Is your dog drinking enough water? Sometimes you need to get creative to encourage healthy drinking habits in your canine companion. We can help with that.
Encouraging your dog to drink more can have a significant effect on his overall health. A moisture-rich diet supports digestion, skin and coat, and bladder and kidney health. Boost your dog’s health with these simple tips for increasing his water intake!
8 tips for getting your dog to drink more
Your dog drinks when he is thirsty, but chances are he’s not drinking as much as his body needs. Dogs are designed to get moisture from their diet, but many commercial diets, like kibble, will leave your dog perpetually dehydrated.
If you’re wondering how to get your dog to drink more water, check out these simple, clever methods of sneaking water into your dog’s daily routines:
1. Fresh is best
Make sure your dog always has access to fresh, clean water. It will be more appealing than dirty or stale water that’s been sitting out for hours or even days. Replace his water daily to ensure it’s tasty and safe.
2. Easy access
Try introducing multiple water sources throughout your dog’s environment. Having fresh H2O available in several rooms in your house will encourage him to drink more. The closer his water is, the more likely your dog is to drink, especially if he has mobility issues.
3. Filter it
Dogs have a keen sense of smell, and your dog might be turned off by the chlorine in your tap water. Replace your dog’s boring water bowl with a filtered water fountain. Make sure you routinely clean your dog’s fountain or bowl to prevent bacteria from building up.
4. Add ice
Cooling down your dog’s water can encourage him to drink more, especially on a hot summer day. It doesn’t need to be freezing. Just toss in a few ice cubes every once in a while to drop the temperature by a few degrees.
5. Dog cereal
Regardless of the food format, mealtime is an excellent way to sneak in extra moisture.
Try adding water, goat’s milk, or moisture-rich fruits like watermelon, pineapple, or berries to his meals. These tasty snacks offer plenty of nutrients like vitamins and antioxidants, and help keep him hydrated.
6. Frozen treats
For a nice hydrating treat, whip up some tasty frozen popsicles using water and other nutritious ingredients like plain yogurt, dog-safe peanut butter, or fresh produce.
7. Water on-the-go
Whenever you take your dog out for a walk or adventure, remember to bring along some water for him too. Keeping hydrated is especially important when your dog is more active or outside in hot weather.
8. Raw bones
This 2-in-1 treat is both delicious and long-lasting. Raw bones offer moisture while giving your dog a fun and tasty activity to keep him occupied. Raw edible bones can be fed a couple of times a week, or as part of a homemade raw diet.
Change up your method
Keep your routine fresh and keep water exciting by using several methods for getting your dog to drink more. Proper hydration is an effective tool in improving your dog’s health, preventing illness, and keeping him cool!
