How to Get a Five Week Old Puppy to Drink Water

If your puppy won't drink water it can easily become dehydrated. Water is the most important nutrient and puppies need more of it than adult dogs because they are growing, developing and have a very active metabolism. Young puppies that are being weaned from milk and gradually introduced to dog food and water might need some coaxing to drink. There are a few methods that can help get them to drink a healthy amount of water.

Instructions

    • 1

      Show the puppy the water bowl. Rustle the water and place a few drops onto his nose and muzzle to entice him to drink on his own.

    • 2

      Add water to your puppy's food. You can add water to hard kibble or canned food to make a soupy mixture that may be easier for the puppy to drink.

    • 3

      Provide fresh clean water throughout the day. Change it often as stagnant water can accumulate bacteria, dirt or bugs over time.

    • 4

      Use rewards. Training a puppy usually involves rewards and treats. Each time your puppy drinks water give him his favorite kibble, treat or toy. You can also put a small treat in the bottom of the water bowl and see if he will drink the water to get to the treat.

    • 5

      Add a tablespoon of sugar or a small amount of Pedialyte or Gatorade to fresh water. Most dogs like a sweet taste. Gradually stop adding the flavoring to the water once the puppy is drinking.

    • 6

      Add a couple of ice cubes to your pet's bowl. Dogs sometimes prefer colder water and may enjoy chasing after ice cubes and end up drinking water. Try feeding your dog ice cubes or crushed ice. Some dogs regard them as treats and will eat them.

    • 7

      Exercise and play with your puppy. Increasing activity may help your puppy get thirsty.

    • 8

      Add low sodium chicken or beef broth to the water. A puppy may be more apt to drink a flavored broth. If broth is not available add a cube or two of chicken or beef bullion to the water.

    • 9

      Place the water bowl in a permanent area. Your puppy will develop a drinking routine if you place his water bowl in the same place every day. A puppy gets easily distracted so his drinking area should be in a place where there is little foot traffic and few disturbances.

    • 10

      As a last resort fill an eyedropper or squeeze bottle with water and squirt the water between the puppy's clenched back teeth or in the back of its mouth. Blow gently into the puppy's face to help swallowing occur naturally.