Anyone who’s ever had a picky pet knows the struggle of getting them to eat or drink when they suddenly decide they’re not interested. Whether refusing their favorite food or ignoring a fresh bowl of water, it can leave owners feeling helpless — and willing to do just about anything to keep them hydrated. That’s why one video of a dog parent’s reaction to their pup finally drinking water has pet owners everywhere nodding in understanding.
Dog owner’s reaction to pup drinking water after days is so relatable
A viral video posted on the Instagram account @darcy_the_dach captures the delicate moment when a stubborn pup finally decides to drink. The clip shows a small Dachshund named Darcy drinking from his water bowl after refusing to for days. But what really makes the video so relatable is the owner’s reaction — or rather, lack of it. As their dog starts lapping up the water, the owner completely freezes, not daring to move a muscle out of fear that any sudden movement might make the pup stop. The text overlay perfectly sums up the moment: “POV: Your dog hasn’t drunk in days so you have to freeze in case he stops.”
The video quickly went viral, racking up an impressive 257K likes and 6.9 million views. In the comments section, many amused pet owners couldn’t help but share their own hilarious experiences. One user wrote, “Hahah I do this all the time because once she stops, that’s it!!!” Another joked, “It’s cause you give them clean and fresh water. They need puddles with bugs and dirt. Or so my dog told me.” While most people related to the struggle, one commenter also offered a practical suggestion: “Getting a fountain bowl might help encourage drinking.”
Experts and many pet owners agree that fountain-style water bowls can be a game-changer. Unlike traditional bowls, which can leave water stagnant and less appealing, pet fountains provide a constant flow of fresh water. This moving water mimics natural sources — like streams or rivers — which many animals find more enticing. Given the Dachshund’s reluctance in the video, a fountain might just be the solution to avoid more suspenseful drinking moments in the future.
