Most of a terrier’s weight is composed of water, just as it is in humans. While you may be saying to yourself that thinking about a dog’s water may be overthinking it just a bit, it is very important to be aware of your pet’s water supply. One issue is quantity. The best thing to do is to have a water supply available so that they can regulate their own supply. A 2.5:1 water to food ratio is a good rule of thumb.
Another issue is quality. While home tap water is considered safe in many areas, it is best to check for contaminants for your dog’s (and for that matter, your own) safety. Bacteria such as Giardia are a common problem. High levels of nitrates, iron and magnesium can also be harmful. If these are problems where you live, filtered or bottled water can be a good solution. The dish your terrier drinks out of is another thing to be aware of. Water dishes should always be kept clean. Stainless steel and stoneware dishes are easier to clean and resist scratches that can promote bacterial growth.
