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Why is my dog drinking, peeing a lot, and losing weight suddenly?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | German Shepherd | Female | unspayed | 11 years and 6 months old | 57 lbs

My GSD has been off her food 3 days now, drinking a lot, today she's been peeing all over the place which isn't like her, & she sounds short of breath, though she's not showing any signs I read about. She's 26kg, but seems to have suddenly lost some of that weight; I don't know how much less. We're in full lockdown. Pest control hid blocks of brodifacoum in places she doesn't go. Should I worry this is the issue? Thanks.

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Ana M, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on October 19th, 2020

Thank you for submitting your question regarding Pixie. She needs to see a veterinarian as soon as possible. Increased thirst and urination as well as weight loss can indicate diabetes, kidney disease, a liver problem or even a uterine infection. Regardless, she will need treatment. The rodenticide toxin you mentioned typically causes a bleeding disorder. While it is possible she could have eaten some, her signs are not consistent with bleeding. This information should be given to the veterinarian though. You mentioned being on lockdown, emergency veterinarian services are hopefully still available. I hope this information helps!

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Other Answers

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    Answered By Linda G, MS, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on February 15th, 2019

    Hello. Weight loss, with an increase in urination & water intake immediately sends up red flags that we need to check Jinger for diabetes. If ignored, Jinger can become quite sick, possibly suffering a life threatening situation called diabetic ketoacidosis. I hope you can have her seen soon. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.

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