Beat the Freeze: How Hydration Fuels Year-Round Health

Sitting here on a cold January day in Maine, I’m prompted to tackle a topic typically reserved for the warmer months. Each spring and summer, I revisit the critical discussions around heat stroke and hydration. However, this winter, I’ve found a new reason to scrutinize hydration a bit more closely—even during the colder months.

After my dog, Knoxx, encountered some health issues this past October, his water intake has become a daily focus for me. Monitoring his hydration has become routine, revealing that, left to his own devices, he doesn’t drink enough. To combat this, I’ve started enhancing his water with enticing flavors throughout the day to ensure he stays well-hydrated regardless of his activity level.

Interestingly, as I've improved Knoxx's hydration, I’ve noticed a significant decrease in lameness due to arthritis. I don’t know if it’s directly related, but these observations have led me to further explore and ponder over the connections between water intake, dehydration, inflammation, and winter exercise.

The Hidden Risks of Winter Dehydration

Did you know that exercising in cold weather can actually increase the risk of dehydration? The cold impairs our body's thirst response, and layered clothing might lead to overheating more than we realize. After a winter run, I’m often surprised to find my clothes soaked in sweat, which I only discover once I’m peeling off the layers back home.

Most of us are acutely aware of hydration during hot weather, but it’s just as crucial when it’s cold. Regardless of the temperature outside, ensuring our dogs—and ourselves—are adequately hydrated can affect everything from joint health to brain health.

Hydration's Year-Round Benefits

• Reduced Joint Pain: Staying hydrated helps maintain synovial fluid, keeping joints lubricated and less painful.
• Decreased Inflammation: Proper hydration aids in flushing toxins from the body, helping to combat inflammation. What we eat can help reduce inflammation, but drinking plenty of water can help keep inflammation at bay too!
• Regulated Body Temperature: Whether it’s to cool off in hot weather or stay warm in cold weather, hydration is essential for regulating body temperature. If a dog is dehydrated, even just slightly dehydrated, their ability to maintain proper body temperature can be compromised.

 Staying well hydrated plays a vital role in keeping our dogs happy and healthy. From puppies to senior dogs, it’s an important topic that should always be on our mind. 

As the temperatures drop this evening with a windchill of -2F, Knoxx and I are enjoying a cozy day indoors. He’s been resting most of the day, but hydration remains a priority.

As soon as I finish writing this, I'll be preparing what I like to call Knoxx’s "yogurt float.” It’s a simple trick of stirring a spoonful of yogurt into his water bowl. It’s amazing how this little enhancement can significantly increase his water intake.

If you struggle to get your dog to drink enough water, try adding something tasty to their water. It could be a game-changer!

Parting Thoughts

Hydration is not just a seasonal concern nor is it only critical for active sport or working dogs. It's a fundamental aspect of care for dogs of all ages and lifestyles. Whether it’s a hot summer day or a frigid winter evening, keeping our canine companions well-hydrated is a daily duty that can lead to a healthier, happier life.

I know a lot of people struggle to get their dogs to drink enough water. The trick is to find out what makes their water more enticing. Are there any tricks that you like to use to get your dog to drink more water?  I'd love to hear your tips and tricks for keeping your dog hydrated!

Passionate about fitness? Want to become a

Certified Canine Athlete Specialist (CCAS)?

Check our our online Elite K9 Athlete Program!

https://elitek9athlete.com/