Why Are My Dog’s Drinking So Much Water?

But the reason I am writing you is to ask about why they drink so much water, especially Sheila? Can their food be an issue?

Dear Ask Darwin’s,

I have two smallish collies, Baxter and Sheila.  I think they are both pretty healthy. Over the years my vet and friends have warned me that switching foods can cause all kinds of problems like diarrhea or vomiting.  I will admit that I am a bit nervous about trying raw. But the reason I am writing you is to ask about why they drink so much water, especially Sheila? Can their food be an issue?
Georgia – Washington

Dear Georgia,

Thanks for your questions. Although you didn’t come right out and ask me about switching, I will assume you are looking for guidance. And, if done correctly, there should be no negative residual digestive issues.

Switching dog food is easy.

Take it slow. I usually recommend, on the first day, putting a bit of the new food in the palm of your hand. Then little by little add the new stuff to the old stuff until its all new stuff. Oh yeah, watch the poop. If it’s getting softer slow down. However, if it’s firm, there is less of it, it has almost no odor and they go less often (this happens with a raw diet) you are on the right track.

Why is my dog drinking so much water?

Again, an easy fix.  And again, I will make an assumption; you are feeding Baxter and Sheila dry kibble (any dry).  Obviously, there is no liquid in dry food. Dogs (and cats) systems are designed to absorb moisture through the digestive system, not an outside source.

Moist, well made raw food, formulated correctly, will provide the important moisture needed.

As an aside (re dry) when you add water to dry nuggets they swell.  We’ve all seen this happen in the sink (if there are any stragglers left behind in the bowl).  Picture this happening in their tummies.  This expansion can cause all sorts of un-pleasantries such as bad breath, indigestion, and the ever popular gas.

Hope this helped.

Jeanne

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I openly believe in all things “green” (except teeth). I love crafting words that make people think, painting with watercolors, amazing individuals who really are working to cure breast cancer and, of course, sushi. I’m the mother of two amazing canines and am passionate (and quite knowledgeable) about dog nutrition. And, in spite of Lucy Van Pelt’s objections, I let my dogs kiss me on the mouth. To see all my watercolor gallery of my favorite furry faces check out Artisan Tails.