5 tips to keep your dog hydrated in summer

Summer brings longer days, more walks, and more time outdoors. However, it also means higher temperatures that can seriously affect our dogs' health if we don't take the proper precautions. One of the main risks is dehydration. In this article, from La Casa de Turrón, we give you 5 practical tips to keep your dog properly hydrated and enjoy the summer with peace of mind.

Index

1. Make sure it always has clean, fresh water

2. Adjust the walking times and avoid extreme heat

3. Incorporate hydrating foods into your diet

4. Play with water: a fun and effective way to cool down

5. Use cooling products designed for dogs

1. Make sure it always has clean, fresh water

The key to good hydration is having water readily available at all times. Place several bowls around the house and outside if you have a patio or garden. Change the water several times a day, especially if it's been exposed to sunlight. If you're going on a hike, always carry a water bottle (with plenty if you won't have access to more later) and a portable water bowl.

A good idea is to add some ice cubes to the bowl to keep the water temperature lower for longer. You can also use elevated feeders that make it easier for your dog to drink comfortably, especially large or older dogs. We recommend you take a look at our Nordic elevated feeder .

2. Adjust the walking times and avoid extreme heat

Avoid taking your dog for walks during the hottest hours of the day. The best time for long walks is early morning or late afternoon. Hot asphalt can damage your dog's paw pads and quickly raise their body temperature. When walking on asphalt, consider whether you could walk barefoot. If your dog doesn't feel like walking at midday, don't worry; it might be too hot for them, and a quick trip to relieve themselves and a walk around the block would be sufficient.

Try to choose routes with shade or green areas and always carry water with you. If your dog is panting excessively or seems very tired upon returning, let him rest and offer him fresh water immediately.

3. Incorporate hydrating foods into your diet

Besides water, you can help keep your dog hydrated through their food (they'll thank you for it). If they normally eat dry kibble, you can supplement it with good-quality wet food or add a little homemade, unsalted broth. You can also offer them suitable and refreshing fruits and vegetables like watermelon, melon, or apple as snacks . Try freezing foods like watermelon or carrots (pre-cooked for easier handling). For apples or bananas, you can cut them into small pieces and make ice cream with water or kefir.

A good idea is to prepare ice cubes with broth or pieces of frozen fruit that can serve as a refreshing treat during the hottest days.

4. Play with water: a fun and effective way to cool down

Playtime can also be a great way to keep your dog cool. Many pets enjoy running around sprinklers, playing with the hose, or splashing around in a dog pool.

At home, you can prepare a tray of water or a small pool on the patio. If you need to cool your pet down directly, moisten key areas such as the paw pads, the base of the ears, or the nose . These are the most effective areas to help regulate their temperature .

Avoid getting its back completely wet if it will then be in hot or poorly ventilated areas, as it could retain moisture in a harmful way.

5. Use cooling products designed for dogs

Today, there are many products designed to help dogs cope with the heat. Cooling mats or toys that you can put in the freezer. We recommend using our lick mat that you can freeze with cooling treats, which will stimulate their mind while helping them beat the heat.

These products are especially useful for large breeds, senior dogs, or short-nosed (brachycephalic) breeds that suffer more in the heat. If you're looking for attractive, comfortable, and effective solutions, we invite you to visit our store and discover our summer collections designed for their well-being.

Conclusion

Keeping your dog properly hydrated during the summer is easy if you know how. Make sure they always have fresh water, avoid walks during the hottest hours of the day, pay attention to their diet, and use games or products designed to cool them down. Your dog will thank you with health, energy, and lots of love.

At La Casa de Turrón, we work every day to help you care for your furry friend in every season. Discover more tips like this on our blog and don't miss our new summer accessories.