Water

You might be wondering what water has to do with your new puppy.  The fact of the matter is that most petshop puppies have never learned how to lap water from a bowl.  Lack of water and dehydration opens your puppy up to a host of problems.

Your puppy was most likely raised in a cage where bottles like the one seen above were used for water.  The bottles work much like a ballpoint pen.  When dog licks the tip of the spout, pressure is applied to a ball inside the metal spout, the ball is forced upwards allowing a drop of water to escape through the end.  Each time the puppy licks, another drop comes out.  

This is quite different than how a puppy learns to lap water out of a bowl.  In most cases you must teach your puppy to drink out of a bowl.  But it is essential that you stand and watch each time you give your puppy water.  Your vet can advise you how often and how much water your puppy should be drinking.  

Do not force the puppy's nose into the water, he could inhale water into the lungs if you do this. If you puppy is not drinking (but is otherwise healthy) you can start by introducing him to a saucer with just a thin layer of water.  If he still won't drink, try spicing it up a little by adding a little milk (very little).  If you are still concerned that he is not catching on to lapping water, soak your puppy's food in water to give him the fluids he needs until you can see your vet.