Can dogs have ice cubes?

Quick takeaways about dogs and ice

• It’s okay to give your dog an ice cube in the heat – but not if you think they might have heatstroke.
• Signs of heatstroke include excess panting or sickness.
• Dogs can also choke on ice cubes – keep a close eye or try ice shavings.

 

Did you know that dogs sweat a little bit through their paw pads, but they mainly cool off through panting? On extra hot days, though, they may need some extra help cooling off.

To most of us, there’s no better way to cool down on a hot day than an ice-cold drink. But can your dog have one too?

The short answer is yes, you can give your dog ice – as long as you keep a few things in mind.

 

Is ice good for dogs?

Ice can be a refreshing treat for dogs, especially in the heat. Adding a few ice cubes to their water bowl can help keep them both cool and hydrated.

There’s one big exception: heatstroke. It sounds counterintuitive, but you shouldn’t give your dog ice or ice-cold water if they’re suffering from heatstroke.

Eating ice or drinking ice-cold water can lead to shivering, building up more heat in the body.

These are the key signs of heatstroke:

• Excessive panting
• Pacing
• Drooling
• Reddened gums or tongue
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea

If this happens during a hot summer’s day, use room-temperature water to cool them off. Then sit them in front of a fan or in an air-conditioned space, and call your vet for more advice.

Remember: cool first, transport second.

 

Is there any risk of giving your dog an ice cube?

A surprising number of foods are poisonous for dogs, so you’re right to think twice about what you give them.

The main worry around ice cubes is choking. While it's rare, a dog can choke on an ice cube, especially if they're overly excited or tend to gulp down food and water.

Always keep an eye on your dog when they’re chewing on ice. If you’ve got a smaller dog, crushed ice may be a safer option.

You can also try freezing some yoghurt or meat stock on a licking mat for a chilly treat.

 

What are some other ways to cool down my dog in hot weather?

Here are some other tips to keep your pooch comfortable and safe in the heat:

 

1. Simulate the effect of sweat

Dogs don’t sweat like humans do, but you can create a similar effect by pouring or misting cool water on them and sitting them by a fan.

As the water evaporates, it’ll whisk heat away with it, just like sweat cools us down.

 

2. Drape them with a wet towel

Cover your dog in a wet, cool – not cold – towel, leaving it on until it’s dry.

 

3. Lay out a cooling mat

Invest in a cooling mat or pads for your pooch to lounge on.

 

4. Hunt down some aircon

Jump into a car or a building with air conditioning for some quick relief. Fans don’t cool down the air, but air con does, so your dog doesn’t need to be wet for this to work.

 

The bottom line

If you’re reading this, you’re probably used to thinking carefully about what goes in your dog’s bowl.

While a little bit of ice is a great way to keep your dog cool in the summer, always look out for signs of heat stroke and try other healthy frozen treats to help cool them down.

 
Try our personalised meal plans with high-quality raw ingredients to help keep your dog healthy and happy.