How To Keep a Dog Hydrated [12 Hints]

Have you ever wondered how to keep a dog hydrated at home? This is exactly what this post will address!

For the sake of their general health, your dog needs to stay well-hydrated, but it can be challenging to determine how much water to give them.

In this article, we’ll provide you with some advice on how to keep your dog hydrated, so you can relax knowing they’re getting the water they require.

Now grab a sit and continue reading to find out how to relieve your dog’s thirst!

How To Keep a Dog Hydrated

You should make sure your dog always has access to plenty of fresh water in order to keep them hydrated.

Also, you can add water to their diet and place water bowls and fountains around the house.

Furthermore, you can provide them with foods that are high in water content, such as melons, and strawberries, as well as frozen treats like ice cubes.

To help them stay hydrated, you may also give your dog electrolyte supplements or mix them into their food and drink.

Let’s break it down further…

Ways To Keep a Dog Hydrated

Here are some common ways to keep your dog hydrated:

Provide fresh water daily

As simple as it might seem, giving your dog fresh water every day is essential for keeping him hydrated.

Throughout the day, make sure to keep your dog’s water bowl fresh and clean.

At least once per day, but more frequently if your dog is especially active or if it’s hot outside.

The best bowls are made of stainless steel or ceramic since they are simple to clean and won’t harbor bacteria like plastic bowls can.

Keep an eye on the water level throughout the day and replace the water daily.

Consider using a spill-proof bowl if your dog likes to play with it or spill water from its bowl.

Provide a water fountain for your pup

Try a water fountain if your dog is reluctant to drink from a bowl.

Because they continuously circulate the water, water fountains can be an excellent method to keep your dog hydrated. This makes the water more enticing to your dog.

Dogs may be drawn to the water’s sound and motion and take additional sips as a result.

Water fountains come in a variety of styles, from straightforward versions to more intricate ones that filter the water.

Just be sure to clean the fountain frequently to stop the growth of bacteria.

Offer your pup ice cubes

On a hot day, giving dogs ice cubes to gnaw on is a terrific method to keep them hydrated.

Making your own “pup-sicles” is another option. Simply freeze low-sodium beef or chicken broth in ice cube trays.

Because, especially on warm days, ice cubes can be a delightful treat for your dog.

For added nourishment, you can also include little bits of meat or veggies.

Add water to your dog’s dry food

If your dog doesn’t drink a lot of water on their own, adding water to its dry kibble can help them keep hydrated.

Once you’ve reached the desired consistency, gradually increase the water you’ve already added.

Limit exercise in extreme heat

Dogs enjoy playing, but they are susceptible to overheating in hot weather.

When it’s hot outside, avoid exercising or playing outside, and always carry water with you.

It’s time to stop and cool off if you observe your dog panting excessively or being lethargic.

Provide shades for your pup

To avoid dehydration if your dog spends time outside, make sure they have access to shade.

You can create a covered area with trees or plants, a canopy or umbrella, or both.

Assure your dog has a cozy place to rest and access plenty of fresh water.

To create a shaded space, you can use a doghouse, an umbrella, or a tarp.

Monitor your pup’s water intake

Make sure your dog is getting enough water by keeping an eye on their intake.

It may indicate a health problem if you notice your dog isn’t drinking as much water as normal.

Dogs who are anxious or stressed may also drink extra water, so keep an eye out for any changes in behavior.

Consider canned food

Try switching to wet food or incorporating a little amount of canned food with your dog’s dry kibble if they aren’t drinking enough water.

The higher moisture level of canned food compared to dry food might help your dog stay hydrated.

Choose wet food that is of excellent quality, fits your dog’s nutritional requirements, and doesn’t contain any dangerous components.

Use a water bottle

Bring a water bottle with you when you take your dog on a walk or hike and give it frequent sips.

There are numerous varieties of water bottles with built-in bowls or spouts made especially for dogs which you can use to help you keep your dog hydrated.

Freeze water and treats

If your dog likes to chew on ice cubes, you can think about freezing treats in water to provide a hydrating and refreshing snack.

Slices of fruit like watermelon or berries can also be frozen for a delightful and hydrating treat.

Make water more appealing

Try filtering the water or a little bit of low-sodium broth to make it more palatable if your dog doesn’t enjoy the taste of tap water.

Use a ceramic or stainless steel bowl instead if you want to enhance the flavor of the water.

Give them water-rich foods

Certain fruits and vegetables, such as watermelon and cucumber, are high in water content and can help keep your dog hydrated.

Just make sure to feed them in moderation and remove any seeds or skins that could be harmful.

Signs of dehydration in dogs

Signs of dehydration in dogs include dry nose, excessive drooling, lethargy, sticky gums, loss of elasticity of the skin, sunken eyes, dry gums, weakness, collapse, panting, and a skin tent (a fold of skin that does not snap back quickly when pinched).

If you suspect that your dog is dehydrated, you should take them to the vet immediately.

Learn more about the reasons why your dog is acting weird.

Factors that affect your dog’s hydration

Your dog’s level of hydration may be impacted by a number of variables.

Food and activity level are two of the most crucial elements since a dog with a higher protein diet or who is more active will need more water than a dog who is less active or who has a lower protein diet.

Hydration levels can also be impacted by the weather, as hot and muggy days might result in greater water consumption than cool days.

A dog may also drink more than usual if they have certain medical issues, such as diabetes or kidney illness.

Finally, some drugs can make you drink more water. It’s critical to be aware of these elements and modify your dog’s water intake as necessary.

Learn more about common ways of keeping your senior dogs healthy.

Conclusion

For the sake of their health and well-being, you must keep your dog well-hydrated.

Make sure to give your dog lots of access to clean, fresh water, and if they don’t enjoy drinking, think about giving them wet food.

When it’s hot outside, be sure to monitor their hydration levels and take them on short walks rather than longer trips.

You can always keep your dog hydrated and healthy by following a few easy steps!