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Why is my dog suddenly dunking her face in the water bowl?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | American Pit Bull Terrier | Female | spayed | 14 years and 7 months old

Just over the last 2 days she has began sticking her entire muzzle in her water bucket- she has always drank normally her entire life. She will go to the bucket, drink; then dunk her entire muzzle in for a few seconds and leave-sometimes she’ll do it a few times. Hoping it’s as simple as it feels good, it’s fun; but it strikes me odd that this has suddenly occurred. She acts fine otherwise. Could this be something serious? Any sudden change is behavior always causes me to worry. Thank you.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Sara Farmer, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on June 26th, 2018

I understand that any change in behavior worries you - it would be so much easier if they could just tell us what they were thinking! I don't think this sounds like anything concerning as long as Athena seems to be drinking the same amount of water and isn't having trouble drinking. If your gut is telling you something is wrong however it may be best to have your vet examine her and make sure everything is okay.

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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