How to Encourage Your Dog to Drink More Water Using Enrichment

Just like us, dogs need plenty of water to stay healthy – especially during warm weather or after exercise. But some dogs can be fussy or forgetful drinkers. If you’re finding half-full bowls at the end of the day, don’t worry – there are some fun and enriching ways to help keep your pup hydrated!

Why Hydration Matters for Dogs

Just like humans, dogs rely on proper hydration to stay healthy and comfortable — especially during warmer months or after exercise. Water supports essential functions such as temperature regulation, digestion, joint health, and organ function. Without enough water, dogs can quickly become unwell.

Signs of Dehydration in Dogs

It’s important to know what to look for. Common signs of dehydration include:

• Lethargy or unusual tiredness
• Dry nose and gums
• Sunken eyes
• Panting or rapid breathing
• Loss of skin elasticity (gently pinch the skin at the back of the neck — if it doesn’t spring back quickly, your dog may be dehydrated)
• Reduced appetite or urination

If you notice any of these signs, encourage your dog to drink and consult your vet if symptoms persist or are severe.

That’s why finding creative ways to keep your dog hydrated is so important — and where enrichment can really help!

Here are our favourite enrichment ideas to encourage your dog to drink more water:

1. Flavoured Ice Cubes

Dogs often enjoy flavoured water – especially if it smells a bit more exciting!

Try freezing low-sodium chicken broth, tuna water (from tuna in spring water, not brine!), or bone broth into ice cubes. Drop one or two into their water bowl or offer as a refreshing treat. It makes water more interesting and provides hydration in a slow-release, fun format.

2. Frozen Treat Toys

Use a food puzzle or a stuffable toy like a Kong – but instead of just peanut butter or wet food, try mixing in some water or broth and freezing it. This not only helps your dog stay cool and hydrated but also keeps them mentally stimulated while they lick and chew their way to the centre.

Try mixing:

• 1 part water or broth
• A few bits of kibble or chopped treats
• A spoonful of wet food or banana for flavour

3. Water Fountains for Dogs

Some dogs prefer moving water! Pet-safe drinking fountains with running water can encourage dogs to drink more often. The sound and motion are naturally enriching and can spark curiosity in hesitant drinkers.

4. Wet Food or Watered-Down Meals

If your dog eats dry kibble, consider adding a splash of warm water or broth before serving. Not only does this increase hydration, but it also enhances aroma and flavour, making meals more exciting.

You can also feed partial wet food for extra moisture or freeze watered-down meals into lickable treats.

5. Scatter Drinking

Try placing small water bowls around the house or garden – dogs might drink more if there are more opportunities! You could even turn it into a game by “hiding” bowls in different enrichment zones or feeding areas.

6. Drinking as Part of Training

Use drinking as a reward! If your dog enjoys water from a particular source – like a travel bottle or water bowl outside – offer it during walks or after a training session as a reward. It reinforces the positive association with drinking and adds structure to the habit.

7. Sensory Water Play

Some dogs love to paddle or play in shallow water. Add floating treats, fruits like blueberries, or toys to a shallow bowl, paddling pool or large container. As they play, they’ll often end up lapping up the water too!

This is particularly useful for dogs who enjoy scent work – make them “hunt” floating treats in a bowl!

Final Tips:

• Always provide clean, fresh water daily
• Wash bowls regularly to prevent bacteria build-up
• Keep an eye out for signs of dehydration: lethargy, sticky gums, dry nose, or sunken eyes

With a little creativity, keeping your dog hydrated can be fun and engaging for both of you. Enrichment doesn’t just benefit their mind – it can help their body too.

Have your own hydration tips or frozen dog treat recipes? Share them with us on social media!