Why Is My Dog Not Drinking Water

This page is educational reference material for preparing questions. A licensed veterinarian examines the animal, makes the diagnosis, and sets the treatment.

Dog refusing water: nausea, pain, mouth injury, and illness. Dehydration signs and how to encourage fluid intake.

Understanding This Symptom

As a dog owner, noticing changes in your pet's behavior or health is the first step to getting them the help they need. This article covers the most common causes, warning signs that indicate an emergency, and what you can expect at the veterinarian.

Common Causes

Less Serious Causes

More Serious Causes

• Poisoning or toxic exposure

What to Watch For

• Lethargy or reluctance to move or play
• Vomiting, diarrhea, or changes in stool

Home Care and First Steps

Veterinary Diagnosis

Your veterinarian will typically:

• Perform a thorough physical examination

Treatment Options

Prevention

Long-Term Management

When to Get a Second Opinion

Related Symptom Guides

• Why Is My Dog Not Eating?
• Why Is My Dog Shaking?
• Why Is My Dog Limping?
• Why Is My Dog Vomiting?
• Why Is My Dog Coughing?

Should I go to the emergency vet?

Go the same day if the dog will not drink and is also vomiting, weak, or has tacky gums. A dog that skips the bowl on a cool afternoon and still eats can be offered fresh water and watched until the next meal. Tacky gums plus listlessness should not wait overnight.

How much will treatment cost?

A dog that stops drinking and also will not eat needs an exam for dehydration, mouth pain, nausea, or a fever. Fluids and bloodwork are the costs to ask about if the gums are tacky. A dog that drinks less on a cool day and still eats is a different, smaller visit.

Can I treat this at home?

Offer fresh water in a clean bowl and note the last time you saw a drink. Check the mouth for a stick or a painful tooth if the dog allows it. Do not force a bottle of water down the throat. Tacky gums and a weak dog should be seen the same day.