Water and hydration
My dog won't drink water, what should I do?
Last updated 23 September 2026 · How we write and check this
Short answer
Start with the basics: offer a fresh, clean bowl of water in a calm, familiar spot, and try a second bowl elsewhere in the house. If your dog still refuses water for more than a few hours, especially alongside vomiting, lethargy, or loss of appetite, treat it as a reason to call a vet rather than waiting it out.
Simple things to try first
Wash and refill the bowl in case old water has developed a film or odor your dog can detect. Offer water in a couple of locations, since a dog can associate one specific spot with something that put them off, like a loud noise nearby.
Tempting a reluctant drinker
A small splash of low-sodium chicken or beef broth stirred into water, or a few ice cubes added to the bowl, can encourage some dogs to drink when plain water is being ignored. Wetting dry kibble also adds moisture even if the dog is not drinking directly from the bowl.
When it is a genuine emergency
A dog that goes a full day without drinking anything, seems weak, has sunken eyes, or is also refusing food needs same-day veterinary attention rather than more home troubleshooting, since dehydration can progress quickly once a dog stops drinking entirely.
Key takeaways
- Fresh water in a familiar, calm spot is the first thing to check.
- A splash of broth or ice cubes can tempt a reluctant drinker.
- Wetting dry food adds moisture even without direct drinking.
- A full day without water, or signs of weakness, needs same-day vet care.