As a dog owner, you must know how important it is to keep your furry friend safe, healthy, and happy throughout the year.

When it comes to the summer season, one of the most significant challenges that pet owners face is keeping their dogs cool and hydrated amid the scorching heat. While providing fresh and clean water and shade are vital factors, there are some foods that you can add to your dog’s diet to help them beat the heat. Here are some foods to keep your dog cool and comfortable in the summer season:.

Watermelon

Watermelon is a hydrating fruit that is packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that can benefit your dog’s health. This fruit contains over 90% water, making it an excellent choice to keep your dog hydrated on hot summer days.

Additionally, watermelon is low in calories and high in fiber, making it suitable for dogs that need to shed some pounds. You can serve watermelon to your dog in small quantities, preferably without the seeds and rind.

Cucumbers

Cucumbers are another water-rich food that can aid in keeping your dog refreshed and hydrated. Cucumbers are low in calories and are an excellent source of fiber, vitamin K, and potassium.

They are also rich in antioxidants that can promote a healthy immune system. You can cut cucumbers into small pieces and add them to your dog’s regular food as a snack or feed them separately.

Apples

Apples are a crunchy and refreshing food that can provide your dog with a boost of essential vitamins, fiber, and minerals. Apples are also low in fat and high in antioxidants, making them an excellent summer snack for your furry friend.

However, make sure to remove the seeds and core of the apple before giving it to your dog as these parts can be harmful to your dog’s health.

Broth-Ice Cubes

Broth-ice cubes are a great way to add some flavor and hydration to your dog’s water intake. You can make broth-ice cubes by boiling chicken or beef bones for a few hours and then freezing them in ice trays.

The frozen broth cubes can be added to your dog’s water bowl to provide them with an enjoyable and hydrating snack. You can also add some vegetables like carrots or celery to the broth for added flavor and nutrients.

Yogurt

Yogurt is a delicious and healthy food that can benefit your dog’s health in many ways. Yogurt contains probiotics that can promote a healthy digestive system and boost your dog’s immune system.

Additionally, yogurt is an excellent source of calcium, protein, and vitamins B and D. You can add some plain yogurt to your dog’s food or serve it as a frozen treat on hot summer days.

Salmon

Salmon is an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, protein, and other essential nutrients that can maintain your dog’s overall health. Feeding your dog with some fresh salmon can also help in keeping their skin and coat healthy and shiny.

Ensure that you cook the salmon thoroughly and remove all the bones before serving it to your dog. Additionally, only feed in moderation and ensure that your dog does not consume any salmon skin as it contains high levels of fat and calories.

Pumpkin

Pumpkin is an excellent source of fiber and nutrients that can aid in regulating your dog’s digestive system. Additionally, pumpkin contains a significant amount of water, making it an excellent food to keep your dog hydrated.

It also has low calories, making it perfect for overweight dogs. You can add some pumpkin puree to your dog’s food or serve it as a snack. Ensure to use plain pumpkin puree without any added sugars or spices.

Carrots

Carrots are a nutritious and hydrating food that can also help in keeping your dog’s teeth clean and healthy. Carrots are low in calories and high in fiber, making them an excellent snack for dogs that need to lose weight.

You can serve the carrots raw or cooked, but ensure to cut them into small pieces for easy digestion.

Sweet Potatoes

Sweet potatoes are a rich source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals that can benefit your dog’s immune system and overall health. They are also low in fat and high in water content, making them ideal for keeping your dog hydrated on hot summer days.

You can serve sweet potatoes to your dog as a snack or add them to their regular food. Ensure that you cook the sweet potatoes thoroughly before feeding them to your dog.

Peanut Butter

Peanut butter is a delicious and healthy food that can provide your dog with energy and essential nutrients. Peanut butter is an excellent source of protein, healthy fats, and vitamins B and E.

You can serve peanut butter to your dog as a treat or use it as a stuffing for their toys. However, ensure that you use natural peanut butter that does not contain added sugars or salt.

Signs of Dehydration

Dogs are susceptible to dehydration during hot weather or after vigorous activities. Dehydration can be life-threatening if not treated promptly.

As a pet owner, it is important to be aware of the signs of dehydration in your dog to prevent any severe consequences. Here are some of the common signs of dehydration in dogs:.

Dry Mouth and Gums

One of the most evident signs of dehydration in dogs is dry mouth and gums. You can check your dog’s mouth and gum for moisture regularly. If the mouth and gums feel dry, sticky, and pale, your dog might be dehydrated.

Additionally, if you pinch your dog’s skin and it does not snap back to its position immediately, your dog might be suffering from dehydration.

Excessive Panting

Excessive panting is another common sign of dehydration in dogs. During hot weather or after exercise, dogs pant to regulate their body temperature and release excess heat.

However, if your dog is panting heavily even when resting, it could be a sign of dehydration. Additionally, if your dog is breathing rapidly and shallowly, they could be dehydrated.

Loss of Appetite

Dehydration can also lead to loss of appetite in dogs. If your dog has not eaten or drunk anything for an extended period, they could suffer from dehydration.

Additionally, if your dog is vomiting or has diarrhea, they could also be losing water and essential nutrients, increasing the risk of dehydration.

Low Energy and Lethargy

When dogs are dehydrated, they often have low energy levels and feel lethargic. If your dog is less active than usual, seems weak, and is unwilling to play or exercise, they could be dehydrated.

Additionally, if your dog is sleeping more than usual and seems fatigued, they could be suffering from dehydration.

: Conclusion

Keeping your dog cool and hydrated during the hot summer months is essential for their health and wellbeing. Adding some of the foods mentioned above to your dog’s diet can aid in keeping them refreshed and comfortable.

Additionally, be aware of the signs of dehydration in your dog and provide them with fresh and clean water regularly. With proper care and attention, you can ensure that your furry friend remains healthy and happy throughout the year.