Homemade Hydration Support for Dogs
A Simple DIY Electrolyte Recipe for Dog Hydration and Wellness
By Melissa | Animal Intuitive, Energy Healer & Holistic Pet Health Coach
The air was thick with the scent of basil and rosemary as Cooper padded behind me in the garden. He sniffed at the pots while I clipped a few sprigs for a tincture. The shade from the oak tree gave us both a break from the blazing sun, and I promised him a hydrating drink once we went inside.
Days like this remind me how small comforts can make a big difference and for our dogs, that includes a little extra hydration when they need it most.
For the Sensitive Pup: Gentle Hydration Support
Some dogs are just… more delicate.
They’re the ones with mystery itches, unpredictable tummies, and that look in their eyes like they’re picking up on energy shifts before you’ve even noticed them yourself.
They’re the sensitives and if you’re lucky enough to love one, you know they often need a little extra care. Sometimes that means tuning into their emotional landscape. Sometimes it means simplifying their diet. And sometimes it means making a simple, nourishing recipe right in your own kitchen.
Electrolyte Elixir for Dogs
A clean, hydrating boost for sensitive dogs especially those recovering from illness, diarrhea, overheating, travel stress, or simply a big day. It’s quick to make, safe for most dogs, and something I like to keep ready in the fridge during hot weather or times of stress.
Ingredients
1 cup filtered water
1/8 tsp Himalayan pink salt (or sea salt – no table salt!)
1/4 tsp pure maple syrup (no additives) OR a tiny drop of local honey
Optional:
Pinch of powdered slippery elm (soothing for tummies)
1 tsp bone broth (only if tolerated)
A few blueberries for natural flavor and antioxidants
Instructions
Stir all ingredients together in a glass jar or small bowl.
Offer 1–2 tablespoons at a time, either on its own or mixed into food.
Store in the fridge for up to 3 days.
🔹 For small dogs: use smaller portions (1 tsp–1 tbsp)
🔸 For larger dogs: scale up or offer more as tolerated
When to Use This Recipe
Mild Dehydration: After exercise, on hot days, or if your dog has had mild diarrhea or vomiting.
General Hydration Support: For dogs who need a little encouragement to drink more water.
Digestive Upset: The slippery elm and bone broth can help soothe the gut.
How to Use It
Offer in Small Amounts: 1–2 tablespoons added to a bowl of water is a perfect serving size, especially for smaller dogs or those with sensitive stomachs. I like to offer one bowl with the mix and one with plain water so they can choose.
Mix into Food: This can be a great way to encourage hydration if your dog isn’t drinking enough water on its own.
Storage: Keeping it in the fridge for up to 3 days is fine, but always check for any signs of spoilage before serving.
Why This Works
Electrolytes (like sodium and trace minerals) help your dog’s body absorb water more efficiently especially after heat, stress, vomiting, or diarrhea. Unlike most human electrolyte drinks (which are full of dyes, sugars, and additives), this version is clean, gentle, and easy to customize.
Slippery elm soothes the gut. Maple syrup provides gentle glucose to aid absorption. Bone broth adds nutrients and flavor but only if your dog tolerates it well.
For Dogs with Special Diets
If your pup is on an elimination diet, keep this simple: water, salt, maple syrup. That’s it.
Sometimes less is more. The right thing, at the right time, makes all the difference. If you’re unsure or want guidance for your dog’s specific needs, reach out to me or your holistic vet.
Some dogs don’t need a lot they just need the right thing, in the right moment.
Prefer a Ready-Made Option?
If you’d rather buy than mix, I recommend the dog-safe electrolytes from BEAM Minerals. They’re clean, thoughtfully formulated, and a great backup to keep on hand for travel, recovery, or hot days.
You can find their products here. I use their products for myself and all my animals. I genuinely trust them.
A Moment of Care
Making this drink is more than a task it’s an opportunity to slow down and offer support. Notice the simple act of preparing something with your dog’s wellbeing in mind. When you serve it, watch their response, the curiosity, the trust, the connection.
Sometimes, that quiet moment together is just as healing as the recipe itself.
Thank you so much for reading this post ! Please let me know what you think about the post.
My name is Melissa, and I’m an animal communicator, energy healer, and holistic pet health coach. I weave together a variety of gentle, natural modalities to support animals and their humans including Reiki, EFT/Tapping, chakra balancing, muscle testing, tuning fork fascia release, canine herbalism, and both feline and canine nutrition. I'm also currently studying clinical animal iridology to further expand the holistic lens I bring to this work.
I live on a little farm sanctuary where I'm happily outnumbered by animals—seven dogs, three cats, and a mix of other furry, feathered, and hooved friends who keep life interesting. My approach is heart-centered and intuitive, combining ancient practices and modern knowledge to help bring balance, comfort, and clarity to our four-legged companions.
Thank you for taking the time to explore ways to enhance the quality of life for your furry companions. I hope my tips and recommendations prove invaluable to both you and your beloved pets. For more information and to discover how I can assist you further, please visit my website at calmingcreek.com.
I'd love to hear from you! Whether you have stories to share or questions to ask, don't hesitate to join the conversation in the comments section below.
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Disclaimer: The information shared in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. I am not a veterinarian, and my services are intended as a complementary practice to support your pet’s overall well-being. They are not a substitute for professional veterinary care, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your veterinarian regarding any medical concerns, conditions, or treatments your pet may require.
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