Dog Hydration on the Go: What to Pack for Year-Round Walks, Hikes, and Travel with Your Pup

Want better ways to keep your dog hydrated on the go? Check out these dog hydration tips to help them drink more when you’re on the move!

Keeping your dog well-hydrated helps regulate their body temperature, supports joint and organ function, and prevents dangerous issues like heat exhaustion. When you’re traveling or exercising together, dog hydration is even more important. However, it can be challenging to make sure your dog drinks enough on the go. Here are some great tips for your adventures at any time of year!

Equipment That’ll Make On-the-Go Dog Hydration Easier

A few simple tools and tricks can make canine hydration a breeze when you’re out and about, whether you’re hiking, on the water, out in the back country, road tripping, or going on a journey:

• Portable or collapsible bowl: Easy to pack, and your dog can drink anywhere
• Saddlebag: A wearable pack for your dog that simplifies carrying extra water
• Pet water bottle: Holds water, and the lid doubles as a bowl

Tips to Encourage Water Consumption  

Even though dogs need water to survive, they can still be picky about how and when they drink. And then add stress from something like travel, extreme temperatures, or exercise and you can have a situation where there’s an increased risk of dehydration. Use these tips to help your pup drink enough when you’re out and about:

• Water additives or alternatives: Low-sodium broth, fruit juice, and liquid toppers can make drinking more appealing and supply additional nutrients.
• Bring their bowl: Something that smells and feels like home can make them feel more relaxed.
• Take regular breaks in shady spots: Stop every 20 to 30 minutes during exercise/summer activities or every two to three hours during a trip.
• Use positive reinforcement: When your dog takes a drink, let them know what a good pup they are.
• Keep it cool: Dogs typically prefer cool water to room temperature or ice water.
• Try ice: Some dogs love ice, and it can help to keep them hydrated if it’s feasible to bring a small cooler with you.

Watching for Signs of Dehydration

Dehydration can develop quickly during heat, travel, or exercise, even during the cooler months. Severe dehydration can become an emergency, so recognizing these signs early is essential:

• Heavy panting
• Dry or sticky gums
• Sunken eyes
• Lethargy
• Loss of skin elasticity

If your dog shows signs of dehydration, offer fresh water right away and move them to a cool, shaded area. If symptoms don’t improve quickly—or if your dog seems weak, lethargic, or refuses to drink—contact your veterinarian immediately.

Keep Your Pooch Hydrated with Come-pooch-a!

Come-pooch-a bone broth from NutriSource is a delicious, nutritious way to encourage dog hydration—while also giving a gut-healthy boost! This meaty, one-of-a-kind liquid topper contains prebiotics, probiotics, and postbiotics that support the gut and promote improved nutrient utilization while making every meal a treat. It can soften kibble or double as an on-the-go hydration booster, encouraging picky eaters and drinkers alike! And the convenient, sealable pouch makes it the ideal hydration companion for adventures and travel.

Visit NutriSource to learn more.

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