Denver, Colorado, offers numerous fantastic spots where you can take your furry friend for a refreshing swim. From off-leash dog parks to indoor pools dedicated for pups, here are some of the best and most accessible places to take your dog swimming!
Dog Swimming Pools Near Denver
Prefer to have your pup swim in heated, filtered swimming pools that are safely watched over by lifeguards or staff? Swimming pools that are intended for canine recreational swimming may be just what you need. These pools are controlled environments where dogs can have fun (or learn to swim) in the safest setting.
Indoor, heated pools can be accessed at any time of the year. Pet parents just need to note that these recreational dog swimming pools may or may not allow clients to swim with their dogs. In addition, swimming sessions are usually limited to a number of pups at a time; this is done to ensure the utmost safety and enjoyment (who likes over-crowded pools, anyways?). It would be best to reserve your spot in advance!
Last but not least, dog-friendly facilities like the ones below may require a set of canine vaccinations before accepting clients.
Image Source: Canine Rehabilitation & Conditioning Group (CRCG)
Canine Rehabilitation & Conditioning Group (CRCG)
- Location: 3760 S. Lipan St. Englewood, CO; 8855 W 116th Cir #2, Broomfield, CO
- Highlights: Filtered & heated indoor dog swimming pools
With two convenient locations near Denver, Canine Rehabilitation & Conditioning Group (CRCG) is a state-of-the-art dog (and cat) rehabilitation and indoor recreation center. Aside from their clinical rehabilitation services, they also have other services that promote pet fitness and well-being — one of which is recreational swimming.
CRCG’s dog swimming pools are filtered, heated, and overseen by staff. There are also doggy life vests for first-time swimmers!
Note: As stated on the company’s website, ONLY CRCG staff members are allowed in the pool with dogs.
Canine Fitness & Fun Center (CFFC)
- Location: 5390 E Evans Ave, Denver, CO
- Highlights: Filtered & heated indoor dog swimming pool
Want to give your dog an awesome dog daycare experience with access to a pool? You don’t have to look too far. Situated on Evans Avenue, Denver, Canine Fitness & Fun Center (CFFC) is a doggy daycare and dog boarding facility that puts an emphasis on exercise, fitness, and socialization.
CFFC has a filtered and heated dog swimming pool where dogs can play and have fun. The pool is specially treated to be clean but comfortable for dogs. They also have doggy life vests available for first-time swimmers. Last but not least, CFFC has lifeguards stationed to ensure safety.
Note: CFFC’s website does not mention if they offer recreational swimming where dog parents can join in the pool.
The K9 Body Shop
- Location: 12500 W 58th Ave, Arvada, CO
- Highlights: A filtered dog swimming pool where owners can swim with their dogs
Situated just northwest of Denver, The K9 Body Shop is a facility that specializes in physical therapy, rehabilitation, and conditioning for dogs. They also offer recreational dog swimming.
What makes dog swimming unique in The K9 Body Shop is that owners can join their pets! Clients also have the option to have their dog swim with the supervision of the staff. So if you want to have fun, swimming with Fido, The K9 Body Shop is a ‘pawsome’ place to check out!
Off-Leash Dog Parks with Areas for Dog Swimming
Looking to give your dog the freedom to run, splash, and have fun in the sun? Off-leash areas that have dog swimming spots are just what the doctor ordered!
Ponds and creeks in Denver off-leash areas are best enjoyed during the warmer months. Just remember to be mindful of park rules and recent park advisories. Check advisories on blue-green algae, which is oftentimes toxic to canines.
Lastly, note whether an off-leash area is securely fenced or not — because only dogs that are trained to have a reliable recall can safely go into partially (or scarcely) fenced areas.
Westminster Hills Off-Leash Dog Park
- Location: 10499 Simms St, Westminster, CO
- Highlights: Features a large pond for dogs
Just northwest of Denver, Westminster Hills Off-Leash Dog Park is one of the largest off-leash areas you will find. It spans a whopping 420 acres! As you and your pup venture through this colossal, grassy canine paradise, you will find a large pond where dogs can take a refreshing swim. It is a great spot to take your dog swimming while also having a bit of a hike along the way (and back). It is a great destination for dogs that have the energy to burn.
Chatfield State Park
- Location: 11500 N Roxborough Park Rd, Littleton, CO
- Highlights: Two ponds for dogs in an off-leash area
Located southwest of Denver, Chatfield State Park is a destination that has plenty to offer for pet parents and their pups. Apart from beautiful sceneries and hiking trails, Chatfield State Park also has a designated Dog Off-Leash Area (DOLA), a 70-acre expanse where dogs can run free. Chatfield State Park’s DOLA also has two ponds where you can take your dog swimming.
