How much should a dog drink?

It is important for dogs to consume enough fluids to stay healthy and hydrated. However, how much water a dog should drink daily depends on various factors such as size, age, activity level, and weather conditions. In this text, we will take a closer look at how much a dog needs to drink and how to ensure that it stays adequately hydrated.

What factors determine how much a dog should drink?

The most important factors that affect fluid balance are

Size and weight
Age
Activity level
Temperature
Type of food (dry, wet, or BARF)
Illnesses (diarrhea or kidney failure)

Calculating the amount of water

Determining the dog's weight

To determine a dog's weight, there are a few steps to follow. First, you should note your own weight by stepping on the scale alone. Then, you should take the dog in your arms and note the combined weight. You can find the dog's weight by subtracting your own weight from the combined weight. However, if the dog is too heavy to carry, it is advisable to use a professional scale at the veterinarian's office. Once you have determined the dog's weight, the further calculation depends on the chosen feeding method.

Water intake with wet food

Wet food typically has a moisture content of 60-85%. To calculate the fluid needs of a dog that is fed wet food, you can use the following formula: 5-10 ml per kilogram of the dog's body weight. For example, if the dog weighs 20 kg, this results in a fluid requirement of 0.1-0.2 liters. The formula is: 20 kg x 5-10 ml = 0.1-0.2 liters. It is important to know the dog's fluid needs to ensure that it stays adequately hydrated.

Water intake with dry food

When dogs are fed dry food, they generally require more fluids than when fed wet food. This is because dry food is dehydrated during the manufacturing process. The fluid needs of a dog that is fed dry food can be calculated using the following formula: 40-50 ml per kilogram of the dog's body weight. For example, if the dog weighs 20 kg, it needs 0.8-1 liter of water per day. The formula is: 20 kg x 40-50 ml = 0.8-1 liter. It is important to note that fluid needs may increase in hot temperatures or with increased activity, such as during dog sports. In such cases, a 20 kg dog may need up to 2 liters of water per day to avoid dehydration.

Important: Measure water intake!

One way to check if the dog is drinking enough water is to keep a 'water diary'. For this, you take a measuring cup and fill it with a larger amount of water than the calculated amount the dog needs per day. The next day, you pour the remaining water from the bowl back into the measuring cup and see how much the four-legged friend has drunk. This way, you can easily check if the dog is getting enough fluids.

Why is my dog drinking too little?

If you have trouble getting your dog to drink enough water, there are several ways to encourage it. One idea could be to replace the water with a tasty chicken broth or a beef or bone broth. However, it is important to consult a veterinarian beforehand if the dog suffers from kidney failure, as such broths contain more nutrients than plain water. Some dogs may not like plastic bowls because the water can quickly acquire a bad taste in them. In such cases, ceramic bowls might be a better alternative. It could also be that the dog needs a quiet place to drink, or that the hardness of the tap water does not appeal to it. In such cases, you could try a water filter or let the water cool or warm to room temperature. Another trick to encourage some dogs to drink more fluids could be to switch from dry food to wet food.

Why is my dog drinking too much?

It is completely normal for dogs to drink more on hot summer days, after a ride in a hot car, or after physical exertion such as dog sports or training. It may also be that the dog does not handle stress well or that it is reacting to a change in diet. However, in some cases, illnesses or the intake of medications may be responsible for the dog needing more fluids. Examples of such illnesses could include kidney problems, Cushing's syndrome (a hormonal disorder where cortisol is released), or the rarer water retention disease (diabetes insipidus). It is important to clarify the cause of the increased fluid needs of the dog, which is why it is advisable to consult a veterinarian.

Let your dog drink on the go!

It is important to always have a portable water bowl and a water bottle for the dog during walks or sports activities. This way, the dog has access to fresh water at all times and does not have to resort to puddles or stagnant water, which could lead to health problems. This ensures that the dog stays adequately hydrated.