Water is more important than protein, fat, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals when it comes to your healthy diet plan.
Throughout the day, your dog’s body will naturally lose water. They lose water as they pant and sweat through their paws. When they pee and poop, they also lose water.
A dog that loses too much water — just 10% to 15% of its body weight in water — might get ill and possibly die. As a result, the water they are losing must be refilled.
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How Much Water Is Enough?
A good rule of thumb is to give your dog at least 1 ounce of water for every pound they weigh on a daily basis. A 20-pound dog, on the other hand, need at least 20 ounces of water every day. That’s more than 2 cups, or about the same amount as several water or drink bottles.
Make a note of how high you fill your dog’s water bowl and how far the level has decreased the next day to help you keep track of how much water your dog drinks.
Keep Plenty of Water Available
Place the water bowl in a convenient place for your dog. Use a bowl that is designed to not tip over and spill because dogs can knock it over when drinking.
Clean the bowl at least once a day. Refill as needed to keep the water supply fresh.
Bring cool water for your dog to drink whenever you and your dog are playing outside, especially if it is hot. Add ice to your dog’s water bowl if he stays outside on hot days.
Some dogs enjoy drinking from the toilet bowl. But that isn’t a safe water supply! Close the toilet lid to keep your dog out.
Signs of Dehydration
Dehydration occurs when dogs do not consume enough water or lose too much water. Dehydration is common in older dogs, as well as dogs who are unwell, pregnant, or nursing.
Dehydration can cause the following symptoms:
- Little energy
- No interest in eating
- Sunken eyes
- Dry mouth
You can use these two ways to quickly check your dog for dehydration, too. If the response isn’t normal, it’s a sign of possible dehydration:
Raise the skin on your dog’s back between his shoulders. It should immediately sink back to its original position.
Gently press down on your dog’s gums until a bright spot appears. When you remove your finger, the usual color should return almost immediately. Gums should also be smooth and wet.
Take your dog to the vet straight away if you suspect he or she is dehydrated.
Prevent Diarrhea in Your Dog
Diarrhea can be caused by a variety of health issues, including bacterial, viral, and worm diseases. Severe vomiting and diarrhea are caused by a virus known as parvovirus. Diarrhea can also induce dehydration in your dog since he will lose more fluids.
Maintain the health of your dog. To help prevent these conditions, take the following steps:
- Get your dog vaccinated on a regular basis.
- Keep them away from food that has gone bad and garbage.
- Consult your veterinarian about parasite treatments.