Why Sheep Need Quality Water Through All Seasons

By Blake Jackson

Ensuring sheep have access to clean, high-quality water is essential for supporting feed intake and healthy growth. Regular testing helps producers understand exactly what their animals are drinking and whether the water source meets their nutritional needs.

Water demand changes significantly throughout the production cycle. The National Research Council’s Nutrient Requirements of Small Ruminants notes that water intake during gestation can rise by as much as 130 percent between the first and fifth months. Likewise, the American Sheep Industry’s Sheep Production Handbook reports that sheep typically drink between 1.0 and 1.5 gallons of water for every 4 pounds of dry matter consumed.

Seasonal conditions also influence intake. In cooler months such as spring and fall, sheep often meet much of their water requirement from lush pasture. However, forages can sometimes contain so much moisture that sheep feel full before consuming enough dry matter, potentially leading to nutrient shortages. Water needs will always vary depending on the animal’s stage of production and environmental temperature.

Temperature plays a major role in drinking behavior. Intake usually increases once temperatures exceed 70°F because sheep must replace water lost through heavier breathing in hot weather. When temperatures drop below 20°F, consumption tends to decline, and very cold water can disrupt rumen microbes.

This may reduce milk output in lactating ewes and slow growth in lambs. Ideally, water should be maintained between 45°F and 55°F, though this may not always be feasible. Shade in summer and heaters in winter can help keep water more palatable.

Because many producers do not track daily water intake directly, water testing is a valuable tool. Local Extension offices can recommend testing services and help interpret results. Key factors to evaluate include bacterial levels, pH, and total dissolved solids (TDS).

Small amounts of non-fecal bacteria are usually acceptable, while NRCS recommends a pH between 6.8 and 7.5. TDS ideally remains below 500 mg/L, though sheep can handle higher levels than many livestock species.

Producers should also watch for minerals or contaminants that affect taste, such as iron, manganese, and sulfates, as well as health-related pollutants like nitrates and heavy metals. Monitoring these values helps ensure sheep maintain proper water intake and overall health.

Photo Credit: istock-heebyj