Cherry Creek State Park
- Location: 4201 S Parker Rd, Aurora, CO
- Highlights: Access to Cherry Creek
Situated in southeast Denver, Cherry Creek State Park is a popular summer destination for all. This state park has plenty to offer in terms of outdoor recreation, especially for pet parents. Like Chatfield State Park, Cherry Creek State Park also has a Dog Off-Leash Area (DOLA), albeit a larger one that spans 107 acres. This DOLA also provides water access. Cherry Creek flows through it, thereby making it a perfect natural spot to take your dog swimming.
Dog Beaches Near Denver
Looking for outdoor bodies of water near Denver where dogs can swim — AND enjoy more depth and expanse than ponds and creeks? If so, you can try exploring Union Reservoir and Coot Lake.
Best for warmer months, dog-friendly lakes and reservoirs are thriving summer destinations. Just remember that these settings are ideal for dogs that have already swum in the past. And though you have an athletic, experienced, and water-loving canine, it’s ALWAYS recommended to supervise your four-legged best friend closely. Training for reliable recall is also highly recommended.
In addition, make sure to read the most recent park advisories and warnings (e.g. if the dog beach is open, if there is a bloom of dangerous blue-green algae in lakes).
Image Source: Union Reservoir
Union Reservoir
- Location: 461 County Rd. 26, Longmont, CO
- Highlights: Has a designated dog beach
Situated northwest of Denver, Union Reservoir is a stunning 736-acre body of water that provides plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreation such as biking, hiking, fishing, kayaking, and swimming.
Union Reservoir also has a designated dog beach where you can take a dip in the water with your four-legged best friend. The dog beach has a sandy coastline with mountains and trees in view. So if you want to be in the great outdoors while taking your dog swimming, Union Reservoir may just be the perfect destination!
Coot Lake (City of Boulder)
- Location: 6247 63rd St Boulder, CO
- Highlights: Has designated dog beaches
Located northwest of Denver, Coot Lake is a natural body of water that acts as a wildlife reserve for a variety of wetland species and a venue for outdoor recreation. Coot Lake is a popular destination for hiking, jogging, and swimming amidst the area’s scenic, peaceful surroundings. Activities involving boats, rafts, and bell-boats are NOT allowed, which contributes to the peacefulness of the area.
Coot Lake also has designated dog beaches where you can take your dog swimming. The dog beaches are conveniently located away from the wetland areas, meaning pet parents won’t have to worry about disturbing wetland species. So if you’d like to have a relaxing nature getaway with the plus side of taking your dog swimming, Coot Lake is definitely the place to be!
Final Thoughts on Taking Your Dog Swimming Near Denver, CO
That wraps up our list of awesome places near Denver to take your dog swimming! As a final note, we’d like to remind pet parents to dry and clean their dog’s ears (using a vet-recommended ear cleaner) after swimming. If water gets in the dog’s ear, it can cause an ear infection, especially in dogs with floppy ears.
It is also recommended to stay on top of vaccinations and parasite preventives before going to dog-friendly destinations. This helps keep away various types of bacterial, viral, and parasitic infections, which can come from other dogs, carrier insects, or contaminated soil. Being worry-free IS always the best way to have fun with Fido.
If you have any questions and concerns, we’re here to help! Sploot Veterinary Care is a primary & urgent veterinary clinic with multiple vet clinic locations. We are open daily, until 10 pm — so schedule an appointment with our veterinarians anytime before you take your dog swimming! We’d be happy to get your pup started on all the preventive care they need and answer any questions you may have.
Till next time, we’re with you every pounce of the way!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I swim with my dog at the dog swimming pools near Denver?
The policies may vary among different facilities. While some may allow clients to swim with their dogs, others may only allow staff members in the pool with dogs. It is best to check with the establishment before your visit to confirm their policies.
Are there lifeguards at the dog swimming pools?
Yes, most dog swimming pools have lifeguards stationed to ensure the safety of both the dogs and their owners.
Can my dog swim in the off-leash dog parks?
Yes, off-leash dog parks often have designated areas for dog swimming. However, it is important to ensure your dog has a reliable recall and to follow park rules and advisories.
Are the dog beaches open year-round?
The dog beaches at Union Reservoir and Coot Lake are typically open during the warmer months. It is recommended to check with the park for any seasonal closures or changes in policies.
Conclusion
Now you know the best places near Denver to take your dog swimming! Whether you prefer the controlled environment of a dog swimming pool or the freedom of off-leash parks and dog beaches, there are plenty of options for you and your furry friend to enjoy. Remember to prioritize your dog’s safety, follow park rules, and stay up-to-date on vaccinations and preventive care. Get ready for some splashing fun with your canine companion!