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1. Keep the Water Bowl Full
2. Add Water to Kibble
3. Offer Bone Broth
4. Incorporate Fresh Fruits and Vegetables
5. Switch to Wet or Raw Food
6. Monitor Water Intake
7. Consult Your Veterinarian

Hydration for Your Pup: Why Moisture in Dog Food is Essential
Here’s a quick challenge: What’s one thing that both humans and dogs can’t live without?

If your answer is water, you’re right on target! Go ahead and treat yourself to a cool glass of it—you’ve earned it.
But here’s a thought: Are you as diligent about your dog’s hydration as you are about your own?
While it’s great that you keep their water bowl full, if their diet mainly consists of dry kibble, they might not be getting enough hydration. Let’s delve into why moisture is a key ingredient in dog food and how you can ensure your pup is well-hydrated.

The Importance of Water for Dogs
Water is crucial for dogs’ health. It aids in blood circulation, heart function, digestion, waste elimination, and temperature regulation. Without enough water, a dog’s body will start to use water from essential organs, which can lead to health problems over time.
Determining Your Dog’s Water Needs

Dogs’ water needs vary based on their breed, size, and activity level, ranging from 200ml to 3 liters per day. While they usually drink from their water bowl, dogs eating mostly dry food might need more water than they drink to make up for the lack of moisture in their diet.
In the wild, a dog’s diet would naturally include meat, organs, bones, and vegetables, which contain about 70% water. In contrast, dry dog food generally contains only about 10% water, sometimes as low as 6%. That’s quite a difference!
Increasing Your Dog’s Moisture Intake

Fortunately, there are several easy ways to ensure your dog gets enough moisture:
Add water to their kibble: This helps compensate for the low moisture content in dry food.
Offer bone broth or dog-friendly beverages: These are tasty and hydrating.
Incorporate fresh fruits and vegetables: These foods naturally have higher water content.
Switching from dry to wet or raw dog food is another excellent option. These types of food have a higher moisture content, more closely resembling what dogs would eat in the wild.

Advantages of a Moisture-Rich Diet

Better Hydration
Wet foods help keep dogs well-hydrated. Irene Gunawan, Director of R&D at Open Farm, says, “Adequate hydration supports essential bodily functions, including digestion, circulation, and temperature regulation.”

Improved Digestion
“Dogs on diets that include wet or moist food tend to have better digestion,” notes Gunawan. The extra moisture helps soften the food, reducing the risk of constipation and bloating and promoting a healthy digestive system.

Enhanced Taste
Wet foods often have a richer flavor and aroma, which can be more appealing to picky eaters. Gunawan highlights, “This can encourage even the fussiest eaters to enjoy their meals, ensuring they get the nutrients they need.”

Weight Control
Wet foods are typically lower in calorie density than dry kibble, helping dogs feel full and satisfied without overeating. “This can aid in managing your dog’s weight effectively,” adds Gunawan.

Urinary Health Support
For dogs prone to urinary issues, increasing moisture intake from wet foods can be particularly beneficial. It helps dilute urine, reducing the risk of urinary tract infections and the formation of urinary crystals or stones.

Simple Tips to Boost Your Dog’s Moisture Intake
An easy way to increase your dog’s water intake is by adjusting their food. If they’re eating only kibble, consider switching at least one meal a day to raw or wet food. Wet foods, like Open Farm’s Pâté range, can contain up to 78% moisture, making them a fantastic option for hydration.
By incorporating more moisture into your dog’s diet, you’re not just keeping them hydrated; you’re also promoting better digestion and overall health. So next time you fill their bowl, think about how you can make their diet more hydrating. Your pup will definitely thank you with happy, wagging tails!