WATER- dehydration and fussy drinkers

Water is often overlooked when talking about nutrition, but it is in fact the single most important aspect of your dog’s diet. While many dogs are more than happy to drink from a muddy puddle on the floor, there are those few who can be very fussy in drinking water on a regular basis. This can result in dehydration, especially on those hot days. So here are some tips on increasing your dog’s water intake.

1.       Adding water to their food

Adding water or liquid stock to their dry food or wet food will increase their water intake. You can also add a mixture of water and yoghurt to make it more palatable for your dog.

2.       Electrolytes help dogs too

There are specific products for dogs but human versions diluted can be used as well. Great if your dog is showing signs of dehydration. If your dog is showing signs of dehydration also seek vet advice.

3.       Water fountains

Some dogs don’t like to drink stagnate water (this is instinctual as stagnate water sources can be prone to bacteria and germs). Sometimes dogs prefer to drink from a flowing source, this also helps add oxygen to the water.

4.       Coconut Water

Great alternative that most dogs love. Not only is it a great way to encourage your dog to drink, its also pack full of electrolytes and can help with hydration.

5.       Icy poles

Making your own pet icy poles for those hot summer days will not only increase their water intake it can also reduce boredom and be a fun game. Fill a container with water and then add food items that will interest your dog, such as dog food, carrots, dog treats, peanut butter, yoghurt etc. and freeze overnight.

6.       Adding flavour

Adding a small amount of chicken, beef broth or drained water from a tuna can, to your pets water can make it seem a little more interesting for your pet to drink. You can then gradually decrease the amount of broth added until your dog is drinking plain water.

7.       Switch to raw

Dry dog food only contains a water content of about 10% meaning pets on this diet are required to source water elsewhere to meet all their needs. Wet dog food has a water content of about 75% but feeding just wet food can cause dental issues down the track as it does not allow tartar build up to be scrapped off through chewing and grinding. A raw diet of meaty bones not only gives a higher water content than dry food, it also helps keep your dog’s teeth in top condition.

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