What Can Dogs Drink Other Than Water? – Top Dog Tips

As we know, dogs tend to eat or drink anything they see out there. So maybe you’re asking, what can dogs drink other than water?

It’s very important for dogs to say hydrated because of their high energy and especially when they’re sick. In some cases, dogs that are sick refuse to drink. You as the owner have to find another way to help your dogs drink water.

Preferably, dogs should just be drinking water. Although dogs can drink other liquids, water is the only fluid that is 100% safe for all dogs.

Picking the right food for dogs is crucial for their overall health. So what can dogs drink besides water and what are beverages we should avoid giving?

What else can dogs drink besides water?

As the dog owner, you have the responsibility to know any food or beverages that can harm your pups. We all want what’s best for our dogs, we want them delicious treats and drinks.

But some beverages can be unsafe or even toxic even in small amounts. So what can dogs drink other than water?

Coconut Water

One of the most popular water alternatives is coconut water. Dog owners use coconut water for its hydrating properties and other minerals, vitamins, and electrolytes present in the product.

Another great benefit from coconut water is it can also cure skin problems, improve fur, and even eliminate bad breath in dogs.

Nut Milk

Nut milk is a great alternative to milk for dogs. We all know that dairy milk doesn’t really suit our dogs because of its lactose content.

It is made from processed almonds, which are safe in moderation in pets. Milk that is made from soy or coconut has many health benefits for our pups.

Nut milk can help improve the dog’s immune system and stop bad breath. But before any of that, make sure that your dog is not allergic or any other ingredients present in the milk.

Vegetable Juice

Carrots, kale, celery, and spinach are a few of the most healthy dog foods. It is enriched with vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients.

These vegetables are also low in calories and that makes them a safe and healthy drink for dogs. However, remember to just give them small amounts and it is still best advised to stick with water.

Fruit Juice

When it comes to fruit juices, we have to pick fruits that are safe or dog friendly. Fresh apple or orange juice can be given as a treat every once in a while.

Just make sure to remove the seeds before putting them into the juicer. Don’t worry, the natural sugars from these fruits will not affect their stomach if given in small amounts.

Chicken Broth

Chicken broth for dogs is a great alternative that is veterinarian-approved. It contains collagen, which can help dogs that are suffering from arthritis to improve their joint health.

In making a homemade chicken broth, remember to remove the onions and garlic as these are bad for dogs. If you’re planning to buy, go for organic to avoid added salt and preservatives.

What Should Dogs Never Drink?

And now, the list below is the one that you have to avoid at all costs. If ever your dog accidentally drank any of these, monitor your dog and contact your vet for safety.

Alcohol

As much as we enjoy our occasional beer or wine gathering, we must keep these drinks away from our dogs. Alcohol is known toxic to dogs.

A dog’s body mass is much smaller than us which means it doesn’t take a lot of alcohol for them to get ‘drunk’. Even small amounts of alcohol can lead to vomiting, disorientation, high body temperature, and even seizures.

Caffeine

Tea, energy drinks, or any other beverage that has caffeine in it is a no-no for dogs. With the dog’s small size, any amount of caffeine can lead to poisoning.

Caffeine poisoning side effects include diarrhea, vomiting, excessive urination, restlessness, seizures, and even dehydration.

Chocolate

Chocolate is probably the most popular toxic food or beverage for dogs. It contains a chemical called Theobromine, and even caffeine.

Dogs cannot metabolize Theobromine or Caffeine as quickly as humans can. This is the main reason why we should be careful about certain chemicals that we give to our dogs.

Why is Water Important for Dogs?

Just like us humans, water is an essential need for dogs. It is necessary for dogs for their organs, muscles, and also help regulate their temperature.

One of the main importance of water is that it carries important nutrients to help with digestion. It also helps with lubricating joints, enhancing cognitive function, and protecting the brain and spinal cord.

Signs of Dehydration in Dogs

Dog dehydration can be caused by multiple things. From heatstroke, vomiting, diarrhea, fever, and insufficient fluid intake.

It is important for dogs to drink their water as they can easily lose fluids from their natural activities like panting, urinating, and defecating.

A few symptoms to look out for when it comes to dehydration in dogs are:

• Elasticity in dog’s skin
• Panting
• Dry nose
• Poor appetite

Frequently Asked Questions

How to Hydrate a Dog that won’t drink water?

Sometimes, our dogs tend to be stubborn, for instance, when they are sick or need to hydrate, that’s the time they won’t drink their water.

But remember that dogs need water not just when they are thirsty. Luckily for you, we have a few tricks to help your pups drink their much-needed water.

Quick tips to hydrate a dog:

• Try wet dog food
• Vet-Approved Flavored Water
• Try different bowls
• Change the location or position of the water bowl
• Contacting your vet

How much Water should a Dog drink?

A good rule of thumb is that a dog should drink at least 1 ounce of water every day for every pound they weigh. But keep in mind that active dogs, pregnant dogs, or dogs after labor should get more water.

Puppies tend to drink more water than adult dogs because their body is still developing and is more active than adults.

Can Dogs Drink Flavored Water?

Yes! Dogs can drink flavored water but only the ones that are for dogs and prescribed by your vet. Although clean water is still the best option.

Other flavored waters contain a high amount of sugars that can be bad for our dogs. You as the dog owner have the responsibility for the ingredients of these flavored drinks.

Consult with your dog to make sure you’ll get the best and healthiest beverage for your dogs.

What Can Dogs Drink Other Than Water Summary

As we know by now, water is essential for dogs. Water helps break down the food they eat and aids in the absorption of nutrients.

So what can dogs drink other than water? Well, there are now plenty of alternatives for this. Dogs can drink nut milk, coconut water, fruit and vegetable juice, and chicken broth.

As we analyze what can dogs drink besides water, we should also be careful about what they can’t have. A few examples of these are caffeine, alcohol, and chocolate. Remember to avoid these beverages as they can harm our dogs.

We have to be picky when it comes to not just food for dogs, but also on what beverage they’ll drink.

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