Ever wonder why some dogs seem glued to their water bowls all summer long? For certain breeds, water isn’t just a thirst-quencher—it’s a vital part of their cooling system. While panting is a dog’s primary way of beating the heat, some breeds have developed the habit of constant hydration to stay safe and comfortable in warmer weather.
These dogs often come from hot, humid regions or are biologically built for heavy coats and high energy, both of which can lead to quicker overheating. And while all dogs need regular water, these particular breeds take it to another level. They’re practically water guzzlers, especially during play or outdoor activity.
We’ll explore the dog breeds that naturally drink more water than others as a way to regulate their body temperature. We’ll break down why hydration is essential and how these breeds have learned to manage the heat.
Whether you’re living in a hot climate or just have a water-loving dog who treats the bowl like a fountain, this guide will help you understand why some pups just can’t stop sipping.
Dog Breeds That Drink Water Constantly To Stay Cool
1. Alaskan Malamute
When it comes to staying cool, the Alaskan Malamute takes hydration seriously — like, “I’m basically a walking water fountain” seriously.
These big, fluffy Arctic explorers were bred to haul heavy loads across icy tundras, so they know a thing or two about beating the heat (or, in their case, the chill). But when the temperature rises even slightly, these hefty furballs switch gears and guzzle water like pros to keep their cool.
Don’t be surprised if your Malamute has a “sip, sip, slurp” rhythm that could rival a well-practiced barista — staying hydrated is their secret weapon against overheating. Plus, with all that thick fur acting like a cozy winter coat, they need extra H2O to keep cool and comfy in warmer weather.
Why Alaskan Malamutes Are Water Lovers:
Built for cold, but smart enough to stay hydrated when it’s warm.
Thick double coats trap heat, so water is their best cooling buddy.
Big size means big thirst — their water bowls might need a refill every hour.
Watching one drink can be oddly satisfying… like a fluffy water ninja.
So, if you want a loyal, energetic giant who knows how to hydrate like a champ, the Alaskan Malamute is your go-to! Just keep that water bowl full — and maybe keep a mop handy for those enthusiastic slurps.
2. Akita
Akitas may look like the strong, silent type — regal and calm — but don’t let that fool you. When the heat cranks up, these powerful dogs turn into hydration enthusiasts in disguise.
Bred in the snowy mountains of Japan, Akitas are built tough, but their thick double coat means they can overheat quickly, so they’re experts at sipping water throughout the day to keep cool.
They might not make a big fuss, but if you glance over, you’ll catch them politely lapping away like a little water connoisseur. And just like their dignified demeanor, they do it with quiet precision — no splashing, no mess, just pure focus on staying refreshed.
Why Akitas Are Water-Smart:
Thick fur demands extra hydration to avoid overheating.
Calm and collected, but always ready for a water break.
Hydration helps maintain their muscular energy and stamina.
Quiet water drinkers with a surprisingly steady rhythm.
Keep the bowl topped off, and you’ll have a cool, calm, and collected companion ready for whatever adventure comes next.
3. Pug
Don’t let their squished faces fool you—pugs are small dogs with big personalities and an even bigger need to stay hydrated!
With their adorable snub noses and those signature wrinkles, pugs can overheat easily, making their constant water drinking more than just a habit—it’s a survival skill.
You might find your pug stationed right next to their water bowl like a little furry firefighter, ready to put out the heat with every slurp. And thanks to their playful, sometimes mischievous nature, watching them gulp down water can be downright entertaining (especially when they try to catch those pesky water drops mid-air).
Why Pugs Are Hydration Experts:
Short snouts make breathing harder in the heat, so water is essential.
Wrinkles need hydration, love to stay clean and comfy.
Big personalities, small size, and a surprisingly big thirst.
Masters of the adorable “slurp-and-splatter” technique.
WebMD says Pugs are sensitive to heat due to their flat faces, which can make breathing more difficult and increase the risk of overheating. Because of this, their outdoor activity should be limited in hot weather.
They are best suited to indoor living, especially in warmer climates, where they can stay cool and comfortable. Pugs have short coats that naturally stay clean and require minimal grooming or bathing.
So, if you have a pug in your life, expect plenty of water breaks—and maybe a little splash party, too!
4. Siberian Husky
Siberian Huskies are basically born to brave the cold, but when the sun’s out and the temperature rises, these majestic, wolf-like dogs become champions of the hydration game.
With their thick double coats and high energy, they need to drink water like pros to stay cool and keep up with their endless zest for life.
Watch a Husky at the water bowl — it’s like a mini Arctic expedition: precise, focused, and with a splash that would make any snowstorm jealous. Their playful nature means they often turn drinking water into a game, sometimes sending droplets flying everywhere. Hey, who said staying hydrated can’t be fun?
