Alkaline water is very beneficial for humans. There are a few benefits we all get when drinking this type of water. But some things that are good for humans are not good for dogs. Can dogs drink alkaline water? Yes, they can and it is perfectly safe and beneficial as we will explain right now.
Alkaline Water: Main Things To Know
Can dogs drink alkaline water or avoid it? First, you need to know what this is and to understand the topic better. See, water can be either alkaline or acidic depending on the pH level. Water that has a pH level of 12 is alkaline (very) while water that has a pH of 1 is extremely acidic. Alkaline water has a pH level of 8-9. The water we usually drink has a pH of 7 which is neutral.
Alkaline water contains potassium, calcium, bicarbonate, magnesium, and a lot more. It also comes with ORP or negative oxidation-reduction potential. The latter means that alkaline water can give electrons to our body faster than ordinary water. It basically offers antioxidant properties effective against free radicals.
Here we can see one difference. You can get natural alkaline water or artificial water. Natural water of this kind becomes that by passing through the rocks. It is rich in minerals that dogs do need. Artificial alkaline water becomes that after the ionization process. It is not a very complex process. However, it can trick the body of a dog into believing that the water has minerals. It doesn’t have them. As such, a much better option is natural alkaline water. It is much healthier and it will provide the benefits we have below. Artificial alkaline water will not.
Dogs Can Drink Alkaline Water
As you can see here alkaline water is safe for dogs. But, you must not use this water when a dog is taking medicine, you are nursing him, or as soon as he is done with a meal or immediately before he eats. In all other situations, it is safe and beneficial. Here we will cover some of those benefits.
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Lower Acidity
Dog’s stomach will produce acid waste while digesting food. Our stomach does this as well. Alkaline water can decrease that waste and eliminate the risk of acid reflux. This is especially beneficial for dogs and humans who have acid reflux issues.
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Dogs Stay Hydrated Longer
Alkaline water has smaller molecular formations than ordinary water. What this means is that this water can penetrate much deeper into the tissue. In return, a dog or a human will stay hydrated for longer. It also means that a dog will have energy for a longer period.
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Alkaline Water Treats Allergies
If you have a pet who suffers from allergies all the time, give him alkaline water. It contains calcium. This mineral is essential for fighting allergies and helping dogs and humans when suffering from one. It also has a positive effect on the immune system that makes things even better.
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Dogs Will Have More Energy
Alkaline water is known for its ability to provide more energy to dogs. In other words, your pet will be happier and more active for longer. Humans get the same perk so you may know how important and beneficial this is.
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Treats Alopecia
Alopecia or hair loss is a common thing. Well, alkaline water can help your pet with this. In a nutshell, it affects free radicals that cause alopecia. As a result, your pet will have a better coat and he will shed less. For some dog owners, this is a huge advantage and the trick they have been using for years.
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Helps Older Dogs With Joint Issues
Alkaline water protects cartilage that is in the joints. It will make sure it stays in perfect condition and is not torn apart. All of this means that older dogs who may have problems with joints will stay in better shape. The mobility of the joints will stay at the highest level possible.
When To Avoid Giving Alkaline Water To Dogs?
You can see that alkaline water is mostly beneficial. But there are a few cases when you must not give alkaline water to your pet. In these cases, you will have to opt for ordinary tap water. Here we will explain these cases.
1. When He Takes Medicine
Alkaline water can boost the metabolism of your pet. It means that the food in the stomach will release its properties in less time. It also means that medication will be digested sooner. We don’t want this. Hence, you must not give alkaline water to your pet 1 hour before or after the medication. The risk is not massive but it is still present.
2. With Meals
Dogs who eat must not drink alkaline water. You need to avoid giving them alkaline water before or after a meal. This is mandatory because alkaline water will decrease the amount of stomach acid. It means that the water will slow down the process of digestion. No, this is not a huge deal but it can be a problem.
3. When Nursing Dogs
Nursing dogs will absorb too much calcium when drinking alkaline water. They can develop a condition called calciuria. Another issue is the higher presence of calcium in the urine. Both of these are issues or problems and they explain why alkaline water is not ideal for nursing dogs. Purified water for nursing dogs is a much better option. It is the safest and the best option.
There is no need to add that dogs don’t have to drink alkaline water all time. You can give this to your pet occasionally in order to help him get these benefits. Tap water is still fine and usually the safest option out there.
The Final Word
Can dogs drink alkaline water? Yes, they can. There are three cases when they should avoid this water. The rest of the time, it is beneficial and something dogs should drink at least occasionally. An interesting fact is that humans can get all of these benefits as well.