As summer temperatures rise across the United Kingdom, dog owners are being urged to think beyond the water bowl when it comes to keeping their pets hydrated. A canine nutritionist has highlighted five everyday foods that can meaningfully contribute to a dog’s fluid intake during hot weather — while also warning against common summer snacks that can be harmful.

Alyssa Ralph, a Clinical Animal Behaviourist and Canine Nutritionist working with fresh dog food brand Years, says that moisture-rich foods can play an important supporting role alongside constant access to fresh drinking water, particularly during warmer spells when some dogs naturally reduce how much they eat and drink.

“People often think hydration starts and ends with topping up the water bowl, but many foods naturally contain high levels of moisture that can significantly contribute towards your dog’s overall fluid intake,” Ralph said. “This is particularly helpful during hot weather, when some dogs naturally become less interested in eating large meals or drinking as much as we’d like. Offering moisture-rich foods alongside constant access to fresh water can help support hydration throughout the day.”

Dogs regulate their body temperature primarily through panting, which causes them to lose water at a faster rate than in cooler conditions. This makes adequate hydration especially critical during the summer months, and the UK’s increasingly warm summers — with heatwaves becoming more frequent in recent years — have raised awareness among pet owners about the risks of dehydration and heatstroke in dogs.

The Five Recommended Foods

Ralph’s top recommendation is seedless watermelon, which she notes is composed of roughly 90 per cent water. She advises owners to remove both the seeds and rind before offering it as an occasional treat. Cucumber is another high-water, low-calorie option; Ralph suggests serving chilled chunks on particularly warm days.

Strawberries, which contain water alongside fibre and vitamin C, also make the list, though Ralph cautions that they should be fed in moderation owing to their natural sugar content. Blueberries are similarly recommended for their combination of hydration and antioxidants, and their bite-sized nature makes them a practical summer snack as part of a balanced diet.

The fifth suggestion is fresh dog food itself. Unlike traditional dry kibble, which contains relatively little moisture, freshly prepared meals retain significantly higher water content and can therefore contribute to a dog’s daily fluid intake while still delivering complete, balanced nutrition.

What to Avoid

Ralph is equally clear about what owners should not offer their dogs during warm weather. She warns that grapes and corn on the cob should never be given to dogs — grapes are known to be toxic to dogs and can cause acute kidney failure, while corn cobs present a serious risk of intestinal blockage. Ice cream and ice lollies, which many owners might consider on hot days, should only be given in strict moderation, partly because many contain ingredients such as xylitol that are toxic to dogs, and partly due to their high sugar or dairy content.

“Owners often want to treat their dogs with whatever they’re eating in the garden, but some foods like grapes and corn on the cob should never be given to dogs,” Ralph said. “Instead, choose ingredients that are both safe and naturally high in water.”

Adjusting Routine in Hot Weather

Beyond diet, Ralph recommends a number of practical adjustments to help dogs cope during hot spells. She advises feeding smaller meals during the cooler parts of the day rather than one or two large portions, as reduced appetite is normal in warm conditions. Owners should carry fresh water on every walk, avoid exercising dogs during the hottest part of the day, and consider skipping walks altogether on particularly hot and humid days.

Signs of dehydration to watch for include excessive panting, lethargy, sticky gums and reduced energy levels. Owners who suspect their dog may be suffering from heatstroke — which can escalate rapidly — should seek veterinary advice immediately.

“Hydrating foods should never replace drinking water, but they can be a simple way to bolster your dog’s hydration during the summer,” Ralph said. “Small changes to both diet and routine can make a real difference when temperatures climb.”

Years is a fresh dog food brand that works alongside behaviourists and nutrition specialists to provide guidance on canine health and wellbeing at every stage of a dog’s life.