Tips to Keep Your Dog Hydrated

With summer, it’s critical to remember how important water is to your dog’s health. Dogs need about one ounce of water for every one pound of body weight. 

So, a 25-pound dog would need at least 25 ounces, or a little over one and a half cups, of water each day — more if they are outside in the heat. Nursing moms and new puppies also drink more water than the average adult dog. 

It is not always easy to tell if your dog is getting any water. So much of it ends up all over their faces, their mats, and the ground. How can you keep your dog hydrated? 

How to Recognize Dehydration

A quick way to check is to touch the nose. If your dog’s nose is dry and it is panting, then chances are they need more water. Watch for these signs carefully, especially on hot days and after exercise. 

Dehydration can cause damage to the kidneys and heart. If your dog shows signs of dehydration, go to the vet right away. 

Tips to Keep Your Dog Hydrated

The best way to prevent dehydration in dogs is by making sure there is always clean, clear water around to drink — indoors or out. You could put several bowls in strategic places to give the dog more opportunities to drink. The more bowls of water out there, the more likely it is your dog will use them.

Of course, some dogs are a little pickier than others, so freshwater might not be enough. What else can you try?

Wet Dog Food

Wet pet food contains water, so it is a practical choice for the picky drinker. Dry dog food typically contains about 10% moisture, while wet food in Tetra Pak® Cartons contains about 70% to 80%. This is why Tetra Pak® recipes (or wet food) is so important for your dog. While it does not replace water consumption it does play a crucial role in providing much needed moisture.

Turn Water Into A Treat

Making the water more appetizing is a common-sense approach. Consider adding water to any healthy dog food — dry or wet. That makes edible water that can increase your dog’s intake each day. 

Delicious Pooch Pupsicles

Who doesn’t like a popsicle when it’s hot outside? Take any healthy dog food such as peanut butter, sweet potatoes, veggies, or fruit, add some water, and put it in the freezer. Another trick is to freeze wet food into molds or ice cube trays for a hydrating treat. 

Change Bowls

Maybe it’s not the water your dog is picky about, but the container. Try different bowls in a variety of sizes and shapes for the really stubborn dog. Also, a different material could make a difference, so test stainless steel, ceramic, glass, and plastic to determine your dog’s favorite bowl type.