Effective Ways to Ensure Your Dog Stays Hydrated
Dec 26,2024 | puaintapets
Water is essential to a dog's health, just as it is for humans. It plays a vital role in maintaining proper body temperature, supporting digestion, and ensuring organ function. Despite its importance, some dogs are reluctant to drink water, which can lead to dehydration, fatigue, and even more serious health issues. If you're facing this challenge, you’re not alone. Many pet owners struggle with getting their dogs to drink enough water.
In this article, we’ll explore practical and effective ways to encourage your dog to drink water. From making water more appealing to using different bowls and introducing flavored hydration options, we’ll provide you with a variety of solutions to keep your dog hydrated.
Why Dogs Don't Want to Drink Water?
1.Problems with water source
- Poor water quality
If the water has an unpleasant odour, is cloudy or contains impurities, your dog may refuse to drink it. For example, water that has been left for too long harbours bacteria or contains substances such as rust, which can affect the taste of the water and make your dog reluctant to drink it.
- Unsuitable water temperature
Dogs are sensitive to water temperature. Water that is too hot, such as hot water, may scald the dog; water that is too cold, especially for puppies, small dogs or weaker dogs, cold water may cause gastrointestinal discomfort, and they will also be reluctant to drink.
2.Water bowl factor
- Shape and size of water bowl
A deep and narrow water bowl may make your dog reluctant to drink as their nose touches the water while drinking, causing discomfort. If the water bowl is too small for your dog's drinking needs, it may also affect your dog's willingness to drink.
- Material and cleanliness of the bowl
Some plastic water bowls may retain odours that are difficult to remove even after cleaning. Dogs have a keen sense of smell and will not drink water because of this odour. Also, if the water bowl has not been cleaned for a long time and there is a build-up of dirt, the dog may also refuse to drink.
3.Health condition
- Oral Problems
Oral conditions such as sore teeth, inflamed gums, or mouth ulcers can cause your dog to resist drinking water because of the pain they feel when drinking. For example, a dog with severe dental calculus can irritate the gums, and the impact of the water flow when drinking can aggravate the pain.
- Gastrointestinal upset
When a dog has gastrointestinal discomfort, such as indigestion, nausea or diarrhoea, it may also lack interest in drinking water. This is because gastrointestinal discomfort can affect your dog's overall appetite and desire to drink.
- Kidney Disease
Problems with kidney function may lead to disturbances in water metabolism in your dog's body. For example, a dog with kidney disease may experience little or no urine, as well as be less inclined to drink water because the body is unable to process excess water properly.
Also Read: Kidney Disease in Dogs
- Other Diseases
Systemic illnesses like colds and fevers can also cause a dog's body to function less well, and its appetite and desire to drink can be affected. Dogs may be depressed and lack interest in both water and food during illness.
4. Environmental changes and stress
- Adaptation period to a new environment
When a dog enters a new environment, such as having just moved to a new home or a new owner, it may be temporarily reluctant to drink water due to stress and discomfort. The unfamiliar environment can cause stress to the dog and affect its normal eating and drinking habits.
- Change in Routine
If your dog's daily routine is disrupted, such as a sudden change in feeding and drinking times, or frequent changes in residence, he may experience a decrease in water intake.
5.Moisture content in food
If your dog eats food that has a high water content itself, such as wet food or fresh meat, he may not need to consume much extra water. For example, a dog that has been eating wet food for a long time requires relatively less drinking water than a dog that eats dry food.
Health Risks of Dogs Not Drinking Water
- Stone formation
Dogs that go without water for a long period of time will have an increased concentration of minerals in their urine. For example, substances such as calcium, phosphorus and oxalic acid may crystallise and precipitate to form urinary stones. These stones may block the urethra, causing your dog to have difficulty urinating, and in severe cases, may even lead to uremia.
- Cystitis
Inadequate water intake can cause harmful substances in the urine to remain in the bladder for too long, irritating the bladder mucosa and easily triggering cystitis. Affected dogs may experience symptoms such as frequent urination, urgency and painful urination.
