Dogs are just as vulnerable to the heat as humans are, and hydration plays a crucial role in keeping them safe and comfortable on hot days. Whether you’re hanging out in the backyard or heading out on an outdoor adventure, here’s how to help Fido beat the heat and stay hydrated.
Know the Signs of Canine Dehydration
Before we jump into solutions, it’s good to know what dehydration in dogs actually looks like. Some common signs include excessive panting, dry gums, sunken eyes, and lethargy. If your dog seems especially tired or isn’t acting like their usual self, it could be a sign they’re low on fluids. Dehydration can sneak up quickly, especially on hot days, so paying attention to these signs can make a big difference in your pup’s health.
Keep Your Dog’s Water Accessible
First and foremost, keeping Fido’s water accessible at all times is essential. Whether your furry friend is at home or on the go, make sure you always have fresh, clean water available for them. And even if you let your dog swim in your pool, chlorinated swimming pool water doesn’t count as a safe water source. Ingesting pool water can cause digestive issues and other health problems for pups, so it’s best to train your pup to drink out of an outdoor bowl instead.
If your pup enjoys spending a lot of time outdoors, it’s a good idea to get a designated outdoor water bowl to ensure they stay hydrated. For vacations, walks, or trips to the park, having a travel water bowl is a great way to keep up Fido’s water intake on hot days. Sometimes pups can forget to drink water when they’re having too much fun, so it’s good to remind your furry friend to take frequent drink breaks on hot days.
Offer Your Pup Hydrating Fruits and Veggies
Water isn’t the only way to keep your pup hydrated—there are plenty of fruits and veggies that are packed with water and safe for canines to enjoy. Watermelon, cucumbers, apples, zucchini, and blueberries are just a few pup-friendly snacks that can help with hydration while giving your dog something tasty to crunch on. When giving your pup a hydrating snack, ensure you’re only offering dog-safe options and cut everything into small, manageable pieces.
Make Ice Treats for Fido
Making homemade doggie ice treats is a fun way to keep your pup hydrated when days start to get hotter. A simple option is to freeze a low-sodium broth or water mixed with a few of your dog’s favorite treats for a delicious and cooling snack. There are also plenty of homemade doggie treat recipes, including ones for pupsicles and doggie ice cream. These treats are fun to make and will cool your pup down, all while being filled with healthy, hydrating ingredients.
Add Wet Dog Food to Meals
If you’re struggling to add water to your dog’s diet with additional measures, try making their daily meals more hydrating. One simple way to do this is to top off your pup’s kibble with a small amount of water. There are also several types of wet dog foods available that can help boost Fido’s hydration levels without causing any extra work for you. Of course, do your research before switching your pup’s diet and discuss any questions about ingredients or portions with your veterinarian.
Monitor Your Dog’s Time in the Sun
In addition to adding liquids to your dog’s diet, it’s important to limit the amount of time they spend in the heat. Long stretches in the sun, especially during the hottest part of the day, can lead to dehydration and even heatstroke. To prevent this, try to schedule walks or playtime during the cooler hours in the morning or evening, and always make sure there’s a shady spot for your pup to retreat to. Regulating your dog’s body temperature will make it much easier to keep them hydrated and healthy on hot days.
Keeping your dog hydrated in the heat doesn’t have to be complicated! With a bit of planning and these simple habits, you can help your pup stay cool, hydrated, and ready for outdoor adventures.