How to keep your dog hydrated and healthy in hot weather

Warm weather can be tough on our pups, and proper hydration is one of the simplest but most crucial ways to keep them healthy.

Dogs—especially Brachycephalic breeds or older pups—can be vulnerable to heat, and staying hydrated helps prevent serious conditions like dehydration and heatstroke.

In this post, we'll dive into why hydration matters and share tips on keeping your dog cool and hydrated.

Why hydration is crucial for dogs in summer and beyond

When temperatures rise, so do the risks for your dog.

Higher temps increase the likelihood of dehydration, as dogs regulate their body temperature by panting, which causes fluid loss.

If they're not replenishing that lost water, they could be in danger of overheating, leading to heatstroke—a potentially life-threatening condition.

Keeping your dog hydrated helps regulate their body temperature and keeps their systems running smoothly.

Signs of dehydration in dogs

Wondering if your dog is getting dehydrated? Some key symptoms to look for include:

• A dry nose

• Sunken eyes

• Lethargy

• Loss of appetite

• Reduced skin elasticity

You can check for dehydration at home using simple tests like the skin tent test (gently pulling the skin on their neck to see if it snaps back into place) or checking for dry gums.

But if you're even a little worried, give your vet a call or head in for a checkup.

How to hydrate a dog

Encourage water intake

The easiest way to hydrate your dog is by making sure they always have access to fresh, cool water.

Keep multiple water bowls in different areas of your home and yard, and consider using ice cubes to keep water cool or as a fun treat to entice them to keep lapping.

How to hydrate a dog that refuses to drink

If your dog is reluctant to drink, you can try adding low-sodium broth to their water or switching up their food by moistening kibble or offering wet food.

You can also make flavored ice cubes from diluted broth to entice them to lick and hydrate.

Healthy dog smoothie recipes for hydration

Caveat here: If your dog's totally avoiding water, smoothies aren't the answer.

It's best to get to the bottom of the bowl and get your dog to the vet if you're concerned about your pup's water intake.

But in the absence of an underlying health issue or other problems, it's fun to try blending up smoothies as a hydrating treat! Here are a few dog smoothie recipe ideas with some generally dog-safe ingredients.

Pet food safety

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As always, consult with your vet before introducing new foods—or drinks—into your dog's diet.

Watermelon and coconut water smoothie

Blend watermelon and coconut water for a refreshing, hydrating treat. Watermelon is rich in water content, and coconut water provides natural electrolytes.

Cucumber and plain yogurt Smoothie

Cucumbers are great for hydration, and plain yogurt adds a protein boost. Blend them together for a cool, refreshing treat.

Blueberry and spinach smoothie

Blueberries are packed with antioxidants, and spinach provides nutrients while keeping your dog hydrated. This smoothie is a superfood combo that's as hydrating as it is nutritious.

Remember, these smoothies shouldn't be a replacement for your dog's balanced diet. Consider them a small treat!

Preventive measures to keep dogs cool and hydrated

In addition to keeping your dog hydrated, here are a few preventive measures to help them stay cool.

• Provide plenty of shade and avoid walks during peak sun hours.

• Use cooling mats, vests, or other products designed to lower body temperature.

• Avoid walking on hot pavement, which can burn your dog's paws.

• Plan water-based activities like swimming to keep them cool and active.

Does your dog seem to love baking in the hot sun? Some breeds do better in the heat than others.

Again, you'll need to be more vigilant with senior dogs, dog breeds that are better suited to colder climates, or dogs with pre-existing health conditions.

What to do if your dog becomes dehydrated

If you suspect your dog is dehydrated, it's time to take action.

Contact your vet right ASAP.

Best-case scenario: your dog just needs a break in the shade (or in the house), small amounts of water, and some time to recoup.

But in severe cases, your dog may need rehydration therapy (IVs) under veterinary guidance.

Hydration is key to keeping your dog healthy, especially during summer and warm weather.

Make sure to provide plenty of water, watch for signs of dehydration, and be proactive in keeping your pup cool.

By taking these simple steps, you’ll help your dog beat the heat!