Vet has shared the exact amount of water your dog needs - and how to tell if they're not getting enough

A general rule of thumb is that dogs need to drink 20 to 70ml of water per kilogram of their body weight each day.

A new report has shared exactly how much water dogs need each day - and the signs they're not getting enough.

Most of our four legged friends will need around 50ml with the expert cautioning that it all comes down to your dog breed and size.

Doctor Charlotte Rice, Senior Veterinary Technical Manager at YuMOVE explains: "It is reported that dogs need to drink between 20-70 ml of water per kilo of their body weight every day, with most pets needing around 50ml of water per kilo.

"This means a 30kg Labrador would need around 1.5 litres of water a day. A small breed like a Chihuahua would not need to drink as much water, while a huge dog such as a Newfoundland would need more water.

"If your dog is very active, lives in a hot climate or is housetrained, they will need even more water throughout the day, especially on hot days or if they have been running, playing or going for long walks."

What can I do if my dog doesn't drink his water?

If you want to encourage water intake, try adding gravy or bone broth to their water bowl. (Image: Getty Images)

If you are concerned that your dog isn't drinking enough water, there are a few things you can do to encourage them to stay hydrated.

If you feed your dog wet or fresh food, these will contain a lot of moisture meaning your dog might drink less. If they have dry food, you can try soaking dry food to increase the amount of water they have.

You can also try placing a few water bowls around the house to give your dog more than one option and ensure they have easy access to water.

Dr Charlotte adds: “A dog drinking fountain can also be a great way to encourage your dog to drink water.

"Dog water fountains have built-in filters to remove nasty smells and tastes, offers constant running water which some pets prefer, and also give your pooch a chance to play if they want.”

When asked what to do if a dog doesn't drink enough water, she says: “If your dog doesn't appear to be drinking enough, you can offer them meat-flavoured water by adding some slightly warmed low-sodium bone broth or gravy to their water as this can help to enhance the smell.

"This can be a great way to encourage a fussy eater or senior dog to drink more. However, if you are making any major changes to your dog's diet, it is always best to speak to your vet first.”

If your dog is used to having the same water in the same bowl, they may get bored and not drink enough.

But the vet warns there are some signs you need to be aware of that could indicate your dog needs more water.

According to Dr Charlotte, these include:

* Lethargy or weakness

* Panting or rapid breathing

* Decreased appetite or gastrointestinal upset

* Increased thirst (polydipsia)

* Sticky gums

* Sunken eyes

* Reduced skin elasticity (where the skin is slow to return to its normal position after being pinched)

* Increased heart rate

* Pale gums

* Increased body temperature

* A change in urine output (either more frequent or smaller amounts) or a change in the colour of your dog's urine

If you notice any of these signs in your dog, it is important to contact your vet as soon as possible.

Especially on ht days or if they've been active such as running, playing a lot or long walks.