When the sun is shining and paws are pattering through parks, beaches, and garden adventures, it’s more important than ever to make sure your keeping your dog hydrated.
Just like us, dogs rely on water to stay healthy, cool, and full of energy.
But sometimes, especially in warmer weather or when excitement runs high, drinking enough water can fall to the bottom of your pup’s priority list.
So let’s dive into why hydration is so important for dogs—and some tail-waggingly fun and novel ways to keep their water bowls (and bellies!) full.
Why Hydration Matters for Dogs
Water is absolutely essential for your dog’s body to function properly. It helps regulate body temperature, cushions joints, supports digestion, and flushes out toxins. Dogs can lose moisture through panting, sweating (yes, dogs sweat a little through their paw pads!), and going to the toilet.
Without enough water, they can quickly become dehydrated—a condition that can lead to lethargy, heatstroke, and serious health issues if left unchecked.
Some signs your pup might be dehydrated include:
Dry nose and gums
Sunken eyes
Lethargy or weakness
Excessive panting
Loss of skin elasticity (you can gently pinch the skin at the back of their neck; if it doesn’t spring back quickly, hydration may be needed)
Keeping your dog well-hydrated is especially important during the warmer months, when outdoor fun increases and so does the risk of dehydration.
How Much Water Does Your Dog Need?
On average, dogs need about 30ml of water per 0.5kg of body weight per day. That means a 13.5kg dog should be drinking roughly 900ml (just under 1 litre) of water daily. Puppies, senior dogs, and very active or nursing dogs may need even more.
But don’t worry—you don’t have to measure it out to the drop.
The key is to ensure fresh, clean water is always available, and to encourage regular sipping throughout the day.
Novel Ways to Keep Your Dog Hydrated
Some dogs lap up water without hesitation, while others need a little coaxing. If your pup is on the picky side or just too busy playing to pause for a drink, try these fun and creative hydration tricks:
1. Frozen Treats & Ice Cubes
Pop a few ice cubes into their bowl or freeze low-sodium chicken broth into fun shapes using silicone moulds. For extra excitement, add a few dog-safe blueberries or shredded carrots into the ice before freezing. These icy bites are fun to crunch and super hydrating!
2. Offer Hydrating Fruits
Some fruits are naturally high in water content and are perfectly safe for dogs in moderation. Try offering:
Watermelon (seedless, no rind)
Cucumber slices
Strawberries
Apple slices (no seeds)
These can be offered as treats, added to meals, or even frozen for a cool snack!
3. Invest in a Pet Water Fountain
Some dogs prefer running water over still bowls. Pet water fountains not only encourage more drinking but also keep the water fresh and filtered. They’re especially great for multi-pet households or picky drinkers.
4. Make “Souped-Up” Meals
Mix a little extra water or broth into your dog’s food—whether dry kibble, wet food, or homemade meals. This boosts hydration without changing their diet too much. You can even make a simple dog-friendly soup using lean meats, veggies, and plenty of water (just avoid onions, garlic, and added salt).
5. Take Water on the Go
When heading out on walks or day trips, don’t forget to pack a collapsible bowl and a bottle of water. Offering regular water breaks is just as important as picking the perfect picnic spot!
Keep It Fresh & Keep It Fun
Dogs are curious, playful creatures—and that can work in your favour when it comes to hydration. Switching up how you offer water can keep things interesting and engaging. And most importantly, remember that just like with food, clean and fresh water is key. Wash your dog’s water bowl daily to prevent bacteria buildup.
So whether you’re heading to the beach, enjoying a lazy garden day, or snuggling indoors, remember: a hydrated dog is a happy dog. Keep that water flowing and those tails wagging!
Stay cool, stay hydrated, and give your best friend a big slurp of love today!