Dogs need water daily just like we do, but they don’t always know when they’re thirsty or if they should drink more. Pet hydration is crucial, especially in warmer months or during periods of heavy activity. Dehydration can lead to lethargy, inflammation, high body temperature, disorientation, and sometimes even death or long term health issues.
Here are five tips for dog owners who want to keep their pets hydrated and healthy this summer and throughout the year:
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Know How Much Water Your Dog Needs
The first step to keeping your dog hydrated is knowing how much water they need in a day. In general, dogs need about one ounce of water for every pound of body weight. This amount may change depending on the age of the animal, how active they are, and the outdoor temperature. After getting a general sense of how much water to provide, watch your dog’s water intake to see how much they actually consume during a day. Excessive thirst or loss of appetite can both be signals that there may be an underlying health issue. -
Offer Water in Different Forms
If you want to encourage your dog to drink more water, offer him different types of water throughout the day. For example, if he typically drinks from a bowl, try offering him water in his dish instead. Or, if he prefers to drink from a hose, let him use it outside. You can also offer him water in other forms such as ice cubes or frozen treats. By providing multiple options, you can make sure you keep your dog hydrated on hot days. -
Serve Your Dog Wet Food
One way to help your dog stay hydrated is to add wet food into their meal routine. Dry kibble has little natural moisture, so mixing it with a little canned food is a way to quickly and easily provide hydration. Some pet parents even opt to soak kibble in chicken broth or bone broth to encourage their dog to take in more water and nutrients. -
Don’t Let Them Overdrink
While chronic dehydration can lead to terrible side effects such as urinary tract infections or kidney disease, over-drinking can also have a negative impact on a dog’s health. If your dog drinks too much water, he will become bloated and uncomfortable. He might even develop diarrhea. You can tell how much your dog needs by watching his drinking habits. Look for signs such as panting, drooling, licking lips, and urinating frequently. -
Bring Water On the Go
When you’re in a rush to get out the door, it can be easy to forget to bring extra water to keep your dog hydrated on the go. You may be forced to rely on public water bowls or a water fountain. While these options are convenient, standing water can harbor dangerous parasites as well as bacteria from other dogs’ saliva. One of the best ways to ensure your dog has enough water when you’re out and about is through Hydro Leash’s innovative, all-in-one leash watering system. With this easy tool, you can manage and monitor your dog’s water intake without having to remember to bring water bowls or bottles with you.
To learn more about Hydro Leash and how we help dogs stay healthy and hydrated, contact us today.
