Everybody loves a cool drink when it’s sweltering outside. There’s nothing like an ice-cold lemonade or even a glass of water with a few ice cubes. Some dogs feel the heat even more than we do because of their thick coats.
Is it safe to give them ice cubes, too? There are many misconceptions around this topic because usually, it’s perfectly fine. However, there are still a few safety concerns to understand.
In this guide, we’ll expose the myths and reveal the facts about ice cubes for dogs.
Ice Cubes Are Generally Safe for Dogs
Many owners think ice cubes are dangerous for dogs is because they believe they cause bloat. This is a myth because ice cubes don’t directly trigger this dangerous condition. There’s nothing wrong with giving an ice cube to a dog to lick or putting a few in their bowl. Our canine friends must stay hydrated on hot days. Cooling their water is a good way to encourage them to drink more, and it ultimately prevents heatstroke.
Nonetheless, it’s important to know how to prevent bloat. This condition most commonly occurs because an overheated dog drinks too quickly. They ingest too much air, and the gas fills their abdomen. Instead of giving an overheated pooch its full water bowl full of ice, offer it a single cube to lick. Gradually introduce them to water, so that there’s less chance of bloat or other health problems.
How to Safely Give Ice Cubes to Dogs
As noted, it’s generally safe to give ice cubes to dogs. They don’t cause the serious health issues that many people worry about. Nonetheless, there are a few ways that ice cubes can cause harm if we’re not careful. The first thing to be conscious of is the size of the ice cube. Avoid giving larger ice cubes to small dogs so they won’t be choking hazards. Bigger ice cubes can also break a dog’s teeth if they try to bite it. One easy way to get around this is to offer shaved ice.
Another issue is that some dogs have sensitive teeth or even dental disease. It could be painful for them to bite or lick ice. Usually, the owner will learn this quickly because their fur baby won’t show any interest in the ice. Ice cubes can help a dog that’s showing signs of heatstroke, but it’s important to provide them correctly.
For instance, if your dog is dehydrated, offer room-temperature water rather than ice-cold water. This prevents shocking their system and restores the body to its normal temperature.
Considerations if Your Dog Has Heatstroke
Dogs usually display clear symptoms when they overheat. They may drool excessively or even faint. Some might have stark red gums or even start vomiting. If you suspect that your dog has overheated, bring them to a shaded area. Then, try to reduce their body temperature by pouring cool water over them.
Owners can also soak towels or blankets in room-temperature water and cover the dog with them. They could give the dog an ice cube to lick but don’t give them a full bowl of water. The danger is that they will drink too quickly, increasing the risk of bloat.
If they show signs of recovery, you can gradually allow them to drink more. However, if the dog has already stopped panting and seems weak, this is extremely serious. Take them to a trusted veterinarian as a matter of urgency. Dog panting is the equivalent of human sweating and is crucial for their temperature regulation. A cold mist spray can also be a very effective way to cool a dog.
Overheating: Prevention Is Key
Nobody wants to deal with the stress and trauma of their dog suffering heatstroke. It’s a horrible experience for the pooch and their owner. That’s why prevention is so crucial. Keep your dog cool by bringing water and a bowl with you on long walks. There are many portable options available online and in pet stores that make this very convenient. Adding ice cubes can make their drink even more refreshing. Dogs enjoy them for the same reason as humans do.
Owners should always be conscious of their surroundings and the dog’s activity. Common sense is very important. Never leave a dog in a car with closed windows. Take care to monitor their rate of exertion. New environments can be very exciting, and they may use more energy than usual. It may be necessary to give them a timeout in the shade.
How Can I Make Ice Cubes Tastier?
One issue with ice cubes is that they’re not very exciting. Some dogs are very picky and may turn their noses up at them. There are a few ways to make ice cubes tastier. Owners can even provide alternative frozen treats. Try freezing some natural peanut butter for your pooch because this has more flavor. It’s an excellent source of magnesium and other essential minerals.
Avoid giving them peanut butter with xylitol because this is very toxic. You can also freeze some of the healthiest foods for dogs including berries, and fruit or vegetable slices like apples or carrots. Always remove the core and seeds from apples.
Frozen chicken or beef stock is another excellent treat. Dogs love these meat popsicles and will lap them up. Remember to choose low-sodium versions because it’s healthier for them. Consider buying an ice mold, especially for this purpose. Experiment with different flavors because every dog has different tastes. Remember that it’s always better to give dogs treats in moderation!
