Water and hydration
Can hot weather make tap water too warm for dogs?
Last updated 23 September 2026 · How we write and check this
Short answer
Yes, tap water can come out noticeably warm during a heatwave, especially from pipes exposed to sun or in an already hot house, and warm water is generally less refreshing and less appealing to a thirsty dog than cool water, which can reduce how much they drink at exactly the wrong time.
Why tap water warms up in summer
Water sitting in pipes near an attic, an exterior wall, or exposed outdoor plumbing can absorb heat from the surrounding building or ground during a hot spell, meaning the first water out of the tap on a summer afternoon can run noticeably warmer than it would in cooler months.
Why the difference matters for hydration
Warm water is less effective at helping a dog cool down and tends to be less appealing to drink in volume, so a dog offered consistently warm water on a hot day may end up drinking less than they need right when their needs are highest.
Simple fixes
Let the tap run for a few seconds before filling the bowl to clear out any warmed water sitting in the pipe, and add a couple of ice cubes on especially hot days to bring the temperature down quickly without diluting the water meaningfully.
Key takeaways
- Tap water can run noticeably warm during a heatwave from heated pipes.
- Warm water is less appealing and less cooling than cool water.
- Letting the tap run briefly clears out warmed water before filling the bowl.
- Ice cubes are a quick way to cool water on especially hot days.