How can I get my dog to drink more water?
This is a question that we often get from sitter and owners who work with Rover. Help the community out by answering them in our forum!
3 Answers
I get our pooch to drink more water if we make it taste good. We use filtered water, just like we do for ourselves, and put in a piece of ham to give it some flavor. I also carry a bottle with me when we go out for a run. She tends to drink more immediately after running than if we wait until we get home. We don't mix water with her normal dry food because it makes her food sticky and reduces the effectiveness with cleaning her teeth while chewing it.
If your pet is not drinking enough water I would recommend feeding wet food or a raw diet so they can get that moisture in their food and help prevent them from becoming dehydrated.
Comments
Some clients have added ice cubes, which seem to be a factor that adds interest especially for larger breeds. You could also consider leading them and dropping a pellet of food into their water, but then you will find yourself changing it soon after.
If your dog is not a big drinker but needs more water in his or her diet, the easiest way is to add some liquid to their food. Dogs do not naturally eat dry food so adding some water right to their kibble or whatever food you use can be a great easy way to get more liquid into their diet. If they are urinating normally, you may not need to worry about it. Great idea to talk to your vet though as if there is any aversion to water or your dog is becoming dehydrated, your vet can help.
Adding a flavor to their water bowl--such as low sodium beef broth--can help encourage dogs to drink more water. Also dogs tend to get thirstier after exercise, so try providing some exercise such as a brisk walk or a game of fetch until your dog is panting, then provide some fresh water.