If you’re raising kids and dogs under the same roof, you know there’s never a dull moment—especially when your little one discovers the dog’s water bowl. While this might seem like harmless toddler curiosity, there are some safety concerns you’ll want to keep in mind, both for your child and your dog. In today’s episode, I’ll discuss why kids are drawn to dog water bowls, the potential risks involved, and how to redirect that curiosity into safe, fun water play opportunities. So, grab a cup of coffee—or water!—and let’s get into it.
Before I Begin:
First, I’d like to start with an amazing coincidence! Just as I was writing out my notes for this show, I saw a post inside a facebook group that I’m a member of, and I wanted to share it here, just to show that these are not random topics that I pull from thin air. Every podcast topic that I cover has been something that one of my clients has faced in the past. And the following post demonstrates that it’s not an uncommon concern among parents. Have a listen:
How do y’all manage a water bowl with toddlers? I don’t have anywhere I can put it that my dog can access it and my toddler can’t. My toddler LOVES water and will just dump it. Currently my poor dog is surviving by me just offering a drink every hour or so. He also knows if he whines by the sink I’ll put it down. While it’s working it’s stressful for me because I worry about him not having constant access. Toddler just turned one and is extremely mobile, can climb anything but is not old enough to just say “hey dude leave the water bowl alone.”
– Parent of a thirsty dog and toddler
Listen here
Why Are Kids Drawn to Dog Water Bowls?
- Exploration and sensory play
- The appeal of “forbidden” objects.
- They want to “help” you to water the plants or wash the floor.
- If the dog can move their bowl, so can the toddler.
Safety Concerns with Dog Water Bowls
- Drowning – possible in as little as an inch or two of water
- Slipping hazards around spilled water
- Risk of a dog resource guarding the bowl and then chasing, lunging or snapping at or biting the child
How to Respond When Your Toddler Plays in the Dog’s Water Bowl
- Gentle redirection strategies:
- How to approach the situation without scolding.
- Tips for staying calm and modeling appropriate interactions.
- Using baby gates or barriers to limit access to the dog’s feeding area.
- Creating a designated space for your dog’s water and food that’s out of reach of small children.
Encouraging “Legal and Approved” Water Play for Kids
- Easy and fun water play alternatives:
- Sensory bins with water and toys.
- Water tables for outdoor or indoor use.
- Bath time activities that mimic the experience of splashing in a bowl.
- Teaching boundaries: Helping kids learn the difference between their toys and the dog’s resources.
Related Product Suggestions for Parents of Toddlers and Dogs
- No splash dog water bowl.
- Hanging water bowls for crates or kennels
- Water table for toddlers 1.5 years old and up.
- Bath toys for curious toddlers
- Watering can for children
- Washable, non-slip reusable potty pads, ideal for putting under a water table to absorb spills and splashes
Supportive resources for parents with dogs
I have a handout for parents about how to manage toddlers playing in the dog water bowl. Members of The Pooch Parenting Society get a handout every month – and this one is on the calendar to be delivered soon. If you found this podcast helpful, I offer ongoing, affordable support. Join the Club! The Pooch Parenting Society is the only membership of it’s kind – offering compassionate EXPERT and relatable advice FOR parents with dogs from a certified professional dog trainer, family dog mediator, mom and credentialed teacher. You don’t have to go through this parenting kids and dogs journey alone. I’ve got you.
Dog Pros – I’ve Got You!
If you are a dog pro, I have a special program that can help you too! You don’t have to be a parent yourself to offer support to clients who are expecting or who have kids. The Pooch Parenting Coach Collective will help you learn what you don’t know you don’t know 🙂 Plus, I even share handouts that I have created for my own clients on all topics related to raising kids and dogs together – all so you can focus more on your clients and less time at the computer.
