Why My Dog Won’t Drink Water

My dog won’t drink water. I’ve tried everything I can think of, but he still won’t drink water. I don’t know if it’s because he doesn’t like the taste or what.

Dogs are so interesting! They are very different from humans in many ways, and drinking water is one of them. Dogs don’t need to drink as much water as humans do because they get most of their hydration from food and their environment (e.g., licking themselves). For some dogs, drinking too much or too quickly can lead to stomach upset or bloat, which is a serious condition that can be fatal to dogs if left untreated. So it’s important for your dog to have access to fresh, clean water at all times but not necessarily need to drink large quantities at once.

What do I do if my 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]

How long is it OK for a dog to not drink water?

The short answer is that dogs can survive between 48 and 72 hours without drinking, but that doesn’t really capture the whole picture. Survival is a minimum and a dog allowed to drink only once every 2 days would be the subject of cruel abuse.^[2]

How do I motivate my dog to drink water?

Give Your Pooch an Incentive. Your dog might need a bit of motivation to drink water. Make the Water Taste Better. Humans often struggle to chug down enough water because the taste is bland. Add Water to Your Pup’s Meal. Cool Down With Ice Cubes. Buy a Fun Drinking Fountain.^[3]

How can I hydrate my dog fast?

The most effective way of treating dehydration is to place the pet on a drip. This will replace any fluids already lost and also prevent further dehydration. An alternative method of dog rehydration is administering fluid under their skin to form a ‘camel shaped’ hump. This fluid is then absorbed over a few hours.^[4]

What flavor can I add to my dogs water?

Some of the most popular fruits that can be infused in your dog’s drinking water are watermelon, apples, cucumber, lemon, and a whole lot more. Just make sure to avoid grapes because they’re toxic to dogs.^[5]

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

Symptoms of Kidney Failure in Dogs Nausea and vomiting. Pale gums. Loss of balance, or stumbling. Chemical smell to breath.^[6]

Why is my dog peeing but not drinking?

Urinary tract infections are more likely to occur in female dogs, and especially in older female dogs. Symptoms include more frequent urination, urination in the house, painful urination, and blood in the urine. The pain of a urinary tract infection can cause a dog to refuse to drink water.^[7]

What foods hydrate dogs?

Fruits and Vegetables Again, you’ll want to check the toxicity list, but safe water-rich fruits include cantaloupe, cucumbers, oranges, and strawberries. Vegetables include celery and carrots. You can even freeze them or mash them up to make popsicles for an extra-tasty treat.^[8]

Should I force feed my dog water?

Realistically, you don’t want to test your dog’s limits but do not force your dog to drink as this can cause aspiration pneumonia. It’s important to get your dog medical attention as soon as possible if they are not eating or drinking for 48 hours or more.^[9]

Can dogs be picky about water?

While many dogs are more than happy to drink from a muddy puddle on the floor, there are those few who can be very fussy in drinking water on a regular basis. This can result in dehydration, especially on those hot days.^[10]

What breed of dog is prone to kidney failure?

Breed: Some dog breeds, including English Cocker spaniels, bull terriers and German shepherds, are more likely to develop particular types of kidney disease.^[11]

What are the signs of a dog’s organs shutting down?

The most prominent sign that you will notice is a complete relaxation of the body, your dog will no longer appear tense, rather they will “let go.” You will notice a slimming of the body as the air is expelled from their lungs for the last time and you may notice the lack of life in their eyes if they are still open.^[12]