Hydration Tips for Large Dogs: Keep Big Breeds Healthy, Happy and Cool
When you’ve got a big dog, there’s a lot more to love—and a bit more to manage, too, especially when it comes to drinking enough water. Large breed dogs have bigger bodies, larger muscles, and often greater needs to stay cool and healthy. Making sure they’re getting enough water is one of the simplest ways to keep your gentle giant happy, comfortable, and thriving. In this guide, we’ll share essential hydration tips for large breeds, from spotting signs of dehydration to choosing the right bowls and fountains they'll actually use.
Why Hydration Matters Even More For Big Dogs
Larger dogs are more prone to overheating and can lose body fluids faster due to their size and activity levels. Whether it's a sunny walk or a lazy summer day, their body still works hard to regulate temperature. Breeds like the Labrador, Bernese Mountain Dog, and Great Dane are especially prone to needing higher water intake because of their size and sometimes thick coats. Adequate hydration supports healthy joints, digestion, and circulation—and helps prevent heatstroke during warmer Kiwi months.
How Much Water Does A Large Breed Dog Need?
While each dog is different, a general recommendation is about 50ml of water per kilo of body weight daily. So if your furry friend weighs 40 kilos, you're looking at roughly 2 litres of water a day—more if it's extra hot or after exercise.
If you’re feeding a dry diet, your dog’s water needs may be even higher. Wet food or raw diets like ZIWI, K9 Natural or Animals Like Us contain higher moisture content, which can help—but a fresh water source is still essential all day long.
Tips To Encourage More Drinking
- Use a water fountain: Many dogs are naturally drawn to running water. Consider a smart pet water fountain to keep their water fresh, cool and enticing.
- Offer multiple bowls: Especially in larger homes or multi-level houses, place several dog water bowls around your pup’s space.
- Add flavour: A splash of low-sodium broth or ice cubes made with bone broth can encourage drinking—just keep it occasional so it doesn't replace plain water.
- Choose the right bowls: Large dogs benefit from sturdy, non-slip bowls and elevated feeders which are easier on their joints. Check out options in our great value bowls collection.
Signs Your Large Dog May Be Dehydrated
Knowing how to spot the early signs of dehydration can make all the difference. Keep an eye out for:
- Dry or sticky gums and tongue
- Sunken eyes
- Lethargy or reluctance to move
- Excessive panting
- Loss of skin elasticity – try gently pinching the skin behind the neck; if it doesn't spring back quickly, your dog may be dehydrated
If you notice any of these signs, offer water immediately and seek veterinary advice if symptoms persist. And remember, prevention is the best approach!
Smart And Practical Hydration Solutions
- Travel smart: For adventures, walks, or road trips, a portable water bowl or dog water bottle makes it easy to offer water on the go.
- Hydration in summer: Keeping pets cool is especially important during warmer months. You’ll find great warm-weather must-haves in our pet summer essentials collection.
- Add hydration support: Some pet health supplements support hydration and electrolyte balance—particularly useful after high activity.
- Feed moisture-rich foods: Wet food diets from brands like Hill's Science Diet or Royal Canin deliver tasty nutrition with extra moisture built in.
We Get Pet Hydration
At Petdirect, we understand that a well-hydrated dog is a healthier, happier dog. Whether you're after smart hydration tech, a new fountain, or hydration support products tailored for big breeds, we’ve got your four-legged family member covered. Plus, with Pet Perks and Airpoints, every wag earns rewards—one more reason to shop with the team who really gets pet.
Final Woof
When it comes to large breed hydration, a little attention goes a long way. From fresh water and fun fountains to hydration-supportive foods, your big buddy will thank you with more energy, better health, and happy tail wags. Explore our hydration-friendly picks through smart fountains and feeders or add a new supplement to their routine. Because when it comes to your big fluffball’s health, We Get Pet.