Dog Hydration Guide

If you've been in the UK all summer, you will have no doubt been trying to beat the heat and helpling your dog try to stay cool too.

One the most important thing and basic needs during hot weather, is to make sure that your dog has plenty of drinking water available.

But just how much water should your dog drink?

It's a great question, as we all want to make sure that our furry friends are getting everything they need to stay healthy and happy.

Just like humans, the answer to this question depends on the individual dog themselves:

  • How old are they?
  • How active are they?
  • How big or small are they?
  • What's their diet like?
  • Do they have any medical issues, or are they taking any medication?
In order to enocourage your dog to drink, there are a few things to remember, the first is to never force them to take a drink.

You can help them to top-up on their hydration by making sure the area they eat and drink is clean and tidy, and they always have fresh water. Leo is a really messy eater, so we have to refresh his water a few times a day to get rid of the kibble and seaweed floating in it.

You can also leave water bowls in different locations - Leo has two, one in the kitchen and one upstairs, which he does use for a 3am slurp.

Leo being a Greyhound, he's very tall, so we have lifted up his water bowls so he's not streching down to drink from them. This can be a great way to encourage bigger dogs, older or arthritic dogs to drink.

If you're worried about your dog not drinking enough, always speak to your vet, but there are some signs you can look out for if you think your dog is dehydrated:

  • Low energy
  • Dry gums
  • Skin doesn't spring back to normal shape
  • Weak
  • Changes in how they breathe
  • Sunken eyes
  • Panting
  • Vomiting

Can what your dog eat effect their hydration levels?

It depends on their diet, and the water content of their food. Changing their food can sometimes lead to a change in drinking habits.

What about walks?

Be sure to take water with you on a walk in summer, hydration breaks aren't just for World Cup football!



It's worth noting, that even during cooler temperatures, taking water on a walk over 15 minutes is still a must.

At Cill Dubh Hounds, we make hydration on the go super easy! 

With our travel bowls, water on a walk has never been easier - they're small enough to fit in your back pocket and have a handy clip if you want to hang it on a belt loop, or on your bag. Plus, they come in 12 bright colours, so there's one to suit your dog's style.



Ultimately, if you're concerned about your dog be sure to check with your vet.




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