond plants in your pond. Your dog will not be overstimulated if this is done. It is easy for your koi fish to get out of the sight of any other pets if they are in need of hiding.
Maintain a chlorinated-free pond!
You should keep your pond free of chlorine.
There are probably already issues with chlorine in your house, but having a dog increases the concern.
Using tap water to fill your koi fish pond may contain low levels of chlorine.
Koi ponds can be contaminated by low chlorine levels, although they are harmless for us and our dogs.
Overly curious dogs with sensitive stomachs, as well as your koi fish, are at risk.
Copper Sulfate Should Never Be Used in Koi Ponds
Check your cleaning products for copper sulfate. Koi fish and dogs may be poisoned by copper sulfate found in certain pond cleaners in the United States. Double-check to make sure that your cleaning products are specifically meant for koi fish ponds and not simply regular ornamental ponds. It is imperative to prevent the buildup of copper in your pond. When you are at the store next time, make sure you check labels carefully before loading new products into your shopping cart.
6. Keep your pet hydrated by giving them their own water
Provide your dog with enough water throughout the day. If you are concerned your dog may drink pond water, this is something you should know. You can keep your dog from going to the pond if you keep him or her hydrated. Ensure that your dog always has access to water. Make sure your dog has a bowl of water out in the yard. This will prevent them from going over to the pond water.
7. Change the Water Regularly
Ponds require regular water changes. Don't neglect them. As you might have noticed, what's good for your fish is also good for your dog. Water changes are essential for the health of your pond's fish and dog (of course, depending on the size of your pond). Even pets will venture near your pond occasionally, so changing the water can reduce the risk of harmful algae blooms, buildup of unwanted chemicals, and accumulation of plant matter.
8. Avoid Doggy Boredom
There's a good chance that you've heard this before, but dogs are often bored, which can lead them to mischief. There is always something new and stimulating for dogs to do as they are extremely playful creatures. Try changing your dog's exercise schedule if you struggle to make sure he doesn't go near ponds. The regular exercise of dogs reduces boredom and makes the environment in the home safer. Boredom can also be reduced by introducing new toys or treats to your playtime.
9. Reward Good Pooch Behavior
Dogs need positive reinforcement to stick to safe activities around ponds. https://www.grandkoi.com/shop/ to this, you should consider a training regimen coupled with feedback that is positive. The koi fish pond, for example, is a good place for walking your dog on a leash. Use a stern (but not scary) voice when they begin to drink the water. If, however, they refrain from drinking the water or interfering with the pond, you may want to walk them away and give them a treat and praise. It will also help your dog to form positive associations with leaving your pond alone.