Water is crazy necessary for all living things, and dogs are no different. It helps with digestion, keeps their body temperature in check, and carries nutrients around. Getting a sick dog to drink water is important because it helps get rid of toxins, boosts their immune system, and keeps their energy up. Not getting enough water can lead to some serious health issues for dogs, like kidney failure, shock, or even worse. So, making sure your dog drinks enough water should be a top priority!
Why is my dog not drinking water?
A healthy dog will drink water when he’s thristy, and all you’ll have to do is fill up his bowl. So the first thing that pointed to your dog not drinking water is very likely that you went to fill up his bow and it was still full. Or nearly full.
Usually, when a dog doesn’t drink water as he or she normally would, It may be that he’s been eating his food wet and so isn’t as thirsty. Or that he’s just being picky; dogs have a keen sense of smell and may avoid water if he smells or tastes off due to contamination or additives.
Dogs can also be sensitive to changes like moving to a new home, having new people around, or new pets. Stress and anxiety from these changes can affect their drinking habits.
Or your dog may be sick.
When should I start to worry about my dog not drinking water?
It’s crucial to monitor your dog’s water intake closely. Here are some signs indicating it’s time to worry and seek veterinary advice:
If your dog hasn’t drunk any water for 24 hours, it’s time to consult a vet. Your dog may appear unusually tired or weak, and come to think of it, you notice he has barely touched his food
Check for dryness in the nose and gums; they should be moist. Vomiting or Diarrhea can quickly lead to dehydration.
Is he panting and breathing fast? Excessive panting and rapid breathing can be signs of dehydration or distress.
How long can a sick dog go without drinking water?
A sick dog can typically survive for about 2-3 days without drinking water, but this period can be shorter depending on the severity of the illness and environmental conditions. Dehydration can set in quickly, especially if the dog is also experiencing symptoms like vomiting or diarrhea.
Here’s why you shouldn’t wait too long:
- Dehydration: This can occur rapidly, leading to serious complications like kidney failure, shock, and even death.
- Weakened Immune System: Dehydration and lack of nutrients can weaken your dog’s immune system, making it harder to fight off the illness.
- Organ Failure: Prolonged lack of water can lead to the failure of vital organs, including the kidneys and liver.
What to do if a sick dog won’t drink water?
To get a sick dog to drink water, offer him fresh, clean water in a clean bowl. Try different temperatures (cool or slightly warm) to see if your dog prefers one.
Getting a sick dog to drink water can be tough, but there are several strategies you can try beyond just offering fresh water at different temperatures:
Make Water Tasty | Try adding a little low-sodium chicken or beef broth to the water to entice your sick pup to drink more.
If you have a sick dog that refuses to drink water, consider using ice cubes to encourage hydration. A sick dog might be more inclined to lick ice cubes or ice chips rather than drink water from a bowl. Try offering ice cubes to your sick dog as a way to help them drink water.
Switching to wet food can be beneficial if your dog currently eats dry kibble. Wet food contains more moisture, which can aid in hydration. You can also mix water or broth into the kibble to help your sick dog drink water.
Gently warm some water or low-sodium broth to body temperature and offer it in a cozy, low-sided bowl. The warmth and flavor can encourage the sick dog to drink some water.
Try hand-feeding water to your sick dog using a syringe (without the needle) or a turkey baster. Gently offer water to your sick dog to help them drink water more easily. Alternatively, dip your fingers in water and let your sick dog lick them.
Consider giving your sick dog small amounts of unflavored Pedialyte for hydration, but consult your vet first. A pet water fountain might also attract your sick dog, making it more appealing to drink water.
Hydration treats, such as water-rich fruits and vegetables like cucumber slices or seedless watermelon, can be offered. Place multiple water bowls around your home to make it convenient for your sick dog to drink water.
Freeze broth in ice cube trays to create broth popsicles as a hydrating treat. Offer these popsicles to your sick dog to encourage them to drink water. Electrolyte solutions specifically made for pets can also be added to their water to promote drinking.
Ensure your sick dog’s drinking area is calm and stress-free. Keep the water bowls easily accessible and consider visiting the vet if your sick dog continues to refuse drinking water or shows signs of dehydration, such as dry gums or lethargy. Immediate veterinary care may be necessary to rehydrate your sick dog and address any underlying health concerns.
Act quickly to support your sick dog’s recovery and overall health.
