Last checked against the sources below on 23-10-2026. This is general information, not veterinary advice.
A dog not drinking water can be a passing thing, like a change in food, or a sign of illness. In Indian summers, it can quickly turn into dehydration. This guide explains how much your dog should drink, why it might stop, how to check for dehydration, and when to see a vet. For more on caring for dogs, visit our dog hub.
How much water should a dog drink?
A common guideline is about 1 ounce of water per pound of body weight a day [S1] [S2], which works out to roughly 65 ml per kg. A 10 kg dog would drink around 650 ml a day. Dogs drink more after exercise and in hot weather. [S1] [S2]
Dogs on wet or canned food often drink less, because their food already contains a lot of water. [S1]
Common reasons a dog drinks less
- Diet change: switching to wet food. [S1]
- A dirty bowl: bacterial build-up can make water smell or taste unpleasant. [S1]
- Mouth or dental pain, which can make drinking uncomfortable. [S1]
- Stomach upset or nausea, such as gastroenteritis. [S1]
- Joint pain, making it hard to reach the bowl. [S1]
- Other illness, such as bladder infections or cancer. [S1]
- Stress or anxiety, for example after a move or a change in routine. [S1]
How to check your dog for dehydration
- Skin test: gently lift the skin over the shoulder blades and let go. In a hydrated dog it snaps back quickly; in a dehydrated dog it’s slower. [S2] Check it when your dog is well so you know its normal; wrinkly breeds may be less elastic anyway. [S2]
- Gums: they should be moist. Dry or sticky gums are a warning sign. [S2]
- Gum colour test: press a finger on the gum and release. The spot should turn pink again almost immediately; a slow return suggests dehydration. [S2]
- Other signs: sunken or dry eyes, a dry nose, thick saliva, panting, low energy and loss of appetite. [S1] [S2]
When to call the vet
- Call your vet if your dog is drinking noticeably less without an obvious reason, such as a switch to wet food. [S1]
- Call as soon as possible if reduced drinking comes with any dehydration signs, vomiting, diarrhoea, lethargy or weight loss. [S1] [S2]
- Go straight to a vet with suspected heatstroke, persistent vomiting, or a puppy, senior or small dog that isn’t drinking; these dogs dehydrate faster. [S2]
Vets treat dehydration with fluids given under the skin or into a vein, and look for the underlying cause. [S1] [S2] Never force water into your dog’s mouth. [S1]
How to encourage your dog to drink
Once your vet has ruled out illness: [S1]
- Wash the bowl every day and refill it with fresh water. [S1]
- Try a water fountain; some dogs prefer running water. [S1]
- Add water to meals, or offer wet food. [S1]
- Keep water available indoors and outdoors, and adjust for heat and exercise. [S2]
- Offer water after every walk, especially in summer.
The Pawsitive Hoomans Take
Learn your dog’s normal: roughly how much it drinks, and how its gums and skin feel when it’s well. Then a change stands out quickly. In the Indian summer, don’t wait it out; a dog that stops drinking and seems dull needs a vet the same day.
🐾 Keep your dog’s health records, vet visits and vaccinations in a free Pet Passport, so your vet sees the full picture.
Frequently asked questions
How much water should my dog drink a day?
About 1 ounce per pound of body weight, roughly 65 ml per kg, more in heat or after exercise. [S1] [S2]
Why is my dog not drinking water but eating?
It may be getting water from wet food, dislike a dirty bowl, or have mouth pain. [S1] If it continues, see your vet.
How can I tell if my dog is dehydrated?
Check for slow skin recoil over the shoulders, dry or sticky gums, a slow return of gum colour, sunken eyes and low energy. [S2]
Can I give my dog ORS or electrolyte drinks?
Only on your vet’s advice; ask about the type and amount. [S2]
Sources and last checked
- [S1] PetMD, Dog not drinking water? Possible causes and when to call your vet, by Brittany Kleszynski, DVM (09-08-2024) – petmd.com – Last checked: 23-10-2026
- [S2] American Kennel Club, Dehydration in dogs: signs, symptoms, treatments (updated 30-03-2026) – akc.org – Last checked: 23-10-2026
Disclaimer: PawsitiveHoomans is an independent information resource. This is general information, not veterinary advice; consult your vet about your dog.