Water makes up 70% of the cells of every living organism.
It is the most essential compound.
Without the presence of water, almost all our metabolic and physiological processes would come to a halt.
Therefore: Hydration is important.
When it comes to pets, it becomes difficult to keep them hydrated.
They might not take hydration seriously, but as pet parents you should.
They might make a fuss, but there are ways to incorporate ample of fluids in their diets.
We bring to you a thoroughly researched and comprehensive article on how to deal with your pets.
Why Water Is So Important for Your Dog
Water is the most essential nutrient in your dog’s body—more important than proteins, fats, or vitamins.
Just like in humans, a dog’s body is made up of approximately 60–70% water, and even a small drop in hydration can affect their health and energy levels.
Here’s why daily hydration is absolutely critical for your dog’s well-being:
1. Supports All Major Organs
Water keeps your dog’s heart, kidneys, liver, and lungs functioning smoothly. It helps remove toxins, transport nutrients through the bloodstream, and keeps their metabolism balanced.
Without enough water, waste builds up in the body and organs can start to fail—especially the kidneys.
2. Aids in Digestion and Nutrient Absorption
Water helps break down food and dissolve nutrients so they can be absorbed into your dog’s bloodstream. It also prevents constipation by keeping the digestive tract lubricated and active.
Dogs who don’t drink enough may suffer from poor digestion, bloating, or hard stools.
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3. Regulates Body Temperature
Dogs can’t sweat like humans do. They cool themselves through panting and, to a small degree, through their paw pads.
This process uses water, so they need to drink more—especially in hot weather or after physical activity—to prevent overheating and heatstroke.
4. Keeps Joints and Muscles Lubricated
Water cushions joints and keeps tissues flexible. Active dogs, aging dogs, and large breeds especially benefit from proper hydration to prevent stiffness, soreness, and injury.
5. Maintains Skin and Coat Health
Well-hydrated dogs typically have a shinier, softer coat and healthier skin. Dehydration can cause dry skin, increased shedding, dandruff, and dull fur.
6. Promotes Healthy Urination and Detoxification
Water flushes out toxins through the kidneys and urinary tract. When dogs don’t drink enough, they risk urinary tract infections (UTIs), kidney stones, and bladder issues due to concentrated urine.
7. Boosts Energy and Mental Alertness
Even mild dehydration can lead to fatigue, confusion, or anxiety. Water keeps your dog’s brain functioning clearly and helps them stay energetic, playful, and engaged with you.
8. Supports Recovery From Illness or Surgery
When your dog is unwell or recovering, hydration helps heal tissues, regulate medications, and restore overall balance. Dogs recovering from vomiting, diarrhea, or heatstroke are especially vulnerable to dehydration.
Is It Really a Problem? First, Know What’s Normal
On average, a dog should drink about 1 ounce of water per pound of body weight per day. For example, a 30-pound dog should drink roughly 30 ounces (just under 4 cups) of water daily. Puppies, nursing mothers, and active dogs may need even more.
If your dog skips water for over 12–24 hours, especially with other signs like lethargy or vomiting, you should contact a vet immediately.
Possible Reasons – Why Your Dog Is Not Drinking Water
1. Change in Environment or Routine
Dogs are creatures of habit. Any major change—such as moving homes, traveling, or switching their bowl location—can confuse or stress them enough to stop drinking temporarily.
A new pet or baby in the house may also distract them or make them feel anxious.
Keep the water bowl in a familiar, quiet location and maintain routines to help your dog feel secure.
2. Weather and Activity Levels
Dogs often drink less during colder months or when they’ve been less active. If your dog isn’t exercising much or sweating from heat, their water intake might naturally drop.
However, even in cooler months, hydration remains vital. Don’t dismiss this behavior unless it aligns perfectly with normal seasonal patterns.
3. Illness or Pain
A sudden drop in water consumption can indicate health problems such as:
- Kidney disease
- Urinary tract infections (UTIs)
- Parvovirus
- Gastrointestinal issues
- Mouth pain or dental disease
If your dog also seems lethargic, is vomiting, has diarrhea, bad breath, or swollen gums, visit a vet urgently. Pain while drinking or swallowing may also cause them to avoid water.
4. Fear of the Water Bowl
Yes, it sounds odd—but dogs may develop negative associations with their water bowl. Loud noises near the bowl, a slippery floor, or a bowl that moves or makes noise can cause fear or discomfort.
Try switching to a ceramic or stainless-steel bowl, or placing a non-slip mat underneath it. Keep the area calm and inviting.
5. Dirty or Unappealing Water
Dogs are sensitive to smells and tastes. If the water is stale, contaminated, or has cleaning agents in the bowl (like bleach residue), your dog might refuse to drink.
Always clean the water bowl daily and change the water at least once or twice a day, especially in hot weather.
6. Recent Surgery or Medication Side Effects
After surgery or while on certain medications (e.g., antibiotics, painkillers, diuretics), your dog may drink more or less than usual. Anesthesia can cause nausea, making dogs disinterested in food or water for a day or two.
Consult your vet if hydration doesn’t normalize within 24 hours post-procedure.
7. Dietary Changes
Switching from dry kibble to wet food, which contains about 70–80% moisture, may reduce your dog’s water intake from the bowl. They may still be well-hydrated but not feel the need to drink extra water.
Monitor total fluid intake from both food and water, and don’t panic unless other symptoms appear.
8. Aging and Cognitive Dysfunction
Senior dogs may forget to drink, especially if they’re developing canine cognitive dysfunction (doggy dementia). They may also become confused about where their water bowl is or lose sensitivity to thirst.
You might need to offer water by hand or guide them gently to their bowl.
How to Incorporate More Fluids in Your Dog’s Diet
If your dog refuses to drink from a bowl, here are safe and effective ways to keep them hydrated:
1. Wet or Canned Dog Food
Canned food has a high moisture content (70–80%) and can significantly increase fluid intake. If your dog is used to dry kibble, try mixing in a little wet food gradually.
2. Bone Broth or Dog-Safe Broths
Low-sodium chicken or beef broth (without onion or garlic) is tasty and hydrating. You can pour it over food, freeze it into cubes, or offer it as a drink. Many pet brands now offer ready-made, dog-safe broths.
3. Ice Cubes and Ice Treats
Some dogs enjoy chewing on ice cubes or frozen treats made with broth or plain yogurt and water. This is especially helpful during warmer months.
4. Add Water to Kibble
Pour warm water over dry food to soften it and add moisture. This not only aids hydration but also improves digestion for some dogs.
5. Flavor the Water
You can encourage reluctant drinkers by flavoring their water with a small splash of broth, a bit of tuna juice (in water), or a few drops of salmon oil. Just ensure any additives are free of salt, onion, or garlic.
6. Multiple Water Bowls Around the House
Place bowls in different quiet, accessible areas to gently encourage more drinking. This is especially helpful for older dogs or those with mobility issues.
When to See a Vet Immediately
Contact your vet ASAP if your dog:
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Hasn’t drunk water in over 24 hours
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Shows signs of dehydration (dry nose, sunken eyes, sticky gums, skin doesn’t bounce back)
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Is lethargic, vomiting, or refusing food
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Has dark urine or trouble urinating
While in most cases, not drinking water might not be a problem but in certain situation it might prove to be lethal.
Thus we have this article which will not only help you to figure out the reason why your dog isn’t drinking water but also help you come up with new ways to incorporate fluids in their diet.
Stay hydrated and keep your pets hydrated!!
