How Much Water Does a Newly Weaned Puppy Need?

Weaning is the gradual process of reducing the puppies' dependence on their mother's milk for nourishment and water. She will drink less water as her milk production decreases, while the puppies need to ingest more water to replace what they are no longer getting as part of their mother's milk.

  1. Mother's Milk

    • Dog milk is about 79 percent water, while cow's milk is about 87 percent. Dog milk also has different proportions of fat and lactose (milk sugar). Because of these differences, don't replace mother's milk with cow's milk, as it can cause diarrhea. For an orphan or a pup that needs supplementation, there are several commercial brands of canine milk replacer available at veterinarian offices, pet stores and even some supermarkets. This formula, mixed according to directions, will provide the needed water.

    Drying Out

    • If a puppy does not get enough water, he can become dangerously dehydrated. Weigh the puppies daily and keep a record so that you will know if one is losing condition. A quick test is to pinch the skin on the puppy's back gently -- if the pup is fully hydrated, it will slide back into place smoothly. If the pup is dehydrated, a fold will remain. Correct dehydration by administering a balanced electrolyte solution such as Pedialyte (available at most pharmacies) from a medication syringe.

    First Food

    • Wild canines such as wolves, coyotes and foxes wean their pups on predigested meat, which the mother and even other pack members bring home in their own stomachs and regurgitate for the pups. This sounds disgusting, but it's really the ideal food for them, as it contains both food and the liquid they need. In weaning domestic puppies, the object is to replicate that combination by soaking dry kibble in water or adding water to canned dog food until it's the consistency of oatmeal. You can let them lick it off your fingers, or you can make up a shallow pan of mush and turn the whole litter loose on it. It's messy (and funny), but they have to learn somehow. Gradually thicken the mush by adding less water until they're chewing their food. Offer water separately at this point, and be sure they drink.

    Water, Water Everywhere

    • Puppies can be introduced to water at 3 to 4 weeks of age by offering them drops on the tip of your finger. Start with distilled or bottled water, because it does not have the additives and chemicals found in tap water. Add tap water gradually, as long as the pups stay healthy. Once they will lick water from your finger, give them a shallow pan of water and let them experiment -- just be sure it's not deep enough for them to drown accidentally.
      Always consult an experienced veterinarian regarding the health and treatment of your pet and follow instructions carefully.