Every single day dog owners need help regarding questions about their pets. Can dogs drink distilled water is the topic for today. Here we can see two possible answers, obviously. Some claim that this is the best water for dogs and they should drink it on a daily basis. Others claim that this water is bad for dogs. Let’s find out the truth.
What Is Distilled Water?
Before we answer the question, can dogs drink distilled water, we need to explain what this type of water is. In general, this is water that is heated to the point of boiling. Then, it becomes vapor. When it changes state (in a new container) from gas to liquid it becomes distilled water.
The main thing here to know is that distilled water will have no minerals, impurities, bacteria, and anything else that can’t make the transfer. All of these will remain in the first contained. Keep in mind that distilled water eliminates 99.99% of minerals.
Is Distilled Water Safe For Dogs?
Your dog can drink distilled water occasionally in small amounts. You must not use distilled water as the sole source for your dog. See, when it is made, distilled water eliminates minerals. Water is the only way dogs can get certain minerals and electrolytes. Dog food doesn’t contain these hence there is no other way a dog can absorb these. We also know that dogs who drink distilled water on a regular basis will develop potassium deficiency. This can cause problems with the heart.
Distilled water was present in many researches related to humans. None of the studies proved that it is better than ordinary water and that you should drink it more. On the other hand, we can see a lot of experts claiming that distilled water is not good for humans.
You need to keep in mind two main points. Distilled water doesn’t contain all the minerals your dog needs. If he doesn’t get those minerals, his body can’t function properly. Your dog will end up sick. The second thing here is that you must not use distilled water as the main source of water. It is bad and it can be a serious mistake.
Why Do Some People Claim That Distilled Water Is Better Than Ordinary Water For Dogs?
Some of these people don’t know the truth. Others are claiming that it should be used periodically or in small amounts. Keep in mind that no vet out there will tell you that distilled water is better than ordinary water for your dog. it doesn’t have the minerals your dog needs hence it cannot be a better choice.
People who claim that distilled water is better to claim this due to a lack of bacteria. Distilled water doesn’t contain any. But, ordinary tap or bottled water is cleaned as well so there is no point to use distilled water.
There are some of you who will say that using mineral drops is a worthy option. You will add these to distilled water and your pet will get the minerals he needs. But, why would you do this? First of all, you need to purchase the drops. Then you need to know the precise dosage for your dog which will depend on weight, breed, and age. Why do all of this when your pet can get all the things he needs from ordinary water?
Can Distilled Water Be Beneficial For Dog’s Eyes and Pets With Kidney Disease Or Bladder Stones?
You may have seen some sources that claim dogs who suffer from kidney disease or have bladder stones will benefit from distilled water. There are a lot of sources like that and some dog owners claim that this water can help. Sadly, there are no details, studies, or anything similar that can prove the claim. We know that these are false claims and there is no actual benefit.
Some also claim that dogs who drink distilled water will have less tear staining on the face. This is not possible. They still have mineral intake that causes that and they got those minerals from food and treats hence distilled water will not help.
All you need to remember here is that distilled water doesn’t have any proven benefits and perks your dog needs. We can even say that it is dangerous or problematic if your pet drinks it for a long time.
Is Filtered Water Bad As Well?
Actually, no. Filtered water is ordinary water that passes through filters. You can even mount a filter on your faucet and you will have filtered water. This process removes all the harsh compounds in the water and can make water clean. Some extreme filtration processes can make dirty water loaded with bacteria safe to drink.
This water is safe for dogs and it is very appealing. Your pet will drink water that still contains minerals and electrolytes he needs but there are no chemicals or anything inside it that can be bad for dogs. Try to remember that this water and distilled water are not the same thing and as such the benefits and downsides are not the same.
Still, your pet has an immune system. He will use it to remove any bacteria or anything else. Ordinary tap water is safe for humans and dogs so there is no need to look for an alternative. After all, your dog has been drinking this water for ages and he is fine and healthy, so are you.
The Final Word
Can dogs drink distilled water? They can drink a small amount of it every now and then. But there are no positive sides of drinking this type of water hence why would you give it to your dog? Ordinary tap water is the best for your pet and it is something you need to use as the primary source. All other options, sources, and alternatives are something your pet doesn’t need. You can even do more harm than good.