Related: Understanding Bladder Stones in Dogs: Causes, Types, Treatment, and Prevention
- Impairment of kidney function
The kidneys need enough water to filter waste and excess water from the blood. If the dog does not drink water, the burden on the kidneys will increase, which may lead to kidney failure in the long run. With impaired kidney function, dogs may experience symptoms such as oliguria, anuria and oedema, which can seriously affect their health.
- Dehydration
The dog's body needs water to maintain normal physiological functions. Not drinking water will lead to gradual dehydration of the body. When mild dehydration occurs, the dog may experience symptoms such as dry mouth, lack of spirit, and loss of skin elasticity; when severe dehydration occurs, it will affect the dog's blood circulation, temperature regulation and other important physiological functions, and may even be life-threatening.
- Digestive problems
Water helps to digest food and promote intestinal peristalsis. Dogs that do not drink water will reduce the secretion of digestive juices, which may lead to indigestion, constipation and other problems. Constipation can cause abdominal discomfort in dogs, affecting appetite and overall health.
- Increased blood viscosity
Inadequate water intake can cause a relatively higher percentage of blood cells in the bloodstream and the blood to become sticky. This can increase the burden on the heart, affecting circulation and can also lead to the formation of blood clots, posing a serious threat to your dog's cardiovascular system.
How to Make Your Dog Drink Water?
Water is essential for the overall health and well - being of your dog. Just like humans, dogs need an adequate amount of water to function properly. However, some dogs can be a bit fussy when it comes to drinking water. Here are some effective ways to make your dog drink water.
1. Provide Clean and Fresh Water
The first and most fundamental step is to offer your dog clean and fresh water at all times. Dogs are sensitive to the taste and smell of water. Stagnant or dirty water can put them off. Change the water in your dog's bowl daily, and wash the bowl regularly. If you use a water dispenser, clean it according to the manufacturer's instructions. Using filtered water can also be a great option, especially if your tap water has a strong odor or taste. Some dogs prefer cool water, so during hot days, you can add a few ice cubes to their water bowl. But be careful not to make the water too cold, especially for small or sensitive dogs.
2. Choose the Right Bowl
The type of bowl you use can also influence how much water your dog drinks. Some dogs don't like deep bowls as they may find it difficult to reach the water. Shallow, wide - mouthed bowls are often a better choice. Stainless - steel or ceramic bowls are preferable as they are easy to clean and don't retain odors like some plastic bowls do. There are also special water bowls available in the market that have a built - in fountain. The flowing water can be more appealing to dogs as it mimics the movement of water in nature, such as a stream. Many dogs are attracted to the sound and movement of the flowing water and are more likely to drink from such a bowl.
3. Add Flavor (in a Healthy Way)
If your dog is reluctant to drink plain water, you can add a little flavor to it, but make sure it is safe for dogs. A small amount of low - sodium chicken broth can be added to the water. You can also use beef or vegetable broth as long as it doesn't contain harmful ingredients like onions or garlic. Another option is to use a small amount of unsweetened cranberry juice diluted in water. However, avoid using sugary drinks or artificial sweeteners as they can be harmful to your dog's health. These flavored waters can make the water more enticing for your dog, but don't overdo it as you still want your dog to get used to plain water.
4. Incorporate Water into Their Diet
You can increase your dog's water intake by incorporating more water - rich foods into their diet. Wet dog food contains a significant amount of water. If your dog is currently on dry kibble, you can mix in some wet food. Fruits and vegetables like cucumbers, watermelons, and celery are also great sources of water. You can cut them into small pieces and offer them as treats or mix them into your dog's regular food. However, be aware of any foods that may be toxic to your dog, and introduce new foods gradually to avoid digestive issues.
5. Exercise and Activity
Regular exercise and activity can make your dog thirsty. Take your dog for a walk, play fetch, or engage in other physical activities. After a good workout, your dog is more likely to drink water. Make sure to have water available immediately after the activity. This not only helps with hydration but also cools down your dog's body, especially on hot days.
6. Location of the Water Bowl
The location of the water bowl can also play a role. Place the water bowl in a quiet, accessible place where your dog feels comfortable. Avoid placing it near their food bowl if your dog seems to be distracted by food. Some dogs may prefer their water bowl in a different room or area of the house. You can experiment with different locations to see where your dog is most likely to drink.
