Why Is My Dog Drinking So Much Water? Causes and What to Do

Noticing your dog drinking excess water can be concerning, especially if it’s a sudden or dramatic change. Excessive thirst, known as polydipsia, is often paired with increased urination (polyuria) and can signal a range of health issues, from minor to serious.

What’s Considered “Normal” Water Intake?

On average, a healthy dog drinks about 20 to 70 milliliters per kilogram of body weight per day. For example, a 10 kg (22 lb) dog typically drinks between 200 and 700 ml per day. However, factors like hot weather, exercise, dry kibble, and lactation can naturally increase thirst.

If your dog is suddenly drinking much more than usual or seems constantly thirsty, it could signal an underlying health issue, especially when paired with other changes like increased urination, appetite shifts, or lethargy.

Common Causes of Excessive Drinking

Several conditions can lead to increased thirst in dogs, including:

Medical Factors

Diabetes, kidney diseases, Cushing’s disease, liver disease, and urinary tract infections are some medical factors that can cause excessive drinking in dogs. Some drugs, like corticosteroids or diuretics, can increase thirst as a side effect.

Behavioral or Environmental Factors

Hot weather, increased exercise, or dietary changes (e.g., high-sodium foods) can temporarily increase thirst. Stress or boredom may also lead to compulsive drinking (psychogenic polydipsia), though this is less common.

What You Should Do If Your Dog Is Drinking Excess Water

Step 1: Don’t Restrict Access to Water

It might seem counterintuitive, but if you see your dog drinking excess water, do NOT limit their water intake without vet guidance. Dogs drinking more are usually doing so in response to something; therefore, restricting water can lead to dehydration or worsen the underlying problem.

Step 2: Observe and Document

For 24–48 hours, keep a record of:

• How much water is your dog drinking
• How often do they urinate
• Any changes in behavior or appetite

This log will be very helpful for your veterinarian.

Step 3: Schedule a Vet Visit

If excessive drinking continues for more than a day, or your dog shows any other symptoms, it’s time to book a veterinary checkup. Early diagnosis is key to successful treatment, especially for chronic conditions like diabetes or kidney disease.

Reach out to a Cuddlytails vet here.

What the Vet Might Do

Physical Exam and History

Your vet will examine your dog and ask about their drinking patterns, eating habits, energy level, and urination. Be honest and thorough; it helps the vet narrow things down.

Diagnostic Tests

Common tests for increased thirst include:

• Bloodwork: Checks for diabetes, kidney, and liver function
• Urinalysis: Detects sugar, protein, and signs of infection
• Ultrasound or X-rays: May be needed if a tumor or organ issue is suspected
• ACTH stimulation or dexamethasone test: For diagnosing Cushing’s disease

Treatment Options For Dog Drinking Excess Water

Treatment depends on the underlying cause of your dog’s excessive drinking. Your veterinarian will tailor a plan to address the condition and manage symptoms.

Treating Underlying Conditions

• Diabetes Mellitus: Insulin therapy, dietary changes (e.g., high-fiber, low-carb food), and regular monitoring of blood glucose levels are typically required.
• Kidney Disease: Management may include fluid therapy, a low-protein diet, and medications to support kidney function or control blood pressure.
• Cushing’s Disease: Medications like trilostane or mitotane can reduce cortisol production, alongside regular monitoring.
• Urinary Tract Infections: Antibiotics or other medications clear infections, often with follow-up cultures to confirm resolution.
• Liver Disease: Dietary changes, medications like ursodiol, and supportive care can manage symptoms.

Supportive Care

• Providing a low-stress environment to reduce anxiety.
• Offering a prescription diet tailored to the condition (e.g., renal diets for kidney disease).
• Administering subcutaneous fluids at home, if prescribed, to maintain hydration.

Long-Term Management For Dog Drinking Excess Water

Managing a dog with excessive drinking often requires ongoing care to address the underlying condition and prevent complications.

Monitor Symptoms and Treatment Response

Keep a log of your dog’s water intake, urination patterns, and overall behavior to track progress. For chronic conditions like diabetes or kidney disease, regular veterinary checkups and blood work are essential to adjust treatments. Use home glucose monitors or urine test strips, if recommended, to manage diabetes.

Dietary and Lifestyle Adjustments

Follow your veterinarian’s dietary recommendations, such as prescription foods for kidney or liver disease. Avoid feeding high-sodium treats or human foods that could exacerbate thirst. Ensure your dog gets appropriate exercise for their condition, moderate activity for healthy dogs, or limited activity for those with chronic illnesses. Maintain a consistent routine to reduce stress.

Home Environment Modifications

Make your home accommodating by placing multiple water bowls around the house for easy access, especially for senior dogs or those with mobility issues. Use washable mats or pee pads if indoor accidents occur during treatment. Keep your dog cool and comfortable, as heat can worsen thirst.

Emotional Support

Chronic conditions can affect your dog’s mood or energy levels. Offer gentle affection, engage them in low-stress activities like puzzle toys, and maintain a calm environment. Be patient during recovery, as some conditions take time to stabilize.

Preventing Your Dog From Drinking Excess Water

While not all causes of excessive drinking can be prevented, proactive steps can reduce risks and promote your dog’s health:

Spay Female Dogs

Spaying your female dog eliminates the risk of pyometra, a common cause of polydipsia in unspayed females. Discuss the optimal timing for spaying with your veterinarian, ideally before the first heat cycle.

Maintain a Balanced Diet

Feed a high-quality, balanced diet appropriate for your dog’s age, breed, and health status. Avoid high-sodium or low-quality foods that can strain the kidneys or liver.

Regular Veterinary Checkups

Schedule routine vet visits, annually for healthy dogs, or more frequently for seniors or those with chronic conditions. This will help you catch issues like kidney disease or diabetes early. Routine blood work and urinalysis can detect abnormalities before symptoms like polydipsia appear. Stay up-to-date on vaccinations and parasite prevention to reduce infection risks.

Monitor Medications

If your dog is on medications like corticosteroids or diuretics, ask your veterinarian about potential side effects, including increased thirst. Regular monitoring can help adjust doses or switch medications to minimize side effects. Never stop or adjust medications without veterinary guidance.

Control Environmental Factors

Prevent dehydration by ensuring your dog stays cool during hot weather or after exercise. Provide shaded areas, air conditioning, or cooling mats in summer. Limit access to salty foods or environmental stressors that could trigger excessive drinking.

Conclusion

If your dog is drinking excessive water, it is a warning sign that requires prompt attention to identify and address the underlying cause. By monitoring your dog’s symptoms, seeking veterinary care, and following a tailored treatment plan, you can help manage their condition and improve their quality of life. Preventive measures, such as routine checkups and a healthy lifestyle, can reduce the risk of future issues. Stay vigilant, work closely with your veterinarian, and provide your dog with the care and love they need to thrive.

FAQs

How do I know if my dog is drinking too much?

If you’re filling their bowl more than usual or they seem constantly thirsty for over 24 hours, it’s worth measuring. Drinking more than 100 ml/kg/day (e.g., over 1 liter for a 10 kg dog) is usually considered excessive.

Should I stop my dog from drinking so much?

No. Never restrict water unless your vet specifically tells you to. Excessive thirst is usually a response, not a cause.

Could it just be the weather?

Yes, hot or humid weather increases water needs, but the behavior should normalize once your dog cools down. If excessive drinking continues indoors or overnight, it’s not likely just heat.

Is this an emergency?

It can be, especially if your dog is also vomiting, weak, confused, or urinating excessively. If symptoms are sudden and severe, contact your vet right away.