This will depend on:
- Breed
- Diet
- Size
- Age
- Level of activity
- Medical advice
Provide your pup constant water access and monitor how much it drinks. Most pups will regulate their drink to a time when they are thirsty.
Remember that after play or exercise and during hot weather, your pup’s need for water will increase.
Checking for Dehydration
There are two ways to do this.
- Pinch your dog’s neck, stretch the skin up, outwards, and then let go. If it snaps back into position, then it is getting enough water. If it eases back gently and becomes wrinkled, then your dog is dehydrated.
- Run your finger over your pup’s gum. It should be very wet. If it is sticky or worse, it is dry, your dog is dehydrated.
Checking for Over-Hydration
Excessive drinking can cause lethargy. It can also be a sign that it’s a liver or kidney problem or it could be signs of diabetes. If your pup starts drinking excessively which cannot be explained by exercise or warm weather, then something could be wrong.
Restrict Water Access 2 Hours before Bed
For the apparent reason – you do not want to take your pup out many times at night. Bring them to the potty before bedtime.