Add water to your dog's kibble

Adding water to dry dog food (kibble) can be beneficial for a dog's health. I do it for my own dogs and I highly recommend it to my Belle Vista Schnauzer families. Adding water aids in hydration, digestion, and tends to lessen choking hazards as well as making it more palatable for your dog.

Key Benefits:

Improves Hydration: Water can help dogs stay adequately hydrated. Most sources say that a dog should drink a minimum of 1 ounce of water per pound of their body weight. The average Schnauzer is going to be approximately 16 pounds so if they are receiving 8 ounces of water throughout the day in their kibble, they are receiving half that way and should easily be able to take in the other 8 ounces from their water bowl.

Eases Digestion: Moistening kibble can make it easier to chew and digest, which is helpful for puppies, older dogs, or those with dental issues.

Enhances The Flavor: Water can release the flavors and aromas in kibble, making it more appealing to picky eaters.

Weight Management: Adding watter can help dogs feel more full, reducing calorie intake.

Reduce Choking: Softened food is less likely to catch in the throat and causing a choking incident for your dog.

Some things to consider when adding water:

Water Temperature: Warm water can soften the kibble and enhance flavors better than cold/room temp water. However extremely hot water can cause food to spoil faster or degrade the quality.

Water Amount: Start with a 1:1 ratio of water to kibble and adjust based on your dog's preference and the type of kibble. If their ration is 1/2 cup, add a minimum of 1/2 cup of water.

Let It Soak: Especially with our Schnauzer beards, you will appreciate letting the food soak for at least 30 minutes. Otherwise kibble water will most likely be flung in multiple directions as well as wiped all over your floor and furniture, pant legs, etc.

Dental Health: Many sources claim that hard kibble is better for our dog's teeth because the crunch factor helps to keep them clean. However, in my experience, very few dogs take the time to chew. They are gulping the kibble down whole, so that negates the benefit and increases the choking hazard I discussed earlier. For dental health, focus on actual chews such as Yak Chews, Bully Sticks, etc. along with a minimum weekly brushing and annual Veterinary cleaning.