So just how much water do dogs actually need daily?

Responsible pet owners will spend a lot of time research the best food and proportions for their dogs, but have you ever wondered how much water they should be drinking? Dogs are messy drinkers and don’t always drink on a regular schedule making it hard to know just how much water they’re getting. Here’s what you need to know about keeping your dog hydrated.

How Much Water Do Dogs Need?

On average, most dogs need about an ounce of fluid per pound of body weight in a day. So a 10-pound dog would need a little over a cup a day, while at 75 lbs would need a little over 9 cups of water a day.

However, there are tons of factors that also determine how much water your pup should be drinking. Dogs on raw diets tend to need less water, while active and lactating dogs need more. Puppies also tend to drink more water than adults.

What Makes Dogs Thirsty?

Just as with humans, dogs can get thirsty for a few different reasons. Weather is a big factor. When it is hot, dogs tend to drink more to cool down, so you may notice your dog drinking more during the summer months. The activity level is another big factor. Just as we drink more water when exercising, dogs will as well. Always make sure you provide fresh, clean water when exercising your dog especially in the heat.

Diet is another factor. Traditional kibble is dry and will require your dogs to hydrate more. Raw diets contain more moisture, so your dog won’t need as much water to stay hydrated and digest it properly. Other thirst factors include illness, lactation, age, and medications.

How Often Should I Change Water?

It’s important to provide your dog with clean, freshwater regularly. That includes making sure their water bowl is kept clean as well. Water bowls are in contact with your dog’s saliva, making it an ideal place for bacteria to grow. If your dog isn’t drinking as much water, they may be trying to tell you the bowl is too dirty or the water too old. You should be changing your dog’s water once to twice a day at a minimum.

Should I Always Provide Water?

Pet owners are split on this. It’s generally a good idea to provide unlimited access to clean water. That way your dog can go and take a drink whenever they need it. Restricting water can cause dogs to over drink when it’s provided. However, sometimes you may have to limit water consumption. If your dog is over drinking due to a medical reason, consult your vet about this. Some pet owners also try to restrict water drinking to certain times when a dog is a puppy to help with potty training. So typically, it is best to always give your dogs access to freshwater, but as long as they are healthy and getting enough each day that is all that matters.