How do I stop my puppy from pawing water out of her water bowl?

Question

My 1 year old Labrador puppy keeps pawing water out of her water bowl 8 out of 10 times it's filled. It is getting to be a concern now that the weather is getting hotter. My dogs are outside dogs and they need the water. I can't really keep filling the bowl 24/7. Please help?

And, anyone know WHY my puppy does that?? >_<

My 1 year old Labrador puppy keeps pawing water out of her water bowl 8 out of 10 times it's filled. It is getting to be a concern now that the weather is getting hotter. My dogs are outside dogs and they need the water. I can't really keep filling the bowl 24/7. Please help?

And, anyone know WHY my puppy does that?? >_<

P.S. Due to double paned windows and skylights without blinds, my house is hotter and more stuffy than my yard. -_-||| They also have a shack and a porch that's always shaded to rest under. My lab also has a yard full of toys and another dog as company and I go out to play with them (and get out of the stuffy house) whenever I can too.

sorry about the repost of part of the question, I didn't realize the previous details would still be there.

Answer 1

Aww haha, my Newfie does this too!!! Both Labs and Newfoundlands LOVE water!!! I decided to purchase a plastic kiddie pool and ever since she has had the pool, she no longer digs in her bowl. Now, she is ALWAYS in the pool!!! Your Lab would love a kiddie pool!!

P.S. I don't know if this helps, but I did notice 9 out of 10 times my Newfie pawed her bowl because there was something in it. Either an ice cube that didn't melt yet, a piece of dirt, etc. She would try to get the object out using her paws.

NOTE: I would actually recommend that you steer clear of the "self watering" bowls. The plastic absorbs bacteria and can actually cause discoloration of your pups nose. Plus, the water would get pretty warm from sitting stagnant in the hot weather. Instead, as I mentioned, kiddie pools are great, sprinklers are wonderful, even water-logged towels left on the grass (in the shade) are a favorite lounging spot for my large breeds. :))

Answer 2

First of all, get a good training book and read it. I like "Good Owners, Great Dogs." Then I'd suggest an appropriately sized crate (be careful not to get one too big because the extra space could encourage the puppy to eliminate in the crate), stainless steel water and food bowls, a supply of puppy food that the breeder has been feeding (you may want to gradually change to a premium food), an adjustable-size collar (a martingale-style collar is my favorite) and leash, appropriate grooming supplies for the breed, and LOTS of toys. The first vet visit depends on where you're getting the puppy. A reputable breeder will have gotten the pups first innoculations and will tell you when to take your puppy for its next visit. If you are getting the puppy from a "backyard breeder" or any other source, take the puppy to the vet ASAP and your vet will give you the schedule for check-ups and booster shots.

Answer 3

It's something to do. When they get bored, they find entertainment. They do not necessarily think through the consequences.

Labs are usually water loving animals. Have you considered a plastic wading pool with water they can play in? It would give her an activity that won't deplete the water supply. I have also heard of people buying galvanized tubs for the dogs to play in.

Answer 4

Your puppy does this because she is a Lab puppy! Scolding her when she does this may help to curb this behavior, but the best way would be to praise her a LOT when she does NOT do it. rewarding good behavior is a lot more encouraging than scolding bad behavior. I don't recommend treats for training unless they are very small, as a lot of treats can add up to a lot of calories...

As for it being a concern now that it's hot out, I would recommend something like a sprinkler running at least during the time she is outside, but obviously, keeping her inside during the noon hours is the best.

Good luck!!

Answer 5

That is definitely a Lab thing! They love water! If your dogs are outside, keep a kiddie pool filled with fresh water for them to play in and keep cool. That should help a lot!

Answer 6

to stop my lab from doing it got a bowl called "the water boy" it has a small opening and is not conducive to digging. there is another bowl called "the watering hole" that goes on the same idea.

though i'm not supportive of "outside only" dogs, it would be worth paying the extra money for a motion sensor operated water faucet that fits onto your garden hose outlet.

Answer 7

I have no idea why she does that... My dog also does that and i always think its cause he's hot or doesn't like the water... I would recommend getting a really heavy water dish

Answer 8

Buy a self-watering water dish---the kind you hook up to a hose and it keeps refilling on its own. As for WHY it's doing it---well, he just be bored and finds it a fun thing to do.

Answer 9

well, you said that the weather is getting hotter, so this may be a way for your puppy to cool off. when your puppy paws all the water out, does she/he then lay in it? if so, this is definately your puppy's way to cool off. I suggest you give her/him ice cubes to lick.That will probably help her/him cool off.


*~<333 ally*cat <333 ~*

Answer 10

Bring your dogs IN the house. With the wackos and nutcases you're taking a big chance of your dogs being stolen or worse.

Mine drink out of the "Magic Fountain" in the bathroom.