On long walks, bring along water and give the dog a swallow every 10 minutes or so. This can help get the dog in the habit of drinking regularly at home. You should only exercise a previously healthy dog. If your dog is elderly or ill, ask your vet about better options.
Alternatively, soak dry food in a bowl of water for 30–60 minutes before giving it to your dog.
Try to keep these “water stations” in the same place so your dog knows where to look for water. A dog tied outside may get its chain or rope tangled, preventing it from accessing the water dish. [1] X Trustworthy Source American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Leading organization dedicated to the prevention of animal cruelty Go to source If there is no alternative to tying it up, keep the area free from obstructions and place the water dish next to the stake. The water bowl may also get knocked over by the rope or chain, so check it often, replenishing the water as necessary.
Thoroughly wash and dry the water bowl at least once a week. If the bowl gets dirty, wash it more often. Drinking dirty water can put your dog at risk of developing urinary tract infections, so providing fresh water and keeping the bowl clean is important for your dog’s health. [2] X Trustworthy Source American Kennel Club The American Kennel Club (AKC) is a purebred dog pedigree registry in the United States. The AKC advocates for the responsible ownership of dogs and promotes purebred dog events, such as the Westminster Dog Show. Go to source
If the dog still isn’t interested, try again after replacing the doggie bowl with an ordinary cup or bowl with a different shape or color.
Gently pinch a fold of skin at the back of the dog’s neck or between the shoulder blades, and let go. If the skin doesn’t immediately return to the original position, your dog may be dehydrated. Gently press your finger against your dog’s gums until the color lightens, then lift your finger. If the gums don’t immediately return to the original color, your dog may be dehydrated. [3] X Research source Other possible signs of dehydration include lethargy, loss of appetite, or a change in the amount or color of your dog’s urine. By themselves, these are not cause for urgent concern unless they are severe or last more than a day.
Just as hot weather can dehydrate a person, it can also dehydrate your dog. If it’s hot, make sure that your dog is drinking enough. Vomiting, diarrhea, or excessive panting or drooling can all cause dehydration if the dog does not drink more water to compensate. Similarly, kidney disease and other chronic illnesses can cause dehydration. If your dog is diabetic, pregnant, nursing, very young, or very old, take the dog to a veterinarian at the first suspicion of dehydration.
A veterinarian will also be able to test for medical problems that could be causing dehydration, such as kidney disease. After diagnosis, the vet may prescribe medication or a special diet.
Do not mix this with any other ingredients, or you could cause further damage to the dog. While other rehydration fluids are available, consulting a veterinarian before using them is recommended whenever possible. Inhabitants of the U. S. can use the Pedialyte website to locate the nearest store that carries it.
