Excessive drinking in Dogs

February 27th, 2020


While it is normal for dogs to lap up the water, you may notice that your pup is drinking more than what they normally do. This may be alarming to some while others dismiss it as thirst or over exercising. However, there may be an easy explanation to why your canine companion is over indulging on the water.

How much water intake is normal?
Excessive drinking is something that goes beyond the normal amount or occurs without an actual cause. In saying this though, measuring a dogs normal water intake can be quite hard and varies from dog to dog. A general rule is that your dog should be drinking anywhere between 20-70ml for every kilogram they weigh. It also helps to remember that if your dog is drinking more, they will have to pee more!

Why are they drinking so much?
Your dog may be drinking excessively, which is called polydipsia, for a number of reasons. If you can rule out warm weather, exercise, or salty foods, then your pet may be experiencing some health issues. The medical issues may include:

  • Kidney disease
  • Diabetes
  • Liver disease
  • Adrenal and thyroid dysfunction
  • Cancer
  • Hormonal imbalances
  • Urinary tract infection
  • Infection

In some cases, it may not be the actual health condition but the medication being taken that causes the excessive drinking.

What can you do?
If you notice that your dog is drinking an excessive amount of water or is urinating more than often, do not take their water supply away from them. You should instead book an appointment with your vet as soon as possible so they can assess your pup and make the correct diagnosis.

The vet will do a number of tests to identify and regulate the condition. Once this has been determined, the only true way to reduce their water intake is to manage the underlying condition.


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