Dogs, like humans, need to drink water every day. Also like humans, dogs are at risk for dehydration if they avoid drinking water and are not properly hydrated. A dog is actually at a greater risk for dehydration than its human counterpart because they release heat from their bodies much more slowly. A dog’s body heat is released through the pads of its feet and its nose. If your dog seems to avoid drinking water, there may be a reason for it and you should pay attention to your dog to reduce the risk of dehydration.

Certain reasons why a dog may avoid drinking water are easier to recognize than others are. For example, many dogs will avoid drinking water in strange places because the water smells different than what they are used to at home. Similarly, if you have left your dog somewhere without you, he may refuse to drink and eat simply because he is unhappy. In most cases, if the dog stays more than a day or so, they will gradually return to normal drinking and eating habits.

Older dogs may avoid drinking water as well. It could simply be a matter of effort or their sense of thirst may be diminishing along with their appetite. Older dogs especially need to maintain adequate hydration levels. If drinking seems to be an issue, you might consider switching to a moist dog food. This not only provides extra fluid, it may be easier for an aging dog to eat. Talk to your veterinarian before switching dog foods.

If your dog is not drinking, you should check his mouth for obstruction from an object stuck somewhere in the mouth. Other reasons dogs may avoid drinking water include illness and while recovering from surgery or an injury. If you can find no logical explanation for why your dog is refusing water, you should have him checked by a vet. If he is recovering from surgery or an illness, proper hydration is important to the recovery process. If you can not get results from gentle coaxing and encouragement, try moistening their regular food with water. If you can not get your dog to drink, especially in hot weather, call your veterinarian.