Beyond the Bowl: Unraveling the Mystery of Excessive Drinking in Dogs

Is your dog guzzling water like they just ran a marathon—even when they’ve barely moved? 

While it’s normal for dogs to stay hydrated, excessive drinking can sometimes be a sign that something else is going on. From simple reasons like warm weather and extra playtime to potential underlying health concerns, understanding your pup’s thirst can help you keep them happy and healthy.

So, what’s behind the constant trips to the water bowl? 

How Much Water Should Dogs Drink Daily?

Water is essential for keeping your dog healthy, but how much is just right? 

On average, dogs should drink ½ to 1 ounce of water per pound of body weight each day. That means:

• A 10-pound dog needs 5 to 10 ounces of water daily.

• A 50-pound dog should drink 25 to 50 ounces of water daily.

• A 100-pound dog requires 50 to 100 ounces of water each day.

However, this amount can vary based on activity level, diet, weather, and overall health. Dogs that eat dry kibble may need more water than those on a wet food diet, and pups that are extra active or live in hot climates will naturally drink more.

Monitoring your dog’s water intake is key—too little can lead to dehydration and hyperventilation, while excessive drinking might signal an underlying health issue. Keeping fresh, clean water available at all times ensures your furry friend stays happy, hydrated, and healthy!

What Affects Water Intake in Dogs?

Just like humans, dogs adjust their water intake based on their environment, health, and daily activities. While some fluctuations are normal, certain factors can significantly influence how much your pup drinks. 

Activity Levels

A dog that spends the day lounging on the couch won’t need as much water as one that’s constantly running, playing, or exercising. Active dogs lose more fluids through panting and exertion, making proper hydration crucial for muscle recovery and temperature regulation. If your pup is extra energetic, always ensure they can access a fresh water bowl, especially after playtime or long walks.

Keep in mind, dogs who drink rapidly between bursts of energy, like during playtime or long walks, should be monitored. A stomach overly filled with water and air can be at risk of bloat or gastric dilation volvulus (GDV), a condition that can be life-threatening, in which the stomach twists on itself. Dogs with a deep chest, like Great Danes, Boxers, Weimaraners, German Shorthaired Pointers, German Shepherds, Labrador Retrievers, Standard Poodles, and Irish Setters, are more prone to this stomach torsion.

A healthy gut microbiome can also help prevent GDV or bloat in dogs. The best way to support a diverse microbiome is by feeding a fresh diet with whole foods such as NDF2, Rescue, or AM/PM.

Aging

Age plays a big role in water consumption. 

 

Puppies often need more water relative to their body weight because they grow rapidly and have higher metabolism rates. Senior dogs, on the other hand, may drink less due to lower activity levels. 

 

However, some older dogs may experience increased thirst due to medical conditions such as kidney disease or diabetes, so it is important to monitor their water intake.

Pregnancy

A pregnant or nursing dog requires significantly more water than usual to support her body and puppies. Hydration is vital for milk production and overall health. If you have a pregnant or nursing dog, ensure she always has access to clean water and monitor her intake to prevent dehydration.

Weather Changes

Hot weather naturally causes dogs to drink more water as they try to stay cool and regulate their body temperature. Dogs don’t sweat like humans; instead, they release heat through panting, which increases water loss. 

On the flip side, dogs might drink less in colder months because they aren’t overheating. Regardless of the season, always ensure your pup has plenty of fresh water to keep them hydrated year-round.

4 Causes of Excessive Thirst in Dogs

If your dog is gulping down water more than usual, it is more than just a passing habit. 

 

Excessive thirst, or polydipsia, can stem from various causes, ranging from medical conditions to lifestyle and diet changes.

1. Health Conditions Behind Increased Thirst

Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs)

Dogs with UTIs may drink more water to flush out bacteria, often accompanied by frequent urination and discomfort while peeing.

Kidney Issues

Kidney issues can cause an imbalance in water regulation, leading to frequent drinking and urination. As the kidneys struggle to filter toxins efficiently, the body compensates by increasing fluid intake. Dogs with kidney problems may also show signs of lethargy, weight loss, and changes in appetite.

