The Hidden Hydration Problem Every Dog Owner Should Know
Picture this: It’s a hot summer day, and your dog just came inside from playing in the yard. They pant heavily, but do they actually drink enough water? Many dog owners don’t realize their pets are chronically underhydrated - until it’s too late.
Unlike cats, dogs usually drink when thirsty, but they don’t always drink enough. Dehydration in dogs can lead to heatstroke, kidney strain, and even organ failure (Case et al., 2011). The scary part? By the time your dog seems thirsty, they might already be dehydrated.
So, how can you tell if your dog is drinking enough? And what can you do to make sure they stay hydrated?
How Much Water Does Your Dog Need? (The Exact Formula)
A good rule of thumb: Dogs need 50–70 ml of water per kilogram of body weight per day(National Research Council, 2006). That means:
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A 5 kg Chihuahua → 250–350 ml/day
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A 25 kg Labrador → 1.25–1.75 litres/day
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A 40 kg German Shepherd → 2–2.8 litres/day
Active dogs, nursing mothers, and puppies need even more!
5 Warning Signs Your Dog Isn’t Drinking Enough
✔ Dry nose & gums (should be moist, not sticky)
✔ Loss of skin elasticity (gently pinch their neck - slow snap-back = dehydration)
✔ Sunken eyes
✔ Dark yellow urine (healthy urine is pale straw-coloured)
✔ Lethargy or panting more than usual
5 Simple Ways to Get Your Dog to Drink More
1. Always Have Fresh Water Available
Sounds obvious, but stagnant water gets gross fast. Change it at least twice daily, and use stainless steel or ceramic bowls (plastic can harbour bacteria).
2. Add Water to Their Food
Soak kibble in warm water or mix it in with bone broth (no onions or garlic!). Even better? Switch to wet food, which is 70–80% water (Zoran, 2002).
3. Try a Pet Water Fountain
Some dogs prefer running water - it’s fresher and more appealing.
4. Offer Ice Cubes as Treats
Great for teething puppies or on hot days! You can even freeze low-sodium broth for extra flavour.
5. Carry Water on Walks
A collapsible travel bowl ensures your dog stays hydrated on adventures.
When to Worry: Signs of Severe Dehydration
If your dog shows vomiting, diarrhoea, weakness, or refuses water, see a vet immediately. Severe dehydration can be life-threatening.
Final Tip: Make Hydration Effortless
Dogs shouldn’t have to work for water. Keep bowls in multiple spots (especially near beds and food areas), clean them daily, and monitor intake.
References
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Case, L. P., et al. (2011). Canine and Feline Nutrition. Mosby.
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National Research Council. (2006). Nutrient Requirements of Dogs and Cats. National Academies Press.
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Zoran, D. L. (2002). The carnivore connection to nutrition in dogs. Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association, 221(11), 1559-1567.