Summer’s here and we need to stay cool and calm as well as our beloved dogs. What we eat in the heat greatly affects our overall health.

Now some pet parents may ask, why do we need to alter our dog’s meals? The answer: a dog’s metabolism drops in the summer. 

Here’s What We Can Do

1. Summer foods help your dog stay hydrated by retaining moisture.

1. Fruits (Remove seeds):
   • Watermelon: A typical summer fruit, watermelon is over 90% water, making it ideal for hydration.
   • Cantaloupe, like watermelon, contains a lot of moisture and has a pleasant sweetness to it.
2. Vegetables
   • Cucumber is a low-calorie, low-sugar alternative that gives critical vitamins and minerals with a crisp crunch.
   • Bottle gourd (lauki): Bottle gourd, which is popular in Indian cuisine, is another good source of water and fiber, making it ideal for hot days.
   • Pumpkin (cooked and without spices): Dogs can eat this fall favourite all year long. Cooked pumpkin is high in vitamins and fiber, and it helps with digestion.
3. Coconut Water (diluted): While electrolyte-rich coconut water can be a delicious treat on occasion, it should always be diluted with water to avoid intestinal problems.
4. Buttermilk (plain): A common staple in many Indian households, simple buttermilk can be a relaxing and hydrating drink for dogs when used in moderation.
5. Curd or yoghurt (simple, unsweetened): Plain yoghurt is a wonderful source of calcium and protein, making it a nutritious treat for dogs on occasion.

2. Smaller meals, more frequency: smaller amounts of food can be easy to eat and more frequency can ensure sustenance.
3. Don’t force your dog to eat. They may not eat due to peak heat.
4. Keep your dog hydrated at all times. Ice cubes to the rescue. Add ice cubes to their water bowl to keep it chilled for longer. You can freeze bone broth or soup as ice cubes and give them as treats.

Don’t Feed These Foods in The Summer:

1. Rich, fatty foods are more difficult to digest and might induce stomach upset, especially in the heat.
2. Foods that increase body heat – mango, spicy foods, egg yolk and high protein food.

What We Need to Remember:

1. Always Consult Your Vet: Before making any nutritional modifications, talk to your veterinarian. They can provide precise recommendations based on your dog’s breed, age, and activity level.
2. Introduce Gradually: Do not abruptly switch your dog’s food. To prevent gastric discomfort, gradually introduce new summer options following the 75/25 principle.
3. Monitor Weight: Keep an eye on your dog’s weight over the summer. Reduced exercise levels combined with a change in diet may require minor portion modifications.

It’s crucial to take more care of our dogs during the peak heat but with the right hydration, they can stay healthy and active. Stay tuned! In our next blog post, we’ll talk about whether dogs can eat peanuts or not.