Everybody knows the importance of keeping dogs cool and well hydrated in the warm weather. Dogs can suffer heatstroke in just minutes, and they should have their body temperature gradually lowered for the best chance of survival.
But when it comes to giving your dogs ice cubes to stop them from suffering in the warmth, many people have been left wondering whether it's actually a good idea or not.
Some owners have been sharing that they give their dogs ice cubes in the summer months to help cool them down - but their recommendations have been met with speculation from vet professionals, with some suggesting that giving dogs ice on hot days can actually make them bloated, which is a big risk for larger dogs.
But sometimes, an iced treat can go a long way for pups, the Mirror reports.
"The RSPCA advises freezing a dog's water bowl or kong before putting water or fresh treats inside (to help keep them cool for longer).
"We also advise putting ice cubes into your pet's water or making frozen treats to help cool them down," a spokesperson for the animal rescue charity said.
However, some vets have stated ice could potentially cause tooth damage for dogs, so it's a good idea to keep a keen eye on them whilst they chow down.
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Dr Susan C Nelson, a clinical professor at the Veterinary Health Center at Kansas State University said to PetMD: "The larger and harder the cube, the higher the chance of this occurring", so it could be worth giving smaller cubes or even ice shavings.
