It’s looking like we have a long, hot summer ahead of us. Not something we’re used to in the UK, and neither are our dogs. Just as we can get dehydrated when it’s warm, so can our dogs, but getting them to slurp down an extra pint of water is tricky. So what can you do to sneak some extra water in?
Here are our top tips for nutritional hydration during hot weather (or when your dog needs to increase their fluid intake).
1. Incorporate Moisture-Rich Foods In Your Dog’s Diet
Dry kibble contains less than 14% moisture, while canned food must contain more than 60% and is usually around the 70–80% mark. Switching to or mixing in high-moisture wet food options can significantly boost fluid intake without your dog even realising it (plus, it’s delicious). Just be careful not to increase calorie intake too much - wet foods typically are higher in fat.
Try:
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Canned or pouched wet food
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Gently cooked or raw diets with higher moisture content
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Add extra water to your dog's kibble.
2. Add Bone Broth to Your Dog’s Meals
Low-sodium bone broth is a nutrition powerhouse: it’s rich in water and electrolytes like sodium and potassium. It’s also highly palatable and dogs can’t resist it, so it’s great for encouraging dogs to eat and hydrate—even when their appetite dips in the heat.
Pro tip: Freeze broth into ice cube trays for a nutrient-rich summer snack.
3. Give Your Dog Hydration Supplements
There are canine-specific hydration powders available that contain electrolytes and nutrients designed for dogs, not humans. During hot weather, intense activity, or periods of dehydration, dogs lose electrolytes. Electrolytes are used throughout their body for many vital functions, including moving nutrients into their cells.
Giving your dog a specially formulated supplement can help maintain electrolyte balance during intense heat or exercise, especially for active breeds or working dogs. They may not be suitable for some dogs with sensitive tummies, though, so speak to your vet first.
Look for products that contain:
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Sodium & potassium: to support fluid balance
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Magnesium & calcium: for muscle function
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Taurine: supports heart health and hydration regulation
A fantastic option is Better Dog Hydration. Packed full of amazing extras like MCT oil, it is the perfect hydration supplement for all dogs — from pets to athletes.
Avoid: Human sports drinks—they often contain too much sugar, caffeine, or artificial sweeteners like xylitol, which is toxic to dogs.
4. Serve Hydrating Fruits & Veggies (Dog-Safe Only)
Many fruits and vegetables have high water content and are rich in natural electrolytes, fibre, and antioxidants. Dogs love them as a snack or with their dinner!
Best dog-friendly summer produce:
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Watermelon (no seeds or rind) – ~92% water
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Cucumber – ~95% water
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Blueberries – Hydrating and antioxidant-rich
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Courgettes – Light, hydrating, and gut-friendly
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Strawberries – Water, fibre, and vitamin C
Serve these chopped, frozen, or blended into a summer smoothie for your dog.
While fruits are a healthy summer snack, they still contain natural sugars. Too much fruit can cause digestive upset or spike blood sugar—especially in dogs with diabetes, obesity, or those on calorie-restricted diets. Limit fruit treats to no more than 10% of your dog’s daily intake and always introduce new items slowly.
5. Avoid Salty Snacks & High-Sodium Treats For Your Dog
Excessive sodium increases your dog’s need for water and can stress the kidneys, especially in older dogs.
Avoid giving your dog:
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Processed meats (like ham or bacon)
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Cheese-heavy treats
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Salty table scraps
Opt for low-sodium, nutrient-dense treats, especially in summer.
6. Time Your Dog’s Meal For Cooler Times
Dogs may eat less when it’s hot. Offer meals during the cooler parts of the day (morning and evening), and moisten meals with broth or water to encourage eating and improve hydration. You can also pick up some tips on keeping your dog cool here.
Being properly hydrated is vital to your pet’s health, but it’s hard to get them to drink enough when it’s hot. This can impact all of their systems, even their joints—especially if they are already stiff. So, it’s vital you keep them hydrated all summer. Which tip will you try first?
Thinking of taking your dog for a walk, but wondering if it’s too warm? Learn when it’s too hot to walk your dog this summer, and stay cool!
