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How to get my puppy to drink water after switching to soft food?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed | Male | unneutered | 1 month and 16 days old | 21.8 lbs

We have successfully switched Deuce from milk to soft food. We were told to have fresh water out for him to drink. Any tips on how to get him to drink water in addition to eating his soft food? He just seems to not want to drink water at all. He'll sniff at it maybe take a lick or two but that's about it.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Davis

Veterinarian

Published on August 8th, 2017

If the soft food is very wet he doesn't need to drink much water. You can put some water on your finger by the bowl to get him started or have a little bit of milk in the water so it tastes better. As Deuce grows he'll start drinking more, especially if you transition him to dry food. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach to help you care for Deuce.

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