Transitioning from mother’s milk to solid food is one of the biggest milestones in a puppy’s life. Not only is eating from a bowl a different experience for her but so is drinking water. Puppies are often confused when given water for the first time. Staying hydrated is really important for your pet’s health. Just like humans, a dog is about 80% water.
Drinking water helps dissolve and carry substances throughout your dog’s body. Hydration helps with digestion, blood circulation, promotes a healthy coat, filters waste and adjusts body temperature. A dog can lose all of its fat and half of its protein and still live. A simple 10% loss of body water will cause a serious state of dehydration which can lead to health complications, affecting your pup’s kidneys and heart.
Needless to say that it’s important to make sure that your dog has access to clean water at all times, especially if she’s active. For instance, when hiking or playing frisbee on the beach, make sure to pack water! Dogs pant to cool themselves whereas humans sweat. So it’s not as obvious as it is for us. Make sure to watch your pooch for excessive panting. Most dogs will need to drink about an ounce of water for every pound of their weight on a daily basis. This amount should increase with more activity or warmer and dryer weather. They might also need more water if they are taking medication that dehydrates them.
A good rule of thumb is to keep a good-sized, sturdy bowl with twice the amount of water they need on a daily basis. And for the little ones, make sure to get a bowl that is too deep so they can reach. And remember to clean those bowls daily!
With water being an obvious solution to hydrating your pups, using water enhancers is highly recommended by veterinarians. Just like we are told to drink Gatorade when we are dehydrated. Spetacular water enhancers help refuel your dog, boost energy, promote positive mineral balance for healthy digestion while providing daily boosts of vitamins and electrolytes. Spetacular Pet Water Enhancer With Electrolytes is also a fun treat for your 4-footed friend with natural flavors and infused with aromas to encourage water consumption. Water with peanut butter flavor? Paw-fect! Yes, please!