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There’s something magical about living along the coastline with a dog. Even the most home-bound of humans are forced to get outside, and they may come to appreciate the beauty of the outdoors.
That’s why San Diego, with its many beaches, is so perfect for pet owners. Few places are more fun to play with your dog than a beach or pool. Not only is water great for mental stimulation, but it’s also a therapeutic aid that benefits older dogs and those with joint or mobility issues. Read on to see some of the best places to take your dog swimming near San Diego.
1. K-9 Aquatics and Wellness Center
10925 Hartley Road Suite E, Santee, California
Open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday
K-9 Aquatics is focused on one thing only: helping your dog have a great time in the water. All sessions are private and by appointment, so there are no distractions that could cause your pet to have an accident. Sessions are 30 minutes long, and you can let your pup swim alone (supervised by you) or with an instructor.
2. Canine to Five
2423 Morena Boulevard,
Open Friday from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Canine to Five offers a warm-water pool for group and one-on-one swim time. They have trained employees in the water right alongside the dogs, keeping an eye on your pet and encouraging playtime. Puppies can learn to swim with human instructors and experienced chaperone dogs.
3. Happy Dog Happy Owner
4495 Niagara Avenue, San Diego, CA
Open Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m., Saturday from 9 a.m. and 9 p.m, and Sunday from 9 a.m. to 9:30 p.m.
This dog-training business goes beyond basic obedience; Lara, the owner, also teaches dogs to swim. Pets six months and older can take a range of classes, from the basics of dog-paddling to expert toy retrieval, directional commands, and even jumping from a boat. The highest-level class can prepare your pup for Canine Water Sports. And if you’re a fan of stand-up paddleboarding, Lara can provide a private session to teach your dog to balance properly and stay calm on a board.
4. Cutting Edge K9 Rehab
4370 Newport Avenue, San Diego, CA/4343 Osprey Street, San Diego (Tuesdays and Thursdays), 12609 Cijon Street, San Diego (Wednesdays and Saturdays)
Open from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Tuesday and Thursday, 11 a.m to 4:30 p.m. on Wednesday, and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday
Another facility dedicated solely to swimming, Cutting Edge has lap swims, assisted sessions, and an underwater treadmill. The pool is heated to 82-83 degrees Fahrenheit and is open rain or shine unless there’s thunder or lightning in the area.
There are detailed navigation instructions and parking details on the website, so be sure to have a look before heading out with your dog.
5. The Animal Acupuncture and Rehabilitation Center
10441 Roselle Street Suite D, San Diego, CA
Open from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Tuesday and Thursday, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Wednesday, and 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Friday
Owned and operated by a licensed veterinarian, The Animal Acupuncture and Rehabilitation Center offers acupuncture, physical rehab, herbal medicine, lab testing, and hydrotherapy. Pets walk on the Aqua Paws K-9 Underwater Treadmill System in a pool heated to between 85 and 92 degrees.
6. The Original Dog Beach
Ocean Beach Bike Path, San Diego, CA
Open 24 hours
If you get a kick out of local history, then why not take your dog to one of the nation’s first off-leash dog beaches? Maintained by a committee on the Ocean Beach Town Council, the Original Dog Beach is a beloved staple of the community. It’s truly open 24 hours a day, making it one of the most convenient options in terms of scheduling. Just make sure your dog is wearing a current city dog license on his or her tag.
7. Coronado Beach and Dog Park
100 Ocean Boulevard, Coronado, CA
Open 24 hours
Most of Coronado Beach is marked pet-free, but dogs get a special area on the park’s north end. The dog beach is open year-round; as with the Original Dog Beach, your pet just needs a current license, a clean bill of health, and a sense of friendliness toward other dogs and owners.
8. Del Mar North Beach
During peak season (June 16 to Labor Day), dogs must be leashed after 8 a.m.
Locals can take advantage of open unleashed hours during the beach’s offseason in fall, winter, and spring. During summer—specifically, from June 16 to Labor Day—unleashed dogs are allowed only from dawn to 8 a.m. A beachside morning walk with your dog is a nice way to start the day, don’t you think?
9. Fiesta Island
1590 East Mission Bay Drive, San Diego, CA
Open daily from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m.
With calm waters and hilly sand dunes, Fiesta Island is a great place for all types of dogs to get some exercise. Get your paws wet on the shoreline, or play a game of tag along the sand.
What To Know About Taking Your Dog Swimming Near San Diego
There are a few checklist items to take care of before taking your dog swimming in the San Diego area:
- If you’re heading to a public park, make sure your dog is licensed. Check your local parks department to see what’s required.
- Keep your pet up-to-date on vaccinations,
- Bring fresh, clean water and a bowl to prevent your dog from consuming saltwater or pool water.
- If you’re going to a privately owned business, check their website or call beforehand. You may need to arrange a temperament visit.
- Take safety measures to keep your dog cool in the heat.
If you can’t get a little time away, don’t worry. Rover has plenty of qualified dog walkers in San Diego to help your pet get some fun in the water.
