It’s easier than you might think for your dog to become dehydrated, and it can lead to more serious issues down the line. Providing enough water for your pet is also a form of pet dental care, as hydration leads to healthier teeth. Luckily, there are easy ways to prevent a parched pooch. Keep reading to learn how to keep your pet happy and well-hydrated. 

Why Hydration Is Important for Your Dog

Why Do Dogs Get Dehydrated?

Simply put, your dog will become dehydrated if they don’t have enough water in their system. Water is essential for life, and the right amount of hydration helps keep your dog in good health. Hydration keeps your dog’s digestive system, circulatory system, teeth, and other bodily functions running smoothly, and it’s an important aspect of pet dental care as well as general health care.  

What Are the Symptoms? 

There are various symptoms that show when a dog is dehydrated. A few symptoms include listlessness, sunken eyes, and loss of appetite. Another easy way to tell if they are dehydrated is to gently lift the skin on your dog’s neck or shoulder blades. If the skin quickly returns to its normal position, they are well-hydrated. If the skin takes a while to return to normal, this is a surefire sign your dog is dehydrated. 

How Can It Be Prevented? 

Have clean, fresh water easily available for your dog at all times. It’s also important to keep their water bowl clean because they may not drink water out of a dirty bowl. Another way to better your preventative pet dental care is to add bacteria-killing additives to their water, as this keeps their water and bowl clean and promotes oral health. It might be smart to get a weighted water bowl to keep them from knocking it over. Watch to make sure they are drinking at least one ounce of water per pound of their body weight. For optimal pet dental care, longevity, and wellness for your pup, monitor their water intake.
 

Want more advice on how to keep your pet hydrated, healthy, and happy? A knowledgeable vet can help you identify their needs, and at Harrogate Hospital For Animals in Harrogate, TN, they have a team of passionate, experienced veterinarians who offer services including internal medicine, pet dental care, surgeries, alternative medicine, and spaying/neutering. To give top-notch care to your pet, schedule your appointment and call (423) 869-3666 or visit their website to learn more.