Animals are the best companions of humans, and out of all, dogs take the lead. They are the most trustworthy creature in the world. And no one can understand that better than you—the dog owner.
In return, they just need care, love, and excellent upkeep. What should they eat? How much water should your puppy drink? How much sleep do they need? And so on. All these are important for dog owners to know.
If you are aware of your puppy’s complete health, you would know that any change in routine can create distress for puppies. Is your puppy drinking the amount of water that it must be having? If not, then make sure because less or excess amount of water can prove fatal.
Yes! Water can be deadly. Are you amazed to hear that water can be destructive? Yes! It is shocking, but it happens in puppies only if water has been taken more or less than usual.
Now! You must be thinking that when it comes to pups, how much water should a puppy drink?
How Much Water Should a Puppy Drink?
Puppies need about one cup of water after every one and half hours, as per the American Kennel Club. This amount of water will be more than enough for puppies. But you need to make sure that your puppy has enough water and not too much of it.
“Older puppies that have already been weaned generally need between one half ounce and one ounce of water per pound of body weight per day. For example, if your pup weighs 20 pounds, he’ll need somewhere between 10 and 20 ounces of water each day. On especially active days, he may need even more water,” as per the same source.
3 Factors Making Water Important for Puppies
Water is not only crucial for humans, but it is also essential for every living creature. In addition to creating saliva, protecting tissues and spinal cords, and aiding in cognitive functions, below are a few reasons why water is important for puppies.
1. Water Controls Puppies’ Body Temperature
Like other living beings, water regulates the body temperature of puppies. In the hot and dry weather, puppies will undoubtedly get exhausted and need more water than usual. Drinking water helps replenish the fluids puppies lose while doing exercise, or because of the weather.
Having little extra water is not an issue in this situation but not in a typical healthy environment.
In a healthy environment, an excess amount of water can cause severe health disorders in little puppies. And you won’t believe it, but improper intake of water can make your puppy suffer. For instance, those dogs which are fond of playing in water may experience water intoxication, a condition also known as hyponatremia.
2. Water Protects From Dehydration
Water is the most critical component of the lean body, living cells. Your puppy’s body will not function correctly without water. Your little puppy, in particular, will get dehydrated. If your puppy isn’t receiving enough water, you should check and refill your puppy’s water dish daily.
3. Water Can Make Puppy Fresh and Healthy
Water is tasteless but has its charm and freshness. Water not only takes away thirst but also spread the feeling of freshness around the body. You must have noticed that when your puppy plays in the water, he feels more than happier.
How Much Can Water Make Puppy Sick?
If your puppy appears to be unwell, you should be concerned since this might indicate various health issues, including renal disease, diabetes, and other dangerous illnesses.
Water is essential for life; our pups, like us, cannot survive without it. As a dog owner, you have to pay attention to many things, including your dog’s nutrition, but water, if taken for granted, can cause serious issues.
What Happens When Puppies Do Not Drink Water?
In most cases, when your puppy won’t drink sufficient water, it may suffer from dehydration. In dehydration, your puppy may suffer vomiting, diarrhoea, and other such conditions. Moreover, you can also perform water to bodyweight calculations to monitor the water intake of your puppy.
Don’t let your puppy have dry food all the time. Maintain the diet of your pet and take good care of it. Always remain aware of the definite amount of water your puppy is having. Otherwise, conditions like dehydration may occur, making your little partner suffer.
What Happens When a Puppy Drinks Too Much Water?
When your puppy drinks too much water, it must be because of behavioral changes and other medical issues. Dogs, too, may get overhydrated. Overhydration, often known as “water intoxication” is just as harmful as dehydration. It happens due to excessive water intake or when unintentionally consumed by the dog when swimming or playing in the water.
Observe the Amount of Water a Puppy Drinks Regularly
You can easily observe how much water your puppy drinks per day if you develop a water bowl routine.
- You can give water to your puppy at the same time every day. In this way, you can observe the exact amount of water intake by your little puppy.
- Don’t fill the water bowl of the puppy very much. Just fill the same level of water each time. Just pay a little more attention while dealing with your pet.
Don’t hesitate to call your veterinarian if you’re concerned that your dog is drinking too much—or not enough.
How Diet Affects Water Drinking Pattern of Puppies
Every puppy owner should provide their pup a quality dog food. Low-quality food can be contributing to their over-drinking. Firstly, we need to observe the food quality of some preferred companies and then compare them to select the best.
We don’t believe that you would compromise on your food quality. Did you?
Not, right?
So, you should also not take your puppy’s food for granted. Take every measure to feed the best quality of food to your pet.
You can also try using wet food. Wet food has a higher moisture content, so it will keep your puppy hydrated and reduce the need to drink excessively. So, knowing the food quality, you can find out how much water your puppy should drink.
Coping With Environment How Much Water Should a Puppy Drink?
On hot days, your puppy will preferably drink more water. Dogs, when they get adult, can show little tolerance for heat but not puppies. They are small and have a weak immune system than adult dogs. Moreover, puppies have a coat of hair as a layer on their body. This fur produces heat which makes them suffer on hot days.
Dogs, unlike humans, do not have a significant number of sweat glands to regulate their body temperature. Instead, they rely on their noses and the pads of their feet. On the other hand, panting is their primary cooling method when the moisture on their tongue evaporates.
If you suspect your puppy has had too much water, consult your puppy’s veterinarian first. If they drink too much water, it may become dangerous for them.
You are the puppy owner. It’s your utmost duty to take great care of your puppy. You may resolve your concerns regarding how much water your puppy should drink by paying attention to their health. If you find any medical issues, you must have to fix them. If they’re still obsessive after you’ve altered their food, change their bowl, restrict their access, and give them plenty of instruction and attention. Lastly, you should consult a puppy behaviorist if needed.