Pet Digest

The Role of Water: Part 7 of Canine Nutrition Essentials Welcome to Part 7 of our comprehensive series on the 7 Essential Nutrients in Canine Nutrition . Today, we focus on water , the most fundamental nutrient for your dog’s survival, health, and wellbeing. Why Is Water Essential for Dogs? Water makes up approximately 60-70% of a dog’s body weight and is involved in every bodily function, including: Cellular functions: Transporting nutrients and oxygen to cells and removing waste. Thermoregulation: Helping maintain body temperature through panting and evaporation. Digestion: Assisting in breaking down food and facilitating nutrient absorption. Joint lubrication: Keeping joints flexible and reducing wear and tear. Blood circulation: Constituting a major part of blood plasma for efficient circulation. How Much Water Does Your Dog Need? Water needs vary depending on factors such as size, age, diet, activity, and environmental conditions. A com...

Keeping Dogs Hydrated: Creative & Healthy Ways to Boost Water Intake in the Heat When the temperatures climb, hydration becomes more than just important—it’s essential. Dogs don’t sweat the same way we do, so staying cool and hydrated relies heavily on panting and water intake. But some dogs don’t drink enough on their own, especially when they’re distracted, stressed, or simply not big drinkers. So how can we support our dogs’ hydration in a more natural (and sometimes tastier) way? 💧 Why Hydration Matters Water plays a vital role in nearly every function of a dog’s body—regulating temperature, aiding digestion, flushing toxins, and keeping organs healthy. Dehydration can set in quickly during summer heat and lead to lethargy, dry gums, thick saliva, and even serious conditions like heatstroke. Let’s explore both traditional and creative ways to increase your dog’s water intake on hot days. --- 💦 1. Always Offer Fresh, Cool Water This might seem obvious, but access to clean, coo...