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Is it okay if my dog only has water in the evening and not all day?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Large (61lb +) | Male | unneutered | 1 year and 2 months old | 65 lbs

Our dog only has water in the evening. He does not have water at night after we take him out and he does not have water in the morning or during the day while we are at work. is this wrong?

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Ricardo Fernandez, DVM

Veterinarian, Veterinary Oncology Resident

Published on December 24th, 2017

Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! This is not necessarily wrong if he is otherwise doing fine. Dogs like humans rely on thirst and usually will drink when thirsty so I would not worry about this too much. If he eats a wet food, that may be another reason why he does not drink as much water. Good luck!

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By Destini R. Holloway, DVM
Veterinarian
Published on December 3rd, 2019
Your pet can become dehydrated if they don't get enough water, which over time can cause damage to their kidneys. The kidneys need constant water in order to function well, so when the body is depleted of water, they have to work overtime to concentrate the urine, and this eventually can damage the internal structures of the kidneys.
Taking up water at night isn't enough to cause a pet to become dehydrated enough to cause concern for pet owners. Most dogs consume the majority of their water intake during the day, and not when they are mostly asleep.
I hope this helps. Thanks for visiting Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach. Take care. : )
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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