What Dogs Should Drink: The Best Water Options for Pups

Water is an indispensable component of the life of mammals, accounting for 55% to 75% of the body weight of warmblooded animals. To put it another way, the bodies of humans, dogs, and other mammals are akin to watercooled engines, utilizing processes like panting and others to circulate water and regulate body temperature.

Each type of water has its own merits and drawbacks, so when deciding what to offer your dog to drink, it's essential to consider what's within your means. Providing the best possible option within your capabilities is the key to their happiness.

However, not all waters are created equal. Let's delve into the various options and their implications.

The Perceived Perfection: Distilled Water

Once hailed as the ultimate choice, distilled water has lost its sheen. The process of distillation strips away all trace elements, which can be detrimental to your dog's health. While some suggest that small dogs, especially those prone to tear duct issues, may benefit from drinking distilled water, the lack of essential minerals can have longterm negative effects on dogs, particularly those in the developmental stage. It's best to limit distilled water consumption to once or twice a week, or not at all if you prefer.

The Tempting Trap: Bottled Water

Bottled water, labeled as "mineral water" or "pure water," is a common choice. Those who are vigilant about water quality are aware that tap water contains various harmful components, leading to the popularity of home water purification systems. Chlorine is particularly harmful to dogs.

Bottled water can prevent the intake of chlorine, but it comes with its own set of issues. The cost is significantly higher than tap water, and you must be certain of the water's true origin. Recent news has highlighted cases where bottled water is simply tap water repackaged. If you're not concerned about the cost, opting for the most expensive bottled water is a safe bet, as the price can serve as a guarantee of water quality, though this guarantee is not absolute.

The DowntoEarth Choice: Tap Water

Tap water, despite its drawbacks, is a more practical option. Chlorine, while beneficial in the purification process, is not harmful when added to tap water according to standards. However, concerns arise from the presence of pharmaceuticals and other chemicals in wastewater.

From a cost and practicality standpoint, tap water cannot compete with bottled water's quality. Moreover, relying on government regulation is not always reliable, as even the United States has faced issues with tap water quality.

Additionally, hard water, which contains high levels of calcium and magnesium, can lead to urinary system problems. A recent study by Trupanion, an American pet insurance company, found a direct link between hard water and pet urinary health issues.

The TimeTested Solution: Boiled Tap Water

If you're unable to install a water purification system, boiled tap water is a practical alternative. Boiling water offers three benefits: it sterilizes the water, removes chlorine, and reduces hardness. Once cooled, this water is an excellent choice for your dog.

In conclusion, while there are various water options available, the best choice often depends on your circumstances and priorities. Whether you opt for boiled tap water, bottled water, or distilled water, it's crucial to consider your dog's health and your own budget when making this decision.