Dog Who Loves Swimming Finally Gets Backyard Pool: ‘Living His Best Life’

A video of a water-obsessed dog enjoying his very own pool has gone viral and left viewers in stitches.

This German shepherd couldn’t believe that a pool was in his backyard. He kept circling the perimeter, barking at the water as he tried to find a way to get in. The owner had to show him where the steps were, but when the light bulb went off in his head, it was game on.

Read more: Compare the Best Rewards Credit Cards for Pet Owners

The April 18 TikTok video posted to the account @crystalreneealdri shows the moment the dog got the courage to leap off the step and into his new pool. He was a natural, swimming back and forth, avoiding the steps at all costs. As the text on the video said, he was “living his best life.”

It was a splashing frenzy as he slammed his front paws into the pool. Not quite the normal doggy paddle, but hey, it worked and he clearly was having a blast.

Continuing to circle the pool, he showed no signs of slowing down. In fact, he made a game for himself and tried to see how high he could splash the water and catch it.

Newsweek reached out to @crystalreneealdri via TikTok for additional information.

Viewer Reactions

The precious TikTok clip amassed nearly 4 million views, over 521,400 likes, and 1,058 comments by Thursday. Viewers were laughing at his unusual swimming method.

“He’s a very um…. graceful swimmer,” said a TikToker, while another added: “The chomps while he swims are elite.”

Someone wrote what the dog was thinking: “He’s like, ‘Mom look at me. I’m swimming this is fun.'”

One viewer pointed out: “That is going to be one tired doggy.”

Pool Safety With Dogs

Between the sunshine beating down on them and the energy they exert, swimming can take a lot of energy out of dogs, making it crucial for owners to supervise their fur babies playing in the water.

PetMD highlighted a few hazards to watch for before, during, and after swimming to help keep your dog safe. Owners should watch out if their dog drinks pool water. Luckily, chlorine in pool water is diluted. However, if a dog drinks an excessive amount, it can be harmful as they might develop mild gastrointestinal issues. Be extra cautious around salt water as it has more serious consequences, especially if a dog is dehydrated. Always keep a fresh water bowl close by.

Owners should also be aware when their dog gets too tired. Like kids, dogs enjoy being in the water and might not want to admit they’re exhausted. If you see the rear part of the body sinking, it is a likely sign they could use a break. If you do not use a life vest or flotation device, which is recommended, be sure they have a safe and easy way to exit the pool such as a ramp, steps, or ladders.

Do you havefunny and adorable videos or pictures of your pet you want to share? Send them to life@newsweek.com with some details about your best friend, and they could appear in our “Pet of the Week” lineup.