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Why Dogs Eat Less When It’s Hot and How to Keep Them Hydrated

Why Dogs Eat Less When It’s Hot & How to Keep Them Hydrated

Why Dogs Eat Less When It’s Hot & How to Keep Them Hydrated

As temperatures rise, you might notice your dog’s eating habits changing. Just like humans, dogs tend to eat less when it’s hot. Understanding why dogs eat less when it’s hot and how to keep them hydrated during warm weather is essential for their health and well-being.

Why Dogs Eat Less When It’s Hot & How to Keep Them Hydrated

1. Reduced Appetite: Heat can suppress appetite in dogs. This is a natural response as their bodies work harder to regulate their temperature. Eating generates metabolic heat, and by eating less, dogs can help themselves stay cooler.

2. Increased Panting: Dogs don’t sweat like humans. Instead, they regulate their temperature by panting. Panting more in the heat can make them feel less like eating and more like seeking water.

3. Less Activity: During hot weather, dogs are often less active. Reduced activity levels mean they burn fewer calories and therefore need less food.

Similarities to Human Eating Habits

Just as dogs eat less when it’s hot, humans often change their eating habits during warm weather too. We might opt for lighter meals and more refreshing foods, like salads and fruits, instead of heavy, hot dishes. Our activity levels might decrease as well, making us less hungry.

Keeping Your Dog Hydrated and Nourished

Ensuring your dog stays hydrated and gets the necessary nutrients during hot weather is crucial. One fantastic way to do this is by incorporating bone broth into their diet.

Bone Broth Benefits:

  • Hydration: Bone broth is an excellent source of hydration. It’s packed with water and can encourage dogs to drink more, ensuring they stay hydrated.

  • Nutrient-Rich: Bone broth contains essential nutrients like vitamins, minerals, and amino acids that support overall health.

  • Appetite Stimulation: The enticing smell and flavour of bone broth can help stimulate a dog’s appetite, encouraging them to eat even when they’re not feeling hungry.

Serving Suggestions:

  • Serve bone broth frozen, chilled or at room temperature as a refreshing treat.

  • Mix bone broth with their regular food to enhance flavour and add moisture.

  • Freeze bone broth into ice cubes for a cool, hydrating snack.

Other Tips to Keep Your Dog Comfortable When It’s Hot & How to Keep Them Hydrated

1. Provide Fresh Water: Ensure your dog has access to plenty of fresh, cool water at all times. Consider placing multiple water bowls around your home and outdoor area.

2. Offer Small, Frequent Meals: Instead of large meals, offer smaller portions more frequently. This can be easier for your dog to manage in the heat.

3. Choose Cooling Foods: Opt for foods with high moisture content, such as watermelon (without seeds), cucumber, and plain yogurt. These can help keep your dog cool and hydrated.

4. Create a Cool Environment: Ensure your dog has a cool place to rest. Use fans, air conditioning, or cooling mats to help them stay comfortable.

While it’s normal for dogs to eat less when it’s hot, ensuring they stay hydrated and receive the necessary nutrients is vital. Incorporating bone broth into their diet can be a great way to achieve this. By understanding and addressing your dog’s needs during warm weather, you can help them stay healthy, happy, and comfortable all summer long.

You can find some of our bone broth products here