I got an e-mail question from one of my students, and I'm not 100% sure I gave
her the best answer.

She leaves water in the crate for her dog overnight and during the day while
she's at work (don't know how long she's gone - I asked, but she hasn't replied
yet). She wanted to know if this is the best thing for Lucky.

I told her that I really didn't have a cut and dried answer, because there are
pros and cons. It's not good to let a dog go too long without water; on the
other hand, if his bladder is full in the crate, it's uncomfortable and
unhealthy. I told her it depends on the environment (how hot it is, for one),
how long he's left in the crate, whether or not he pees in the crate, etc.

If it were my dog, I was gone for 6-8 hours or more during the day, and it was
hot in the house, I'd probably supply a water bottle. I'm assuming that with
the crate bottle, it's more unlikely that the dog would drink as large a
quantity of water as if it were in a bowl, but he'd be able to keep himself
hydrated.

What do you guys think?

PetsMart Pet Trainer
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Last updated June 27 at 10:00 a.m.