Water is a dog’s primary necessity, just as it is in humans. It is recommended that dogs drink one ounce per pound of body weight daily to stay hydrated. This number, however, usually doubles during the summer or after a strenuous workout. Dogs are prone to dehydration because their only sweat glands are on their paws, which are never enough to keep them cool.
The dogs’ inability to cool their bodies quickly enough, as humans do, is the most significant contributor to their increased risk of dehydration. Water is an essential factor in keeping your dog healthy and cool. So, why do dogs sometimes refuse to drink water? Let’s get started.
Potential Causes of Dogs Refusing to Drink Water
If your dog suddenly drinks less or no water daily, several factors could be responsible. Water is essential to your furry companion’s health, and a sudden change in their normal drinking patterns may indicate serious problems. Dogs require water to stay hydrated. So, if you notice your pet refusing to drink water, here are five contributing factors that could be to blame.
1. Health issues
Did you know that various health issues can interfere with your pet’s drinking habits? Urinary tract infections, also known as bladder infections, are a prime example of this. Furthermore, this could be an indication of kidney disease or diabetes. If you notice your dog acting exhausted and not interested in food and drinking water, this could indicate something is wrong. Always contact your local veterinarian when your dog exhibits unusual behavior that requires professional care.
2. Fear and negative experiences
When dogs are afraid or in pain, they associate their negative emotions with what they are feeling. If something terrible happens when your dog drinks water, they may stop drinking. When their tail is accidentally stepped on, or insects and ants bite their tongue, they may develop fears and traumatizing experiences about drinking water.
Purchase a new water bowl for your dog and try placing it in a different area to help them overcome its fear.
3. Unfamiliarity
Unfamiliar sights and smells can impact your pet’s drinking habits. They can distinguish between familiar and unfamiliar water sources thanks to their acute and strong sense of smell. If your dog does not recognize the smell of the water you are giving them, they will refuse to drink it.
So, if you are planning to take your dog on a trip or short vacation, bring a bottle of water from home to keep them hydrated and alleviate your concerns.
4. Changes in the weather
Due to weather changes, your dog may refuse to drink enough water. When the fall season arrives, most dogs will drink less water, which seems to worry pet parents. Because of the cooler temperatures, your dog may not be as thirsty if he isn’t drinking as much water during the fall. In addition, dogs may be uninterested in drinking water when they reach their bowl due to inactivity. This is normal if your dog does not entirely stop drinking water.
5. Oral disease and mouth injury
Oral injuries and infections may cause your dog’s disinterest in drinking water. Dogs with tooth and jaw dislocation, tooth root abscess, gum disease, loss, or fracture may experience pain or discomfort when drinking. Bad breath is also the number one indicator of oral disease, so take your pet to the vet or dentist if you notice them having bad breath.
Read more about Birdcage Buying Tips: How to Choose the Right One
