Hot weather can be dangerous for dogs, especially if they’re picky about drinking from their water bowl. Dehydration and heatstroke are serious risks, so it’s crucial to keep your pup hydrated. If your dog turns their nose up at standing water, don’t worry—we’ve got creative summer hydration hacks to keep them safe, cool, and well-watered.
🍵 Try Flavored Ice Cubes
Add low-sodium chicken broth or tuna water to ice cube trays and freeze. These flavorful cubes make hydration more enticing and fun for dogs who ignore their water bowl.
Bonus: You can also freeze small treats or kibble inside the cubes for extra motivation.
🚣️ Use a Pet Water Fountain
Many dogs dislike stagnant water. A pet fountain keeps water moving, fresh, and oxygenated—mimicking the appeal of a natural stream.
Look for fountains with replaceable filters and quiet motors. They’re also great for households with multiple pets. Here’s a helpful roundup of top pet water fountains.
🍹 Offer Water-Rich Foods
Moisture-rich foods are a smart way to sneak hydration into your dog’s diet:
- Watermelon (seedless and rind removed)
- Cucumber slices
- Bone broth-soaked kibble
- Canned or fresh pumpkin
Just be sure to avoid anything toxic to dogs, like grapes, onions, or xylitol.
❄️ Make Doggie Popsicles
Mix dog-safe ingredients like peanut butter, banana, yogurt, or broth and freeze in molds. These frozen treats help with hydration while also offering enrichment.
Check out our DIY frozen dog treat ideas for more inspiration!
🏋️ Offer Ice Chips After Playtime
Some dogs just don’t like bowls, but love crunching on ice chips. After a walk or play session, hand-feed small ice chips to cool them down and encourage water intake.
🌪️ Always Bring Water on Walks
For outdoor adventures, bring a collapsible water bowl or a dog water bottle with an attached dish. Offer sips frequently and rest in the shade often.
If you live in Florida or a warm climate, consider early morning or evening walks to avoid peak heat. Qualified Pet Services offers midday drop-ins to check in on your pet during hot days.
🔔 Watch for Dehydration Warning Signs
Even with these summer hydration hacks, monitor for signs of dehydration:
- Dry nose or gums
- Lethargy or confusion
- Sunken eyes
- Excessive panting
- Poor skin elasticity (check with a gentle pinch test)
Call your vet immediately if you suspect heat exhaustion or dehydration.
📚 References
American Kennel Club. (2023). How to keep your dog hydrated in the summer. https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/health/keep-your-dog-hydrated/
PetMD. (2022). Dog dehydration: Signs, causes, and treatment. https://www.petmd.com/dog/general-health/dehydration-dogs
Wirecutter. (2024). The best pet water fountains. The New York Times. https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/reviews/best-pet-water-fountain/
Humane Society. (n.d.). Hot weather safety tips. https://www.humanesociety.org/resources/keep-pets-safe-heat
⚠️ Disclaimer:
This article is for informational purposes only. Always consult your veterinarian before making changes to your pet’s diet or routine.
