How to Keep Your Dog Hydrated: 8 Top Tips Every Dog Parent Should Know
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Time to read 4 min
Keeping your dog hydrated is essential to their health and happiness. Like humans, dogs rely on water to keep their bodies functioning properly. But sometimes, our four-legged companions don’t drink as much as they should, leaving them at risk of dehydration. Whether it’s a hot summer’s day, a long walk in the park, or simply a picky pup, ensuring your dog is drinking enough can feel like a challenge.
Don't fret though! This guide is packed with practical tips and solutions for keeping your dog happily hydrated—from adding tasty options like beef bone broth to their diet, to trying nutrient-packed goat’s milk. Follow these tips, and you’ll not only quench your pet’s thirst, but also treat them to extra goodness they’ll love.
Why Keeping Your Dog Hydrated Matters
Water is life, and it’s no different for dogs! Proper hydration plays a crucial role in supporting their overall health, including:
Regulating body temperature.
Keeping their skin and coat healthy.
Supporting organ function, like kidneys and the digestive system.
Avoiding dehydration-related issues such as lethargy, dry gums, or even serious conditions like kidney stones.
Dogs can’t tell us when they’re thirsty—which is why it’s so important to stay proactive. The recommended water intake for dogs is about one ounce of water per pound of body weight per day . For example, a 10kg (22lb) dog will need nearly 300ml (10oz) daily.
If you’ve noticed your dog isn’t drinking enough, or if you’re unsure how to improve their hydration, read on for actionable tips that can make all the difference.
Spotting the Signs of Dehydration
Before jumping into solutions, it’s important to recognise when your dog may need extra hydration. Keep an eye out for these common symptoms of dehydration:
Dry nose or gums.
Sunken eyes.
Less elasticity when you gently pull their skin.
Dark or reduced urine.
Lethargy or dizziness.
If your dog is showing severe symptoms, consult your vet immediately.
Top Tips for Keeping Your Dog Hydrated
1. Keep Fresh Water Available at All Times
It sounds simple, doesn’t it? But ensuring your dog has constant access to clean, fresh water is one of the easiest and most effective ways to encourage hydration.
Regularly check their bowl for cleanliness. A fresh, clean bowl is far more appealing than one with stagnant water.
If you’re going out, carry a portable water bottle for dogs, which has a built-in bowl for easy access. They’re perfect for walks or travel.
Place multiple water bowls in different spots around your home to make hydration convenient.
2. Add Beef Bone Broth to Their Diet
Here’s a tasty tip that’s guaranteed to get tails wagging! Beef bone broth is not only hydrating, but it’s also packed with nutrients like collagen, amino acids, and minerals that benefit your dog’s joints and gut health.
Pour a small amount of low-sodium, dog-friendly beef bone broth into their water bowl to add flavour they can’t resist. Alternatively, serve it on its own as a treat after a long walk or play session. Bonus? It’s a great appetite booster if your pup’s feeling under the weather!
3. Incorporate Goat’s Milk for a Nutrient Boost
If your dog needs an extra hydration kick, goat’s milk is a fantastic option. It’s highly digestible, gentle on your dog’s tummy, and loaded with vitamins, minerals, and probiotics. Plus, dogs love the taste!
You can serve goat’s milk on its own as a creamy, hydrating treat or add it to their food for added flavour and nutrition. Choose dog-specific goat’s milk to ensure it’s safe for your canine companion.
4. Offer Wet Food or Add Water to Dry Food
If your dog is a kibble fan, consider adding water or wet food into the mix. Wet food contains a higher moisture content than dry kibble, helping to increase hydration with every bite.
Another simple trick? Add a splash of water to their kibble before serving. For picky eaters, lukewarm water can help release the aromas of their food, making it even more enticing.
5. Get Creative with Frozen Treats
When the weather warms up, keeping your dog cool and hydrated becomes even more important. Why not turn hydration into a fun activity with frozen treats?
Freeze small bits of fruit like blueberries or watermelon (both are safe for dogs) in water or goat’s milk to make refreshing ice cubes.
Try freezing bone broth in silicone moulds for a hydrating snack your pet will love licking.
Just make sure any treats are free from added sugars or harmful ingredients!
6. Use a Pet Drinking Fountain
Dogs love running water, and a pet drinking fountain mimics the sound of a natural stream, making it more enticing for your pup to drink. These fountains keep water fresh and filtered, and they’re perfect for dogs who are reluctant to drink from still bowls.
7. Monitor Hydration Levels During Activity
From energetic playtimes to long walks, active dogs lose extra fluids. Always bring water along for outdoor adventures and offer small sips along the way to prevent dehydration. Invest in collapsible water bowls or portable fountains to make hydration easy wherever you go.
8. Keep the Environment Cool
A hot or stuffy home can discourage your dog from being active and drinking water. Ensure their living spaces are cool and well-ventilated, especially during summer. Fans, cooling mats, and shaded outdoor areas can all help them stay comfortable.
How to Encourage Picky Drinkers
If your dog is still reluctant and being a fussy drinker, here are some additional tricks to try:
Flavour the water with a tiny splash of broth or goat’s milk.
Serve water in different types of bowls , as some dogs have preferences for metal, plastic, or ceramic.
Try ice cubes in their water bowl to make drinking feel like playtime.
Keep Your Pup Happy and Hydrated
Hydration is vital for your dog’s health, and with a few creative tips, you can ensure they stay refreshed and happy all year round. By incorporating simple changes such as keeping fresh water available, adding delicious options like beef bone broth and goat’s milk, or trying fun frozen treats, you’re setting your dog up for a healthy & happy life.
