Hydration for Dogs on Natural Diets How Much Water They Really Need🐾

When you switch your dog to raw, cooked, or lightly processed food, you might notice something odd—they’re drinking less water. Is that normal? Should you be worried?

I’m Dr. Duncan Houston, veterinarian and founder of Ask A Vet. Here’s how hydration changes on natural diets, how to ensure your dog stays properly hydrated, and when lower water intake is totally fine.

💧 Why Natural Diet Dogs Drink Less

• Most raw or cooked foods contain 60–75% moisture
• Dry kibble contains only 7–10% moisture
• Dogs on natural diets hydrate through their food and may not drink as much at the bowl

📊 How Much Water Does a Dog Actually Need?

General rule: 50–60 mL of water per kg of body weight daily

• 10 kg dog = 500–600 mL/day
• 30 kg dog = 1.5–1.8 L/day
• This includes water from food and water from the bowl

✅ Signs Your Dog Is Well-Hydrated

• Moist nose and gums
• Elastic skin (bounce-back test)
• Regular urination, light-yellow urine
• Normal appetite, alert and active

🚩 Signs of Dehydration (Contact a Vet If You See These)

• Dry gums or sticky saliva
• Lethargy or weakness
• Sunken eyes or skin that "tents" when lifted
• Dark urine or urinating less frequently

🧠 Hydration Boosters for Natural Diets

1. Bone Broth (Unsalted)

• Add to meals or serve frozen in cubes

2. Goat Milk or Kefir

• Probiotic-rich and hydrating (start with small amounts)

3. Water-Rich Treats

• Watermelon, cucumber, zucchini, low-sodium broth ice cubes

4. Wet Food Mix-Ins

• Blend raw or cooked food with extra filtered water for added hydration

🛑 Mistakes to Avoid

• Forgetting to clean water bowls—biofilm builds up fast
• Relying on kibble alone in hot weather—dogs may become mildly dehydrated
• Not adjusting for activity, temperature, or life stage

🐶 Do Puppies and Seniors Need More Water?

• Puppies: Prone to dehydration due to small size and high energy
• Seniors: May drink less or lose fluid faster—monitor more closely

🔗 Tools from Woopf & Ask A Vet

• Woopf Bowl – Great for slow-feeding hydrating foods like broth or soaked meals
• Ask A Vet – Upload hydration logs, urine color, or concerns and get same-day advice

📋 Summary Excerpt

Dogs on natural diets get more water from their food and may drink less—but hydration is still critical. A vet explains how to make sure your dog stays hydrated, healthy, and active on any feeding plan.

❓ FAQs

• Q: My dog is drinking less on raw food—is that okay?
  A: Yes, usually! Raw and cooked foods contain more moisture, so water intake from the bowl naturally decreases.
• Q: Should I add water to my dog’s food?
  A: Yes—especially in hot weather, after exercise, or if your dog eats fast. Just a few tablespoons can help.
• Q: Can dehydration happen even on a wet food diet?
  A: Yes—especially with vomiting, diarrhea, or heat. Always watch for subtle signs of dehydration.

Need help assessing your dog’s hydration? Ask a vet now →