Keeping fish and dogs together is considered safe, as long as you follow some basic rules. Normally, fish are contained in tanks or, if outside, in ponds. But then, the environment should be secure to prevent all sorts of accidents.

This being said, let’s see some of the most common risks of keeping fish and dogs together, as well as what you can do to prevent them.

Primary Risks of Keeping Fish and Dogs Together

In theory, your dog shouldn’t bother too much about your fish. However, unexpected interest may still occur. There’s not much to worry about when it comes to your fish, as the dog is the main danger. Here are some of the primary risks:

• Knocking over the tank. A small tank that’s easily accessible to your dog could cause the dog to knock it over by mistake. Whether your dog has a zoomie or plays around, knocking over a tank could be an issue.
• Drinking water from the tank. Again, an accessible tank could cause problems for your fish. Your dog might consider drinking the water, which could lead to significant problems for your fish.
• Catching the fish. Some dogs may see your fish as toys. Whether outside in a pond or inside a tank, fish could become a target for the dog if they draw dangerous interest.

Based on these, you may have to consider the overall environment before heading to a fish and coral store.

Securing the Fish Tank

Secure and position the tank to prevent the above-mentioned accidents. As a general rule of thumb, the tank should be elevated. It should be on a sturdy table, shelf or other form of construction. It should be out of reach of your dog. Whenever possible, place it in a corner or alcove so your dog can only approach from the front.

The tank should also have a heavy lid. Some tanks come with locking lids, which can’t be knocked over by curious dogs.

If your goal is to keep the tank away from the dog, make sure there are no other ways to reach it. For instance, placing it close to other types of furniture could be an issue. A curious dog will always try to jump on nearby things in order to reach the tank. Check chairs, benches and low cabinets that could act like a staircase up to the aquarium.

Talking about security, the electrical cords for your tank should be secured too. Chewing on them may electrocute the dog and destroy the environment for the fish.

Managing the Environment

Dogs are naturally tempted to explore, especially when young or bored. To reduce this temptation, place it in a different room. You don’t want the dog to destroy everything around the tank in an attempt to reach it. If it’s out of sight, all these issues can be prevented.

The environment isn’t all about the fish or tank, but also about supplies. For example, all sorts of chemicals, food or even medication should be kept out of reach. Store them in closed cabinets or high shelves so a sniffing dog can’t knock them over or chew on containers.

Curious dogs that eat such things will end up with digestive issues or more severe issues.

Deterrents usually work well. If you can’t place the tank in a different room, crinkled aluminum foil works well. Double side tape around the tank will also help.

All About Training

Ideally, all these issues should be prevented with proper training. Make sure your dog understands commands about staying away and leaving things. These commands should be trained when the dog gets close to the tank.

When you first bring the fish tank in, pay attention to your dog’s reactions. Monitor everything. Some dogs may not be bothered about it unless they’re home alone and bored. Some others will be alert and stare at the fish. Some others may try to touch the glass or get a paw in the water. These are warning signs.

Early red flags give you a chance to tighten management before an accident actually happens.

Unless you’re 100% sure that your dog has no interest in fish, the dog should never be left unattended in the same room. Even so, the fish tank should still be inaccessible to a dog. Boredom can strike anytime. When bored, a dog will look for ways to get entertained, so the fish might become a victim.

Outdoor Safety & Security

Fish in a pond can be even more accessible to a dog. Fencing could be the best option. A raised edge will do for small dogs, while garden fences are suitable for larger dogs. A mesh cover could also be a good idea. It goes on top of the pond and prevents dogs from hunting fish.

Even if your dog shows no interest in the fish, your furry friend might be tempted to drink from the pond, hence the necessity of protection. On top of this, your dog should have a source of fresh water outside, just to make sure there are no temptations to drink from the pond.

In the end, keeping fish and dogs together isn’t an impossible task, but it does require a bit of training and, of course, proper planning in terms of keeping the fish safe. With secure placement and good management, you can enjoy your aquarium without any worry.