Does anyone have any tips for a dog that just will not drink plain water on his own?

I've had my 6-7 month old puppy for almost three months and he still acts scared of drinking. He puts his tail between his legs, stretches far forward, and then pulls away quick, clearly scared. He'll drink water when it's got a bunch of kibble in it, but that's not ideal since then he gulps a bunch at once to get all the kibble, and also I prefer using puzzles and the Kong Wobbler to keep him occupied longer. For now, though, that's the main way he's staying hydrated.

I've tried all kinds of bowls (metal, rubber, plastic, ceramic, glass..), an anti splash bowl, a filtered water fountain, a Lixit. I've tried baiting all these things with peanut butter or coconut oil - he'll take a few nervous laps and then back away quickly. Same with using broth. I've tried putting bowls in different spots (though my house is small so there's only so many options) and tried to get on his level and look for scary things. No dice. The only times I've seen him freely drink water is when he's playing with another dog and following their lead, but I don't have that at home. He's not afraid of rain, puddles, ponds, or streams. (Edit because I worded this poorly - he likes to look at and sniff outside water, but doesn't drink it.)

He's learned to overcome other fears quickly with lots of praise and careful exposure, so I'm not sure what's happening here. 🤷‍♂️

#Dogs #DogBehavior #DogHelp #DogTraining

@Nickittynic why not let him drink what he wants? Dogs smell things we can’t get any idea of in water. My dog ignores some bowls - sniffs them, ignores - and loves others. They can drink from ponds or puddles or whatever and generally are absolutely fine. Remember, dogs are used to living in the wild. (And you’ll give them worming tablets if they need.) And they know when they’re thirsty.

@charlesarthur @Nickittynic Fear from drinking water is often pain or experience induced (e.g. sensitive teeth, wet slippery floor). You did quiet a lot already to make it easier for him though. It would be worth to let a vet check it out. Pain might be unlikely when he only shows that behavior at home but still possible.

Just in case anyone is actually considering ponds or puddles: make sure the water isn't green or shimmery. Blue green alga is very toxic.

@charlesarthur @Nickittynic More ideas: You've mentioned he drinks outside and when he is in company with other dogs. Get a fold-able traveling bowl and let him drink from it with his friends while you're out and about. Maybe that positive experience tied to that certain bowl is helpful. Does he only show that at home or also with bowls of friends you're visiting?

@Nickittynic

I don't know a lot about dogs, but I do have a possible book recommendation if you don't already know it. Found this book very interesting on the underlying logic of how to train animals (and people!) without force:
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/31052.Don_t_Shoot_the_Dog_

Don't Shoot the Dog!: The New Art of Teaching and Train…

Originally published entitled: Don't shoot the dog!: ho…

Goodreads