Veterinarian James Greenwood says dogs commonly drink less water in winter because their bodies conserve fluids.

That seasonal shift in drinking is a normal physiologic response, Greenwood told readers, but it does not remove the need for owners to keep water available. Dry winter air can increase insensible fluid losses from skin and the respiratory tract, and water remains essential for regulating body temperature and normal digestive function.

Greenwood offered a plain explanation for the change in behaviour. “During the cold months, it’s completely normal for dogs to drink less water. As temperatures drop, their bodies conserve fluids better,” he said, underscoring that a reduced thirst drive, rather than illness, often explains lower intake.

Dogs generally need approximately 1 ounce of water per pound of body weight per day, though this baseline varies significantly based on activity level, diet, weather conditions, and overall health. More specifically, dogs require between 40-60 ml of water per kilogram of body weight, figures that veterinarians use as a starting point when assessing hydration.

Veterinarians and pet-care writers note that the mechanics of fluid balance differ between seasons. Cold air — whether outdoors or produced by indoor heating — can draw moisture from skin and the respiratory tract, meaning visible drinking may fall even as overall fluid loss continues. “They yawn less and don’t sweat, so fluid loss is significantly lower compared to summer,” Greenwood added, explaining why lower intake is often part of a predictable seasonal pattern.

Dogs often drink somewhat less water in winter because cooler temperatures and lower activity reduce thirst, even though their physiological water needs remain similar year‑round. That contrast — a reduced thirst drive against steady baseline requirements — is why veterinarians advise owners to keep water accessible and to watch for other signs that might indicate a problem.

Practically speaking, owners report a mix of causes for lower visible drinking. In some households outdoor sources freeze or bowls left on porches become unappealing when the water is icy; in others, indoor bowls may be overlooked when pets sleep more or go outside less often. Greenwood noted these behavioural and environmental factors can amplify the natural seasonal reduction in thirst.

Experts emphasize distinguishing mild seasonal variation from clinical dehydration. Key signs that a dog may be dehydrated include loss of skin elasticity (skin that doesn’t quickly spring back when gently lifted), dry or sticky gums, dry nose, lethargy or reduced energy, and panting more than usual. More serious dehydration can cause sunken eyes and other systemic changes that warrant prompt veterinary assessment. For owners seeking more on recognizing dehydration in pets, veterinary resources from major animal-health companies and clinics explain clinical clues and when to contact a clinician.

The emphasis in Greenwood’s account is on careful observation rather than alarm. Owners are advised to keep fresh water available, monitor routine behaviours such as eating and activity, and to seek veterinary attention if they notice marked or sudden changes in demeanour or physical signs consistent with dehydration. A related explainer on 112 addresses when reduced drinking should prompt concern.

Greenwood’s comments were cited in the Telegrafi article that prompted the discussion; the piece and related coverage aim to remind owners that lower visible drinking in winter does not automatically mean a dog is healthy or unhealthy but does call for steady attention to water availability and close observation of other health indicators. Why Your Dog Is Drinking More Water Than Usual In Winter explains how a dog’s water intake in winter compares to other seasons.

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Original reporting: view the original article.