Diabetes

Diabetes is another common reason for excessive thirst in dogs. When blood sugar levels are too high, the body attempts to remove excess glucose through increased urination, making the dog thirstier. Other symptoms may include increased hunger, unexplained weight loss, and fatigue.

2. Age

Senior dogs often experience increased thirst due to aging-related conditions such as diabetes, kidney disease, or hormonal imbalances. Their bodies may not regulate fluids as efficiently, leading to more frequent drinking and urination.

3. Diet and Feeding Habits

Kibble-based diets contain very little moisture, often leading to mild dehydration, which makes dogs drink more to compensate. Dry food absorbs water in the digestive system, increasing the need for additional fluids throughout the day.

 

Switching to a raw diet naturally increases a dog’s water intake through the food itself. Raw diets, which include fresh meats and vegetables, typically have a much higher moisture content, reducing the need for excessive drinking.

4. Behavioral and Stress-Related Causes

Stress and Anxiety

Stress and anxiety can lead to increased drinking, similar to how some people drink water excessively when nervous. Dogs experiencing anxiety, boredom, or changes in routine may develop this habit as a coping mechanism.

Compensatory Drinking

Compensatory drinking refers to dogs who drink excessively if they were previously deprived of water for long periods. It is common in dogs with inconsistent access to water or who have learned to drink as much as possible when it’s available, fearing they won’t get more later.

When to Consult a Veterinarian

While dogs naturally adjust their water intake based on activity levels, diet, and environmental factors, persistent excessive thirst may indicate an underlying issue. 

You should consult a veterinarian if your dog drinks excessively for over a few days without an obvious reason. A significant rise in water intake, especially when paired with frequent urination, lethargy, weight loss, vomiting, or changes in appetite, may indicate a medical condition like diabetes, kidney disease, or a urinary tract infection.

Another red flag is if your dog’s thirst seems uncontrollable—drinking excessively but still appearing dehydrated with symptoms like dry gums, sunken eyes, or persistent panting. If your dog is waking up at night to drink water or having accidents indoors despite being fully house-trained, something may be wrong.

Keep Your Dog Hydrated and Healthy With Volhard!

Your dog’s hydration is key to their overall health and well-being. At Volhard, we’re committed to supporting your dog’s health with nutritionally complete, moisture-rich diets that naturally promote hydration and vitality.

The Volhard diets are designed to provide high-quality nutrition and optimal hydration. Adding protein and water to our formulas creates a fresh and hydrating meal that naturally supports your dog’s fluid intake. 

Unlike dry kibble, which can dehydrate dogs and drive them to drink excessive amounts of water, Volhard’s whole-food approach delivers essential moisture directly through their meals. 

This balanced hydration helps prevent overconsumption of water, which can lead to bloating and digestive discomfort.

If you’re looking for the best way to keep your pup happy, healthy, and adequately hydrated, explore Volhard’s premium dog nutrition. 

For more advice on dog nutrition, health, and training, contact us and check out our blog!

Volhard Dog Nutrition and its expert canine nutrition coaches offer online consultations to help more dog parents discover why and how to feed their dogs the healthiest foods!

Speaking to a Volhard canine nutrition coach will help you understand the inseparable relationship between healthy food, a healthy body, and a healthy mind. 

If you want to contact one of our Volhard canine nutrition coaches, don't hesitate to access our consultation page! 

References

1. Buzby, Dr. Julie. "5 Reasons for Increased Thirst in Dogs." Dr. Buzby's ToeGrips for Dogs, 23 Sept. 2024, toegrips.com/increased-thirst-in-dogs/. Accessed 11 Feb. 2025.
   
   

2. "Dog Always Thirsty? How Much Water Is Too Much?" WebMD, WebMD, www.webmd.com/pets/dogs/my-dog-always-thirsty. Accessed 11 Feb. 2025.
   
   

3. Megan M. "Why Is My Dog Drinking so Much Water?" North Kenny Veterinary Hospital, 4 Apr. 2024, northkennyvet.com/blog/dog-drinking-so-much-water/. Accessed 11 Feb. 2025.
   
   

4. "Why Is My Dog Drinking a Lot of Water?" PetMD, www.petmd.com/dog/symptoms/why-is-my-dog-drinking-a-lot-of-water. Accessed 11 Feb. 2025.