Drink Up: How to Get Your Dog to Drink More Water
It’s important that dogs drink enough water to stay hydrated. According to the American Kennel Club, adult dogs need about one ounce of water per pound of body weight per day. Puppies need to drink more than their adult counterparts and the amount of water they need to drink depends on their size, age and activity level.
Staying hydrated is vital to their health. When dogs don’t stay hydrated, they may suffer from kidney failure, loss of consciousness, and in extreme cases death.
Here are some tips on how you can get your dog to drink more water:
Have Water Breaks
Schedule water breaks throughout the day. Dogs are more likely to drink water after they’ve exercised, so it can be beneficial to give them water after they’ve played and had their walk.
Take Water with You When You’re with Your Dog
It’s important to take water with you when you go on outings with your dog, especially when the weather gets hot. As dogs get more activity, they will become thirsty, so you want to make sure they stay hydrated.
Add Water to Treats and the Food You Give Them
Incorporate water into your dog’s diet by giving your dog a bowl of water when you feed them, mixing water into their dog food, and making frozen treats. To make frozen treats, you can mix water and your dog’s favorite fruits or vegetables in an ice cube tray and freeze it.
Interactive Toys
Invest in dog toys that squirt water when dogs paw at it or nudge at it. They’ll be encouraged to drink more water as they play.
Pick the Right Bowl for Them
Dogs sometimes have preferences on what bowl they prefer to drink from. If your dog doesn’t drink water from their current bowl, try changing their bowl. Give them a stainless steel, ceramic, or plastic bowl, and see if they have a preference. It can also be beneficial to choose a larger bowl, so you can fill it up with even more water.
By following these tips, you can ensure your dog stays hydrated. When your dog stays hydrated, they’re more likely to live a healthy and happy life!