If your dog is suddenly drinking a lot of water and having accidents in the house, it’s not just a house-training issue—it could be a symptom of something more serious. While hydration is essential, excessive drinking and urinating indoors often point to an underlying medical condition.
We outline the common causes of dog drinking a lot of water and having accidents, what you can do at home, and when to seek veterinary help.
Dog Drinking a Lot of Water and Having Accidents — Why It Happens
When dogs drink more water and start having accidents, it may be due to diabetes, kidney disease, urinary tract infections, Cushing’s disease, or age-related incontinence. These conditions affect how the body processes water, stores urine, or signals the need to go outside, leading to frequent and sometimes urgent urination.
Common Causes of Dog Drinking a Lot of Water and Having Accidents
Diabetes Mellitus
In dogs with diabetes, sugar builds up in the bloodstream. To remove the excess glucose, the body flushes it out through urine—leading to frequent urination and excessive thirst.
Because the urge to urinate becomes constant, dogs may start having accidents even if they’re normally house-trained.
Other signs include weight loss despite eating well, increased appetite, and fatigue. Blood and urine tests confirm diagnosis, and insulin therapy is required for management.
Chronic Kidney Disease
Kidneys regulate fluid and waste in the body. When kidney function declines, dogs produce large amounts of dilute urine.
This leads to compensatory drinking (polydipsia), and sometimes accidents due to the sheer volume of urine.
Lethargy, vomiting, decreased appetite, and weight loss may also appear. Early diagnosis and special diets can help manage the condition and reduce accidents.
Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs)
UTIs cause inflammation in the bladder and urethra, leading to urgency, discomfort, and frequent urination.
Your dog may suddenly start peeing inside even if they’re otherwise healthy. Increased water consumption is often a result of irritation and the body’s attempt to flush bacteria.
Other signs include blood in urine, licking the genital area, and whining when urinating. A vet can diagnose a UTI with a urinalysis and prescribe antibiotics.
Cushing’s Disease
Cushing’s is a hormonal condition where too much cortisol is produced. This disrupts the body’s normal water balance and causes excessive drinking and urination.
House accidents may start even in previously well-trained dogs. Other signs include a potbelly, panting, hair loss, and lethargy.
Cushing’s can be diagnosed through hormone tests and managed with daily medication.
Read more: Dog Drinking a Lot of Water and Peeing in the House (Here’s why)
Aging and Hormonal Incontinence
As dogs age, they may lose control of their bladder due to weakened muscles or hormonal changes, especially spayed females.
Increased water intake, either due to medication, arthritis pain, or aging itself, can compound the problem.
These dogs may seem unaware that they’ve had an accident. Vet evaluation can rule out medical causes and prescribe medications that improve bladder tone.
What to Do If Your Dog Is Drinking a Lot and Having Accidents
Keep track of how much water your dog is drinking each day. Sudden increases are worth noting.
Clean up accidents with enzyme-based cleaners to eliminate lingering scents that may encourage repeat behavior.
Offer more frequent potty breaks—especially after meals, naps, or heavy drinking periods.
Ensure your dog’s access to water isn’t restricted, but avoid salty treats or foods that may exaggerate thirst.
Schedule a veterinary appointment for testing to determine if there’s an underlying condition driving these changes.
When to Call or Visit Your Vet
Get in touch with your vet if your dog:
Has frequent indoor accidents despite being previously house-trained
Drinks significantly more than normal for more than a day or two
Has other symptoms like lethargy, vomiting, or loss of appetite
Seems to strain or cry during urination
Is a senior with new or worsening incontinence
Your vet may recommend bloodwork, urinalysis, imaging, or hormone testing depending on your dog’s symptoms and age.
Read more: Dog Drinking a Lot of Water and Urinating Frequently
Key Takeaway
When your dog is drinking a lot of water and having accidents, don’t assume it’s behavioral—it’s often medical.
Pay attention to frequency, volume, and any other changes in energy or appetite. With prompt veterinary care, many causes can be identified and treated to restore your dog’s comfort and your peace of mind.