watter or milk

Question
I have a Toy Breed Yorker she does not like to drink water.Is it okay to mix half water and milk.She is ten years old I rescued her from a abusive owner.When I got her
she weight 2 pounds.Now her weigh is 3 pounds.

Answer
Hi Sonja,

Thank you for writing to me about your toy Yorkie.

Your dog should be seen by a vet to determine if there is a medical problem.  It is only natural that a dog would drink water.  She may be taking in enough water but just to be sure, have her checked out by a vet.

Milk is not a substitute for water.  Try adding a little homemade chicken broth (the store brands often contain too much sodium) to the water and see if that perks her interest.  Do not let it stand however because bacteria will grow in it..and be sure that all the fat has been skimmed off the top.  You can do this by placing in the refrigerator and the fat will rise to the top.

Unless your vet determines that she is dehydrated, I wouldn't worry about her water intake.  Just make certain that she has access to water at all time.

Best,
Shelley Davis