The last few weeks have been really warm. We walk early, or late, have lots of water action (beware of blue-green algae reports), and keep a very close eye on our babies.
As pet parents, we know that it’s essential to make sure that our canine companions stay well-hydrated. Just like humans, dogs are susceptible to dehydration, which can lead to serious health issues.
One of the ways we do this is by making hydrating and healthy dog treats! These are not only healthy and delicious, they help keep our pets cool in the heat of the summer, and can even give the brain a little workout!
But first… why is it so important?
The Importance of Proper Hydration for Dogs
Proper hydration is crucial for dogs to maintain their overall health and well-being. Water plays a vital role in various bodily functions, including:
- Regulating Body Temperature: Dogs can only sweat through their paw pads and rely on panting to cool down. Adequate hydration helps them regulate their body temperature effectively.
- Digestive Health: Water aids in the digestion and absorption of nutrients, ensuring that your dog gets the most out of their food.
- Joint Lubrication: Hydrated joints are essential for maintaining your dog’s mobility and preventing discomfort.
- Detoxification: Water helps flush out toxins from your dog’s body, supporting their liver and kidney functions.
- Skin and Coat Health: Well-hydrated dogs have healthier skin and shinier coats, reducing the risk of skin issues and shedding.
In the summer, the risk of dehydration increases due to higher temperatures and more outdoor activities. Signs of dehydration in dogs include:
- excessive panting
- dry nose and gums
- lethargy
- loss of appetite
- sunken eyes.
To prevent these issues, it’s important to ensure your dog has access to fresh water at all times. You can also beat the heat (and dehydration) with these hydrating and healthy dog treats…
DIY Hydrating and Healthy Dog Treats
One of the best ways to keep your dog hydrated and entertained during the summer is by offering frozen treats. These treats not only provide a refreshing break from the heat but also add an element of fun to their day.
Here’s how to make them:
1. Bone Broth + Green Veggies
- Pour 1-2 cups of bone broth (depending on the size/amount of your molds) into your tray, leaving some space at the top (Here’s our recipe for bone broth)
- Chop up some green veggies (broccoli, asparagus, green beans, spinach) and drop the pieces into the mould
- Freeze until solid, then transfer to a resealable container
2. Pumpkin Puree + Berries
- Stir together 1-2 cups of pure pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling) and 1/2 cup of berries (blueberries, raspberries, cut up strawberries)
- Spoon into moulds
- Freeze until solid, then transfer to a resealable container
3. Goat Milk + Bananas
- Pour 1-2 cups of goat milk (depending on the size/amount of your molds) into your tray, leaving some space at the top
- Cut up a banana or 2 into small pieces, and plop them into the milk, pushing them down if need be
- Freeze until solid, then transfer to a resealable container
4. Purred Watermelon + Apples
- Chop up 2 cups of watermelon and blend in the blender. You can add a little water if it feels thick.
- Pour into moulds, leaving a little space
- Chop up 1 apple and place the pieces into the puree, pushing them down if need be
These will all keep for a good few weeks. Feed in moderation, 1-2 a day.
**Note: some dogs are really good with ice cubes and will chew them. Others need a little more attention. For those “gulpers” perhaps choose different sized ice cube trays, with smaller sections that are not going to pose a risk if swallowed whole, or larger ones that they have to chew up.
Turn These into a Brain Game
Sometimes, on really hot days, when walking can be difficult (or downright discouraged), you want to try and engage your dog’s brain in other ways.
One of the ways we do this is with brain games. And these treats can actually be a really easy brain game!
Once frozen, take the ice cubes and put them in a large bowl of water. Then, let your pup “bob for treats”, if you will.
We even make simple ice cubes for this, just water and chopped up veggies – they have to fish them out of the bowl, then they lay down and chomp away to get the goodies inside!
There are lots of ways to beat the heat, and these hydrating and healthy dog treats can be just the thing to help keep your pup cool (and engage their brain) on a warm summer day. They’re easy and fun – try these recipes, or mix them up to suit your dog’s fancy. Have fun!
