So you’re drinking your daily 3 liters of water? 

Yes sir! 

But what about your dog? How do you keep your dog hydrated? 

Water is essential for any living organism, whether it’s a plant, a human, or your pet dog. It does more than just quench thirst; it’s the silent hero working behind the scenes. 

When your dog has the necessary amount of water daily, it helps them regulate their internal thermostat and keep their organs in prime condition.

But you can’t just yell at them and expect them to take regular sips. Most importantly, they need water after a quick sprint around the park or a walk in the sun. It’s difficult for dog owners to make a reluctant dog drink enough water. 

So, how can you tell when your dog might need a bit more water, and what can you do to keep their hydration up, rain or shine? Let’s break it down.

Signs Of Dehydration In Dogs

It’s one thing to offer water to your dog, but recognizing when they genuinely need it is a skill every pet owner should have. Dehydration in dogs isn’t always obvious, but a few telltale signs can tip you off.

🐶Check their Gums: 

Start by checking their gums. Healthy gums are usually moist, with a bit of shine, but if they start to look dry or even sticky, it’s a clue that your dog might need a drink. 

🐶Check Their Energy Level: 

Next, keep an eye on their energy levels. A well-hydrated dog generally has more spring in its step, while one that’s short on water might seem a bit sluggish or spaced out. 

🐶Check Their Eyes: 

And don’t ignore their eyes. Dogs with enough water on board have bright, round eyes, but dehydration can make their eyes look a bit sunken or dull.

🐶Skin Pinch Test: 

One simple trick is to do a skin pinch test. Gently pinch a small bit of skin between their shoulder blades. 

If it snaps back into place, they’re probably hydrated. But if it takes a moment or two to settle, that’s a sign they could use some more water.

Daily Hydration Needs

Let’s talk numbers. While every dog is different, a good rule of thumb is about one ounce of water per pound of body weight per day. For example, if you’ve got a 30-pound dog, you’re aiming for around 30 ounces – or close to a quart – of water each day.

That’s enough amount of water to keep your dog hydrated throughout the day. 

Of course, some dogs need more than this baseline amount. Puppies, for instance, can be a bundle of energy and might need extra hydration to keep up with their play and growth. 

Active dogs or those that join you on hikes and runs also need a boost in their water intake, especially in warm weather. And senior dogs, just like older people, sometimes need a bit of extra help staying hydrated.

So, keep an eye on their daily drinking habits, and feel free to adjust based on how much they’re moving or how hot the day gets. A few more ounces can make a world of difference for a dog who’s panting away under the sun.

4 Tips To Keep Your Dog Hydrated

Now that we’ve covered why hydration matters and how to spot signs of dehydration, let’s jump into some simple and practical ways to help your dog keep up their daily water intake. These tips aren’t complicated, but they make a real difference – and they’re easy to fit into your routine.

1. Provide Fresh Water Regularly

Dogs, like anyone else, prefer a fresh drink. Water that’s been sitting around too long loses its appeal and may even pick up dust, dirt, or that faint, stale taste that’s less than appetizing.

So, aim to change your dog’s water at least twice a day, if not more often. Not only does it keep things fresh, but it also keeps them safe from any bacteria that might start growing in old water.

If you notice your dog isn’t drinking from their bowl as much as you’d like, make sure it’s in a spot where they feel comfortable approaching. Sometimes, something as simple as a change in location can encourage them to drink up.

2. Add Water To Meals

Here’s a sneaky but effective trick: add a splash of water to your dog’s dry food. It won’t turn their kibble into soup, but it adds a bit of moisture to every bite, helping them get a little more water without even realizing it. For dogs on a wet food diet, you’re already off to a great start, as canned food has a higher water content than dry kibble.

Another option is to make them a little “broth” treat. Just mix a small amount of low-sodium chicken or beef broth into their water bowl. The smell and flavor make it more enticing, and it can be a helpful way to get a reluctant drinker to lap up a bit more.

3. Use Pet Fountains

Some dogs have a surprising preference for moving water. Pet fountains mimic the flow of a stream or faucet, which can be more attractive than a regular bowl of still water.

The sound of trickling water often catches their attention, and the built-in filter keeps the water cleaner and fresher, encouraging them to drink more.

Pet fountains are available in various sizes and designs, so finding one that fits your space and your dog’s needs is easy. Plus, they add a little extra flair to your home! Keep in mind, though, that you’ll need to clean the fountain and replace filters to keep it functioning well.

4. Carry Portable Water Bottles

When you’re out and about, carrying water isn’t just for you – it’s essential for your dog, too. Portable pet water bottles are handy for hikes, park visits, or even a long stroll around the neighborhood. Most come with a built-in bowl or cup, so your dog can drink comfortably on the go.

Having water on hand means you can easily offer a sip whenever you pause, whether they’re panting from the heat or just in need of a quick refresh. Look for leak-proof and easy-pack bottles so you’re always ready for a thirsty moment.

Conclusion

Keeping your dog well-hydrated might seem simple, but it significantly affects their overall health, comfort, and happiness. With fresh water, tasty mealtime tricks, and a few smart tools, you can help make hydration a natural part of your daily life. 

Whether they’re trotting through the backyard or bouncing around on a hike, a well-hydrated dog stays active, alert, and in the best possible shape to share all of life’s adventures with you.

Read Also:

• The Benefits of Dog Walking: Your Guide
• 5 Benefits Of Dog Training Classes For Your Pup
• Adopting Pets With Past Trauma: Tips For Pet Care