Common Causes of Increased Thirst in Dogs

Every dog owners are concerned when they see their dog’s thirst has grown. It’s easy to question whether this is merely a common occurrence or a warning that anything is wrong. 

It might be tough to discern whether your dog is drinking too much water depending on your lifestyle and where he lives. Measuring how much water you give your dog every day is one of the most important things you can do to keep track of his thirst levels. Keeping track of how many bowls of water you’re filling up is the simplest method to achieve this.

A variety of factors can cause increased thirst, also known as polydipsia. Dogs can become polydipsic in hot weather, especially when the seasons change and they don’t have time to acclimate to the new temperature. Dogs will drink more if their bodies are losing water from watery diarrhea, heavy panting, or blood loss.

Reasons Why Your Dog Has Increased Thirst

If your dog shows excessive thirst, commonly known as polydipsia, keep an eye out for additional indications. An underlying disease frequently causes excessive thirst in dogs. The list of possible causes of polydipsia is extensive; always get medical advice from your veterinarian before making a diagnosis.

Dehydration

Dehydration can occur due to hot days, excessive activity levels, vomiting or diarrhea, and a variety of other factors. Your dog must have access to lots of water in all of these situations. Any dog, regardless of age, can get dehydrated.

A skin tent test may be used at home to check for possible dehydration. Pinching and elevating the skin between your dog’s shoulder blades is how you do it. Contact your veterinarian if your dog is dehydrated and ensure they have access to clean, fresh water. Look up “Animal hospital near me” for the best results.

Urinary Tract Infection

Another reason your dog may be drinking extra water is if they are suffering from a urinary tract infection (UTI in dogs). Urinary tract infections may be highly uncomfortable for your dog and, if left untreated, can become hazardous.

The intensity of UTI symptoms varies from dog to dog, but most of them show up in the same way. Ignoring indicators of a UTI can lead to more severe problems, such as a kidney infection and your dog’s discomfort or suffering.

Kidney Failure

Kidneys function as an aid in removing by-products and poisons from your dog’s blood. The kidneys also generate urine and control the body’s water and electrolyte balance.

Dogs need to consume extra water if their kidneys aren’t functioning correctly. Kidney illness in dogs, especially elderly canines, can lead to additional issues. This is why it’s critical to keep an eye out for indicators of the renal condition.

Failure of one or both kidneys might occur quickly or develop over a more extended period. Both of these forms of renal failure can be rather dangerous; therefore, you must discuss the matter with your dog’s veterinarian. Consult your veterinarian for information about Pet Wellness Plan available for your pet.

Diabetes Mellitus

The inability of your dog’s body to respond adequately to insulin or a reduction in insulin synthesis are the root causes of this illness. Insulin is essential for sugar to be absorbed into your dog’s cells and used as a source of energy to assist in the proper functioning of your dog’s organs. If there is insulin scarcity or the body does not respond healthily to insulin, the blood sugar level will become too high. 

Diabetes mellitus is a condition that can affect any dog, although it is more frequent in middle-aged or older dogs. If it is overlooked and not appropriately addressed, the consequences might be quite severe. Visit a veterinary website to learn more.