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Is water safe for my dog to swim in? What about toxic algae?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Dachshund | Male | neutered | 7 years and 4 months old | 16 lbs

How can I tell if water is safe for my dog to swim in? I've been hearing so much about blue green algae..

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Linda G, MS, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on October 30th, 2019

Hello. You just need to use your own senses. If the water looks very cloudy & there is obvious scum on the water & collecting on the shore, stay away. If the water smells particularly putrid, stay away. Basically, if you would not go into the water, neither should your dog & everyone will stay safe. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.

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