Watering your Dog in the Field

Chris Pope · 11-06-2025, 09:31 AM

In the off season I enjoy watching YouTube videos on hunting with bird dogs. A pet peave has developed because I frequently see dogs watered from a squeeze bottle with their head held high (see first photo.)

I think it's better to let the water trickle into their mouth while the dogs head is held low (second photo.)

High head almost always causes the dog to yak, cough and suck in air especially when the dog is real thirsty. Low head (which requires the handler to bend over) generally does not.

Perhaps others disagree. Welcome your thoughts. I realize this is not a major life or death issue but just just has me wondering.

Harry Collins · 11-06-2025, 10:49 AM

I cary a canteen for the beast and me. Jacke uses the cup. I drink from the canteen.

Double Lab · 11-06-2025, 11:00 AM

I've been using a collapsible bowl to water them.

Mike of the Mountain · 11-07-2025, 02:36 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Daryl Corona

I've been using a collapsible bowl to water them.

Me too.

BRDHNTR · 11-06-2025, 01:36 PM

I always carry a bottle of water when afield with my setter. She welcomes it and appreciates it

mobirdhunter · 11-06-2025, 03:38 PM

Ha! All of you guys are behind the times. I have a “Water Boy” (a.k.a. My wife Elaine). She totes the water. She’s short, so the bottle water does come out pretty low. Our young female, Prairie Rill, will only drink from the bottle—no puddles, lakes or streams. Yes, she’s a one of a kind.

Chris Pope · 11-06-2025, 09:53 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Garry L Gordon

Ha! All of you guys are behind the times. I have a “Water Boy” (a.k.a. My wife Elaine). She totes the water. She’s short, so the bottle water does come out pretty low. Our young female, Prairie Rill, will only drink from the bottle—no puddles, lakes or streams. Yes, she’s a one of a kind.

Would like to meet that pup one day...