Joseph Roetheli, PhD
Highlights:
Strange behavior from your dog can mean something is bothering them.
If a dog is eating but not drinking water, dental issues could be to blame.
Taking care of your dog’s teeth involves both veterinary attention and at-home care, including the use of the only treats that can remove tartar, Yummy Combs®.
It can be unnerving to pick up your dog’s water dish for a refill only to notice it doesn’t actually need to be filled. For dogs, water intake is usually well-regulated. Dogs know how much water they need, and they lap it up when they’re thirsty. It’s unusual for a dog to refuse water, and usually indicates something is wrong.
Sometimes, refusing water coincides with a dog’s refusal to eat food. If your dog is eating their kibble but not taking in any water, there could be a few reasons. We’ll cover those and talk about what you can do to help your dog get back on the proverbial water wagon.
Dogs’ need for water is highly dependent on their size and their level of activity. In addition, they’ll need more water during the hot summer months than they will during the winter.
Factors that play a role in your dog’s need for water include:
As a general rule, dogs should drink about one ounce of water per pound of body weight per day.
You’ve probably heard of water toxicity in humans which usually happens when someone drinks too much water (like after extreme exercise, or in a water-drinking competition). Water toxicity is rare in dogs, but it can happen.
Water toxicity in dogs usually occurs when a dog has been ingesting water due to swimming, diving, or water-retrieving. If your dog enjoys these activities, make sure you give them adequate breaks and monitor them for lethargy, vomiting, or any other unusual symptoms.
If your dog isn’t drinking water or appears to be drinking much less than usual, there is likely an underlying cause that may need to be addressed.
The first suspect is usually food. Changing your dog’s daily kibble or soft food can result in changes in your dog, too. If, for instance, you’ve recently switched from dry to wet food, you’ll probably notice that your dog is drinking less water than usual. This is because there is a higher water content in the wet food, and they simply don’t need as much water.
Some dogs will avoid drinking water if they are experiencing gastrointestinal upset. If you suspect this could be the case, check their food to make sure it is fresh and pinpoint any food they may have eaten that you didn’t know about (snacks left out by kids, something dug out of an open trash bin, etc.). Most of the time, an upset tummy will correct itself.
Regularly cleaning your dog’s water dish is important to protect against the collection of bacteria. If it’s been a few days since the last washing, your dog may be avoiding it due to a buildup of bacteria, an off-putting smell, or an off-taste.
Most dogs have bowls that are located on the ground. As dogs get older, this can make it difficult for them to take in water if they have a bone or muscle condition that causes them pain when they attempt to bend down to drink their water or eat their food. If you know your dog has an arthritis or muscle issue, try elevating their bowl on a stand to see if it helps.
Dogs that are stressed or anxious may avoid food and water. It’s also possible for dogs to experience depression, which is usually characterized by lethargy and a lack of interest in activities they once enjoyed, like walking or playing.
Dental issues in dogs are frequently overlooked but are common causes of water and food refusal. Dogs that are still eating but avoiding water may have developed a dental issue that makes their teeth or gums sensitive to cold water but not to their food.
If your dog is avoiding water, having their teeth checked is a great place to start. If water avoidance continues for more than a day, it’s important to have your dog seen by their veterinarian right away.
Your dog needs water for survival, and avoiding water can have detrimental health effects that happen quickly. Even if your dog seems okay, it’s important to quickly address the reason for water avoidance immediately. If dental issues are to blame, you can help get your pet back on track.
Most pet owners aren’t incredibly diligent about their dog’s dental care routine — if they even have one. Even though our pets may have really terrible breath, we chalk it up as normal dog breath and love them despite their noxious pants and licks.
In reality, dog’s teeth need to be cared for just like our own teeth. Dog teeth are subject to cavities and their gums are subject to disease.
In dogs, gum disease can lead to tooth decay, tooth loss, systemic illness, and organ failure. What’s more, 80% of dogs over the age of three have some level of periodontal disease, but only 20% of those dogs’ owners know about it. If dental disease goes untreated, it can quite literally rob your pet of their life.
A little proactive care is all that’s required to protect your dog’s oral health.
Think of your own oral health routine. Each day you brush and floss, and possible use a bacteria-reducing mouthwash to keep your breath fresh. You probably brush and floss at least twice a day or after every meal. Your dog, on the other hand, eats, rinks, and never gets a toothbrushing.
Good doggie dental hygiene starts at home.
Brushing your dog’s teeth probably doesn’t sound like much fun (for you or your dog), but it’s the best way to remove plaque and protect your dog’s teeth between veterinary visits. Start with a dog-safe toothpaste and a soft-bristled brush. Give your dog plenty of breaks while brushing, and always offer praise and/or a reward after brushing is complete.
Your dog needs regular dental cleanings from an early age. Some breeds need to have their teeth cleaned more than once per year because they are at higher risk of dental disease. Discuss your dog’s specific needs with their provider and make sure they’re seeing their vet as frequently as needed.
Dental treats are great ways to reward your pet with a treat and help keep their teeth clean. Yummy Combs® treats are designed to keep your dog’s teeth clean and are clinically proven to remove hardened tartar from the gum line, something other treats can’t claim. However, the benefits of daily Yummy Combs extend beyond the gumline.
Yummy Combs treats are designed to be safe, effective, and nutritious for your dog. Our treats’ wide design deters gulping, and our proprietary ingredient Slick’M™ helps them dissolve quickly in the gut.
They’re also formulated with 44% chicken protein for a complete and balanced addition to your dog’s diet. Remember, you’ll need to reduce your dog’s kibble when offering treats, and that could leave your dog with gaps in their diet. Yummy Combs fills the gap with nutritious ingredients to support your dog’s wellness.
The design of Yummy Combs scrubs teeth on all surfaces, while the thin walls floss and clean around the gumline. For oral care between tooth-brushing, Yummy Combs are one of the smartest decisions a pet owner can make.
Your dog needs water to survive. If they aren’t drinking it, there’s an underlying reason. When dental issues are to blame, get their teeth checked and begin a more diligent dental care routine at home.
Yummy Combs are an enjoyable and easy way to care for your dog’s teeth.
Sources:
Dog Not Drinking Water? Possible Causes and When To Call Your Vet | PetMD
Water Intoxication in Dogs: Can Dogs Drink Too Much Water? | AKC
Gastroenteritis (stomach upset) in dogs | PDSA
Periodontal disease | Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine
Updates, coupons, deals, and more!
Always feed the right treat size for your dog’s weight category. Always supervise your dog when feeding treats. This product is an adult only dog treat. Always provide ample fresh water for your dog.
Type anything...
We use cookies to provide you the best possible experience on our website. You consent to the usage of cookies by continuing to view our website. See our Privacy Notice for more information.
