How to Make Your Dog Drink More Water: Expert Tips
Is your furry friend turning their nose up at their water bowl? You’re not alone. Many dog owners struggle with keeping their canine companions properly hydrated, especially during warmer months or when their pups are picky eaters. Proper hydration is absolutely crucial for your dog’s health—it regulates body temperature, aids digestion, cushions joints, and supports organ function. Without adequate water intake, your dog could face serious health complications ranging from urinary tract infections to kidney disease.
The good news? There are plenty of creative, science-backed strategies to encourage your dog to drink more water. Whether your dog is a stubborn senior, a playful pup, or somewhere in between, we’ve got solutions that actually work. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore everything from simple behavioral tricks to understanding the underlying reasons your dog might be avoiding water in the first place.
Think of water as your dog’s best friend—it’s time to help them become friends with it too!
Why Hydration Matters for Dogs
Water is the foundation of your dog’s physiological well-being. Unlike humans who can go weeks without food, dogs can only survive about three to five days without water. According to the American Kennel Club, most dogs need about one ounce of water per pound of body weight daily, though this varies based on activity level, diet, and climate.
When your dog doesn’t drink enough water, their body can’t perform essential functions efficiently. Dehydration thickens the blood, making the heart work harder. It concentrates urine, which can lead to urinary tract infections and kidney stones. Additionally, proper hydration supports cognitive function, helps regulate body temperature through panting and sweating through paw pads, and maintains the elasticity of skin and joints.
Your dog’s water needs fluctuate throughout their life. Puppies and senior dogs often need more water, while nursing mothers require significantly increased hydration. Understanding why your dog isn’t drinking water is the first step toward solving the problem.
Signs Your Dog Might Be Dehydrated
Recognizing dehydration early can prevent serious health issues. Here are the key warning signs to watch for:
- Dry nose and mouth: A healthy dog’s nose should be moist. A persistently dry nose can indicate dehydration.
- Loss of skin elasticity: Gently pinch the skin on your dog’s shoulder. If it doesn’t snap back quickly, your pup may be dehydrated.
- Sunken eyes: Dehydrated dogs often have eyes that appear recessed in their sockets.
- Lethargy and weakness: Your normally energetic friend might seem unusually tired or unresponsive.
- Thick, sticky saliva: Your dog’s mouth may feel dry, and their saliva might be stringy or thick.
- Dark urine: Well-hydrated dogs produce pale yellow urine. Dark or amber-colored urine signals dehydration.
- Reduced appetite: Dehydration often suppresses appetite.
- Panting excessively: While some panting is normal, excessive panting can indicate dehydration.
If you notice any combination of these symptoms, consult your veterinarian immediately. In severe cases, dehydration can lead to shock and organ failure.
Practical Strategies to Increase Water Intake
Now that we understand why hydration matters, let’s explore actionable strategies to encourage your dog to drink more water.
Make Water More Accessible
Sometimes the simplest solution works best. Place multiple water bowls throughout your home—one in the kitchen, one in your dog’s favorite lounging spot, and one near their bed. Dogs are more likely to drink water when it’s conveniently located. This is especially important for older dogs or those with mobility issues who might not want to walk far for a drink.
Refresh Water Frequently
Many dogs prefer fresh, cool water. Change your dog’s water bowl multiple times throughout the day, especially first thing in the morning and before bedtime. Some dogs are surprisingly particular about water temperature and freshness. If your tap water has a strong chlorine smell, you might consider using filtered water, which some dogs find more palatable.
Use Interactive Water Dispensers
Some dogs are attracted to moving water. Pet fountains with recirculating systems can entice reluctant drinkers. The flowing water appeals to their natural instincts and keeps the water oxygenated and cool. These fountains also serve as a fun enrichment activity.
Create a Drinking Routine
Dogs thrive on routine. Establish specific times throughout the day when you actively encourage water drinking. After meals, after exercise, and before bedtime are ideal times. You can create a fun ritual by using a special command like “drink time” to make it an engaging activity rather than a chore.
Choosing the Right Water Bowl
The bowl itself matters more than you might think. Different dogs have different preferences, and finding the right one can make a significant difference in their hydration habits.
Material considerations: Stainless steel bowls are durable and easy to clean, while ceramic bowls are heavy and less likely to tip. Some dogs develop contact dermatitis from plastic bowls due to bacterial growth, so stainless steel or ceramic are often better choices. If your dog has a long snout, a specialized deep bowl helps them drink without their facial whiskers getting wet—some dogs dislike the sensation of wet facial hair.
Size and shape: The bowl should be appropriately sized for your dog’s breed. A tiny bowl for a large dog requires more frequent refills and might discourage drinking. Conversely, a massive bowl for a small dog might be overwhelming. Wide, shallow bowls work well for dogs with flat faces who struggle with deep bowls.
Elevated bowls: For large breed dogs or senior pups with arthritis, elevated bowls reduce strain on the neck and back, making drinking more comfortable and encouraging more frequent water intake.
Understanding how to get your dog to drink water often starts with removing physical barriers to hydration.
Adding Flavor to Water
Sometimes a little flavor goes a long way. There are several safe, healthy ways to make water more appealing to your picky pup.
Bone Broth
Unsalted, low-sodium bone broth is a canine favorite. You can make it at home or purchase dog-specific varieties. Simply add a splash to your dog’s water bowl. The savory flavor entices dogs to drink more, and bone broth provides additional nutrients and collagen benefits for joint health.
Chicken or Beef Broth
Similar to bone broth, plain chicken or beef broth (with no onions, garlic, or added sodium) makes water irresistible to most dogs. Use unsalted varieties to avoid excess sodium intake.