Why Siberian Huskies Love Their Water:
Thick fur demands serious cooling power.
Boundless energy means they need constant hydration.
Playful drinkers who keep things lively at the water bowl.
Natural athletes who treat water breaks like a pit stop.
Siberian Huskies thrive on daily physical activity and typically need 3- to 5-mile walks or runs at least four times a week during cooler weather.
However, it’s important to limit their exercise in hot conditions to avoid overheating. Additionally, they are among the most allergenic dog breeds and are not well-suited for individuals with dog allergies. If you want a water buddy with a splash of attitude, your Husky’s got you covered.
5. Boston Terrier
Don’t let their tuxedo-like looks fool you — Boston Terriers are small dogs with big personalities and an even bigger need for water, especially on warm days. Boston Terriers, nicknamed the “American gentleman” for their tuxedo-like markings and charming demeanor, originated in Boston, Massachusetts.
They are a small breed, typically standing 10–12 inches tall at the shoulder and weighing between 12 and 25 pounds. With their short snouts and lively disposition, these little charmers know the importance of keeping cool and hydrated.
Boston Terriers tend to sip water with a refined elegance, but they can switch to a full-on “water fountain” mode when playtime heats up. Whether they’re chilling with you on the couch or bouncing around the yard, you’ll notice them popping back to the bowl often, making sure their little engines never run dry.
Why Boston Terriers Are Water Wise:
Short noses mean they can overheat quickly — water is their best friend.
Small but energetic, they keep their hydration game strong.
Water breaks fuel their endless curiosity and playfulness.
Sip with style, but know when it’s time to chug!
Boston Terriers are a brachycephalic breed, meaning they have a flat nose, elongated soft palate, and a narrow airway. This anatomical structure can lead to breathing difficulties, especially during hot weather or intense activity.
To keep them safe, exercise and play should be limited to cooler parts of the day, typically mornings and evenings in the summer. Keep a fresh bowl handy, and your Boston Terrier will stay cool, happy, and ready to strut their stuff all day long.
6. English Bulldog
English Bulldogs may look like they’re built for naps and chilling (and they totally are), but when the temperature rises, these squat little charmers know the value of a good, steady sip of water.
The Bulldog, often referred to as the English Bulldog, is easily recognized by its broad stance, muscular, low-slung build, and distinctive wrinkled face with a pronounced underbite.
Watching an English Bulldog drink is a treat in itself — their tongue flops and slobbers make hydration look like a full-on performance. These larger dogs may not be the most athletic, but they sure know how to stay cool and comfy with the help of a trusty water bowl nearby.
Why English Bulldogs Drink Like Pros:
Their unique faces make staying cool a priority.
Stocky bodies that appreciate a steady hydration rhythm.
Water breaks are their secret weapon against the heat.
Lovable couch potatoes who know when to take a sip.
If you want a laid-back water buddy who’s all about comfort and keeping cool, the English Bulldog is your guy.
7. Chow Chow
The Chow Chow is like the royal member of the dog world — majestic, calm, and a bit mysterious. This ancient breed dates back nearly 2,000 years to China, where they were originally used as hunting and guard dogs.
Recognized for their distinctive teddy bear-like appearance and unique blue-black tongue, Chow Chows are known for being both independent and devoted companions. With their thick, lion-like mane, staying cool is serious business, and that means drinking water isn’t just a choice, it’s a royal decree.
Chows tend to take their hydration seriously, sipping with the kind of dignity you’d expect from a noble dog. But don’t let their calm demeanor fool you — when the weather heats up, they’ll make sure to keep their water bowl close and their tongue busy, all while looking like they’re starring in a period drama.
Why Chow Chows Are Hydration Royalty:
Thick coats demand frequent water to beat the heat.
Calm and collected, but serious about staying cool.
Hydration with style — every sip is a statement.
They rule the roost, especially when it comes to water breaks.
Petplan noted Chow Chows are deeply loyal dogs that form strong attachments to their owners, which can make them prone to separation anxiety if left alone for extended periods. They do best in homes where someone is usually present.
If you want a cool, collected companion who knows how to keep their dignity (and their thirst) in check, the Chow Chow is the perfect noble friend.
Conclusion
In hot weather, some dog breeds drink cool water constantly to regulate body temperature and avoid heat stress. According to the American Kennel Club, pet owners should give extra attention on hot days, watching for signs like excessive panting, heavy panting, or warm paws and skin.
Providing fresh water, a cool area, and air conditioning or cool air where air circulates helps support a dog’s well-being. Adding ice and limiting exercise also prevent overheating. In summer, staying hydrated is vital—so let them drink freely and often.
