Should I Leave Water Out For My Puppy All Day? Pros And Cons

Taking proper care of your puppy is essential to their development. One of the main things that require great attention is your puppy’s hydration. Here, it is not just a matter of leaving the water out each day, but you also have to know the amount your dog should drink each day. This is especially the case if you are a dog parent that will not always spend the day with your puppy. Also, clean water is essential as it will help your dog avoid any issues from contaminated water. So, should I leave water out for my puppy all day?

Should I leave water out for my puppy all day?

In most circumstances, leaving a water bowl available for your dog all day is a smart idea. When you do so, you guarantee that the puppy is fully hydrated throughout their most active period. It is critical for a dog’s healthy development and growth to stay hydrated.

Typically, a young puppy should drink about half to one ounce of water per day for each pound of weight. So, for example, if your puppy weighs 8 pounds, they should drink about 8 ounces daily; that is around half a cup of water. This will ensure they stay hydrated and that their body gets all the water they need during the dog’s most active time of the day.

Of course, the amount of water suggested above is not set in stone. While it might be okay for pet parents living in moderate climates, those living in hotter climates should ensure their puppies drink a lot more water than this.

Pros of Leaving Water Out for Your Puppy

• The puppy will have access to enough water they require to mature, healthy and strong.
• It helps the puppy learn how to self-regulate water intake; instead of drinking too much water only a few times per day, your puppy should learn that tiny quantities may be consumed at any time.
• Unwanted behavior like resource guarding will be avoided if water is freely available.
• Your puppy drinking excessive water might indicate underlying health problems like diabetes or kidney disease. 

Will I Have to Take My Puppy Out More Times If They Drink a Lot of Water?

There are no risks associated with putting water out all day, given that you put the water bowl or dish in a secure location. Remember to clean the container to remove any objects and dirt, and refill it with clean water frequently.

Certainly, when the puppy is a heavy drinker, you might need to take him outdoors more regularly for potty training sessions, but that is a necessary component of being a good and responsible pet parent.

How Serious Is Dehydration for Puppies?

Pups can be dehydrated quickly, which can harm their kidneys and heart. A puppy ought not to spend more than three to four hours without a drink since severe dehydration is fatal for them. As a responsible pet parent, you must ensure this does not happen. Some of the most common symptoms of dehydration in puppies may include:

• Lethargy and weakness 
• Loss of appetite and vomiting
• Pale gums and a dry mouth
• Heavy panting
• Diarrhea
• Sticky saliva
• Wide eye and dry nose

Your puppy may form crusty scabs all around their muzzle if they dehydrate for an extended time.

Lightly pulling the scruff of fur around the dog’s shoulders and neck is a straightforward technique to see if they are sufficiently moisturized. The skin should ideally ‘snap’ to its original position instantaneously. This shows that the skin has adequate hydration and flexibility.

When the puppy’s skin gradually resumes its former state, perform another test by sliding your fingers along their gums to determine whether or not they are dry. Dry gums are an indication that your puppy requires extra water right away.

My Puppy Does Not Drink Enough Water?

While most puppies love drinking water, some will not drink enough water even when you have placed it for them. You should not be worried about this since each dog is different. However, hydrating remains crucial for your puppy to grow healthy and strong.

Below are a few suggestions and strategies for increasing your puppy’s water intake:

• Add a little bone or chicken broth to the puppy’s water; you must ensure that the broth you add is not salted.
• Check whether the puppy is keen on ice cubes; certain puppies like them, and it can be a simple approach to boost their hydration levels.
• Change from dry to wet meals.
• Whenever the puppy consumes water, applaud him loudly and give him his favorite treat.
• Motivate and encourage your dog to drink water by regularly bringing the container to them.

Before panicking because your puppy is not consuming too much water, remember that thirst is on your side. If you can be a little creative in your approach to get your dog to drink more water, you will find that the puppy will be responsive.

However, once the pup gets used to drinking water, you should start slowly encouraging them to drink water, especially if you use additives to make them drink.

If you were giving them treats to praise them for drinking water, slowly refrain from doing so. This will help the young pup understand that you will reward the dog with a treat, not every time they drink water. You would not want your puppy holding you to ransom, would you?

Is Leaving Water Out for My Puppy at Night a Good Thing?

It is always a good idea to dump the water bowl at night. It simplifies toilet training, particularly if you require a good night’s sleep.

Regarding final feeding and drinking intervals of the day, ensure you develop a regular schedule for your puppy. Doing so will help your puppy understand the expectation and give you time to take your pup outside for a bathroom break before bedtime. To help your dog calm down, eliminate all food and drink around three hours before sleep.

Additionally, emptying the water container at bedtime will reduce messes, particularly if the puppy naps in a crate. By doing this, you can be sure that your dog is well-rested and dry when you wake up rather than wet from all the splashing and spilling they did while they slept.

There are several accident-proof methods to offer access to water, especially if you are concerned that they might be thirsty at night.  

Some containers attach to the edge of a crate to prevent them from toppling over. You only need to add a small amount of water. Utilizing a drip feeder (similar to rabbit drip feeders) is still an excellent choice since it prevents your puppy from over drinking when they ought to be resting.

Is Drinking a Lot of Water Harmful to My Puppy?

Although less frequent than dehydration, consuming too much water can be harmful.

Take the pup to the doctor for a checkup if you find that they are consuming more water than they should. It can indicate a hidden problem that may need medical attention.

Puppies occasionally lack the maturity to understand the volume of water they need to consume. Reduce the quantity of water your puppy has access to at any moment if they start to vomit, get bloated, or become sluggish after drinking too much. Once they begin to understand how to control their intake, gradually reintroduce more water.