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10 Facts About Alkaline Water and Dogs
As dog parents, we want what’s best for fur babies. Sometimes what we want differs from what they need. The best thing we can do is gather as much information we can and weigh the pros and cons. We have listed below facts and information that you need to make an informed decision on giving your pet alkaline water.
What is Alkaline Water?
Water is a combination of hydrogens and oxygen hence, H2O. In water, pH is a measure of the number of hydrogen ions. When we use the term “alkaline water” it means that the water has less hydrogen or higher pH. Water’s pH can range from 0 to 14, with 7 being a balanced acid and alkaline. If water pH is below 7 it is acidic, if it’s higher than 7 it is alkaline.
Most reported benefits to dogs
Alkaline water can encourage a dog to drink more, leading to better hydration.
Using acidic water when grooming your pet can give them a smoother, shinier and softer coat.
Poos stink less
Increased energy
Should not be given with medication
Drinking alkaline water causes a reaction in the dog’s digestive system. They will absorb and digest everything faster than normal. Any kind of medication should be released at a medically prescribed rate in their system. It is better to give dogs filtered water when they are about to take medication.
Not good for nursing dogs
Alkaline water contains basic minerals such as calcium, magnesium or bicarbonate. If we give dogs water with a high pH level while nursing, the pups might get too high a dose of calcium. Reportedly, purified water is best for nursing dogs.
Before and after meals
When dog food is being digested, the stomach acids are at work, and it is best to let them do their job naturally. It is advisable not to give alkaline water 30 minutes before and after meals.
Some dogs prefer alkaline water
Dogs possess up to 300 million olfactory receptors in their noses, compared to about six million in humans. The part of a dog’s brain that is devoted to analyzing smells is, proportionally speaking, 40 times greater than ours. (source: A nose for odors)
Chlorine in tap water can be unrecognized to humans, but imagine what it is like for dogs who have a super sense of smell.
Here is a video of a dog choosing alkaline water over tap water.
As we know, things should always be done in moderation. Water with high alkalinity has a high mineral content which can be harmful to a dog’s health.
Crystals in dog urine
This is the single negative effect found when giving alkaline water to dogs. If the dog’s pH level gets too low or too high, they can develop different kinds of crystals in their urine. If you really want to be certain, you can have your dog’s urine checked periodically to ensure that it is within normal range. Your dog’s pH should be between 6.0 and 7.0 tops.
Alkaline water is good for washing dogs
There are some who consider alkaline water as a miracle hair rinse. It provides the correct acidic pH level our dogs need. An acidic water rinse will leave our dog’s hair softer, shinier, and healthier. Alkaline water for dogs is not just for drinking but also for hygienic purposes.
Treatment of metabolic acidosis
There is an actual medical study that shows evidence that alkaline ionized water helps in the treatment of metabolic acidosis that can lead to renal failure in dogs. After conducting intensive research, the study considers alkaline ionized water as a safe strategy in the management of metabolic acidosis.
Further understanding…
There are different kinds of alkaline water for dogs
Distilled Alkaline Water: When tap water passes through the distillation process, it becomes slightly alkaline
Ionized Alkaline Water: Ionization is another process that could help turn regular water into alkaline water.
Alkaline Additives: Adding some ingredients to raise the pH level of the drinking water creates another form of alkaline water. These ingredients include baking soda, lemon, and store-bought pH drops.
Purified Water: This type of water has the most common pH level of 7.
Low Alkaline Water
Mid Alkaline Water
Standard Alkaline Water
If you decide that alkaline water would be beneficial for your dog, you should choose which kind to use. There are several products online that you can choose from. We found an alkaline water pitcher that is the most popular among alkaline water drinkers. The Ehm Ultra Premium Alkaline Water Pitcher is a water ionizer pitcher that produces easily-absorbable alkaline water for dogs. It helps them get, and stay, hydrated faster and more effectively.
There are many variables at play in this question. A definitive answer would be biased in certain situations. But here’s one thought, water is the most basic and the most important component in staying healthy. It is the source of vital nutrients, that both humans and dogs need.
You can start giving your dog water with a lower level of alkaline. If you see no harmful side effects, you can gradually raise the pH level. As in everything else, things must be done in moderation. Never go beyond the recommended pH level, there are no additional benefits above 9.0 maximum pH level for long term drinking. As long as you stay within the normal range of 8 – 8.5 (as per EPA standard) your dog should be fine. However, make sure to check with your veterinarian.
The two most important things to remember when giving your furry friend alkaline water;
Alkaline water must never be taken with medication.
No alkaline water 30 minutes before meals and after meals.
Our dogs are more than just pets, they are our companions. We want to provide them with the best possible means to achieve a healthy life so they can stay with us longer. After getting all the facts and information about alkaline water and if you feel this would benefit your dog, make sure you check with your vet.
Ian is an avid outdoorsman and dog lover. He lives in Central Florida with his wife Heather, and their 2 dogs – Panda (Purebread Rough Collie X English Golden Retriever) & Kuma (Blue Merl Purebread Rough Collie)
