
Dogs can drink bottled water, but it's essential to consider the potential risks and benefits.
Tap water is often treated with chemicals that can be toxic to dogs, so bottled water can be a safer option. However, not all bottled water is created equal.
Some bottled waters are purified using methods that may remove beneficial minerals, which can lead to mineral deficiencies in dogs.
If you do choose to give your dog bottled water, make sure it's a high-quality brand that uses a gentle purification process.
Risks and Safety
Bottled water is safe for dogs when stored in ceramic or steel containers. This is because these materials are BPA-free.
Dogs can safely drink from bottles labeled with 'PET' or 'PETE 1' as these are also BPA-free. Bisphenol A (BPA) is a chemical that can harm pets and has been found in plastic pet bottles.
BPA-free bottles are a must for pet owners to ensure their furry friends stay safe and healthy.
For more insights, see: Water Bottles
Water Options for Dogs

Dogs can drink bottled water, but it's essential to choose the right type of water and container to ensure their safety.
Bottled water is generally safe for dogs, as it's often sanitized and filtered to remove harmful microbes.
However, not all bottled water is created equal, and some may contain additives that can be detrimental to your dog's health.
Dogs have a sensitive sense of smell and can detect even small amounts of chlorine in tap water, which is why many prefer bottled water.
Natural spring water is a good option for dogs, as it contains essential minerals that can help keep them healthy and provide a flavor boost.
To identify BPA-free plastic water bottles, look for the symbol below or check the labels for recycling information.
Type 1 (PET) and Type 7 (all other plastics) symbols indicate that the product does not use BPA.
Stick to bottles labeled BPA-free, such as silicone collapsible bottles, aluminum bottled water, and BPA-free plastics.
Dogs can also drink water from plastic bottles coated with a substance to prevent bacterial growth, but this is not a guarantee of safety.
Readers also liked: Dogs and Water Bottles
Providing Safe Water
Tap water is generally safer than bottled water and has fewer toxic chemicals, so if you live in a country where it's safe to drink tap water, it's safe for your dog to drink tap water.
However, if you live in an area where the tap water has known illness-causing properties, then your dog may be at risk too.
In this case, either purchase bottled water for your dog to consume or consider investing in a home water filtering product.
If you do opt for bottled water, make sure it's in a ceramic or steel container, or if the bottle recycling label displays 'PET' or 'PETE 1' as these are BPA-free bottles.
Bisphenol A (BPA) is a chemical which can harm pets and has been found in plastic pet bottles, so it's essential to choose BPA-free options.
To identify BPA-free plastic water bottles, look for the symbol below or check the labels for the following symbols:
If you're unsure about the safety of your tap water or bottled water, consider investing in a home water filtering product to ensure your dog has access to clean and safe drinking water.
Benefits and Best Practices
Dogs have a highly sensitive sense of smell, up to 100,000x more acute than humans, and can detect traces of chlorine in water that we can't.
Dogs can be picky about their water, and may turn away from tap water due to its additives and industrial chemicals. Purified water, on the other hand, provides a clear and clean drink without these worries.
In countries where tap water is safe to drink, it's generally safe for dogs to drink tap water too. However, if you live in an area where the tap water has known illness-causing properties, it's best to provide bottled water or consider a home water filtering product.
Bottled water is generally perfectly safe for dogs, as bottled water companies sanitize and filter their products to remove harmful microbes. If you're unsure of the water source, stick to bottled water instead.
Filtered water is also safe for dogs to drink, and in some areas, experts advise against drinking unfiltered water due to its potential risks, such as excessive amounts of aluminium and iron, which can cause kidney problems.
A fresh viewpoint: Birds Drink Tap Water
Here are some key things to consider when providing water for your dog:
- Fresh and clean water is essential for maintaining your dog's overall health and well-being.
- Tap water may contain additives and industrial chemicals that can be detrimental to your dog's digestive system.
- Bottled water or filtered water are good alternatives to tap water.
- Consider using a water bottle specifically designed for dogs, which typically come with a built-in bowl or spout.
- Collapsible water bowls or portable pet water dispensers are also great options for providing water on the go.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should animals drink bottled water?
Yes, most animal experts recommend providing pets with bottled and/or filtered water to ensure their health and safety. This is because municipal and well water can contain harmful substances and parasites that can affect animals.
Sources
- https://encompassrl.com/blogs/travel-gear-shop-kb/can-dogs-drink-out-of-water-bottles
- https://rrruffhouse.com/is-bottled-water-or-tap-water-better-for-your-dog/
- https://www.myownwater.com/blog/can-dogs-drink-bottled-water
- https://www.k9magazine.com/best-water-for-dogs/
- https://travfurler.com/blogs/thepettravelblog/is-a-pet-water-bottle-bpa-free
Featured Images: pexels.com