If your dog gulps down water faster than you can blink, determine whether this is a behavior or a sign of an underlying problem. Before assuming a behavior, talk with your veterinarian to rule out conditions that may cause your dog to drink excessively. Have your veterinarian evaluate his dog food. Foods low in moisture or high in sodium increase the need for water. After ruling out any medical conditions, consider your options.
Purchase an elevated water and food bowl or place your dog’s water and food bowl on an elevated surface. This works well for large dogs that must stretch their neck and reach down to drink. When a dog stretches, he must drink against gravity. This requires forceful gulping. Raising the water bowl may reduce this. But keep in mind that raising the water bowl may also cause the dog to drink too quickly, exacerbating the issue.
Purchase a floater bowl. Such bowls use a floating dish that allows only small amounts of water into the dish at a time. Even though the bowl may be full, the dog's limited in how much water your dog can gulp down.
Add ice cubes to his water bowl. Slow down his drinking by offering a distraction with a natural floating toy in his bowl. He will drink slowly as he tries to catch the ice or nuzzle it out of the way.
Tips
In addition to diet and illness, certain medications can increase the need for water. If your dog is on regular medication, talk with your veterinarian about possible side effects.
Warnings
Fresh water is essential for your dog’s health. Even if he is a gulper, he needs to have access to water at all times. Filling his bowl with less water but more frequently may be another option.
Warnings
Fresh water is essential for your dog’s health. Even if he is a gulper, he needs to have access to water at all times. Filling his bowl with less water but more frequently may be another option.
Tips
In addition to diet and illness, certain medications can increase the need for water. If your dog is on regular medication, talk with your veterinarian about possible side effects.
Items You Will Need
- Raised water dish
- Floater dish
References
Tips
- In addition to diet and illness, certain medications can increase the need for water. If your dog is on regular medication, talk with your veterinarian about possible side effects.
Warnings
- Fresh water is essential for your dog’s health. Even if he is a gulper, he needs to have access to water at all times. Filling his bowl with less water but more frequently may be another option.
Writer Bio
Deborah Lundin is a professional writer with more than 20 years of experience in the medical field and as a small business owner. She studied medical science and sociology at Northern Illinois University. Her passions and interests include fitness, health, healthy eating, children and pets.