Why My Dog Refuses To Drink Water

My dog refuses to drink water and it’s really starting to worry me. I’ve tried everything from putting ice cubes in his bowl to giving him a cup of fresh water, but he just won’t drink it.

I don’t know what’s wrong with him, but I’m going to take him to the vet as soon as possible.

What do you do when your dog won’t drink water?

Always keep water fresh and clean. Buy more bowls. Make sure water is accessible. Add some to their food. Offer from your hand. Wash bowls daily. Flavour the water. Have water to hand when you take them out.^[1]

Why is my dog not drinking water but eating?

In some cases, illnesses such as diabetes and kidney disease may cause a dog’s appetite for water to diminish completely. Bladder infection or urinary tract infection can also cause a decrease in thirst. So if you think your dog won’t drink water because of a disease, you should contact your vet immediately.^[2]

Is it normal for dog to not drink water?

If your dog suddenly stops or substantially decreases their water consumption, that is cause for concern and a reason to contact your veterinarian immediately. In general, some dogs will drink less for the following reasons: Diet.^[3]

How do you get a dog to drink water?

Position Multiple Bowls of Water Around the House. Keep Water Bowls Clean. Feed the Dog Wet Foods. Provide Flavored Water. Provide Different Bowls. Use Water Fountains. Exchange Water Regularly and Keep it Cool. Exercise Your Dog.^[4]

When should I worry about my dog not drinking water?

Dogs need to stay well-hydrated, so a dog’s refusal to drink water might be cause for concern. You should expect your dog to drink water freely and enthusiastically several times a day. If your dog doesn’t drink for a day or more, and turns its head away when offered water, there is probably a problem.^[5]

How long is too long for a dog not to drink water?

How Long Does Dehydration Last in Dogs? Your pet can survive without drinking water for about 72 hours (three days). However, it’ll show signs of dehydration after the first 24 hours. Go beyond that and your furry friend will slowly feel weaker and weaker.^[6]

How can I hydrate my dog fast?

Try Ice Chips If your dog is completely rejecting water, ice chips are a genius hack to rehydrate your sick pup. They’ll love having something to chew on and the ice chips will give them the H2O that they need to get better. Give your pooch ice chips several times during the day to boost their hydration!^[7]

How can I tell if my dog is dehydrated?

Loss of skin elasticity. Loss of appetite. Vomiting with or without diarrhea. Reduced energy levels and lethargy. Panting. Sunken, dry-looking eyes. Dry nose. Dry, sticky gums.^[8]

How can you tell if a dog’s kidneys are failing?

Symptoms of Kidney Failure in Dogs Weight loss. Nausea and vomiting. Pale gums. Loss of balance, or stumbling.^[9]

What Flavour can I add to dogs water?

Broth-Flavored Water. Broth is an excellent way to encourage your dog to drink more water. Lemon-Flavored Water. Lemon is rich in vitamin C which has great immune-boosting properties. Apple Cider Vinegar-Flavored Water. Fruit-Infused Water.^[10]

How much water should a dog drink in 24 hours?

Textbooks define normal water intake as 1-2ml per kilogram of bodyweight per hour (equivalent to approximately 25-50ml/kg/24hrs). For example, a 10kg dog, like a Westie, would be expected to drink approximately 480ml (just under a pint) in 24 hours.^[11]

What are the signs of diabetes in dogs?

Excessive water drinking and increased urination. Weight loss, even though there may be an increased appetite. Decreased appetite. Cloudy eyes (especially in dogs). Chronic or recurring infections (including skin infections and urinary infections).^[12]