Water availability

[daydreamer]

My wife and I leave for work between 5 - 5:30 during the week and have been in the habit of feeding Baily first thing in the morning when we get up, my mother-in-law comes by once in the afternoon for another scheduled feeding, and then he's fed once again in the evening usually around the same time that we sit down to eat. My question is should his water bowl be left available to him in his crate at all times or is it okay to continue only providing it to him during feeding time(s)?

Like most puppies, the timeframe in which he's able to retain the water he's just consumed is fairly short and we were concerned with trying to keep the "accidents" in his crate to a minimum by controlling his supply, however I don't want to continue to do so if it's a potential health risk. You're comments are appreciated.

[gmacleod]

I don't like leaving dogs without water at any time (well, maybe for a couple of hours - but not for 6). IMO, a supply of fresh water should be available at all times (especially for dogs fed dry food). Puppies particularly, can dehydrate easily.

If you don't want the pup to drink to excess though, or have concerns about water bowls being tipped over or becoming chew toys - how about trying a bottle attached to the outside of the crate? The rabbit feeder type. That will enable the pup to quench his thirst, but only a little at a time - so he's very unlikely to consume an excess.

[daydreamer]

Originally Posted by gmacleod

I don't like leaving dogs without water at any time (well, maybe for a couple of hours - but not for 6). IMO, a supply of fresh water should be available at all times (especially for dogs fed dry food). Puppies particularly, can dehydrate easily.

If you don't want the pup to drink to excess though, or have concerns about water bowls being tipped over or becoming chew toys - how about trying a bottle attached to the outside of the crate? The rabbit feeder type. That will enable the pup to quench his thirst, but only a little at a time - so he's very unlikely to consume an excess.

That was beginning to become my concern (dehydration) hence my reason for asking...again, I appreciate your comments. The idea of the water bottle attached to the crate had crossed my mind as our pup is not yet the most graceful and still has a tendancy to walk into things, such as his bowls, when he gets excited. I think I'll make a stop on my way home this evening. Thanks again!