Giving Your Dog Enough Water

Water is an essential key to keeping your furry friend healthy and happy. But how much water is the right amount? And how do you know if your four-legged friend isn’t getting enough water? Read on to find out.

The Importance of Proper Hydration in Fido

Water is essential to a happy and healthy dog.

• It helps carry nutrients in and out of the body
• Assists with the digestive process
• Cools down your pooch and works to maintain their average body temperature
• Lubricates and cushions their joints, helping them move easier

Pretty much all of your dog’s critical bodily functions are monitored and regulated through proper hydration. On the flip side, not enough water can make your pup, as well as damaging and shutting down their organs.

Giving Your Canine Enough Water

Ensuring that Fido is drinking enough water is done in a variety of ways.

• Make sure their water bowl is always filled with fresh and clean water that’s easily accessible.
• Each day your dog should be drinking about an ounce of water per pound of their body weight.
• If the day is extra hot, you spent more time outside, or did extra activities and exercise with your pooch – they’ll need more water than usual.
• Dogs who eat canned food receive more water, so if your dog isn’t drinking enough water on their own consider switching over.
• Also, consider buying water enhancers if Fido isn’t drinking enough, it’ll make the water more flavorful and hard to deny.

If you still don’t think your furry friend is drinking enough water, consider bringing it up with your vet. This could be a sign of an illness or parasite that needs to be taken care of.

Signs of Dehydration in Dogs

Most dogs will drink enough water to stay adequately hydrated if it’s available. In the case of this not happening though it’s important to know what signs of dehydration in your pup will look like.

• Pick up a fold of their skin and gently stretch it out. When you release the skin, it should quickly fall back into place. A dehydrated dog’s skin will slowly return to its original form.
• Check your dog’s gums. Do they appear dry, sticky, or pale? If so, they are probably ill or dehydrated.
• Look at your dog’s eyes, if they appear sunken that should strike concern.

Symptoms of dog dehydration can be:

• Loss of appetite
• Vomiting
• Reduced energy levels
• Heavy panting
• Thick saliva
• Dry nose

Ensuring your dog is properly hydrated is no joke, and should be monitored carefully. If you ever suspect your dog isn’t getting the right amount of water, you should consult your vet right away.