Commercial canned dog food contains over seventy-two per cent water whereas dry dog food is around twelve per cent. If we are feeding our dog dry dog food he will drink much more than if he is on canned food. Water is also formed by the chemical oxidation of foods. Water fulfills many needs for the dog. Water is an excellent solvent and is the main component of blood.
Water provides transportation for blood, nutrients, antibodies and waste.
Temperature regulation such as heat loss due to evaporation and removal of heat from internal organs out to the skin surface are other functions that water provides. Lastly, water is essential for digestion and urine production. Water is important. The dog's skin does not perspire like ours, so when he is hot he will pant to get rid of excess heat losing water in the process. The foot pads do sweat.