Is my dog sick?

Question
My dog has been drinking an awful lot of water today and has been making what has been like a sneezing noise for a lot of the day also? Her appetite is fine and her demeanor is fine also.

Answer
Hi Barry,

I understand your concerns.

Because you've only noticed your dog drinking more and making sneezing noises for one day, it's best to adopt a "wait and see" attitude. Your dog is acting fine, and eating normally, so you wouldn't have much to report to your vet at the moment.

Keep an eye on things. If your dog continues to drink more than she normally does (and subsequent more frequent urination) for the next two weeks, then contact your vet. Don't withhold water, if she has diabetes withholding water can be dangerous. Don't forget "what goes in, comes out", give your dog more opportunities to go outside if she continues to drink more over the next few days!

Sneezing can be cause by household products, such as perfumes, cigarette smoke, household cleaners, fiberglass, bug spray and deodorants, to name only a few. Tooth abscesses, and respiratory tract infection are two of the common medical reasons for sneezing. Dogs don't catch colds like humans do, pet colds are caused by airborne virus and bacteria. If your dog develops a nasal discharge, or if the sneezing persists beyond a week or two, then it's time to contact your vet.

I hope I've been a help.
Best of luck,

Patti