When your dog suddenly stops drinking water, it’s a worrying sign. Hydration is vital for every organ in your dog’s body, and even mild dehydration can quickly become dangerous, especially in hot weather or for active dogs.
We outline the common causes of a dog not drinking water, what you can do at home, and when to seek veterinary help.
Dog Not Drinking Water — Why It Happens
When a dog stops drinking water, it often means something is physically wrong or emotionally off. It could be as simple as your dog feeling nauseated, or as serious as a kidney problem, infection, or pain that’s making it hard for them to move to their water bowl.
Dehydration can develop quickly, especially in puppies, small breeds, and senior dogs. Sometimes, environmental factors like temperature, stress, or a change in water taste can also play a role.
Dog Not Drinking Water: Common Causes
1. Illness or Infection
When dogs are sick, they often lose their desire to drink. Fevers, infections, or inflammatory diseases can make them feel lethargic and nauseated — two major appetite and thirst suppressors.
Viral infections such as parvovirus or bacterial illnesses like leptospirosis can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and dehydration at the same time.
Even minor infections, like a urinary tract infection, can make urination painful and cause a dog to avoid drinking water.
If your dog has a warm nose, reduced energy, or is vomiting alongside not drinking, it’s a clear sign they may need veterinary attention.
Read more: Dog Not Eating (What this might mean)
2. Nausea and Gastrointestinal Upset
Dogs that feel nauseated from an upset stomach or motion sickness may completely avoid food and water.
Common triggers include eating spoiled food, ingesting something toxic, or a sudden diet change. You might notice drooling, lip-licking, or turning their head away when offered water.
In more serious cases, such as pancreatitis or intestinal blockage, nausea becomes intense and persistent. When vomiting and lack of water intake combine, dehydration can escalate dangerously fast — often within 24 hours.
3. Pain or Injury
Pain — whether from arthritis, dental issues, or internal injuries — can make your dog reluctant to move toward their bowl or bend down to drink.
Older dogs, in particular, may struggle to reach low water dishes if they’re stiff or sore. Likewise, oral pain from gum disease or broken teeth can make the simple act of swallowing water uncomfortable.
If your dog is limping, stiff, or avoiding movement, pain may be the underlying reason for their dehydration. Raising the water bowl or using a fountain-style dispenser can sometimes help until your vet identifies the root cause.
4. Environmental or Behavioral Factors
Sometimes, the reason your dog isn’t drinking is environmental rather than medical.
If the water bowl is dirty, has an odd taste (especially if you’ve changed tap sources or recently moved), or is placed near loud appliances, your dog might avoid it.
Dogs also sense stress at home — changes in routine, new pets, or loud noises can lead to temporary thirst loss.
Travel, boarding, or new surroundings may cause anxiety that makes dogs hesitant to drink unfamiliar water. Bringing water from home or using bottled water can help restore normal drinking behavior in these situations.
5. Heatstroke or Overheating
Dogs suffering from heat exhaustion may paradoxically stop drinking water despite needing it most.
Overheating can cause weakness, panting, vomiting, and collapse. When the body temperature rises too high, the dog’s internal systems can start to shut down, reducing their urge to drink even further.
Breeds with short noses like Bulldogs, Pugs, and Boxers are especially vulnerable.
If your dog is panting heavily, drooling excessively, or showing red gums after exercise or exposure to heat, treat it as an emergency — rapid veterinary care is critical.
6. Kidney Disease
Chronic kidney disease can disrupt a dog’s natural thirst regulation. Some dogs drink excessively, while others stop drinking altogether as toxins build up in their bloodstream.
Kidney disease often appears gradually in older dogs and may cause vomiting, loss of appetite, or bad breath. Because kidneys play a key role in filtering waste, dehydration makes the condition much worse.
If your dog is refusing water and showing other subtle symptoms like weight loss or dull coat, schedule a blood test immediately.
7. Medication Side Effects
Certain medications, such as diuretics, pain relievers, or antibiotics, can alter how your dog feels about drinking.
Some make them thirstier, while others cause mild nausea or dry mouth that discourages water intake. Always check with your vet if your dog’s drinking habits suddenly change after starting new medication — it may require dosage adjustment or supportive hydration strategies.
Read more: Dog shivering and not eating (Signs your dog may be unwell)
What to Do If Your Dog Is Not Drinking Water
If your dog isn’t drinking water, first check whether it’s a temporary hesitation or a sign of something serious.
Start by offering fresh, cool water in a clean bowl. Replace it several times throughout the day — some dogs avoid stale or warm water, especially in hot climates. You can also try adding flavor, such as a splash of low-sodium chicken broth, to make it more appealing.
Encourage hydration through food by offering wet dog food or soaking dry kibble with warm water. Water-rich treats like cucumber slices or ice cubes can also help if your dog shows mild disinterest.
If your dog seems anxious or uncomfortable, make sure their water bowl is placed in a quiet, familiar spot away from busy areas. For senior dogs or those with arthritis, consider an elevated water dish to reduce neck strain.
However, if your dog continues to refuse water for more than 24 hours, or shows signs like vomiting, dry gums, or lethargy, it’s time to see the vet. Dehydration can progress quickly and may require IV fluids to stabilize your dog’s condition.
When to Call or Visit Your Vet
Call your vet immediately if your dog’s refusal to drink is accompanied by any of the following:
Vomiting or diarrhea lasting more than a few hours
Lethargy, weakness, or unsteady movement
Sunken eyes or dry, sticky gums
Excessive panting, drooling, or signs of overheating
Refusal to eat along with refusal to drink
Pale or darkened gums
Your vet may perform tests such as a complete blood panel, urinalysis, and imaging to rule out organ problems, infections, or blockages. Quick intervention prevents dehydration from becoming life-threatening, especially in puppies, senior dogs, or small breeds.
Read more: Dog vomiting and not eating (When to see your vet)
Key Takeaway
When your dog isn’t drinking water, it’s not something to ignore — hydration is essential to every body system.
Mild dehydration can set in within hours, so keep a close eye on your dog’s energy, gums, and urine output. Always offer clean, appealing water and make mealtime calm and comfortable.
If your dog’s disinterest lasts more than a day or you notice additional symptoms, contact your vet promptly. Identifying the cause early ensures your dog receives proper treatment and gets back to drinking normally again.
A hydrated dog is a healthy dog — and paying attention to small changes in their water habits can make a big difference in their wellbeing.