Dehydration in Dogs : Prevention During Heatwaves & Summer
When the temperature rises, we instinctively reach for water, shade, and ways to cool down. But for our dogs, hydration isn’t always as straightforward — and it’s far more critical than many people realise.
During heatwaves and throughout summer, dehydration in dogs can happen quickly. While hot weather highlights the risk, hydration is a daily, year-round need that supports physical health, emotional wellbeing, and your dog’s ability to cope with stress. Understanding the best hydration for dogs helps us move beyond simply filling the water bowl and towards more thoughtful care.
Why Hydration Matters (Especially in Summer)
Water plays a vital role in regulating body temperature, digestion, joint health, and organ function. Proper dog hydration is one of the most effective ways to keep your dog cool and comfortable during hot weather.
In summer and during heatwaves, dogs lose fluids faster through panting and have limited ways to cool themselves. Puppies, senior dogs, short-nosed breeds, and dogs with medical conditions are at higher risk of overheating and dehydration, making keeping dogs cool in summer a priority for all guardians.
Practical Ways to Support Hydration & Keep Dogs Cool
1. Make Water Easy and Appealing
Supporting the best hydration for dogs starts with access. Offer multiple water bowls, refresh them often, and add ice on hot days to encourage drinking.
2. Use Enrichment to Boost Fluid Intake
Lick mats, frozen enrichment toys, and puzzle feeders can increase hydration while also promoting calm behaviour. These are excellent tools for keeping dogs cool in summer, especially when outdoor exercise needs to be reduced.
3. Support Hydration on Walks and Adventures
Always carry water and a portable bowl or a portable water bottle/bowl when out. Offer small drinks regularly — not just when your dog appears thirsty — to help prevent dehydration in dogs during hot weather.
Hydration During Heatwaves
Heatwaves ask more of our dogs. With higher temperatures and increased panting, dehydration can happen quickly if hydration isn’t actively supported. Offering extra fluids, cooling enrichment, and opportunities to rest during extreme heat helps your dog cope more comfortably with challenging conditions.
With a heatwave forecast this week, hydration becomes even more important than usual. Small, proactive choices — like refreshing water bowls, portable water on walks when you’re out early, and cooling enrichment activities — can make a meaningful difference in keeping your dog cool, comfortable, and safe through the hottest days.
To make it easier, check out our hydration essentials for your dog, from collapsible water bowls/water bottles to lickimats and cooling enrichment toys — everything you need to help your dog stay hydrated and happy during this heatwave.
