Bladder infections or urinary tract infections are two major culprits of reduced thirst. It could also be diabetes or kidney disease. If you notice other symptoms like lethargy and lack of appetite, and feel like something might be wrong, it's important to call your veterinarian and discuss what's going on.
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.
In the most serious cases of canine dehydration, the severe shortage of fluids can even lead to kidney and other organ failure and to death.
There are many reasons why a dog might abruptly stop drinking water but keep producing urine. Unfortunately, most causes are serious health issues like urinary tract infections, kidney failure, pancreatitis, bladder stones, and diabetes.
A slight decrease in water consumption due to reduced activity is no cause for alarm. However, consult a vet if your dog persistently refuses to drink. Dogs should never go more than a day without water.
Water is Necessary for Survival
Dogs can't survive without drinking, so make sure that you get them a fresh bowl of cool water and encourage them to take frequent sips throughout the day! If your pup refuses to eat or drink on her own, it may be time for some veterinary intervention.
The clinical signs of more advanced kidney failure include loss of appetite, lethargy, vomiting, diarrhea, and very bad breath. Occasionally, ulcers will be found in the mouth.
Your pet can survive without drinking water for about 72 hours (three days). However, it'll show signs of dehydration after the first 24 hours. Go beyond that and your furry friend will slowly feel weaker and weaker.
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.
If your dog has stopped drinking water, you have a good reason to be worried. Dogs need to drink in order to remain healthy. Your dog can get seriously sick very quickly if they stop drinking enough water.
Milk is a safe treat in small quantities. A few tablespoons of cow's milk or goat's milk on an occasional basis can be a nice reward for your dog. But, you should probably hold off on offering your dog an entire bowl in one sitting, as it can cause unpleasant reactions, including diarrhea, vomiting, and loose stools.
Stage 1 Kidney Disease
In stage one, there is a small amount to no protein in the urine, and the pup typically maintains normal blood pressure. However, diagnostic tests may indicate abnormalities in the urine concentration or irregular kidney palpation. Most dogs do not present with symptoms during this stage.
Increased thirst and urination, lethargy, vomiting, diarrhea, anorexia, weight loss and dehydration are all signs that your pet's kidneys are not functioning properly.
Breed: Some dog breeds, including English Cocker spaniels, bull terriers and German shepherds, are more likely to develop particular types of kidney disease. Learn more about a very special German shepherd named Buddy that was diagnosed with kidney failure.
Summary of Kidney Failure in Dogs
Acute kidney failure happens suddenly, and if caught and treated quickly, can be reversed. While there is no cure for chronic kidney failure, symptoms can be minimized with fluid therapy and diet changes.
You can recognize advancing dehydration in your dog by checking his or her skin's elasticity. Gently pinch a small amount of skin on your dog's back and release it. If your dog's skin does not snap immediately back in place, your dog may be dehydrated. You can also check for dehydration by examining your dog's gums.
All dogs should have fresh water available in a clean bowl 24/7. However, just having a bowl out for them may not be enough. You have to consider the quality of the water, the placement of the bowl, and the number of bowls available. If the water is dirty or contaminated with debris, your dog may refuse to drink it.