Why Is Your Dog Drinking So Much Water?

Ever noticed your dog gulping down water like they’ve just run a marathon? While a thirsty pooch is usually no cause for alarm, excessive water drinking might leave you wondering if everything’s okay. Let’s dive into why your dog might be drinking so much water.

How much water is too much?

On average, a healthy dog should drink around 50-60 millilitres of water per kilogram of body weight each day. For example, if your dog weighs 20 kilograms, they should be drinking approximately 1 to 1.2 litres of water daily. If they’re consistently drinking much more than that, take note and monitor their behaviour.

So, why is your dog drinking so much water?

Normal Thirst

Let’s start with the simplest reason: sometimes, your dog is just thirsty! Whether it’s due to warm weather, a longer-than-usual walk or a salty snack, their body might need more water to stay hydrated.

Dietary Factors

A dog’s diet plays a key role in their hydration needs. Foods with lower moisture content may lead to increased water consumption as dogs naturally compensate for the lack of water in their food. Additionally, diets high in sodium can make dogs thirstier, so it’s important to monitor the salt content in their meals, treats and any table scraps they might be sneaking.

Exercise and Temperature

A good romp at the dog park or a hot summer day can leave your pooch panting and thirsty. Dogs regulate their body temperature through panting and this process uses up water, prompting them to drink more.

Underlying Medical Conditions

Excessive water drinking can sometimes indicate an underlying health issue. Here are a few common medical reasons:

• Diabetes Mellitus: A condition where the body can’t regulate blood sugar properly, leading to increased thirst and urination.
• Kidney Disease: When the kidneys aren’t working properly, they struggle to concentrate urine, causing your dog to drink more to stay hydrated.
• Cushing’s Disease: This condition results in the overproduction of cortisol, which can increase both thirst and hunger.
• Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs): A UTI can cause your dog to feel the need to drink more, often accompanied by frequent urination.

If your dog’s drinking habits seem excessive or are coupled with other symptoms like lethargy, vomiting or changes in appetite, it’s time for a vet visit.

Medication Side Effects

Certain medications, like steroids or diuretics, can cause increased thirst as a side effect. If your dog has recently started a new medication, consult your vet to see if this could be the cause.

If you’re concerned, a vet visit is your best bet. Your vet can run tests to check for underlying medical conditions and provide guidance tailored to your dog’s needs.