Just like humans, dogs need a few things for optimum health, and water is one of them! Your dog should have access to a large bowl of refreshing, clean water at all times.
But what happens if you forgot to fill up Bailey’s water bowl and you’re already at the supermarket? Do you have to rush home immediately, or can you finish your shopping trip? How long can your furry friend go without water? Let’s explore this crucial question.
How much water should a dog drink, and how long can it go without water?
There is a limit to how long a dog can go without water. The average is about 2-3 days. However, this time can be significantly reduced, depending on various factors. A general rule of thumb is that it’s not good for a dog to be without water for any amount of time.
But, if you forgot to fill up your dog’s water bowl, or it spilled out for some reason, your dog should be okay, depending on the following factors:
- What breed is your dog? – Some dogs can naturally go longer without water because they are from warmer climates and are used to not being as hydrated as their furry buddies from cooler areas.
- How old is your dog? – Puppies tend to drink more water than older dogs but can go without water for longer. However, at times, even a puppy may require lots of water. So make sure the water bowl is nearby (and small enough for it to get to!)
- Is your dog having puppies? – A lactating or pregnant dog would definitely need to have more water than usual.
- Is your dog healthy? – If your dog is in top-notch health, it may be able to go a bit longer without drinking water. Sadly, the flipside of this is that a dog in poor health may not even last a day without water.
- How is the weather? – During the summer months, dogs will require more access to water than in the winter due to the temperatures in each season. In warmer climates and seasons, your dog will drink much more.
These factors are only guidelines. Every dog requires a daily intake of fresh water from a clean source. A dog’s body is made up of about 60 percent water. If this level drops, even slightly to 10 percent, your dog can suffer severe health consequences.
If you know what to look for, it’s pretty obvious when your dog becomes dehydrated. Let’s look at some of those signs and what you can do to remedy them before they become chronic or even fatal.
Signs of dehydration in dogs: warning signs
Paying attention to how much water your dog drinks is essential. Keep an eye on them if they are getting water other than their water bowl. If not, and you see a full bowl at the end of the day, this may be an indication that your dog may need immediate medical help.
Here are some symptoms of dehydration in dogs:
#1. A reduced appetite
A dog without water is one thing, but a dog without food means much more. A dehydrated dog may have a hard time digesting food or even swallowing it.
If your canine companion went from being typically ravenous to all of a sudden not being interested in their kibble, it might mean they are suffering from dehydration.
A dog not eating but drinking water may be ill. It could be an indication of something entirely different and will require immediate medical attention.
