I know I am probably worrying over nothing but I have  noticed my girl seems to be drinking a lot over the last few days. Now she is feeding  (albeit reluctantly) 9 hungry 3 week old puppies and she is eating a lot too but she just seems to be drinking more than I would expect. She is back eating raw so there is moisture in her food. She seems otherwise well and I am sure my vets get fed up of me ringing with all my queries. Is it normal for a nursing mum to drink lots? thanks

yes, think of all the milk she's producing :-)

She is losing fluids cleaning the pups, if the house is extra warm she may be sweating so better she takes in extra than becomes dehydrated.

This is peak lactation. 

Normally I only fill my Gallon communal bowl twice a day, and the second is only to top up (6 dogs).

When I had my recent litter I was constantly filling the bowl up as well as filling up separate bowls for her.

Yes, mine is drinking lots too. I seem to be filling her large bowl constanly all day. When breastfeeding I used to get incredibly thirsty, so a dog with lots must need such a lot.

thanks everyone. I thought it was ok but I just seem to be worrying about everything at the moment.

Fluid intake is vital for milk production :-D If not drinking, that's when you need to worry. Enjoy the pups!