Can Dogs Drink Gatorade & Is It Safe?

Hydration for dogs is just as important for you as it is for your dog. When we lose vital minerals during exercise no amount of water will be able to replenish what has been lost. Gatorade is known to replenish electrolytes and contains sodium and potassium which helps if you have lost fluids quickly over a short period of time.

The question remains can your dog drink Gatorade.The quick answer to this question is yes.

Gatorade for dogs can be given in small amounts. Here are some general symptoms your dog can display when they are dehydrated according to AKC. If your dog is exhibiting any of these symptoms, we highly advise you reach out to your vet. We aren’t a substitute for professional veterinarian help.

• Loss of skin elasticity
• Loss of appetite
• Vomiting with or without diarrhea
• Reduced Energy Levels and lethargy
• Panting
• Sunken, Dry looking eyes
• Dry Nose
• Dry Sticky Gums
• Thick Saliva

Gatorade can also be used after your dog loses fluids from their hind quarters. Since Gatorade contains sugar and sodium you will need to take caution when giving your dog Gatorade. There are also other alternatives like Pedialyte that has less sugar, but it isn’t always readily available. It should also be noted that while Pedialyte has less sugar but it has more sodium and potassium. Before you give anything to your dog talk with a vet first.

Instructions On How To Give Your Dog Gatorade

1. Introduce it slowly and you will want to dilute it with water.

This will help reduce the sugar and sodium content within the sports drink. This is easier than trying to give your dog a few small sips at a time. It should also be noted that when you are giving your dog water and they are dehydrated it can be hard for them to keep the water down. Have around a 50% mixture of both water and Gatorade and don’t fill up their dog bowl fully as this can upset their stomachs which can cause vomiting and diarrhea.

You can also freeze Gatorade for dogs and let it thaw out overtime in their water bowl.

2. Moderation is Key

Remember moderation is the most important aspect when you are giving them Gatorade. You shouldn’t give your dog a sports drink every day. This only should be done if you feel that your dog is getting dehydrated or has diarrhea. This applies to all sport drinks and isn’t solely for Gatorade.

3. Contact your vet

Before you give your dog anything new asking a vet is the quickest and most reliable source for information. If your dog was experiencing digestive issues while Gatorade can help in the short term it might be a long-term illness affecting your pooch. While we can’t diagnose that issue a vet can.