How to Get a Dog to Drink Water (Easy Tips)
As a pet parent, you’re likely to be worried when you notice your dog is not drinking enough water. Ensuring they are hydrated is key to keeping them strong and healthy.
Unfortunately, some dogs detest drinking water. They would rather enjoy treats and playing all day than drink water. So, in such a scenario, how do you get your dog to drink more water?
How to Get a Dog to Drink Water
If your dog seems disinterested in drinking water, you can use any of these tips to trick them into drinking water to stay hydrated and healthy.
1. Have miniature water fountains
Most pets, including dogs and cats, find running or flowing water quite appealing. Having miniature water fountains around the house or in the yard can entice your dog to drink more water. You should, however, change the water filter every two to three weeks to keep the fountain fresh.
2. Identify your dog’s preferred water bowl
Another way to get your dog to drink water is to use their favorite water bowl. Some dogs can be very particular about the type of water bowl they use. To identify the one your fluffy friend likes, put water in different bowls such as ceramic, stainless steel, or glass dish and observe which bowl your pet drinks the water from most of the time. One tip though; make sure your dog’s water bowl is larger than its food bowl.
3. Refill the water at least twice a day
Make sure your dog gets fresh, cool, clean water 24 hours a day. Ensure the water bowl is clean and refill with fresh, clean water at least twice a day. You should also inspect the water bowl to make sure it is not broken to avoid dirt and germs leaking in.
4. Place water bowls in strategic spots
Ensuring the water bowls are placed in strategic locations is another trick to get your dog to drink more water daily. Place the bowls in easy-to-access spots but away from dust and particles. Identify the spots in and outside the house your dog frequents and where they rest most of the time then place the water bowl nearby. If you keep some water bowls outside, make sure it’s kept in a shaded area to ensure the water remains cool and fresh.
5. Keep the water bowl away from the food bowl
Although not always the case, some dogs prefer food over water, and placing food and water bowls adjacent to each other means your dog will be less likely to drink water. Placing the two bowls next to each other also increases the chances of the water getting soiled with food particles, which discourages dogs from drinking water.
6. Try tricking them with ice cubes
In case you notice your dog is disinterested in drinking water, using ice cubes could do the trick. Letting them lick ice cubes is a nice way to get your dog to replenish their fluids. You should, however, give them just a few pieces because ice cubes will melt after a few minutes.
7. Add some flavors to your dog’s water
Another trick that will get a dog to drink water is adding enticing flavors to water. For example, green-lipped mussel powder is a supplement that has an enticing smell and will make it easier for your dog to drink more water.
8. Try offering water from your cupped hands
A dog disinterested in drinking water is likely to appreciate your effort of offering them water from your cupped hands. You should, however, make sure your hands are clean and the water is fresh and clean too.
9. Add treats or cheese to the water bowl
Adding treats or cheese to the water bowl is another effective way to get your dog to drink more water. The dog will be forced to drink some water when fishing for the treats. Besides, the treats will also be wet which keeps your dog hydrated.
Check this video on how to make a dog drink water. (Credit: Samantha of Dog Top Tips)
Recap: How to Get a Dog to Drink Water
We have highlighted tips to trick your dog into drinking more water. These tips are effective and will help you keep your fluffy friend hydrated. However, in case your dog still refuses to drink water after all these interventions, seeing a veterinarian would be the best thing to do. They will carry out tests and examine if your dog has a health issue that should be treated.
