11 yr old dachshund drinking alot more water..

Reasons for increased thirst could be early renal disease, hyperthyroidism, urinary tract infections, increased salt intake, Cushing's Disease, and diabetes.

Renal disease: Kidney disease isn't detectable on bloodwork until they are 75% damaged, this means that your dog could be in early kidney disease and this may be the cause for increased thirst. You might also notice increased urination and a picky appetite. A urinalysis is important in this instance as it can detect failing kidneys before bloodwork can at about 60% failure. It will also help to determine whether your dog is concentrating her urine. Low specific gravities (concentration) can be a determining factor of kidney disease along with other disorders above including Cushing's Disease and Diabetes.

Please let me know if you would like more information regarding other conditions.

Thank you

Theresa

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thank you for your answer- but what would cause renal disease in a dog that is never unattended when she is outside (I live in NYV) in other words, she probably has not ingested anything that would poison her kidneys- also, is there a blood test for Cushings? is it common in this breed? and what are some of the other onset symptoms? Her drinking is not excessive all of the time, just after heavy play or if she's been in an overheated apt without water for awhile as happened today. what do you think if anything is most likely given her age and breed and care?

Age is a huge determining factor when it comes to renal disease. Just like in people as an animal ages their organs just do not function as well as they used too. Yes, there is a test for Cushings disease called an ACTH stim test it is common in any breed actually and occurs most often in older dogs. Symptoms of Cushing disease are increased thirst, increased urination, poor coat quality, hair loss, panting, anxiety, and a classic sign is a pendulum stomach or bloated appearance to the stomach. It is true that if she is hot or very active then she will be more thirsty and if you feel this is the case then observation is recommended. Usually with physical illness if there is increased thirst there will also be increased urination. Given her age I feel an exam is warranted, at the very least a urine sample will clue you in to a number of potential problems as it can point to infection, blood in the urine, concentration, the presence of crystals, and the presence of protein.

At her age it doesn't make a difference no matter how well she is cared for at some point the organs will decline, it just the natural order of things. But, she is blessed to have someone who is really on her side doing the best for her. Be proud of yourself for that. Hopefully, all turns out okay and she is just overheated, but if the symptoms do continue and exam is recommended.

Thank you

Theresa

__________________
If I was helpful please hit ACCEPT if you need more help just let me know.
In the case of an emergency please contact your veterinarian or emergency center.
Feedback is appreciated!