Why This Food Makes a Dog Constantly Thirsty.

1. Understanding Canine Thirst

1.1 Normal Hydration Needs

Dogs require water to maintain cellular function, regulate temperature, and support digestion. The baseline intake is not a fixed volume; it varies with body mass, activity level, ambient temperature, and diet composition.

Small breeds (under 10 lb) typically consume ½ to ¾ cup of water per day.
Medium breeds (10‑30 lb) need approximately 1 to 1½ cups daily.
Large breeds (over 30 lb) require 2 to 3 cups or more, scaling upward with weight.

Physical exertion can double or triple these amounts. In hot or humid conditions, evaporative cooling increases loss through panting, prompting dogs to drink up to 4 cups per hour during intense heat exposure. Wet food contributes moisture; a diet consisting of 70 % moisture can reduce voluntary water intake by 30‑40 % compared to a dry‑kibble regimen.

When a specific food triggers persistent drinking, the deviation from the normal range becomes evident. Excessive thirst often signals that the food’s sodium, protein, or carbohydrate profile forces the kidneys to excrete more solutes, thereby raising the osmotic drive for water. Understanding the standard hydration benchmarks enables owners to recognize abnormal drinking patterns and assess whether the diet is the underlying cause.

1.2 Recognizing Excessive Thirst

Excessive drinking, or polydipsia, often signals that a dog’s diet contains ingredients that disturb fluid balance. Veterinarians identify abnormal thirst through objective observation and quantifiable criteria.

First, record the volume of water a dog consumes over a 24‑hour period. Normal intake for a medium‑sized adult ranges from 30 ml to 50 ml per kilogram of body weight. Consumption consistently exceeding 70 ml / kg suggests a pathological response to the diet.

Second, monitor drinking patterns. Frequent, small sips throughout the day, especially after meals, differ from normal behavior, which typically clusters around scheduled feeding times. A sudden increase in the number of drinking episodes-more than eight per day for an average dog-warrants attention.

Third, assess accompanying signs:

Dry, tacky gums despite apparent hydration
Elevated urine output, measured by the need to empty a standard water bowl more than twice per hour
Weight loss or lack of weight gain in growing dogs
Lethargy or restlessness, often linked to electrolyte imbalance

Fourth, compare the dog’s diet to known thirst‑inducing components. High‑salt processed treats, foods with added sugars, and certain flavor enhancers raise osmolarity, compelling the animal to ingest more water to restore homeostasis. Even natural ingredients, such as raw carrots or high‑potassium vegetables, can trigger polydipsia if fed in excessive amounts.

Finally, differentiate diet‑related polydipsia from medical conditions. Conduct basic blood work to rule out diabetes mellitus, kidney disease, or Cushing’s syndrome. If laboratory results are normal, the primary suspect remains the food’s composition.

By systematically documenting water intake, drinking frequency, and related clinical signs, owners and professionals can reliably recognize when a dog’s thirst exceeds physiological norms and attribute it to dietary factors.

2. Dietary Factors Influencing Thirst

2.1 High Sodium Content

As a veterinary nutrition specialist, I assess the impact of elevated sodium levels on canine hydration. Sodium drives extracellular fluid concentration; when a diet exceeds the recommended 0.2 % sodium (dry matter basis), plasma osmolality rises. The hypothalamic thirst center detects this shift and triggers rapid water intake. Simultaneously, the kidneys attempt to excrete excess sodium, increasing urine volume and further depleting body water.

Key physiological responses to high dietary sodium include:

Increased plasma sodium → heightened osmotic pressure → activation of thirst mechanisms.
Enhanced renal sodium excretion → diuresis → greater fluid loss.
Elevated blood pressure → potential strain on cardiovascular system, especially in predisposed breeds.
Possible electrolyte imbalance if water consumption does not match sodium load.

Typical commercial foods that contribute to excessive sodium contain added salts for flavor, preservation, or texture enhancement. Ingredients such as cured meats, cheese powders, and certain flavor enhancers often contribute 300-500 mg of sodium per 100 g of product, far above the canine daily allowance of approximately 100 mg per kilogram of body weight.

Management recommendations:

Verify sodium content on ingredient labels; select formulas labeled “low‑sodium” or “no added salt.”
Limit treats made from processed human foods, which frequently contain hidden salt sources.
Provide constant access to fresh water, monitoring intake after meals high in sodium.
Conduct periodic blood chemistry panels to detect early signs of hypernatremia or hypertension.

