One moment, you’re taking a sip of your iced drink before setting it down. The next, your pup has snuck a sip of water (and a piece of ice). You’re likely familiar with the heart-dropping feeling that your pup has done something potentially harmful.
However, it’s difficult to keep all possible dangers away from your furry family members all the time. Especially when it comes to food and drink. Your dog may really like the feeling and taste of iced drinks and ice itself.
When it comes to ice cubes, here’s the scoop…
Can Ice Cubes Harm Dogs?
Colder liquid, especially in hot weather, can help cool your dog down. So it makes sense that adding ice cubes into your dog’s water bowl may actually help your dog. But, ice cubes are solid and can cause some potential dangers.
Choking Hazard
Ice cubes, just like any solid matter, can pose choking hazards for your dog. Ice cubes are larger than solid food pellets, and might get lodged in your dog’s throat. Since ice is so slippery, it can easily slip down your dog’s throat before they have a chance to chew it. It can be especially dangerous with smaller dogs.
Tooth Issues
Chewing on ice cubes can cause tooth breakage. Chewing on any hard substances can also wear out tooth enamel, leading to dental issues like gum disease and sensitivity. Young puppies and older dogs are more at risk of having tooth problems from chewing on hard substances. It’s recommended that you avoid giving ice cubes to senior dogs or puppies, especially pups that are teething.
To avoid potential problems with dogs chewing on ice cubes, crush up the ice into smaller or shaved pieces. Avoid giving to young puppies, senior dogs, or dogs with tooth problems. Also, remember that moderation is key, and only offer it to your dogs if they enjoy it.
Benefits of Dogs Eating Ice Cubes
While there are some potential risks of giving dogs ice cubes, there are also some benefits. This is especially true during summer months, when the risk of overheating is higher.
Cooling Off
Giving your dog cold liquids or ice cubes can help them cool down. It brings their body temperature down, which is important on hot summer days. Your dog doesn’t sweat (except through their paw pads), and can only cool down by panting.
Panting isn’t always efficient enough, and your dog is at risk of overheating on extreme summer days. Ice cubes and cool liquid are a swift, efficient way of helping dogs cool off quickly.
Hydration
If your dog enjoys chewing on ice, offering them ice cubes is a great way to keep them hydrated. Dogs don’t understand the importance of drinking plenty of water in hot weather, and they may not always drink enough to stay hydrated. Offering them water in the form of a treat is a way to make sure they get enough hydration.
Fun
Dogs like chewing on everything. It makes sense that they would also enjoy chewing on something that cools them off and makes them feel better. Giving your dog ice cubes can seem like a fun toy or treat. It can also keep them occupied for a long time.
Ice cubes can also seem like a special reward. They’re a great alternative to offer as a treat to dogs who may need to lose weight. Ice cubes have zero calories but contain a lot of fun and entertainment for your pup.
Other Possible Dangers of Dogs Eating Ice Cubes
Ice is safe enough for dogs to consume, and shouldn’t harm them as long as you keep moderation and choking hazards in mind. However, there are other things to consider when it comes to your pup and ice cubes.
Outside Ice
If your dog finds an ice cube outside on the ground, it might seem just as safe as any other ice cube. However, it might have been dropped from a drink that contains something toxic to your dog. Or, it might have been dropped on a place where chemicals or contaminants were spilled.
Whatever is on the ice will get into your dog’s system, and can be potentially harmful. So while the ice you feed your dog is safe, that doesn’t mean any ice is safe.
Ice and Digestion
If your dog drinks ice water (or any liquid) too fast and swallows air, it can lead to bloating and digestive issues. This isn’t due to the ice cubes or the cold liquid, but to the speed at which the dog drinks.
Bloat can be a life-threatening issue in dogs. Always offer plenty of liquids throughout the day, especially in summer months, so your dog doesn’t get too thirsty or dehydrated.
If Ice Cubes Are Safe, What About Ice Cream?
Many people might think that ice cream is much tastier than ice cubes, so if ice cubes are safe for your dog, why not make it even funner? After all, everyone loves ice cream!
Even though your dog might really prefer the taste of yummy ice cream, that doesn’t mean it’s safe. Many dogs are lactose intolerant, and ice cream is made of milk.
Also, ice cream contains additives and flavorings that may be harmful to your pup. Chocolate ice cream, for example, contains theobromine, which is toxic to dogs.Other flavors can be equally dangerous.
A few licks of ice cream here or there are normally ok, but always make sure the additives and flavors are non-toxic. If your dog loves the taste of ice cream, there are special ice cream treats that are made just for dogs. You can also find homemade ice pop recipes for a fun summer reward for your pup.
Final Thoughts
As long as you take precautions and keep the potential hazards in mind, ice cubes are a great summer treat for your pup, and you, to enjoy together. They can help cool your dog down from the extreme heat of summer.
Ice cubes are also the perfect summer reward after a long day of chores or training. You can both sit back, relax under the breeze of a fan, and enjoy some cold iced drinks together!