If you’ve noticed your dog’s water bowl emptying faster than usual, it’s natural to feel a little worried. Is it just the heat—or could it mean something more? As pet parents, we always want to stay one step ahead when it comes to our dog’s health.
At Midland Animal Hospital, we’re here to help you make sense of these changes and support your dog’s wellbeing with kindness, clarity, and care.
What’s Considered “Normal”?
Most healthy dogs drink about ½ to 1 ounce of water per pound of body weight per day. So a 50-pound dog might drink 25–50 ounces (about 3–6 cups) daily.
But if your dog is suddenly drinking much more than usual—or can’t seem to get enough—it’s worth paying attention.
Common Reasons Dogs Drink More Water
Increased thirst (called polydipsia) can be caused by a range of factors, some harmless and some that need attention:
- Warmer weather or increased activity: Dogs cool themselves by panting, which leads to more water loss.
- Dietary changes: Kibble-fed dogs often drink more than dogs on wet or fresh food diets.
- Medications: Some medications, like steroids or diuretics, can make dogs thirstier.
Underlying health conditions:
- Kidney disease
- Diabetes
- Cushing’s disease
- Urinary tract infections
If your dog’s water consumption has changed noticeably—and especially if it’s paired with other symptoms—it’s time to dig deeper.
When Should You Be Concerned?
Reach out to your veterinarian if your dog:
- Is drinking significantly more than usual for several days
- Is having accidents in the house or urinating more often
- Seems lethargic, losing weight, or not eating normally
- Has vomiting, diarrhea, or a sudden behavior change
These signs could point to something that needs medical attention—and the sooner we investigate, the better the outcome.
At Midland Animal Hospital, we’re committed to treating your pets like family. If you’re ever unsure, we’re just a phone call away—ready to listen, guide you, and provide the care your pet needs to feel better.
👉 MESSAGE US NOW at 706 323 – 8316 or Midlandah.com
In summary
- Dogs typically drink ½ to 1 ounce of water per pound of body weight daily.
- Increased thirst can be caused by heat, diet, medications, or underlying health issues.
- Call us if your dog is drinking a lot more water than usual—especially with other symptoms.
- We’re always here to help you understand what’s normal and what’s not.
You’ve got great instincts—and you’re never alone in caring for your pet.