Yes, dogs can eat ice, but it is not the best option for thirsty or overheated dogs.
Ice is water in a frozen, solid state. It forms at or below zero degrees Celsius. It can be created at home through built-in ice makers, or bought from sellers that produce them in flake, tube, or plate form.
Most humans enjoy drinks served with ice, while some have the habit of eating frozen cubes. Though there are no toxic risks for your pet dog to follow suit, there are dangers to chomping on ice cubes. For one, his teeth may break because of the ice’s firmness. Plus, the process can cause wear and tear to his enamel. Depending on your dog’s size and the cube’s size, accidental choking may also occur.
How to feed ice to your dog: Eating ice should not harm your dog, but some sources state that it is not necessary. In fact, some dogs with existing issues may have difficulty chewing and swallowing ice cubes. These include canines with dental, neurologic, or severe upper airway diseases. But if giving ice to your pup is truly necessary, go with shaved ice, crushed ice pellets, or small-sized ice cubes to prevent accidents from happening.
Do not give ice to treat suspected heatstroke in dogs. Instead, let him drink cool water and wet his feet and belly with cool water. Symptoms of heatstroke may include thick saliva, excessive panting, and abnormally red gums. Similarly, sick dogs should not eat ice chips.
In summary: Your dog may enjoy chewing on ice cubes to cool down quickly, but it would be safer for him to drink cold water from a dish.
From meat and seafood to fruits and vegetables, browse our “can dogs eat” category to discover which human foods your pet dog can safely consume.
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