When it comes to your furry friend, nobody wants their pup gulping down food and water like there’s no tomorrow.
If you’ve noticed that your pup is too eager when it comes to slurping up a bowl of water and throwing up after it, then there are ways to get them back on track!
Here’s how you can help stop your dog from drinking too fast. Read on to know more.
Why is my dog frantically drinking water?
There are many reasons why your pup may be guzzling down water like it’s going out of style. Here are just five:
1. Your pup is dehydrated
Dogs can become dehydrated easily, especially when playing in the sun for extended periods of time. If they’re showing signs of extreme thirst and drinking lots of water all at once, they may be trying to replenish their fluids quickly.
2. Stress or excitement
Some dogs drink large amounts of water when they get really excited or are feeling anxious – think about how your pup acts around visitors!
If this is the case, try calming activities and involving them more with calming activities such as a game or cuddles so that they’re not reaching for the water bowl when they’re feeling a bit down.
3. Medical condition
Drinking an abnormal amount of water could be a sign of an underlying medical issue such as Diabetes, Cushing’s Disease, or kidney problems.
If your dog is displaying other symptoms of illness and continues to rapidly drink lots of water, take them to the vet for a check-up.
4. Too many treats
Dogs like treats just as much as we do – but too many can lead to thirst! Overfeeding can take its toll on your pup and cause unhealthy weight gain if left unchecked.
Remember to spread out snacks throughout the day and keep portions small enough that they don’t become overly hungry.
5. Hunger
Dogs can become so engrossed in drinking water that they forget to eat their meals. If a pup isn’t getting enough nutrition, they may be compensating by drinking more instead.
Is it bad for dogs to drink fast?
Yes, it can be bad for dogs to drink water too fast. Here’s why:
1. Choking Hazard
Dogs consume large amounts of water very quickly, often without paying attention to how much they’re drinking or how fast they’re drinking it.
Drinking water fast can cause them to choke on the excess liquid.
2. Gastric Bloat
Rapid consumption of water causes a large amount of pressure in the stomach which can lead to gastric bloat, also known as gastric dilatation-volvulus (GDV).
This is an extremely dangerous condition that occurs when the stomach becomes overly full and distended with air or gas and can even cause the stomach to twist on itself.
3. Tooth Damage
Gulping water quickly can damage a dog’s teeth, causing them to become weakened or broken.
This is particularly true if the bowl is made of metal or another hard material that can cause abrasions on the surface of the teeth when lapping up large amounts of water at once.
How to Stop Your Dog From Drinking Too Fast
We’ve got some simple tips to help you combat this problem and make sure your pup stays hydrated in the most controlled manner possible!
1. Invest in an Anti-Gulping Bowl:
These specially designed bowls are created with ridges inside so your four-legged friend can’t fit its muzzle all the way into the bowl and therefore has to take smaller sips instead of gulps. Simple but effective!
2. Put Ice Cubes in the Water Bowl:
This is especially useful during summer days or if your pup gets overexcited when drinking. The ice cubes will melt gradually, providing a slow and steady source of hydration for your pup throughout the day while controlling intake.
3. Change the bowl shape.
If your pup has a habit of drinking too quickly, try to opt for bowls that are more difficult to lap up—like those with an inward slope or a raised center in the bowl.
It’ll help slow them down and encourage them to take their time while drinking.
4. Don’t Leave Water in the Bowl All Day:
If you leave water out for long periods of time, your pup might be more likely to guzzle it quickly and make a mess.
Instead, keep an eye on their intake throughout the day and give them smaller portions when they need it. This will also prevent overhydration which can cause health problems if left unchecked.
5. Use a fountain-style water dish.
Fountain-style water dishes are designed specifically with dogs in mind.
The water cascades down the bowl, making it impossible for your pup to drink it quickly, and also helping oxygenate the water and make it taste fresher.
6. Add a splash of flavor.
Adding a bit of something flavorful to your pup’s water can go a long way in slowing them down while they drink. Try adding chicken or beef broth, tuna juice, or even low-sodium V8 juice!
7. Take trips outdoors for water breaks.
When you’re out and about with your pup, make sure to give them plenty of opportunities to take frequent sips from puddles and streams instead of guzzling all their water at once when you get back home.
Just take care when they are near the ocean or sea as saltwater can be damaging to dogs.
This will help keep them from overhydrating and give them a change of scenery, too!
Conclusion
Now that you know how to stop your dog from drinking too fast you can try out these methods, and have your pup drinking water properly.
Remember to always monitor their intake and be sure to consult with your vet if you’re ever concerned about your pup’s health. With the right steps in place, you’ll both be happy and hydrated.
