Some dogs develop unusual drinking habits, such as only drinking water at night. While this may not seem like a problem at first, it can sometimes point to underlying health or behavioral concerns that dog owners should not ignore.
We outline the common reasons for dogs only drinking water at night, what you can do at home, and when to seek veterinary help.
Dog Only Drinks Water at Night — Why It Happens
A dog that only drinks water at night may be dealing with health, behavioral, or environmental issues. Common causes include kidney disease, diabetes, or Cushing’s disease, which can increase thirst but may show up at odd times. Anxiety, habit, or nighttime routines may also contribute, as some dogs associate rest time with water drinking.
Other times, a dog may avoid water during the day due to distractions, stress, or even discomfort from dental issues, leading them to make up for it at night.
Dog Only Drinks Water at Night: Common Causes
Kidney Disease
Kidneys regulate fluid balance in the body. When they aren’t working properly, a dog may experience excessive thirst.
Some dogs compensate by drinking large amounts at night, especially if they’ve been lethargic or distracted during the day.
You may also notice more frequent urination, weight loss, or changes in appetite. Because kidney problems can worsen quickly, this is a serious cause that requires veterinary attention.
Read more: Dog Only Drinking Water and Not Eating (What it means)
Diabetes
Diabetes causes the body to struggle with regulating blood sugar, which leads to excessive thirst and urination.
Some diabetic dogs may rest more during the day and consume most of their water at night.
Weight loss despite eating, increased hunger, and accidents in the house can all be additional warning signs. Nighttime drinking could be an early clue of this condition.
Cushing’s Disease
Cushing’s disease happens when the body produces too much cortisol, leading to increased thirst, appetite, and urination.
Dogs with this condition often pant heavily and may seem restless at night, prompting them to drink water more frequently in the evening hours.
The excessive thirst combined with nighttime drinking should raise concern if it’s paired with other signs like a pot-bellied appearance or hair loss.
Anxiety or Stress
Behavioral factors like anxiety or stress can also explain why a dog only drinks water at night.
Some dogs may feel too anxious or distracted to drink during the day, especially in busy households, and only relax enough to hydrate at night when the environment is quiet. This is more common in sensitive or high-strung breeds.
Habit and Routine
Dogs are creatures of habit, and sometimes a seemingly odd behavior is simply a routine they’ve created.
If a dog has learned to associate bedtime or nighttime with drinking water, it may continue doing so out of habit.
While not inherently harmful, you should still make sure the dog is drinking enough overall and not avoiding water during the day due to an underlying issue.
Environmental Factors
Heat, activity levels, and access to water can all influence drinking patterns. A dog that’s more active during the evening or sleeps in a warmer area of the house may feel thirstier at night.
In some cases, dogs may even avoid water bowls placed in noisy or uncomfortable areas, choosing instead to drink when the home is calmer.
Read more: Dog Only Throws Up at Night (When to be concerned)
What to Do If Your Dog Only Drinks Water at Night
If your dog’s water drinking is limited to nighttime, start by making sure fresh water is available at all times. Check that their bowl is clean, accessible, and located in a quiet, comfortable area. Some dogs may avoid bowls that are too deep, too narrow, or placed in high-traffic areas.
Try to encourage hydration during the day by offering water after walks, meals, or play sessions. You can also add a splash of low-sodium chicken broth or ice cubes to the bowl to entice drinking.
Pay close attention to your dog’s overall behavior. If they seem lethargic, are losing weight, urinating excessively, or showing changes in appetite, it’s best to schedule a veterinary check-up. Even if the nighttime drinking is just a quirk, it’s important to rule out underlying health issues.
For dogs that seem stressed, creating a calmer daytime environment may help. This can include reducing loud noises, offering a quiet space to rest, and establishing a consistent routine.
When to Call or Visit Your Vet
If your dog suddenly starts only drinking water at night, it’s wise to contact your vet. Sudden changes in drinking habits can be early warning signs of medical conditions.
Seek veterinary care immediately if you notice excessive urination, weight loss, vomiting, or loss of appetite alongside the nighttime drinking. These signs may point to diabetes, kidney disease, or other systemic problems.
Even if your dog seems otherwise healthy, it’s worth discussing the change at your next vet appointment. Your vet may recommend bloodwork or urinalysis to rule out serious causes and give you peace of mind.
Read more: Dog Only Eats Chicken (Here’s Why)
Key Takeaway
A dog that only drinks water at night may simply be following a routine, but it can also point to health problems like kidney disease, diabetes, or Cushing’s disease.
Environmental factors, anxiety, or habit may also explain the behavior. The best approach is to monitor your dog closely, encourage hydration throughout the day, and consult your veterinarian if you notice any additional concerning symptoms.
Staying proactive ensures your dog remains healthy and well-hydrated.