Introduction
We all know dogs need water to survive, but did you know that a dog’s daily water intake depends on its size and activity level? An average dog drinks around 1-2 ounces of water per pound of body weight each day. For a 30 pound dog, that’s 30-60 ounces a day or nearly a gallon of water! Staying hydrated is crucial for canine health, from maintaining body temperature to aiding digestion.
But just because water is the most important beverage for dogs, that doesn’t mean it’s the only liquid they crave. Let’s explore some of the other tasty drinks dogs enjoy!
Water
Water is the most important liquid for dogs to consume. Water makes up between 70-80% of an adult dog’s body weight, and without adequate water intake, dogs can become dangerously dehydrated (Source). Water serves several crucial functions for dogs:
- It aids in digestion and nutrient absorption. Water helps break down food and allows nutrients to be properly absorbed into the bloodstream (Source).
- It regulates body temperature. Dogs pant and sweat through their paw pads to cool themselves, and both mechanisms require water.
- It lubricates joints and tissues. Water gives cells their shape and helps cushion joints.
- It flushes waste. Water carries waste through the kidneys and bladder to be excreted from the body.
Without adequate water intake, dogs are at risk for dehydration and organ damage. Providing fresh, clean water daily is the best way to support a dog’s health.
Milk
Milk is not recommended for adult dogs. Although milk is a common drink for humans and many puppies can tolerate it, adult dogs often have difficulty digesting lactose, the sugar found in milk (Akc.org, 2022). Lactose intolerance is common in dogs, just as it is in some humans. When dogs drink milk, the undigested lactose in their intestines may cause gas, bloating, and diarrhea. Even if a dog is not lactose intolerant, the high fat content of whole milk may lead to pancreatitis (DailyPaws.com, 2022).
While an occasional sip of milk is unlikely to harm a healthy adult dog, regular milk consumption or large quantities can cause digestive upset and may lead to unnecessary weight gain. Puppies can generally tolerate milk better since they produce the enzyme lactase which helps digest lactose. However, cow’s milk has higher fat and lactose content than the canine milk puppies are designed to digest, so it should still be fed in moderation (MasterClass.com, 2022).
Some dogs enjoy the taste of milk. For a lactose-free milk alternative, owners can try reduced-fat, unsweetened almond milk or coconut milk in small amounts. Ultimately, plain water remains the healthiest beverage choice for adult dogs on a daily basis.
Tea and Coffee
Tea and coffee contain caffeine, which is toxic to dogs. Caffeine is a stimulant that speeds up the nervous system and cardiovascular function. Dogs process caffeine much more slowly than humans do, so even small amounts can be dangerous. Consuming caffeine can cause vomiting, diarrhea, restlessness, seizures, and even death in dogs (source).
The effects of caffeine poisoning in dogs can include hyperactivity, rapid breathing, heart palpitations, muscle twitching, vomiting, diarrhea, seizures, and collapse. These symptoms may develop within 15-30 minutes after ingesting caffeine. The amount of caffeine that is toxic depends on the dog’s size. As little as 2.2 mg per pound of body weight can be fatal for dogs (source).
Even decaffeinated coffee and tea contain trace amounts of caffeine and are not recommended for dogs. It’s best to avoid giving any coffee or tea to dogs, as the risks outweigh any potential benefits.
Fruit Juices
Most fruit juices are safe for dogs to consume in small quantities. According to one source, fruit juices like apple, orange, and grapefruit provide important vitamins and minerals (https://dogtime.com/dog-health/dog-food-dog-nutrition/84049-can-dogs-drink-fruit-juices). Some juices are better for dogs than others. Apple, pineapple, watermelon, and coconut water are all good options. Certain juices like grape and raisin juice can be toxic to dogs and should be avoided.
In moderation, the natural sugars and nutrients in fruit juices can be healthy treats for dogs. It’s best to avoid artificial sweeteners. Opt for juices without added sugar. Dilute concentrated juices with water, and monitor your dog’s consumption. Too much can cause an upset stomach. Overall, fruit juices in moderation can provide hydration and supplemental nutrition for dogs.
