Is This Normal? Finder · Eating and drinking

My puppy drinks a lot of water. Is that normal?

By Dr. Steve Pelton, DVM

The short answer

Puppies drink more after play and on hot days, and that's normal. What's worth a call is a sudden change: drinking much more than his usual, or peeing a lot more than he used to. Keep fresh water where he can always reach it.

Why it happens

Puppies pant to cool off and lose water as they play, so they top up often. A sudden, lasting jump in drinking or peeing is the part that tells your vet something changed.

Which door?

WATCHAfter play or on a hot day.
CALL TODAYHe's suddenly drinking much more than usual, or peeing a lot more.

Usually normal

Big drinks after play, a walk or a warm afternoon

When to call

Tick what fits and see which door you're at.

CALL TODAYSuddenly drinking much more than usual
CALL TODAYPeeing a lot more, or accidents after he was doing well

Your door: WATCHWATCH

Nothing ticked and he's bright, playful, eating and drinking? Keep an eye on him, jot down what you see, and call in the daytime if it doesn't settle.

Under 16 weeks, a toy breed, or not done with his shots? Move everything one door closer to GO NOW.

Not sure which door you're at? That's a call. Call your vet.

Worried right now? Check the Three Doors list, from most urgent down, and stop at the first door that fits.

Is this an emergency?

General education, not veterinary advice. Your vet's plan for your puppy comes first.