Why Is My Dog Drinking So Much Water? Risks & Causes

Water intoxication, also known as hyponatremia or water toxemia, is a potentially life-threatening condition that occurs when a dog consumes an excessive amount of water in a short period. This overconsumption leads to an imbalance in the body’s electrolytes, particularly sodium. As the blood becomes diluted, cells, including those in the brain, begin to swell, which can result in severe neurological complications.

The condition is relatively rare but can be extremely dangerous when it does occur. It’s most commonly seen in dogs who love water activities, such as swimming or playing with water from a hose. However, it can happen to any dog that drinks too much water too quickly, regardless of the source.

Understanding water intoxication is crucial for dog owners, as early recognition and prompt treatment can make a significant difference in the outcome. While it’s important for dogs to stay hydrated, especially during hot weather or after exercise, it’s equally important to ensure they don’t overdo it. 

Why Do Dogs Drink Excessive Water?

Dogs may drink excessive amounts of water for various reasons, some of which are normal and others that may indicate an underlying health issue. Understanding these reasons can help pet owners distinguish between typical behavior and potential problems:

• Thirst after exercise: It’s natural for dogs to drink more water after physical activity or on hot days.
• Boredom or anxiety: Some dogs may drink excessively as a coping mechanism for stress or lack of stimulation.
• Medication side effects: Certain medications, such as steroids, can increase thirst.
• Medical conditions: Diseases like diabetes, Cushing’s disease, or kidney problems can cause increased thirst.
• Dietary factors: Dry food or salty treats can make dogs drink more water.
• Hormonal changes: Pregnant or nursing dogs may drink more water than usual.
• Compulsive behavior: Some dogs develop a habit of drinking excessively without a medical cause.

The Dangers of Rapid Water Consumption

When a dog drinks large quantities of water quickly, it can lead to:

• Electrolyte imbalance: Excessive water dilutes the blood, lowering sodium levels critically.
• Cellular swelling: As the blood becomes diluted, water moves into cells, causing them to swell.
• Brain edema: Swelling of brain cells can lead to neurological symptoms and potentially fatal complications.
• Organ dysfunction: Other organs, such as the heart and lungs, can also be affected by cellular swelling.
• Gastric dilatation: Rapid water intake can cause the stomach to expand, potentially leading to bloat.

The body’s natural mechanisms for regulating water balance can be overwhelmed by sudden, large volumes of water. This is particularly dangerous during water activities, where a dog might inadvertently swallow water while swimming or playing.

Signs and Symptoms of Water Intoxication

The symptoms can develop rapidly, often within 30 minutes to a few hours after excessive water consumption. Here are some key indicators to watch for:

• Lethargy and weakness
• Nausea and vomiting
• Bloating or distended abdomen
• Loss of coordination
• Glazed eyes or dilated pupils
• Excessive salivation
• Pale gums
• Seizures
• Difficulty breathing
• Loss of consciousness

In severe cases, water intoxication can lead to brain damage, coma, and even death if not treated promptly. It’s important to note that these symptoms can sometimes be mistaken for other conditions, such as heat stroke or poisoning. 

How Much Water is Too Much for Dogs?

There are some general guidelines to follow:

• A healthy dog typically needs about 1 ounce of water per pound of body weight daily.
• Active dogs or those in hot environments may need more.
• Dogs on a wet diet may drink less water than those on dry kibble.

Risk Factors for Canine Water Intoxication

While any dog can potentially develop water intoxication, certain factors increase the risk:

• Water-loving breeds: Dogs that enjoy swimming or playing in water, such as Labrador Retrievers and Water Spaniels, are at higher risk.
• Small dog breeds: Smaller dogs such as Chihuahuas, Pomeranians, and Dachshunds can be affected by less water due to their size.
• High-energy dogs: Dogs that engage in intense play or exercise around water sources are more prone to accidental water ingestion.
• Compulsive behaviors: Dogs with obsessive tendencies may drink water excessively.
• Limited access to water: Dogs that are suddenly given unlimited access to water after being deprived may overindulge.
• Hot weather: Dogs are more likely to drink excessively in hot conditions.
• Saltwater exposure: Dogs that swim in the ocean may drink more freshwater to compensate for the salt intake.

Preventing Water Intoxication in Dogs

Preventing water intoxication is crucial for keeping dogs safe during water activities and in everyday life. Here are some effective strategies:

• Limit water play sessions: Allow breaks during swimming or water play to prevent accidental ingestion of large amounts of water.
• Use proper toys: Opt for toys that don’t hold water, reducing the risk of swallowing water during play.
• Monitor drinking habits: Keep an eye on how much and how quickly your dog drinks, especially after exercise or on hot days.
• Provide regular water breaks: Offer small amounts of water frequently during activities rather than allowing unlimited access all at once.
• Use caution with hoses and sprinklers: Supervise play with water sources that shoot out water forcefully.
• Educate family members: Ensure everyone who cares for the dog understands the risks and prevention strategies.
• Consider alternative cooling methods: Use cooling mats or damp towels to help dogs cool down without the risk of overdrinking.

How to Treat Water Intoxication in Dogs

As stated in the AKC article: ‘‘If you even suspect that your dog has water intoxication, get to a vet or emergency clinic immediately. Because water intoxication involves a lack of sodium, carefully replenishing that important mineral is crucial. Treatment includes the administration of electrolytes. (Moderation is key here, as super-concentrated sodium can cause severe neurological problems.)

Veterinarians may administer drugs such as Mannitol to decrease pressure in the brain, as well as diuretics such as Lasix, which help hasten the removal of fluid. In mild cases, a dog will have a staggering gait, but they can eventually recover internal equilibrium and return to normal. But in severe cases, the brain damage can be so advanced that it cannot be reversed, and the dog dies or must be euthanized.

Water intoxication has not been widely discussed in published veterinary literature and can be misdiagnosed as hypothermia or overexertion. Lower-than-normal sodium levels are a classic sign of water intoxication, but depending on when a vet runs lab work, a dog’s blood-sodium levels may have already started to stabilize, even though the cellular damage has been done.’

How Can Pet Insurance Help You if Your Dog Needs a Treatment?

Pet insurance can be a valuable tool in managing the costs of treating a dog’s veterinary expenses. By having a pet insurance policy in place, you can have peace of mind knowing that you can provide medical care for your furry companion without worrying about the financial burden. Pet insurance can help cover the costs of veterinary consultations, diagnostic tests, medications, and even specialized treatments if required.

Reimbursement

This method is the most common for pet insurance companies. You pay out of pocket for the veterinarian bill, and then the insurance company reimburses you for what’s covered under the insurance plan. The steps look like this.

• You pay the vet bill after your dog’s visit.
• You fill out the pet insurance claim form.
• Submit the claim form and other required documentation to the insurer. 
• After the claim is approved, you will be reimbursed for eligible expenses. 

What Does Odie Pet Insurance Cover?

Pet insurance covers various veterinary expenses, providing financial protection and peace of mind for pet owners. Here are the details of the coverage options offered by Odie Pet Insurance:

Illness & Injury Plan

The Illness & Injury Plan is an all-inclusive insurance plan designed to cover a wide range of medical needs for your pet. This plan includes comprehensive coverage for various illnesses, injuries, and veterinary services. Some of the covered items include:

• 24/7 Televet Chat
• Emergency vet visits
• Overnight hospital stays
• IV Fluids & Medications
• Medical Supplies
• Surgeries
• MRI/CAT Scans
• Rehabilitative Care
• Prescription Medications
• Gastrointestinal issues
• Laboratory Tests

Accident-Only Plan

The Accident-Only Plan is designed for pet owners seeking coverage specifically for accidents. This plan provides financial protection for emergency veterinary care resulting from accidental injuries. It includes 90% reimbursement up to $10,000 each year, with a $250 annual deductible.

Here’s an overview of the Accident-Only Plan:

• Coverage for broken bones, sprains, eye injuries, and traumatic dental fractures.
• Coverage for wounds, including bite wounds, lacerations, snake bites, and bee stings.
• Veterinary treatments covered for accidental injuries include X-rays & ultrasounds, laboratory tests, emergency care, hospitalization, CT scan & MRI, and surgery.

The Wellness Add-on Plan

The Wellness Plan is an add-on for routine care coverage you can purchase with an insurance policy. It focuses on preventive care and covers routine veterinary services. Odie has two wellness plan options available: 

 Basic Plan:

• Covers services such as spay/neuter and teeth cleaning, rabies vaccination, flea & tick prevention, heartworm prevention, vaccination/titer, wellness exam, heartworm test or FELV screen, blood, fecal, parasite exam, microchip, urinalysis or ERD, and deworming.
• Reimbursement up to $305 per year.

Plus Plan:

• Ideal for puppies and kittens.
• Covers services such as spay/neuter and teeth cleaning, rabies vaccination, flea & tick prevention, heartworm prevention, vaccination/titer, wellness exam, heartworm test or FELV screen, blood, fecal, parasite exam, microchip, urinalysis or ERD, and deworming.
• Reimbursement up to $535 per year.