How to stop your dog drinking from the toilet bowl

Anyone who has ever owned a dog knows they sometimes develop unusual habits—one particularly unpleasant one is drinking water from the toilet bowl rather than their own water dish. This article explores why dogs drink from toilets, associated risks, and, most importantly, practical steps you can take to break this habit and keep your dog healthy.

Why do some dogs drink from the toilet?

Dogs may choose to drink from the toilet for several reasons, often stemming from their environment or preferences. The primary cause to explore is whether your dog has regular access to clean, fresh water. If their water bowl is empty, dirty, or unappealing, they will seek other sources and may find the toilet bowl enticing due to the freshness of flush water or dripping taps.

Sometimes dogs dislike the taste of tap water or find it unpalatable. Offering alternatives like bottled water, filtered tap water, or even collected rainwater can encourage them away from the toilet. Another common cause is habit; if a dog has always had access to a toilet for drinking (perhaps at a previous home), they may simply see it as a normal water source. In such cases, placing a water bowl in the bathroom and encouraging its use might help retrain them.

What are the risks of your dog drinking from the toilet?

The toilet is an unhygienic place where bacteria and pathogens linked to human waste can reside, even after cleaning. Drinking toilet water could expose your dog to these harmful microbes, risking illness not only in them but also potentially transmitting germs to family members through close contact.

Furthermore, household cleaners like bleach, rim blocks, and scented chemicals frequently used in toilets are toxic to dogs. Ingesting contaminated water can cause serious health issues, including poisoning. Therefore, preventing your dog from accessing toilet water is vital for their safety.

Effective steps to stop your dog drinking from the toilet

Step 1: Restrict access to the toilet

The simplest and most crucial preventive measure is to keep the toilet lid closed at all times and the bathroom door shut when not in use. If you have young children or find it difficult to remember, consider installing childproof toilet lid locks, which prevent dogs from lifting the lid themselves.

Step 2: Provide fresh, appealing water

Ensure your dog always has access to clean, fresh water. Wash water bowls daily and refill them multiple times a day with cool water. Adding ice cubes or using a pet water fountain—since dogs are attracted to moving water—can make drinking more enticing.

Step 3: Use multiple water stations

If your dog still tries to access the toilet, place water bowls in several accessible locations, including the bathroom. This offers alternatives close to areas they frequent and can reduce toilet water drinking.

Step 4: Positive reinforcement and redirection

If you catch your dog near the toilet, gently redirect them to their water bowl and reward them with praise or treats when they drink from it. Consistency in this positive reinforcement encourages the desired habit.

Step 5: Change the water bowl

Some dogs are sensitive to the type of bowl. Experiment with different materials such as ceramic, stainless steel, or plastic. Sometimes, changing the bowl can make drinking more enjoyable. Combining this with a water fountain can be very effective.

Step 6: Maintain bathroom hygiene and safety

Keep toilet cleaners and toxic substances locked away and away from pets. Use pet-safe cleaning products where possible and regularly disinfect to minimise any harmful residues.

Step 7: Be patient and consistent

Breaking a dog’s toilet drinking habit takes time and dedication. Consistently applying these measures with gentle training and care will help your dog learn the preferred behaviour and keep them safe.

Additional tips and troubleshooting

If your dog continues to drink from the toilet despite efforts, it may help to consult your vet to rule out any underlying health issues causing excessive thirst or preference for unusual water sources. Conditions like diabetes or kidney problems can cause increased thirst.

Also, ensure your dog’s water is refreshed frequently; stagnant water can be unappealing and lead dogs to seek alternatives.

Remember, every dog is different, so combining multiple methods tailored to your pet’s preferences usually yields the best results.

Conclusion

To prevent your dog from drinking from the toilet bowl, the key actions are to limit their access and provide them with clean, fresh, and appealing water alternatives. Understanding why dogs develop this habit, recognising health risks, and applying practical, positive training techniques can effectively break the behaviour and keep your pet safe.

For finding a reliable dog, always consider adopting from a reputable breeder or rescue which prioritises animal welfare and responsible ownership.