Do Dogs Drink Less Water in Winter and How to Help

Dogs tend to drink less water in winter due to the cold weather, which can make water less appealing to them.

Some dogs may also drink less water because their owners are less active outdoors, resulting in reduced water loss through panting and sweating.

As the air temperature drops, dogs may also be less thirsty due to the lower humidity levels.

Dogs need access to plenty of fresh water at all times, even in winter.

Dogs may prefer warmer water in winter, so offering lukewarm water in their bowl can entice them to drink more.

Dry air is a major contributor to dehydration in dogs during winter. Winter air tends to be drier than warm air, which means indoor heating and outdoor play can lead to increased water loss.

Dogs need to drink more water in winter to compensate for the dry air. Adequate hydration is crucial for maintaining overall health, supporting joint function, and regulating body temperature.

Some signs of dehydration in dogs include dry or sticky gums, lethargy or weakness, loss of skin elasticity, sunken eyes, excessive panting or difficulty breathing, dark yellow urine, and refusal to drink water.

Here are some practical tips to boost your dog's water intake during winter:

Dogs may not drink as much water in winter, but it's crucial to keep them hydrated.

Cold dry air can make your dog dehydrated, just like hot dry air. Homes with heaters can have drier air, making it essential to monitor your dog's water intake.

Your dog needs water to produce ATP, which is used to fuel their cells and keep them warm in cold temperatures. Without enough water, ATP production is slowed.

You can check if your dog is drinking enough by looking at the color of their urine. If it's clear, they're likely drinking enough. If it's dark yellow, they probably need more water.

For your interest: Dogs and Cold Water

Some dogs may prefer warmer water in winter, so try offering lukewarm water in their bowl. You can also add water to their food to make it more palatable.

Here are some signs to look out for to ensure your dog is staying hydrated:

To boost your dog's water intake, try these tips:

Dogs may need more water in winter, as cold dry air can make them dehydrated. It's essential to keep their water bowls clean and full at all times, even if they don't seem to be drinking as much.

Cold air holds less moisture than warm air, making it prone to sucking up moisture from your dog's body. This can lead to dehydration, which can be just as problematic as heat-related dehydration.

You can check if your dog is drinking enough by looking at the color of their urine. If it's clear, they're likely getting enough water. If it's a concentrated yellow, they probably need more.

Suggestion: Do Dogs Need Water Overnight

Some owners have noticed their dogs drinking more in winter, but this is not always the case. You may need to add water to their food or try flavoring their water with broth or apple cider vinegar to encourage them to drink more.

A humidifier can help add moisture to your home, which can reduce the risk of dehydration in your dog. Ideally, you want to maintain a humidity level of between 45% and 50%.

In addition to keeping their water bowls full, you can also help your dog stay hydrated by adding water to their kibble or feeding them wet food. Brushing their fur can also stimulate the production of natural oils, which can help protect their skin from dryness.

Some common symptoms of winter dehydration in dogs include increased thirst, sleepiness, increased dandruff, and dry, cracked skin. If you notice any of these symptoms, be sure to consult with your veterinarian for advice.

Here are some common symptoms of winter dehydration in dogs: