How to Make a Dog Drink More Liquids

Dogs, like humans, can become sick or even lose their lives when they do not drink enough liquids, specifically water. If a living organism does not have enough water in its system, it will suffer from dehydration. Because you cannot use words to communicate with your dog and teach the importance of staying hydrated, you must use other techniques to cause it to want to drink more and to prevent dehydration.

Instructions

    • 1
      Turning the act of drinking water into a habit will help your dog.

      Develop a schedule to monitor specific times when your dog must drink water. A dog is more likely to consume water during these times if it is used do doing the same thing every day.

    • 2
      Dogs repeat actions for which they receive praise.

      Stand next to your dog and encourage it when you attempt to get it to drink its water. Many dogs have a deep fear of separation and will not drink their water if they feel you are too far away. Praise the dog or even give it a treat to let it know it has done a good thing after it drinks the water.

    • 3
      Early mornings or evenings are the best times to exercise your dog.

      Take your dog jogging, running or outside for a rigorous game of fetch. Like humans, when dogs exercise, their thirst level increases. Your dog will be more likely to drink a large amount of water immediately after the activity. These activities should also be done at a specific time each day.

    • 4
      Your dog may be thirsty and have no access to its normal bowl.

      Set multiple bowls of water around your house. Your dog will have an increased appetite for water if it is quickly and easily accessible throughout the day. This means that your dog will also be able to drink water when you are not monitoring it.

    • 5
      Do not use artificial sugars and sweeteners or vitamin waters.

      Add a spoonful of sugar to the dog's water if it is really resistant to drinking. You can also purchase meat-flavored water enhancers that are specifically designed to make water appealing to dogs. If your dog still does not want the water, give it pure chicken broth, and mix in gradually increasing amounts of water over time.

    • 6
      Salt naturally increases thirst for water.

      Add a small amount of salt or tomato sauce to your dog's food, and always make sure a bowl of water is available while it eats. You can also directly add a small amount of water to the food.

    • 7
      Bacteria, germs and bugs can live in dirty bowls.

      Change the water when it gets low, and clean the bowl if extra food or crumbs get stuck to it. Some dogs prefer cleanliness and fresh water, just like people.

    • 8
      Avoid using water that is at an extreme temperature.

      Change the temperature of the water you give your dog. Some dogs, depending on their size, their fur type and the climate in which they live, may become cold if the water is not warm enough, and they may become hot if the water is not cool enough.