Understanding the direct link between sodium concentration and thirst allows owners to adjust feeding practices, thereby preventing chronic excessive drinking and its associated health risks.

2.1.1 Processed Foods and Treats

As a veterinary nutrition specialist, I observe that many commercial dog foods and treats contain ingredients that directly increase plasma osmolality, prompting the animal to seek water. High sodium levels, common in cured meats and salty snacks, create a hypertonic environment that forces the kidneys to conserve water while stimulating thirst centers. Likewise, sugar‑based flavor enhancers raise blood glucose, triggering osmotic diuresis and subsequent fluid loss, which the dog compensates for by drinking more.

Preservatives such as potassium sorbate and sodium benzoate add to the electrolyte load. Additives like monosodium glutamate (MSG) contribute additional sodium without providing nutritional value. The cumulative effect of these compounds is a constant need for hydration, even when the dog’s diet otherwise appears balanced.

Typical processed items that generate this response include:

Canned pâtés with added broth or gelatin
Jerky strips seasoned with salt or soy sauce
Biscuit‑type treats flavored with cheese powder or caramelized sugar
Freeze‑dried meals that rely on high‑salt seasoning for palatability

To mitigate excessive drinking, select foods labeled “low‑sodium” or “no added salt,” and prioritize treats formulated with natural ingredients and minimal preservatives. Providing fresh water alongside meals and monitoring intake can reveal whether a specific product is the primary driver of polydipsia. If thirst persists despite dietary adjustments, a veterinary assessment is warranted to rule out underlying metabolic or renal disorders.

2.1.2 Human Food Scraps

Human food leftovers often contain ingredients that disrupt a dog’s fluid balance, prompting frequent drinking. Elevated sodium levels increase plasma osmolality, triggering thirst mechanisms. Sugary components raise blood glucose, leading to osmotic diuresis and subsequent fluid loss. Preservatives such as monosodium glutamate act as sodium sources, reinforcing the same response. Additionally, many scraps are low in moisture but high in salts, forcing the animal to compensate by ingesting more water.

Common scraps and their impact:

Processed meats (e.g., ham, bacon): high sodium, possible nitrates.
Cheese fragments: concentrated calcium and salt.
Bread crusts with butter or spreads: added salt and fat.
Fried foods: oil content reduces water absorption, while seasoning adds sodium.
Canned soups or sauces: concentrated electrolytes and additives.

Veterinary nutrition guidelines advise limiting or eliminating these items from a dog’s diet. Replacing them with balanced, low‑sodium canine meals reduces unnecessary thirst and supports renal health. Monitoring water intake after accidental ingestion can help identify problematic foods early and prevent chronic dehydration.

2.2 Dry Kibble and Low Moisture Content

Dry kibble typically contains 8‑12 % moisture, far below the water content of fresh or canned diets. When a dog consumes such a low‑moisture product, the body must compensate by drawing water from internal stores and prompting the animal to drink more frequently.

The reduced water volume in each bite triggers several physiological responses:

Osmoreceptors in the hypothalamus detect higher blood solute concentration, stimulating the thirst center.
Kidneys receive a higher osmolar load, prompting antidiuretic hormone release and, subsequently, increased voluntary drinking to maintain renal balance.
Saliva production rises to aid mastication of dry particles, creating a secondary source of fluid loss.

Additional factors amplify the effect. Commercial kibble often contains elevated sodium and preservatives to enhance flavor and shelf stability; these additives raise extracellular fluid osmolarity, further intensifying the thirst drive. High carbohydrate density can accelerate glycogen storage, which binds water intracellularly, leaving less free water for circulation and encouraging external intake.

To mitigate excessive drinking, consider the following adjustments:

Offer fresh water at multiple locations throughout the day.
Incorporate a measured portion of wet food or water‑rich vegetables to raise overall dietary moisture.
Select kibble formulated with reduced sodium levels and added glycerol or broth.

By understanding the direct link between low moisture content in dry kibble and the body's regulatory mechanisms, owners can tailor feeding strategies that maintain hydration without compromising nutritional adequacy.

