How Much Water Should a Dog Drink Each Day?
Water is the most important nutrient, and dogs can get into trouble quickly without it. Knowing what is normal for your dog helps you spot problems early.
How much do dogs drink?
A common rule of thumb is about 50 to 60 millilitres per kilogram of body weight per day, or about one ounce per pound. A ten-kilogram dog might drink around half a litre to 600 millilitres. This includes water from food. Individual dogs vary, and the rule is only a guide.
What changes water needs?
- Diet. Dogs eating dry food drink more than those on wet food, which contains around seventy to eighty percent water. See dry vs wet dog food.
- Temperature and humidity. Hot weather increases needs.
- Activity. Active dogs lose water through panting. See feeding active and working dogs.
- Age. Puppies and nursing dogs need more per kilogram.
- Salt intake. Salty foods increase thirst. See salt poisoning.
- Health conditions and medications. Diabetes, kidney disease, Cushing's disease and some drugs increase thirst.
Signs of dehydration
- Dry, tacky gums
- Sunken eyes
- Lethargy and weakness
- Loss of appetite
- Skin that is slow to return when gently pinched
- Dry nose
- Panting
- Thick saliva
Severe dehydration is an emergency. Seek veterinary help right away.
Drinking too much
Excessive thirst, known as polydipsia, often goes along with increased urination. Causes include diabetes, kidney disease, liver disease, Cushing's disease, urinary infections and certain medications. See kidney disease in dogs. If your dog drinks noticeably more than usual for more than a day or two, see your vet. Measure how much your dog drinks over twenty-four hours to share with your vet.
Drinking too little
Some dogs drink little, especially those on wet food. But a sudden decrease can signal illness. Encourage drinking by:
- Providing several bowls in different places
- Keeping bowls clean and filled with fresh water
- Adding water to dry food
- Offering ice cubes or frozen treats
- Using a pet fountain, which some dogs prefer
- Offering low-sodium broth, without onion or garlic
Water quality and safety
- Wash bowls daily.
- Avoid stagnant water, ponds and puddles, which can carry parasites and bacteria.
- Beware of antifreeze, which is sweet and highly toxic. Clean spills immediately.
- Blue-green algae in lakes is dangerous.
Water on walks and in heat
Carry water on walks and offer it regularly, especially in hot weather. Know the signs of heatstroke, including heavy panting, drooling, vomiting, weakness and collapse. See travelling with a puppy by car for hot-car safety.
Water and mealtime
Free access to water is usually best. Some owners limit water around meals for dogs at risk of bloat, but only do so if your vet advises.
Puppies
Puppies need constant access to water, but may drink a lot and need to toilet often. See our puppy feeding schedule.
Measuring your dog's intake
If you are worried about drinking, fill a bowl with a measured amount of water in the morning, and measure what is left after twenty-four hours, allowing for spills. A resting dog drinking more than about 100 millilitres per kilogram each day is considered excessive and worth a vet visit. Take a urine sample if your vet asks for one.
Traveling and hiking
Carry a collapsible bowl and plenty of water. Dogs on long hikes may need to drink small amounts every half hour or so. Avoid letting them drink from stagnant ponds, and rinse them if they swim in saltwater or blue-green algae.
The takeaway
Provide fresh water at all times, know your dog's normal and call your vet about sudden changes in thirst.
Frequently asked questions
How much water should my dog drink?
About one ounce of water per pound of body weight per day is a common rule of thumb, though needs vary.
Why is my dog drinking more than usual?
Heat and exercise are common causes, but persistent increases can signal disease, so see your vet.
How can I tell if my dog is dehydrated?
Tacky gums, sunken eyes, lethargy and skin that is slow to spring back when pinched.
Should I limit water?
Not usually. Only restrict water if your vet advises it.
This article is general educational information, not veterinary advice. Every dog is different. If your dog is unwell, or you are unsure about a symptom, diet change or medication, contact your veterinarian.