The Water Bowl Is Upside Down and the Hallway Is Now a Shallow Lake

The water bowl is upside down, and the hallway is now a shallow lake. A chocolate Labrador Retriever sits on a tiled floor glistening with spilled water, a pale blue bowl lying on its side right beside it. Droplets still sparkle across the tiles and a few bubbles float near the bowl. The dog's damp muzzle, soft ears, and amber-brown eyes give it an expression that is half guilty and half confused, as if the bowl betrayed it. In the background, a backpack, a basket of clothes, a cardboard box of toys, a rubber duck, sneakers, and a potted plant line the bright entryway.

Labs are famously fond of water, and many love splashing, swimming, and pawing at their bowls for fun. Some dogs tip their bowls during play, while others do it because the bowl is too light or too small for an enthusiastic drinker. A heavier, non-tip bowl or a mat with raised edges can help keep the floor dry. Staying hydrated is important for dogs, especially after exercise or on warm days, so it is good practice to refill the bowl promptly after a spill. Wet tile can also be slippery for both dogs and people, so mop up quickly.

We will call him Cocoa, which seems only right for a dog this color. Cocoa did not mean to flood the house. He simply loves water so much that he wanted to share it with the whole floor.