Evaluating canine hydration through physiological markers of hydration status, drinking behavior and hydration strategy

This project focuses on understanding how hydration status affects the health and wellbeing of dogs, a topic that has long been overlooked. Dehydration in dogs can lead to serious health issues, but the specific water intake requirements for dogs are still unclear. The project will explore key areas such as identifying reliable markers to measure hydration, examining how a dog’s behavior relates to water intake, and testing products designed to promote hydration to see how they improve dog hydration status. By doing so, the research aims to work with the partner organization to develop hydration focused products for dogs. The findings will support product innovation and regulatory compliance in the growing Canadian pet nutrition industry. The intern will be involved with data collection, analysis, and evaluation, working closely with the academic supervisor and partner organization to bridge the gap between academic research and industry application.

Faculty Supervisor:

Anna Kate Shoveller

Student:

Partner:

BARKON

Discipline:

Life Sciences

Sector:

Manufacturing

University:

University of Guelph

Program: