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Six Summer Drinks Safe for Dogs

  1. Mung Bean Soup
    Mung bean soup has heat-clearing and 暑气 – relieving (summer heat-relieving) effects, and is rich in vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients. On hot summer days, dogs often lose their appetite—serving them a bowl of unsweetened, unsalted mung bean soup is perfect for cooling them down. You can also let them eat a small amount of cooked mung beans.
  2. Stewed Pear and Duck Soup
    Both pears and duck meat help clear heat and reduce internal fire. Remove the core and skin of pears, stew them into a soup, and add cooked duck meat. This not only stimulates dogs’ appetite in summer but is also suitable for dogs with tear stains.
  3. Yogurt
    Dogs can drink yogurt, but check the ingredients first—avoid products containing xylitol. The probiotics in yogurt boost intestinal flora activity, aiding digestion and absorption. However, moderation is key. For dogs with poor summer appetites, a small serving of yogurt can quickly spark their hunger.
  4. Chrysanthemum Tea
    Brewed chrysanthemum tea helps clear heat, reduce fire, and stimulate dogs’ appetite. Make sure the tea is lightly brewed and never add sugar.
  5. Watermelon Rind Juice
    While watermelon juice is a popular human summer drink, its high sugar content makes it unsuitable for dogs. Instead, use watermelon rinds with a tiny bit of flesh to make juice. Don’t mistake this for mistreatment—watermelon rind, known in traditional Chinese medicine as “xigua cuiyi,” clears summer heat, promotes diuresis, and nourishes body fluids. Lazy owners can also let dogs chew on small pieces of rind; a little fresh watermelon flesh is safe too.
  6. Plain Water
    Plain water is the best 解暑 (heat-relieving) drink for dogs. Provide plenty of it in summer, allowing them to drink whenever they want—water helps regulate their body temperature and prevents dehydration. Adding 1-2 ice cubes to their bowl can encourage them to drink if they’re hesitant about room-temperature water, but avoid overdoing it, as excessive cold can cause issues. Note: Never give ice water to dogs right after exercise, as it may trigger stomach cramps. Ice should only be used when dogs are at rest, and in small amounts.

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