2.2.1 Impact on Kidney Function

The food’s elevated sodium load forces the kidneys to excrete larger volumes of urine. Sodium draws water into the tubular lumen, increasing urine output and triggering compensatory thirst. When the organ repeatedly handles excess solutes, glomerular filtration rate rises to maintain homeostasis, placing chronic strain on nephrons.

Key renal effects include:

Hyperfiltration - accelerated filtration pressure can damage glomerular capillaries over time.
Increased osmotic load - concentrated solutes remain in the tubular fluid, pulling additional water from the bloodstream.
Elevated renin‑angiotensin activity - the body attempts to retain sodium, which paradoxically raises blood pressure and further stresses renal vessels.

If the diet supplies persistent high levels of sodium or other osmotic agents, the kidneys may adapt by enlarging nephrons, a process that reduces concentrating ability. Consequently, the animal drinks more frequently to replenish fluid lost through diluted urine. Continuous exposure can progress to renal insufficiency, where the organ’s capacity to regulate water balance diminishes markedly, leading to chronic polydipsia.

2.2.2 Dehydration Risk

The food in question contains high concentrations of sodium and osmotically active carbohydrates, which draw water from the bloodstream into the intestinal lumen. This shift creates a net fluid deficit that the dog compensates for by drinking more frequently.

Elevated plasma osmolarity triggers the hypothalamic thirst center, prompting increased water intake. Simultaneously, the kidneys receive a reduced perfusion signal, decreasing urine output to conserve remaining fluid. The combined effect accelerates the onset of dehydration if water consumption does not match the loss.

Key factors that heighten dehydration risk include:

Sodium content exceeding the canine recommended daily allowance.
Simple sugars that raise intestinal osmolarity without providing adequate hydration.
Low moisture volume in the kibble or canned product.
Absence of electrolytes that facilitate water reabsorption in the gut.

Veterinary assessment should monitor body weight, skin turgor, and mucous membrane moisture. Immediate corrective measures involve offering fresh water at regular intervals, supplementing with electrolyte-balanced solutions, and adjusting the diet to lower sodium and sugar levels. Continuous observation ensures that fluid balance restores promptly, preventing chronic dehydration and associated health complications.

2.3 Protein Levels and Metabolism

Protein concentration in canine diets directly affects renal load. High‑protein meals increase the amount of nitrogenous waste that the kidneys must excrete, primarily as urea. Urea draws water from the bloodstream into the renal tubules, elevating urine volume and prompting the animal to drink more frequently.

Elevated protein also accelerates metabolic rate. Each gram of protein requires approximately 4 kcal for digestion, absorption, and assimilation, generating heat and stimulating sympathetic activity. The resulting rise in body temperature triggers hypothalamic thirst centers, compelling the dog to seek additional water.

Key metabolic consequences of excessive protein:

Increased urea synthesis: greater nitrogen disposal → higher urine output.
Enhanced gluconeogenesis: amino acids converted to glucose raise blood osmolarity, stimulating osmotic thirst.
Elevated thermogenesis: metabolic heat production → mild hyperthermia → thirst response.

When a food source contains protein levels beyond the dog’s physiological needs, the combined effect of renal water loss and osmotic imbalance creates a persistent sensation of thirst. Adjusting protein content to match the animal’s size, activity level, and health status reduces unnecessary fluid consumption and supports optimal kidney function.

2.3.1 High Protein Diets

High‑protein canine diets increase water demand through several physiological pathways. Protein metabolism generates nitrogenous waste, primarily urea, which elevates blood osmolarity. The kidneys respond by excreting more concentrated urine, a process that requires additional fluid intake to maintain hydration. Consequently, dogs consuming meals rich in protein often exhibit marked increases in drinking behavior.

Key mechanisms include:

Urea production: Elevated amino‑acid catabolism raises urea concentration, prompting osmotic thirst signals.
Sodium load: Many high‑protein formulas contain added salt to enhance palatability; excess sodium directly stimulates thirst centers.
Digestive heat: Protein digestion is thermogenic, raising body temperature and triggering compensatory fluid consumption.
Renal workload: Greater filtration of nitrogenous compounds stresses nephrons, leading to a higher renal clearance rate that necessitates more water.

Veterinary nutritionists advise monitoring daily water intake when transitioning a dog to a protein‑dense regimen. Adjustments such as incorporating moisture‑rich foods, providing constant access to fresh water, and selecting protein sources with lower sodium content can mitigate excessive drinking while preserving the nutritional benefits of a high‑protein diet.