Apple or Watermelon
A small slice of apple or watermelon in the water bowl adds natural flavor and hydration. These fruits are safe for dogs and add a refreshing taste. Watermelon is especially hydrating since it’s about 92% water.
Coconut Water
While you should learn more about whether dogs can drink coconut water, plain, unsweetened coconut water in moderation can be a hydrating addition. It contains electrolytes that support hydration.
Fish Oil or Salmon Oil
A tiny drop of fish oil creates an enticing aroma and flavor. This also provides omega-3 fatty acids beneficial for coat and skin health. Use sparingly—a little goes a long way.
Incorporating Wet Food and Hydrating Treats
Dry kibble alone doesn’t provide sufficient water intake for most dogs. Incorporating wet food significantly boosts overall hydration.
Wet dog food: Canned or fresh wet dog food is typically 70-80% moisture. Mixing wet food with dry kibble increases your dog’s water intake without requiring them to drink more from the bowl. This is particularly effective for picky eaters.
Dog-safe frozen treats: Create homemade popsicles using dog-safe ingredients like plain yogurt, peanut butter, and broth. Freeze them in ice cube trays for a refreshing treat that doubles as hydration. Your dog gets a fun snack while consuming additional water.
Wet toppers: Add moisture-rich toppers to dry kibble. Pumpkin puree, plain cooked sweet potato, or wet food toppers increase overall water content in meals without changing your dog’s diet entirely.
When considering how much food to feed your dog, account for the increased moisture content and adjust portions accordingly to prevent overfeeding.
Seasonal Hydration Tips
Your dog’s water needs change with the seasons. According to the ASPCA, environmental factors significantly impact hydration requirements.
Summer Strategies
Hot weather dramatically increases your dog’s water needs. During summer, increase water bowl availability and refresh water more frequently to keep it cool. Encourage water breaks during outdoor activities. Consider setting up a dog-friendly wading pool or sprinkler area where your dog can cool off while staying hydrated. Frozen water bowls or water with ice cubes appeal to overheated dogs.
Winter Considerations
While water needs decrease slightly in winter, many indoor-heated homes are dry, which can increase dehydration risk. Maintain consistent water availability and watch for signs of dehydration even in cold months. Ensure outdoor water bowls don’t freeze solid—check them frequently and provide fresh water regularly.
Spring and Fall
During transitional seasons, gradually adjust water availability as temperatures change. These seasons often bring increased activity levels as dogs enjoy pleasant weather, so monitor hydration accordingly.
When to Worry and Seek Veterinary Help
While most hydration issues can be addressed with the strategies above, certain situations warrant immediate veterinary attention.
Seek help if your dog:
- Refuses water for more than 24 hours
- Displays extreme lethargy or confusion alongside reduced water intake
- Has vomiting or diarrhea preventing normal hydration
- Shows signs of dehydration that don’t improve with increased water access
- Suddenly changes their drinking habits dramatically
- Has underlying health conditions like diabetes or kidney disease
Understanding how long a dog can survive without water reinforces the urgency of addressing hydration issues promptly. Additionally, if your dog is drinking too much water suddenly, this can indicate diabetes, kidney disease, or urinary tract infections—all requiring veterinary evaluation.
Your veterinarian can rule out underlying medical conditions and provide personalized hydration recommendations. Conditions like diabetes insipidus, cushing’s syndrome, and various kidney diseases directly affect thirst and water regulation. A professional evaluation ensures you’re addressing the root cause, not just the symptom.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much water should my dog drink daily?
Generally, dogs need about one ounce of water per pound of body weight daily. A 50-pound dog should drink approximately 50 ounces (about 6-7 cups) of water daily. However, this varies based on activity level, diet type (wet food increases water intake), climate, age, and individual metabolism. Always consult your veterinarian for personalized recommendations.
Can I give my dog distilled water?
While distilled water is safe for occasional consumption, it’s not ideal for daily use. Distilled water lacks minerals like calcium and magnesium that support bone health and other bodily functions. Regular tap water or filtered water is generally better for long-term hydration. If your tap water quality is questionable, filtered water is a good alternative.
Why won’t my dog drink water from their bowl?
Dogs refuse water for various reasons: they dislike the bowl material or shape, prefer cooler water, have a dental problem causing pain, are experiencing stress or anxiety, or have an underlying medical condition. Try different bowl types, refresh water frequently, add flavor, and consult your vet if the behavior persists.
Is it bad if my dog drinks too much water?
Excessive water drinking can indicate underlying health issues like diabetes, kidney disease, or urinary tract infections. However, some dogs naturally drink more, especially active breeds or those eating dry kibble. If you notice a sudden dramatic increase in water consumption, consult your veterinarian to rule out medical problems.
Can I use a water fountain for my dog?
Yes! Many dogs love fountains because the moving water appeals to their instincts and keeps water fresher and cooler. However, ensure you clean the fountain regularly to prevent bacterial growth. Some dogs prefer still water, so observe your individual dog’s preferences.
Should I add anything to my dog’s water?
Plain water is always best, but small amounts of dog-safe additions like unsalted broth, apple slices, or watermelon can encourage drinking. Avoid adding salt, sugar, or artificial sweeteners. Always consult your vet before adding anything to your dog’s water regularly.
What if my senior dog isn’t drinking enough water?
Senior dogs often drink less due to reduced thirst sensation, dental problems, or medications. Provide elevated water bowls for easier access, place multiple bowls throughout the home, offer wet food, and encourage drinking during regular meal times. Senior dogs may benefit from more frequent small water offerings rather than relying on them to drink independently.
