Can Dogs Drink Alkaline Water? Benefits & Safety Advice (Vet Answer)

You might have read about the health benefits of drinking alkaline water for yourself, but is the same true for your dog? Water with a basic pH has been linked to numerous health claims in people. Most dogs can indeed drink alkaline water, but there are some circumstances when they shouldn't. So, let's look at when dogs can have alkaline water.

Is Alkaline Water Safe for Dogs?

First and foremost, remember that most dogs can drink alkaline water under most circumstances. However, it's essential to talk to a veterinarian before starting down this path. In some cases, such as dogs prone to urinary crystal or stone formation, alkaline water might not be ideal. It's always best to check with a veterinarian first.

What Is Alkaline Water?

Alkaline water has a more basic pH, usually between 8 and 9. In contrast, regular water is generally neutral, with a pH of 7. Alkaline water is often rich in alkaline minerals, which is how it can get its higher pH value, such as:

• Iron
• Magnesium
• Calcium
• Potassium

You can also make alkaline water by using an ionizer. This device uses electrolysis to create a more basic pH.

Is Alkaline Water Good for Dogs?

There have been very few studies on the effects of alkaline water in animals or people. Within the limited studies, there may be some benefits for pets. Some studies have included:

• Reduced evidence of aging biochemical markers in a mouse population given alkaline water for several months.1
• It was shown to improve stools in humans.2
• It may improve people's sleep quality due to reduced oxidative stress.

Reasons Why Your Dog Shouldn't Drink Alkaline Water

Alkaline water appears to be safe for your dog, but you should check with your veterinarian in case your dog is on medication that may be affected by different acid-base levels in the body. For example, certain medications, such as rescue drugs used in emergencies, can be impacted, and have altered effectiveness in more acidic or basic body conditions. In one study, epinephrine was shown to decrease cardiac output under acidic or alkaline conditions.3

In addition, some dogs are on a urinary diet that helps acidify their urine to reduce the risk of bladder stone (uroliths) formation. In theory, giving alkaline water could affect how the food works, making it less effective.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is distilled water alkaline water?

Distilled water is not alkaline water. Alkaline water is generally rich in minerals, while the distillation process removes all impurities, including healthy minerals, from the water.

Can dogs drink distilled water?

Dogs can drink small amounts of distilled water, but distillation removes minerals from the water. If dogs drink solely distilled water, they could lose electrolytes or even contribute to overhydration and edema.

Conclusion

Dogs can drink alkaline water, and it appears to be safe for dogs to do so. While alkaline water is reported anecdotally to have numerous health benefits, there haven't been many studies evaluating these benefits. In the studies that have been performed, humans and lab animals are typically the subjects, so there may be differences for our canine friends.

• See also: Can Dogs Drink Apple Juice?

Featured Image Credit: Food Impressions, Shutterstock