2.3.2 Protein Processing Byproducts

As a veterinary nutrition specialist, I examine how protein‑derived metabolites influence fluid balance in canine diets. During industrial protein hydrolysis, enzymes break down muscle fibers into amino acids, peptides, and nitrogenous waste. The most relevant byproducts are ammonia, urea, and biogenic amines such as histamine and tyramine. These compounds enter the bloodstream, raise plasma osmolarity, and trigger the hypothalamic thirst center, prompting the animal to drink more frequently.

Elevated ammonia levels result from incomplete deamination of amino acids. The liver converts excess ammonia to urea, which is excreted by the kidneys. Both substances increase the osmotic load of the extracellular fluid, reducing water availability for cellular processes. Consequently, the kidneys conserve sodium while excreting a concentrated urine, a physiological response that amplifies perceived thirst.

Biogenic amines, produced when protein is exposed to bacterial fermentation during storage, act as vasodilators and stimulate salivary secretion. Saliva loss, combined with the osmotic effect of urea, creates a net fluid deficit that the dog compensates for by drinking more often.

Key mechanisms linking protein processing residues to excessive drinking:

Ammonia accumulation → plasma hyperosmolarity → hypothalamic thirst activation.
Urea synthesis → increased renal solute load → reduced urine volume, higher concentration.
Biogenic amine release → vasodilation and salivation → fluid loss from oral cavity.

Managing these effects requires selecting foods processed with controlled enzymatic hydrolysis, low bacterial contamination, and balanced amino‑acid profiles. Monitoring urine specific gravity and blood urea nitrogen in dogs fed high‑protein meals provides early indicators of osmotic stress and helps adjust dietary formulations to maintain optimal hydration.

3. Other Contributing Dietary Elements

3.1 Artificial Ingredients and Preservatives

Artificial flavor enhancers such as monosodium glutamate, disodium inosinate, and synthetic yeast extracts raise the osmotic load of the diet. Elevated osmolarity forces the canine kidney to excrete more concentrated urine, triggering compensatory water intake.

Synthetic colorants (e.g., Red 40, Yellow 5) and non‑nutritive sweeteners (e.g., sucralose, aspartame) are not metabolized by dogs. Their presence can irritate the gastrointestinal mucosa, leading to mild diarrhoea and subsequent fluid loss, which the animal replaces by drinking more frequently.

Preservatives commonly added to commercial dog foods include:

BHA and BHT - antioxidant agents that can interfere with hepatic detoxification pathways, indirectly affecting fluid balance.
Propylene glycol - humectant that may cause mild diuresis by altering renal tubular reabsorption.
Sodium benzoate - acidulant that increases dietary sodium load, stimulating thirst via osmoreceptor activation.

The combined effect of these additives is an increase in the total solute concentration of the ingested meal. Dogs respond by activating the thirst center in the hypothalamus, resulting in persistent polydipsia. Moreover, chronic exposure may impair renal concentrating ability, reducing the efficiency of water reclamation and reinforcing the cycle of excessive drinking.

Veterinary nutrition specialists advise selecting foods with minimal artificial additives and natural preservation methods (e.g., vacuum sealing, refrigeration) to mitigate unnecessary water loss and restore normal drinking behavior.

3.2 High Sugar Content

High concentrations of simple carbohydrates elevate plasma osmolality, prompting the hypothalamus to trigger the thirst reflex. When a dog ingests food rich in sucrose, fructose, or glucose, blood sugar rises rapidly; the kidneys respond by excreting excess glucose through osmotic diuresis, which increases urine volume and depletes body water. The resulting fluid loss compels the animal to seek additional water.

Key physiological consequences of excessive sugar include:

Osmotic shift of water from intracellular to extracellular compartments, reducing cellular hydration.
Stimulation of antidiuretic hormone suppression, allowing greater urine output.
Accelerated gastrointestinal absorption, producing a transient hyperglycemic spike that intensifies renal filtration load.

Veterinary studies demonstrate a direct correlation between diets containing more than 15 % added sugars and a measurable increase in daily water intake among canines. Managing sugar levels-by selecting formulations with low‑glycemic sweeteners or eliminating added sugars altogether-mitigates these mechanisms and restores normal hydration patterns.

