Charity lists methods to make dog drink more water during 37C heatwave

Experts at Dogs Trust have urged dog owners to take action if their pets are not drinking enough water during this week’s heatwave, and highlight a key mistake to avoid. The Met Office issued an amber warning for Tuesday, June 23, followed by a red alert for extreme heat on Wednesday and Thursday. Temperatures are expected to reach up to 37C in areas such as London and Cardiff.

With this in mind, Dogs Trust says water is essential for keeping dogs hydrated and helping them regulate their body temperature. But how much water should they drink, and what should you do if they don’t drink enough?

My dog is not drinking enough water and it’s hot outside. What can I do?

A simple way to help your dog stay hydrated is to place water bowls in different areas of your home and use a variety of bowl types to encourage drinking. However, you should never force your dog to its bowl.

Dogs Trust warns that this is a mistake and you should never force your dog to drink water. Instead, you can try:

• keeping their water fresh, and their bowl clean
• leaving water in different locations, using different bowls
• using a non-slip mat or surface for their bowl
• making sure their bowl is the right size and height
• using a slightly elevated water stand for older or arthritic dogs
• leaving them to it or staying nearby: whichever makes them feel relaxed.

If your dog isn’t drinking water or you’re worried they’re not drinking enough, contact your vet for advice and support.

How much water should my dog drink a day?

While your dog should always have access to fresh water, which you should be changing daily, the amount they should drink daily depends on their:

• age
• size
• activity level
• diet
• medical conditions and treatments

The British animal welfare charity and humane society advises owners to speak to their vet if their dog’s drinking habits change. Get urgent veterinary help if your dog is overheating or showing signs of heatstroke. If your dog drinks more when feeling anxious or uncomfortable, it could be a sign of stress, so mention it to your vet.

Why do dogs stop drinking water?

If your dog is not drinking water or they have reduced their intake, it could be down to:

• illness
• mouth or throat issues
• changes in their exercise levels
• weather
• changes in the water itself
• anxiety
• a disliking for certain water bowls

Dogs Trust explain: “Some dogs may become worried around their water bowls. It could be that the sound of their collar hitting the bowl frightens them. Or there might not be enough water, particularly if they’re having to share. Seek advice from your vet if you’re worried about your dog’s drinking habits.”

My dog eats wet food. Will that hydrate them?

How much your dog drinks can vary depending on their diet, since different foods contain different amounts of moisture. You may notice changes in drinking habits when switching foods, especially between wet and dry diets. If you’re worried about your dog’s hydration, your vet can help check whether they’re getting enough fluid and if anything else needs to be looked into.

What are the signs my dog is dehydrated?

As a dog owner, you may want to be sure your pet is drinking enough. Dehydration can be hard to notice, but there are some signs that your dog may not be getting enough fluids, including:

• dry gums
• loss of skin elasticity
• sunken eyes
• low energy
• weakness
• panting
• vomiting
• changes in breathing

Make sure your dog always has access to fresh, clean water. Speak to your vet if you’re worried they’re dehydrated or show any of these signs.

Dogs Trust concludes: “A hydrated hound is a happy hound. Your dog should always have fresh and clean water available to them, but never force them to drink it. Speak to your vet if you’re concerned about your pet’s water habits. They’ll put your mind at ease or offer more guidance.”