Hydration is just as important for dogs as it is for humans, but that doesn’t mean your fur kid is stuck drinking plain water his whole life. There are many liquids dogs that are safe or even beneficial for dogs to drink. Here are 5 liquids you can offer your dog when you want to change things up.
1. Unsalted Broth
Plain broth is one of the best things your dog can drink. It’s packed with nutrients from whatever meat or vegetables were used to make it, and it tastes great too. Don’t give your dog store-bought broth if you can avoid it, though – most brands have a lot of added salt that isn’t good for your dog’s heart. Make it yourself or look for a carton that is specifically labeled “unsalted.”
2. Goat’sMilk
Most dogs are lactose-intolerant, so feeding them cow’s milk isn’t a good idea. Instead, offer your dog a few tablespoons of goat’s milk. Goat’s milk contains less lactose than cow’s milk and is less likely to upset your dog’s stomach. It’s high in calories, though, so keep your dog’s portions small and only offer it as an occasional treat.
3. Vegetable Juice
If you want to boost your dog’s vitamin intake, some fresh vegetable juice might be just what you’re looking for. Juice made from dog-friendly vegetables like beetroots, carrots, or spinach delivers plenty of nutrients and will taste great to your furry friend. For best results, avoid store-bought juices with added salt or sugar. Make your own fresh vegetable juice by squeezing or boiling the vegetables at home.
4, Coconut Water
Dogs with a sweet tooth might like a small serving of coconut water as a treat. This milky white liquid contains electrolytes like potassium and manganese that will help your dog stay hydrated in high temperatures or after lots of exercise. It also has just enough natural sugar to make it sweet without putting your dog’s health at risk.
5. Pedialyte
If your dog is ill, giving him some unflavoured Pedialyte might help him retain fluids and recover faster. Just like coconut water, Pedialyte contains electrolytes that aid in hydration. Giving your dog too much might make him feel worse, though, so be sure to check the dose with your vet before your dog starts drinking.
A Drink for Every Dog
No matter what kind of flavours your dog likes, there’s sure to be a drink out there that he’ll love. Try out the liquids on this list and see what he thinks. You might just discover he has a new favourite treat.
FAQs
While Gatorade may quench human thirst and replenish lost electrolytes, it's not a suitable beverage for dogs. Gatorade contains sugar and sodium that can make your pet sick if they have too much, so the risks of offering your dog Gatorade are greater than any benefits they might get from the boost of electrolytes.
Can dogs drink Gatorade? ›
While Gatorade may quench human thirst and replenish lost electrolytes, it's not a suitable beverage for dogs. Gatorade contains sugar and sodium that can make your pet sick if they have too much, so the risks of offering your dog Gatorade are greater than any benefits they might get from the boost of electrolytes.
What drinks can I drink other than water? ›
Drinks like fruit and vegetable juices, milk, and herbal teas can contribute to the amount of water you get each day. Even caffeinated drinks (for example, coffee, tea, and soda) can contribute to your daily water intake.
Can a dog drink milk instead of water? ›
A few tablespoons of cow's milk or goat's milk on an occasional basis can be a nice reward for your dog. But, you should probably hold off on offering your dog an entire bowl in one sitting, as it can cause unpleasant reactions, including diarrhea, vomiting, and loose stools.
Is Sprite good for a dog? ›
Dogs Shouldn't Drink Soda Due to the Caffeine Content
Although a little mid-day caffeine boost may help you get through your day, caffeine can be a big problem for your pup.
Can dogs drink Pedialyte? ›
“While Pedialyte in small amounts is likely not dangerous for dogs, the electrolytes in the drink are formulated for humans, not animals,” Dr. Mandese points out. “In larger amounts, the high concentration of additives, such as sodium and glucose, could potentially be dangerous, especially in smaller animals.”
What hydrates better than water? ›
While all beverages restored hydration status equally, the researchers found that milk may be more effective than water or sports drinks at maintaining normal hydration status after exercise, likely due to milk's electrolyte content and energy density.
Can dogs drink cranberry juice? ›
If the cranberry juice is 100% juice with no sugar added, then a little bit is okay for your dog. Too much will likely upset their stomach. Do not give your pup a cranberry juice mix or cranberry juice co*cktail. Those will most certainly have lots of sugar, which isn't good for your dog.
Can dogs have lemonade? ›
The simple answer is no. Lemon juice is just as acidic as lemons, and lemonade is just lemon juice plus sugar. Your dog doesn't need either in his system. “Sugar is going to contribute to potential weight gain in your dog and that can lead to other health issues,” says Dempsey.
Can dogs drink apple juice? ›
Dogs cannot drink apple juice as it contains large amounts of added sugar and acid that can lead to stomach upset, weight gain, and other health issues, even in small doses. Discover the health risks of apple juice and why apple slices are a safer choice for your pooch.
Plain broth is one of the best things your dog can drink. It's packed with nutrients from whatever meat or vegetables were used to make it, and it tastes great too. Don't give your dog store-bought broth if you can avoid it, though – most brands have a lot of added salt that isn't good for your dog's heart.
Can dogs drink ginger ale? ›
Can Dogs Have Ginger Ale? It's a similar story when it comes to ginger ale or beer. Not only is the carbonation unsuitable for a dog's digestive system, there's likely to be a lot of sugar in these drinks — bad news for teeth and waistlines. Again, harmful artificial ingredients, such as xylitol, might be present, too.
What liquid food can you give dogs? ›
Liquivite is a specially formulated liquid diet in the form of a creamy chicken soup. The liquid nature of this food makes it a suitable diet for dogs following an operation, during convalescence or for re-hydration and can be fed through a syringe if necessary.
What to give dogs for dehydration? ›
If you notice signs of dehydration in your dog, slowly give him water with electrolytes to drink. If he can't hold any water down, give him some ice to lick. If he stops drinking altogether, contact your veterinarian right away.
Can I give my dog Powerade? ›
A few sips of Powerade are perfectly safe for your dog, but water is the only fluid your dog needs to stay hydrated. It may help your dog somewhat to have a few sips of Powerade after a bout of diarrhea, but Pedialyte is probably a better choice.
What can you put in dog's water to make them drink? ›
Flavorful Ice Cubes
You can easily create these ice cubes by freezing low-sodium chicken or beef broth. As the ice cubes melt in their water bowl, they infuse the water with a tempting aroma and taste. This added flavor can pique your dog's interest and encourage them to drink more.