3.3 Certain Spices and Flavorings

As a veterinary nutrition specialist, I explain how specific spices and flavor enhancers can trigger pronounced polydipsia in dogs. Many aromatic compounds increase osmotic load or stimulate renal excretion, compelling the animal to drink more water to maintain fluid balance.

Key ingredients that frequently cause this response include:

Salt (sodium chloride) - elevates plasma sodium, prompting thirst mechanisms.
Monosodium glutamate (MSG) - raises extracellular osmolarity, similar to salt.
Soy sauce and fish sauce - combine high sodium with additional flavor enhancers, amplifying the effect.
Curry powders containing high levels of turmeric, cumin, and fenugreek - contain compounds that may irritate the gastrointestinal lining, leading to mild diarrhea and subsequent fluid loss.
Artificial sweeteners such as xylitol - can cause gastrointestinal upset and increase urine output, indirectly stimulating thirst.

These substances alter the dog’s electrolyte profile or irritate the digestive tract, resulting in a physiological drive to ingest larger volumes of water. Eliminating or reducing these spices in the diet restores normal hydration patterns and prevents unnecessary strain on the kidneys.

4. Identifying Problematic Ingredients

4.1 Reading Food Labels

When evaluating a pet food that appears to increase a dog’s water intake, the label provides the most reliable clues. The expert approach begins with the ingredient list. Ingredients are ordered by weight; the first three items dominate the nutritional profile. High‑sodium components such as cured meats, cheese powders, or added salts signal an elevated electrolyte load, which drives thirst. Excessive sugar sources-corn syrup, fructose, or dried fruits-raise blood glucose and trigger osmotic diuresis, also prompting drinking.

The guaranteed analysis section quantifies macro‑nutrients. Look for sodium percentages above 0.3 % on a dry‑matter basis; this level often exceeds the physiological needs of most dogs. Moisture content above 10 % in dry kibble indicates added water or broth, which can dilute electrolytes and encourage the animal to compensate by drinking more. Conversely, very low moisture (under 5 %) may suggest a highly concentrated formula that still contains high salt, leading to the same effect.

Acronyms such as “ME” (metabolizable energy) reveal caloric density. Foods with high ME values paired with salty flavor enhancers increase the dog’s metabolic rate and, consequently, fluid turnover. Look for “added preservatives” like BHA, BHT, or ethoxyquin; these are often combined with salt to improve palatability, further contributing to thirst.

Key label elements to scrutinize:

Sodium content (g/100 g or % of diet) - values >0.3 % merit caution.
Sugar and carbohydrate sources - identify corn syrup, sucrose, maltodextrin.
Moisture level - high values may mask salt concentration; low values can indicate a dry, salty matrix.
Ingredient order - first three items determine primary nutrient contributors.
Additives and flavor enhancers - salty or sweet compounds often listed as “natural flavors,” “yeast extract,” or “hydrolyzed protein.”

By systematically interpreting these sections, a veterinarian or nutritionist can pinpoint whether the formulation is likely to cause excessive drinking. The process eliminates guesswork, allowing owners to select balanced alternatives that meet nutritional requirements without inducing unnecessary thirst.

4.2 Consulting a Veterinarian

When a dog exhibits excessive drinking after consuming a particular food, the most reliable course of action is a professional veterinary assessment. First, schedule an appointment promptly; delayed evaluation can mask underlying conditions such as diabetes mellitus, renal insufficiency, or hypernatremia, all of which may be triggered by dietary imbalances.

Prepare a concise record for the veterinarian. Include the brand and specific formulation of the food, the quantity offered, the time frame of increased water intake, and any accompanying symptoms such as weight loss, lethargy, or changes in urination. A brief health history-vaccination status, previous illnesses, and current medications-facilitates a focused examination.

During the visit, the veterinarian will perform a physical inspection, focusing on mucous membrane moisture, capillary refill time, and abdominal palpation. Laboratory analysis typically follows: a complete blood count, serum chemistry panel, and urinalysis. These tests identify metabolic disturbances, assess kidney function, and detect glucose abnormalities that could explain polydipsia.

If test results reveal a dietary cause, the clinician will recommend specific adjustments. Options may include switching to a lower‑sodium formula, reducing protein content, or selecting a brand with balanced electrolytes. In cases where an underlying disease is diagnosed, targeted medical therapy-insulin for diabetes, fluid therapy for renal impairment, or dietary restriction for hypernatremia-will be prescribed.

