Do Dogs Need to Drink More Water in the Summer?

With the arrival of warmer weather, dog owners must redouble their attention to their pets' hydration. Just like humans, dogs lose more fluids during the hotter months, and insufficient hydration can have serious health consequences.

How Do Dogs Regulate Temperature? 

Unlike people, dogs do not sweat significantly through their skin. Their main body cooling mechanism is panting—that rapid, shallow breathing with the tongue out that we all recognize. During this process, the dog evaporates large quantities of water through their tongue, mouth, and respiratory tracts.

This continuous effort on hot days results in a much higher fluid loss than normal, making water replenishment essential.

Signs of Dehydration to Look For

It is important to recognize warning signs before the situation worsens:

• Dry or sticky gums
• Sunken eyes
• Skin that takes time to return to place when lightly pulled (elasticity test)
• Lethargy or weakness
• Dark or scanty urine
• Excessive panting even at rest

If your dog shows these signs, offer water immediately and consult a vet if symptoms persist.

Tips for Ensuring Good Hydration

1. Always provide fresh, accessible water. Place several water bowls in different rooms of the house and outdoors. Change the water at least once a day to keep it fresh and clean.
2. Wash bowls regularly. On hot days, bacteria multiply faster. Wash bowls daily with hot water and detergent.
3. Carry water on walks. Never leave home without a water bottle and a portable bowl, especially on longer walks or during the hottest hours.
4. Avoid exercise during the hottest hours. Opt for walks early in the morning or late in the afternoon when temperatures are milder. Hot pavement can also burn your dog's paws.
5. Try ice cubes or slightly chilled water. Many dogs love to lick ice cubes, which is a fun and effective way to increase fluid intake.
6. Consider wet food. Wet food has a high water content (between 70% to 80%), which contributes to daily hydration. On very hot days, it can be a good complement to dry kibble.
7. Never leave your dog in the car. The temperature inside a parked car can reach fatal levels.

Heatstroke: An Emergency

Severe dehydration can lead to heatstroke (hyperthermia), an emergency that can be fatal if not treated promptly. Signs include extreme panting, excessive drooling, vomiting, disorientation, and collapse.

If you suspect heatstroke, cool the animal with lukewarm water (not ice-cold) and take them to the vet immediately.