How to Ensure Your Dog Drinks Enough Water

Healthy dogs typically regulate their water intake well, though this may not always hold true for puppies and older dogs. Unless there are serious health concerns, your dog will likely stay hydrated with a few adjustments to their diet and water bowl setup.

Watch for signs of dehydration. Most healthy dogs manage their water intake effectively. However, it's important to monitor for symptoms that could indicate health issues or dehydration:

• Gently pinch the skin on the back of your dog's neck or between the shoulder blades, then release. If the skin doesn't snap back immediately, your dog might be dehydrated.
• Press your finger against your dog's gums until the area lightens, then remove your finger. If the gums don't quickly return to their original color, dehydration could be a concern.
• Other signs of dehydration include lethargy, loss of appetite, and changes in urine output or color. While these symptoms alone may not indicate an emergency, severe or prolonged cases lasting more than a day require attention.

Identify risk factors. Certain life stages and health conditions in dogs can increase the likelihood and severity of dehydration. Pay close attention in the following situations:

• Just like humans, dogs can become dehydrated in hot weather. Ensure your dog drinks enough water during heatwaves.
• Vomiting, diarrhea, excessive panting, or drooling can lead to dehydration if your dog doesn’t drink extra water to compensate for the loss.
• Similarly, kidney disease and other chronic conditions can also cause dehydration.
• If your dog is diabetic, pregnant, nursing, very young, or elderly, consult a veterinarian immediately at the first sign of dehydration.

Take your dog to the vet. If your dog shows any of the above symptoms and refuses to drink water, visit a veterinarian as soon as possible. The vet may administer intravenous saline or subcutaneous fluids to quickly rehydrate your dog.

• The vet will also check for underlying health issues, such as kidney disease, that could be causing dehydration. After diagnosis, they may prescribe medication or a special diet for your dog.

Offer an oral rehydration solution. If your dog shows signs of dehydration but you can’t see a vet immediately, dilute Pedialyte with an equal amount of water and give your dog one cup (240 mL) every hour. Rehydration solutions are available at pharmacies.

• Do not add any other ingredients, as this could harm your dog.
• While other rehydration solutions are available, consult your vet before using them if possible.
• If you’re in the U.S., you can use Pedialyte’s website to locate the nearest store selling their rehydration solution.

Add flavor and electrolytes to water. If Pedialyte isn’t available, mix a small amount of low-sodium chicken broth or diluted carrot juice into your dog’s water. This helps replenish lost electrolytes and adds flavor to encourage a sick dog to drink.

Use a syringe if necessary. If your sick dog refuses to drink, use a needle-free syringe to draw water and gently squirt it into their mouth. Aim for the inside of their cheek rather than directly down their throat to avoid choking.

Encourage physical activity. Dogs require daily exercise, such as brisk walks or playtime in the park or yard. If your dog isn’t active enough, it may not lose water through panting and won’t feel as thirsty as healthier, more active dogs.

• When taking your dog on long walks, bring water and offer it every 10 minutes. This helps establish a habit of regular hydration at home.
• Only exercise your dog when it’s healthy. For older or sick dogs, consult your vet for alternative options.

Feed your dog wet food. Wet food contains a high moisture content, often labeled as "% moisture content" on the packaging. You can replace dry food entirely with wet food, but check the label or consult your vet to determine the appropriate portion size for your dog.

• Alternatively, soak dry food in water for 30-60 minutes before serving.

Stick to a feeding schedule. Feed your dog once or twice daily, as recommended by your vet or the food packaging instructions. Continuous feeding can confuse thirst with hunger in some dogs.

Take your dog out to urinate regularly. If your dog is stuck indoors for 8 hours straight, it might avoid drinking water to prevent bladder discomfort. Ensure your dog has bathroom breaks every few hours or train it to use a pee pad.

Always keep water accessible for your dog. If your home has multiple floors, place a water bowl on each level your dog can access. If your dog spends time outdoors or in a specific room, ensure a water bowl is available in those areas.

• Try to position water stations in consistent locations so your dog knows where to find water.
• Dogs tied outdoors may get tangled in their leash or chain, preventing access to water. If tying your dog is unavoidable, clear obstacles and place the water bowl near the tether. Check frequently, as the bowl may tip over and need refilling.

Change the water regularly. Empty the bowl daily, rinse out any residue, and refill with fresh water. Wipe the bowl’s rim with a paper towel. Replace the water whenever you notice dog hair, dirt, or a significant decrease in water level. During hot weather, check the bowl every few hours.

• Thoroughly wash and dry the bowl at least once a week, or more often if it gets dirty.

Consider using a pet water fountain. These can be more appealing to dogs who prefer running water or puppies unfamiliar with drinking from bowls. Fountains are also easier for visually impaired dogs to locate.

Add ice cubes to the water on hot days. Many dogs enjoy cold water. Drop a few ice cubes into the bowl and let your dog see you do it. This might pique their curiosity and encourage them to drink.

Make the water bowl more engaging. If you don’t want to buy a water fountain, try shaking the bowl or waving a toy above it. Adding a few blueberries or small treats to the water can also encourage your dog to drink as it fishes out its favorite items.

• If your dog remains uninterested, try switching the water bowl to a cup or a differently shaped or colored container.