Finally, adhere to the veterinarian’s monitoring plan. Schedule follow‑up visits to reassess blood parameters and observe the dog’s drinking behavior. Record water consumption daily and report any regression promptly. Consistent collaboration with the veterinarian ensures the dog’s hydration levels return to normal and prevents long‑term health complications.

5. Managing Excessive Thirst Through Diet

5.1 Switching to Wet or Raw Food

Switching a dog from dry kibble to wet or raw diets directly alters daily water intake. Wet and raw formulas contain 70‑80 % moisture, whereas kibble typically provides less than 10 %. The increased inherent fluid reduces the volume the animal must seek from a bowl.

Higher dietary moisture eases renal workload. The kidneys process fewer concentrated urine particles, which diminishes the physiological drive for additional drinking. Electrolyte balance also shifts; raw proteins supply sodium and potassium in forms that are more readily absorbed, limiting the need for compensatory water consumption.

Transitioning safely requires gradual adaptation to avoid gastrointestinal upset. Follow these steps:

Replace 25 % of the current portion with wet or raw food for three days.
Increase the new portion to 50 % for the next four days, monitoring stool consistency.
Reach 100 % substitution by the end of two weeks, adjusting portion size according to body condition.
Provide fresh water at all times; the diet’s moisture does not eliminate the requirement for clean drinking water.
Observe signs of dehydration (dry gums, skin tenting) and consult a veterinarian if they appear.

A measured switch to higher‑moisture diets typically reduces a dog’s compulsive drinking behavior while maintaining nutritional adequacy.

5.2 Incorporating Hydrating Supplements

Incorporating hydrating supplements can mitigate excessive water intake triggered by certain diets. Effective supplementation requires selecting products that complement the dog’s nutritional profile while delivering additional moisture.

Electrolyte powders blended with water provide balanced sodium, potassium, and magnesium, supporting cellular hydration without overloading the gastrointestinal tract.
Gel-based moisture enhancers, such as low‑sugar gelatin cubes, increase fluid consumption in a palatable form and can be mixed directly into meals.
Probiotic liquids with built‑in water content improve gut health and indirectly reduce the need for compensatory drinking caused by digestive irritation.
Omega‑3 enriched broth adds essential fatty acids and moisture, helping to smooth the skin and coat while delivering extra fluid.
Vitamin‑fortified water additives supply micronutrients that may be lacking in the primary food, reducing the body’s drive to seek additional water.

When integrating these supplements, follow a stepwise protocol: start with a single product at half the recommended dose, observe the dog’s thirst pattern for 48 hours, then adjust dosage or add another supplement as needed. Record intake levels and stool consistency to ensure that hydration improvements do not provoke diarrhea or electrolyte imbalance. Regular veterinary assessment remains essential to confirm that supplement use aligns with the animal’s overall health status.

5.3 Ensuring Constant Access to Fresh Water

Ensuring a dog has uninterrupted access to clean, cool water is a non‑negotiable component of managing the excessive thirst triggered by certain high‑salt or high‑protein diets. The animal’s physiology demands immediate hydration when plasma osmolarity rises; any delay can exacerbate renal strain and encourage unhealthy drinking patterns.

Practical measures:

Place multiple water stations throughout the living area, especially near feeding zones and sleeping spots.
Use stainless‑steel or ceramic bowls; they resist bacterial growth better than plastic.
Refresh water at least twice daily, more often in warm environments.
Install a gravity‑fed dispenser with a large reservoir; it supplies a constant flow and reduces the need for frequent refills.
Monitor bowl cleanliness; wash with mild detergent and rinse thoroughly to prevent biofilm buildup.

Environmental controls support the water system. Keep the ambient temperature moderate, provide shade in outdoor runs, and avoid direct sunlight on water containers. Regularly inspect hoses and valves for leaks or blockages that could interrupt supply.

Documentation reinforces consistency. Record refill times, temperature readings, and any changes in the dog’s drinking volume. Correlating these data points with the diet’s composition helps identify whether the water provision strategy mitigates the thirst response effectively.

By integrating redundant water sources, maintaining hygiene, and tracking usage, caretakers can neutralize the dehydrating effect of the problematic food and preserve the dog’s overall health.