Beer and Wine
Dogs should never be given beer, wine, or any other alcoholic beverages. Their bodies cannot properly process or metabolize alcohol like humans can. According to the AKC, alcohol is rapidly absorbed from the stomach and small intestine of dogs (source). Even small amounts can cause alcohol poisoning in dogs, which requires immediate veterinary treatment.
Some signs that a dog has ingested too much alcohol include vomiting, diarrhea, lack of coordination, restlessness, excessive urination, heavy or labored breathing, low body temperature, stupor, seizures, and coma. Alcohol poisoning in dogs can be fatal if not treated quickly. So it’s critical to get veterinary help right away if you suspect your dog has consumed alcoholic drinks.
Be especially careful around occasions where alcoholic drinks may be accessible to pets, like parties. Make sure to secure any open containers and promptly clean up any spills. It only takes a few licks for a dog to develop alcohol toxicity. Prevent access to things like beer, wine, and liquor to keep your dog safe.
Broth
Broth can be a nutritious treat for dogs in moderation. Broth is made by simmering bones, meat, and vegetables in water which extracts gelatin, minerals, and nutrients. This results in a flavorful, nutrient-dense liquid. Some key benefits of broth for dogs include:
According to Figo Pet Insurance, bone broth provides hydration and is a good source of protein, calcium, and glycine which supports joint health. The collagen in bone broth promotes healthy skin and coat. Bone broth is easily digestible, so it may help dogs with upset stomachs.
As noted in The Organic View, broth aids digestion and provides electrolytes for dogs who are dehydrated or have diarrhea. The gelatin in broth also helps heal intestinal inflammation. Broth can stimulate appetite in dogs who have decreased appetite.
While broth has many benefits, it should only be given occasionally in small amounts. Too much broth can lead to weight gain or diarrhea. Talk to your veterinarian about appropriate portion sizes and frequency for providing broth treats.
Smoothies
Smoothies can be a great way to hydrate your dog and provide additional nutrients. However, it’s important to only use dog-safe ingredients. Some ingredients that are fine for humans can be toxic for dogs, like chocolate, raisins, grapes, onions, etc.
When making smoothies for dogs, focus on fruits and vegetables known to be safe for canine consumption, like strawberries, blueberries, bananas, pumpkin, carrots, and spinach. It’s best to avoid adding any sweeteners. Plain, unsweetened yogurt or kefir can provide probiotics.
Some simple, dog-friendly smoothie recipes to try include:
- A banana “milkshake” – blend banana, plain yogurt, and ice.
- A pumpkin pie smoothie – blend canned pumpkin, plain yogurt, peanut butter, and ice.
- A berry boost – blend strawberries, blueberries, spinach, banana, and water.
When giving your dog smoothies, serve small portions and watch for signs of an upset stomach. Introduce new ingredients slowly. Smoothies can be served as an occasional treat, but not a daily meal replacement.
Other Beverages
In addition to the more common beverages that dogs can consume, there are some other drinks that dogs can have in moderation. One example is coconut water. Coconut water contains electrolytes like potassium that can help replace salts lost through panting and exercise. It also provides hydration. However, coconut water does have natural sugars so it should only be given occasionally and in small amounts to avoid weight gain.
Other beverages like oat milk and nut milks can also be suitable for dogs to drink if they do not have an allergy or sensitivity. These plant-based milks provide hydration and nutrients. But again, only small amounts should be given to avoid excess calories.
Dogs can even enjoy the occasional slushy treat made by freezing pet-safe broths or fruit juices in an ice cube tray. Just be mindful of ingredients and avoid overfeeding to prevent stomach upsets or obesity.
Conclusion
To summarize, water is the most important drink for dogs and is vital for their health and wellbeing. Water helps regulate body temperature, aids digestion, transports nutrients, and flushes toxins from the body. While plain water should make up the majority of a dog’s fluid intake, other beverages like milk, broth, juices, tea, coffee, beer, wine, and smoothies can occasionally be given in moderation. However, these should not replace water as the primary source of hydration. Dehydration in dogs can be dangerous and even life-threatening, so ensuring access to fresh, clean water at all times is essential. Proper hydration supports all aspects of canine health, so providing ample water daily is one of the best things dog owners can do for their pets.