7. Monitor for Health Issues
If your dog suddenly refuses to drink water or has a significant decrease in water intake, it could be a sign of an underlying health issue. Dental problems, kidney disease, urinary tract infections, and other illnesses can affect a dog's thirst. If you notice any other symptoms such as lethargy, vomiting, or changes in urination, it is important to take your dog to the vet for a check - up. By addressing any health problems, you can ensure that your dog is able to drink water normally again.
How Much Water Should Dogs Drink Is Normal?
1.Factors affecting the amount of water a dog drinks
- Body size
Generally speaking, larger dogs need relatively more water per day. For example, a large dog such as a Labrador may need 1 - 2 litres of water per day or even more; whereas a small dog such as a Chihuahua may only need 0.2 - 0.5 litres of water per day.
- Age
Puppies have a higher water content in their bodies and a faster metabolism, requiring more water per kilogram of body weight compared to adult dogs. Puppies may need 100 - 150 ml of water per kg of body weight per day, adult dogs usually need 50 - 100 ml of water per kg of body weight, and older dogs may need to increase their water intake appropriately to maintain their body's normal metabolism due to declining body functions.
- Diet type
If your dog is on a dry food diet, they will need to drink more water to replenish their body's water requirements due to the low water content in dry food. While dogs consuming wet or canned food will drink relatively less water because the food itself contains more water.
- Activity Level
Dogs with high activity levels lose more water through sweat (although dogs do not have well-developed sweat glands, they also lose heat through breathing and foot pads) and respiration, so they need more water to replenish. For example, a working dog or a pet dog that exercises regularly will drink more water per day than a dog that is not very active.
- Environmental Temperature
In hot environments, dogs lose heat through panting and other means, lose water quickly and need more water to prevent dehydration. In a cold environment, on the other hand, dogs will drink relatively less water.
2. Example of normal water intake range
A small adult dog weighing 5kg on a dry food diet with a moderate activity level will need about 250 - 500ml of water per day.
A large adult dog weighing 30kg may require 1.5 - 3 litres of water per day under normal conditions.
It is important to note that these are approximate ranges and if there is a sudden and noticeable change in your dog's water intake, such as a large increase or decrease, it may be a sign of a health problem that requires prompt medical attention.
FAQs
Does wet food hydrate dogs?
Yes,wet food contains a high level of moisture. Compared to dry foods, the moisture content in wet foods is usually 70 - 80 per cent or more. For example, the common canned chicken contains a lot of water in its rich broth.
When a dog consumes wet food, this water is ingested into the dog's body, thus providing a hydrating effect. Wet food is a great way to rehydrate dogs that are less inclined to drink or are prone to the risk of dehydration. However, wet food alone may not fully meet your dog's hydration needs, especially in hot weather or when your dog is more active, and clean drinking water still needs to be provided.
What do vets give dogs for dehydration?
If your dog's dehydration is severe, your veterinarian will usually start by replacing water and electrolytes with intravenous fluids or subcutaneous injections. The fluids used for the infusion are usually saline (0.9% sodium chloride solution), which can quickly replenish the water, sodium, potassium, and other electrolytes lost from the dog's body and restore the body's fluid balance.
For dogs with mild dehydration, your vet may prescribe oral rehydration salts. Oral rehydration salts are a solution containing the right amount of glucose, sodium, and potassium that your dog can take orally to replenish water and electrolytes. It stimulates the absorption of water from the intestines and helps restore your dog's normal fluid status. Also, some veterinarians may add some vitamins or other nutrients to oral rehydration salts depending on your dog's specific condition.
Can you add anything to dogs water?
Conclusion
Keeping your dog hydrated is an essential part of their well-being. By making water more appealing, offering the right bowls, and ensuring water is always available, you can help encourage your dog to drink more. Additionally, if you continue to struggle with hydration issues, speak with your vet to rule out any underlying health problems. By paying attention to your dog’s hydration needs, you’re ensuring they lead a healthy and happy life.
Remember, a well-hydrated dog is a happy dog!
Comment
