How Much Water Does Your Dog Need on a Road Trip?
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Long drives, warm cars and excitement all make dogs thirsty, but many dogs drink less on the road because the routine is different. Here's how to keep them topped up.
The rule of thumb
A common veterinary guideline is about 1 ounce of water per pound of body weight per day. A 50-pound dog needs roughly 50 ounces (about 6 cups) a day. Hot weather, exercise, age and diet change that number. Dogs on dry food usually drink more than dogs on wet food.
| Dog's weight | Roughly per day |
|---|---|
| 10 lb | 10 oz (1¼ cups) |
| 30 lb | 30 oz (3¾ cups) |
| 50 lb | 50 oz (6¼ cups) |
| 80 lb | 80 oz (10 cups) |
Early signs of dehydration
- Panting when they haven't been exercising
- Low energy or lethargy
- Dry nose and dry, sticky gums
- Thick saliva
- Sunken, dry-looking eyes
- Less interest in food
Keeping them drinking on the road
- Offer water at every stop, even if they ignored it last time.
- Bring water from home. Some dogs refuse water that smells or tastes different.
- Make it easy. A travel bottle with a built-in bowl, or a collapsible bowl, means a drink takes 20 seconds instead of a hunt for a dish.
- Don't let them gulp a huge amount at once right before getting back in the car, especially if they get carsick. Little and often is better.
- Keep the car cool. Less heat means less water lost by panting.
When to call the vet
Call your vet if your dog shows signs of dehydration, especially after heat exposure, has vomiting or diarrhea, or is drinking much more than usual for several days.
This article is general information, not veterinary advice.