We all know that dogs need water in order to survive, but how much should they actually be drinking in a day? Dogs are made up of 80% water, just like humans, so it is essential that they stay well hydrated.
On average, dogs should be drinking 5 to 10 ounces of water per 10 lbs. This mean that, for example, a healthy labrador retriever should consume around 33 to 65 ounces, roughly equating to 1/4 to 1/2 of a gallon of water on a daily basis. However, it is also important to note that they should not be going too high over this threshold, as drinking too much can be toxic. At All Dogs Club, we always have fresh, clean water available for your pup. We also closely monitor every dog's water intake during the day. For puppies, it is normal for them to drink small amounts of water every couple of hours. In fact, you should encourage them to drink regularly and monitor them closely afterward for when they need to relieve themselves.
If you believe that your dog is experiencing dehydration, keep an eye out for the following symptoms, as your dog may need medical attention: sticky gums, dry eyes, and loss of skin pliability. This means that when you pinch their skin, it should be able to easily slip back into place. For more symptoms of dehydration, read our blog post on how to Keep Your Dog Cool in the Summer.
Curious about how water actually helps your dog? Here are some of the endless benefits of you pup consuming water regularly.
Helps them function: drinking water facilitates all of the metabolic processes in their body and allows your furry friend to live a happy, healthy life. In addition, water aids in food digestion, decision making, breathing, and blood circulation.
Regulates body temperature: when dogs breathe through their mouth they release water through respiration. Panting allows them to regulate their temperature and while exhaling, they dispose of water through their tongue.
Toxins are flushed out: when a dog drinks water, oxygen is transported to thirsty cells while harmful toxins are cleared out. Without this exchange, dogs are at risk of the toxins building up and damaging vital organs such as the heart and kidney.
Helps keep their sniff power intact: having a moist, hydrated nose permits dogs to pick up even the faintest of scents. For search and rescue dogs, they need to be 100% hydrated in ordered to efficiently perform their job.
If you want increase the amount of water your dog drinks, you may want to consider adding a commercial flavor or broth to their water to make it more appealing. Another tactic may be making water more fun for your pet, such as letting them drink out of a water bottle or giving them ice cubes when it is hot outside.
At All Dogs Club, we always have fresh, cool water available in our playrooms and outdoor yards. We monitor your dog's water intake and temperature throughout the day!