Australian summers can be tough on dogs especially those who love beach days, long walks, and outdoor adventures. The good news? Keeping your dog hydrated doesn’t have to be boring.
Here are fun, creative, and safe hydration ideas that dog parents actually use and dogs genuinely love.
How much water should a dog drink in hot weather?
A healthy dog generally needs around 50–60ml of water per kilogram of body weight per day. On hot days, after exercise, or following beach swims, that amount increases.
If your dog is more active or spends time outdoors, hydration should be offered more frequently, not just in larger amounts.
Can dogs have ice cubes?
Yes, most dogs can safely enjoy ice cubes, especially during warm weather.
Ice cubes can:
- Keep water cooler for longer
- Encourage reluctant drinkers
- Add a fun sensory element
Tip: If your dog gets overly excited, offer ice cubes in a bowl or as a slow-melting treat rather than letting them crunch large pieces.
Fun hydration ideas dogs actually enjoy
1. Frozen fruit water cubes
Dog-safe, hydrating fruits include:
- Watermelon (no seeds or rind)
- Blueberries
- Strawberries
- Apple (no seeds or core)
Add small fruit pieces to water, freeze into cubes, and drop one into your dog’s bowl for a refreshing treat.
2. Lick mats and slow feeders (frozen)
Freezing water, diluted bone broth, or fruit-infused water into a lick mat or slow feeder is one of the easiest ways to:
- Encourage slow hydration
- Keep dogs cool
- Reduce gulping
- Provide mental enrichment
This works especially well after walks, beach trips, or playtime.
3. DIY dog ice blocks or frozen treats
Yes and they’re easy to make.
Try freezing:
- Water + blueberries
- Water + apple slices
- Diluted dog-safe broth
Serve outdoors or on a mat for mess-free cooling.
4. Extra water bowls around the house
Dogs don’t always go looking for water when they’re hot.
Place extra bowls:
- Near sleeping spots
- By doors after walks
- In shaded outdoor areas
More access = more hydration.
5. Wet food or water toppers
Adding a splash of warm water to dry food can:
- Increase fluid intake
- Make meals more appealing
- Support hydration on hot days
You can also freeze soaked kibble into enrichment toys for a cooling mealtime option.
6. Cooling routines after outdoor adventures
After beach days or outdoor walks:
- Offer water immediately
- Allow rest in a shaded, cool space
- Dry your dog properly to help regulate body temperature
Dogs cool themselves differently to humans, so helping them transition from activity to rest is key.
7. Walk smarter, not longer
Best times:
- Early morning
- Late afternoon or evening
Avoid hot pavement and always bring water on longer walks.
Signs of dehydration in dogs
Knowing what to look for matters. Signs include:
- Excessive panting
- Dry gums
- Lethargy
- Sunken eyes
- Reduced appetite
If symptoms persist, contact your vet immediately.
Hydration is about more than just a water bowl. It’s about routine, creativity, and comfort.
By adding simple, fun hydration hacks into your dog’s day, from frozen treats to lick mats and shaded rest breaks you’re helping them stay cool, happy, and healthy all summer long. Because hydrated dogs enjoy summer just as much as we do 🐾💧