Dogs drink less in winter because cooler temperatures decrease their thirst sensation and they lose less fluid through panting and sweating compared to summer, but dry indoor air and activity in snow can still cause dehydration, making it crucial for owners to encourage fresh water intake to maintain health. A slight decrease is normal, but persistent refusal to drink or other symptoms like lethargy warrant a vet visit as dehydration risk remains high, despite lower thirst cues.
Additionally, pets may not feel as thirsty in colder temperatures, leading them to drink less water. Outdoor pets, such as dogs that enjoy winter walks or playtime, can also lose moisture through their breath in cold air. It's important to ensure they have access to fresh, clean water after outdoor activities.
Typically, a healthy adult dog will need no help making sure that they are hydrated each day. However, if they refuse to drink water, they might be experiencing an underlying issue such as a stomach upset or an intestinal or urinary blockage.
If your dog hasn't been drinking water for more than 24 hours, or if you notice signs of dehydration, lethargy, vomiting, or unusual behavior, please call Mills Animal Hospital at (770) 988-6698. Prompt attention can help prevent more serious problems from developing.
Pet parents should call their veterinarian if they notice their dog is drinking less water, even if there are no major changes in their environment that may be suspected as the cause. Your veterinarian will give you next steps, which may include monitoring at home or bringing in your dog for an exam.
How to Encourage Your Dog to Drink Water
Early Symptoms of Kidney Failure in Dogs
The short answer is that dogs can survive between 48 and 72 hours without drinking, but that doesn't really capture the whole picture. Survival is a minimum and a dog allowed to drink only once every 2 days would be the subject of cruel abuse.
Bone broth, herbal teas, and coconut water are all great options when offered in moderation. However, it's essential to avoid harmful drinks like alcohol, caffeine, and sugary beverages, as these can be toxic or cause digestive issues. Always consult your vet before making any changes to your dog's hydration routine.
The following signs may indicate your dog is dehydrated:
Strawberries, cucumber and seedless, rindless watermelon are great hydrating treats for dogs, as they each have more than 90% water content. Cantaloupe is another great option with 89% water content. On hot days you can serve frozen chunks of these moisture-rich fruits to help your dog cool down and replenish fluids.
End-of-life signs in dogs include behavioral changes like lethargy, confusion, anxiety, or increased clinginess, alongside physical declines such as labored breathing, loss of appetite/thirst, decreased mobility, and incontinence, indicating organ shutdown, pain, or general system failure, with some seeking comfort while others withdraw; it's crucial to monitor these signs and consult your veterinarian for guidance on comfort and quality of life.
When a dog stops drinking water but continues to pee, it could be a sign of a medical condition. Kidney disease, diabetes, and urinary tract infections are some of the health issues that can cause this behavior. Kidney disease, for example, can lead to increased urination while reducing the dog's thirst.
The 90/10 rule for dogs means that 90% of their daily calories should come from a complete and balanced dog food, while only 10% should come from treats, chews, and table scraps, preventing weight gain and ensuring proper nutrition. This guideline helps owners manage treat portions, preventing unbalanced diets and health issues like obesity, joint problems, and diabetes, as treats can be surprisingly high in calories, even healthy ones.
Illness: Several health conditions can cause dehydration and drive your dog to snow eating, including diabetes, thyroid problems, kidney disease, Cushing's disease, or any illness that leads to fluid loss via diarrhea or vomiting.
Most dogs should drink about 1 ounce of water for every pound that they weigh, every day. That means a 10-pound dog needs about two-thirds of a 16oz bottle of water daily. Really active pups or dogs who are pregnant or recently had puppies often need more water per pound of weight.
The leading cause of death in dogs, especially older dogs, is cancer (neoplasia), affecting about 1 in 4 dogs, similar to humans, with specific breeds at higher risk. Other significant causes include old age, heart disease, digestive disorders (like bloat), infectious diseases (like Parvo), and trauma, with sterilization influencing risks for cancer and infections.
Dogs often enjoy flavoured water – especially if it smells a bit more exciting! Try freezing low-sodium chicken broth, tuna water (from tuna in spring water, not brine!), or bone broth into ice cubes. Drop one or two into their water bowl or offer as a refreshing treat.
Fresh, clean water is still the best choice to keep your dog hydrated, but sometimes they may need a little flavor enticement. Avoid sugary drinks and cow's milk, both of which can cause digestive upset. Stick to low-sodium broths or no-sugar-added electrolyte drinks.
The 3-3-3 rule for dogs is a guideline for the adjustment period after adoption, outlining three phases: 3 Days (decompression, feeling overwhelmed/scared), 3 Weeks (starting to settle in, learning routine, personality emerges), and 3 Months (feeling secure, bonded, and truly at home). It helps new owners manage expectations and be patient as their rescue dog transitions, emphasizing calm energy, routine, and space in the early days to build trust.
Heartworm disease is among the top silent killers of dogs and cats, and it's a slow and insidious disease which gradually incapacitates them. By the time pet owners notice the giveaway signs of this disease, serious damage may already have been caused.
Early kidney failure often shows subtle signs that pet parents might miss. Mild symptoms include slightly increased thirst and urination, occasional decreased appetite, and mild weight loss over time. Your dog might seem a bit less energetic but still engage in normal activities.
In severe kidney failure, the amount of urine may actually decrease, or the pet may stop making urine altogether. Stomach or intestinal ulcers may develop which will result in either a black or tarry stool or vomiting of digested blood (which looks like coffee grounds).
Symptoms can include:
The Link Between Bad Breath and Kidney Failure
Excessive urea (called uremia) can cause the dog's breath to smell like ammonia, urine or even “fishy” when they exhale.