If you’ve noticed your dog isn’t drinking water as much as usual, it’s natural to worry. Proper hydration is crucial for your dog’s health and overall vitality. A sudden decrease in your dog's water intake could be a sign of an underlying issue, or it might simply be a reaction to temporary factors like a change in environment.

This guide will explore five potential reasons your dog won’t drink water, the signs to watch for, and what you can do to help.

1. Medical Problems Affecting Your Dog's Water Intake

Potential Causes

Your dog's lack of water consumption could stem from underlying medical issues. Kidney disease, urinary tract infections, or even external discomfort like dental problems may discourage drinking. Dehydrated dogs may also have dry gums and lose their appetite altogether. Older dogs, in particular, are at a greater risk of conditions that lead to severe dehydration, such as bladder infections or other chronic illnesses.

Signs to Watch For

Look for other symptoms, such as lethargy, vomiting, or changes in urination patterns. If your dog refuses water and shows additional signs of sickness, it’s a strong indicator that there’s an underlying cause.

What to Do

A visit to the vet is necessary if you suspect medical problems. They can identify any bacterial infections or other issues and provide guidance on the recovery process. To encourage hydration in the meantime:

• Offer filtered water or bottled water if the water quality or smell may be a concern.

• Add a splash of chicken broth to your dog’s water bowl to make it more enticing.

By addressing possible health problems early, you'll not only encourage your dog to drink more water but also ensure their overall health.

2. Changes in Environment or Routine

Potential Causes

Dogs are creatures of habit, so any disruption to their routine could lead to decreased water intake. Moving to new surroundings, introducing a new pet, or even swapping out the water bowl can make your dog uncomfortable. Additionally, factors like water taste, temperature, or quality could also cause your dog to stop drinking. Tap water may sometimes have a strange odour that puts some dogs off.

Signs to Watch For

Pay attention if your dog is hesitant to approach the water source. They may sniff or lick the bowl but not fully commit to drinking.

What to Do

To help your dog adapt:

• Test different water options, such as bottled water or filtered water to improve the taste and reduce water smells they might dislike.

• Place multiple bowls around the home to give them more drinking opportunities.

• Use a familiar bowl or consider switching to one they seem more comfortable with, such as a stainless steel or ceramic option.

With time and patience, most dogs will happily drink water once they’ve adjusted to the changes.

3. Decreased Thirst on a Cooler or Less Active Day

Potential Causes

It’s not uncommon for dogs to drink less water during a cooler or less active day, which can be completely normal. While hot days and exercise increase thirst due to the need to release heat, inactivity often results in reduced water consumption. For small dogs, this effect can be even more noticeable due to their size and lower activity levels.

Signs to Watch For

Your otherwise healthy dog may still seem energetic and show no other signs of dehydration. Their decreased water intake may simply match their reduced need for hydration.

What to Do

Encourage your dog to stay hydrated even on slower days:

• Drop an ice cube into the water bowl—many dogs find it fun and refreshing.

• Mix wet dog food or canned wet food with their meals to sneak in extra hydration.

• Monitor their overall body weight and body temperature to ensure they’re staying adequately hydrated.

Generally, dogs stop drinking water for a day or two for mild, temporary reasons without it being a cause for alarm.

4. Dislike of Water Quality or Bowl Cleanliness

Potential Causes

Some dogs are picky about their water source, especially when it comes to cleanliness or water quality. If your dog’s water bowl isn’t regularly cleaned, leftover food or bacteria might build up and discourage them from drinking.

Signs to Watch For

Does your dog hesitate or sniff the water without drinking? They may be put off by the smell or appearance of the water bowl or the tap water.

What to Do

• Clean your dog’s bowl daily to remove any residue.

• Use filtered water if you suspect they don’t like the taste of tap water.

• Offer water in a different type of bowl (e.g., glass or ceramic), as some dogs dislike the smell or taste of plastic.

Implementing these small changes can make a big difference in ensuring your dog stays hydrated.

5. Stress, Anxiety, or Emotional Changes

Potential Causes

Stress or emotional fluctuations can cause a dog to stop drinking. Loud noises, separation anxiety, or changes in household dynamics (like a new pet or the arrival of visitors) could trigger a decrease in water consumption.

Signs to Watch For

Dogs dealing with anxiety might pace, pant, or seem unusually clingy. Their refusal to drink water is often accompanied by other behavioural shifts.

What to Do

Help your dog feel safe and comfortable:

• Maintain a calm and quiet environment, especially around their drinking area.

• Encourage your dog with positive reinforcement when they approach the bowl.

• If needed, consult a veterinarian or canine behaviourist for help managing stress-related issues.

When their stress level drops, they’re likely to resume drinking water as normal.

Keep Your Dog Properly Hydrated

Ensuring your dog has enough water throughout the day is vital for their health problems. Begin by observing their behaviour closely to figure out why your dog is not drinking. Whether it’s a medical issue, changes to their environment, or pickiness about the water bowl, there are steps you can take to help your dehydrated dog.

Don't wait for severe dehydration to take hold—being proactive will not only improve your dog’s water intake but also their overall health. Remember, the key to a healthy dog is proper hydration combined with love and attention.