Every pet owner wants the best for their dog, we are after all a nation of dog lovers. We look after their exercise and make sure they have plenty of nutritious food. But have you ever considered the quality of the water your dog is drinking? Just like us, dogs benefit greatly from clean water. If your dog prefers to drink rainwater over tap water, it's because they're avoiding some of the chemicals often present in unfiltered tap water. We know how cold it can be opening the back door in wintertime, and we believe installing a high-quality water filter in your home will give your dog access to fresh water that they’ll love. Here’s why a water filter is a must-have for your dog.
Chlorine-Free Water for Sensitive Noses
Dogs have an extraordinary sense of smell, it’s far more developed than humans. The scent of chlorine in tap water can be overwhelming for them, it makes the water less appealing. Chlorine, while necessary for making water safe for human consumption, can have a harsh chemical odour that may deter your dog from drinking enough water. A water filter will effectively reduce chlorine from our tap water and provide your dog with odour-free water, encouraging them to stay hydrated and keeping the back door shut in winter!
Avoid Fluoride Exposure
Fluoride is commonly added to municipal water supplies to promote dental health in humans, but for dogs, fluoride consumption isn't necessary and may even be harmful in large amounts. Excess fluoride can build up in a dog's system. This leads to health complications including potential damage to bones and teeth particularly in older age. There is a reason they try and avoid it...
You can choose a water filter that reduces fluoride content, helping to ensure your dog is only drinking water that supports their elder age.
Lead-Free Water
Lead contamination in water systems is a growing concern, particularly in older homes with outdated plumbing. Even trace amounts of lead can be harmful to pets, potentially causing serious long-term health issues such as kidney damage and neurological problems. Water filters can help reduce the amount of lead in your water, take out the lead and help your dog live longer.
Tastier Water Means Better Hydration
Just as humans tend to drink more water when it tastes fresh and clean, dogs are more likely to drink adequate amounts of water when it’s free from off-putting odours and tastes. Many dogs go towards rainwater for their intake because it's free of pollutants and human additional chemicals. Dogs are relying on mother nature’s water filtration system. A water filter reduces the contaminants in your dog’s drinking water to become much closer to the natural sources they instinctively seek out.
Finding the Right Filter for Your Home
Here at Doulton we can offer two options of water filter we feel can help you and your dog: under-counter filters or countertop systems. Both have their merits and your choice will depend on what fits best with your lifestyle and your pet’s needs.
An under-counter water filter is an excellent choice if you want a system that works behind the scenes. Installed discreetly beneath your sink, this type of filter ensures that your three way tap has some delicious filtered water. It’s a fantastic solution for larger households where frequent water use occurs, as you won't have to refill or manually engage the system. Whether it's for cooking, making your tea, or filling up your dog’s bowl, every drop is treated. This system allows for uninterrupted convenience and a constant flow of clean, fresh water. It’s perfect if you're after a 'set it and forget it' solution and want to guarantee that your dog has filtered water available without any hassle.
On the other hand, a countertop system is more flexible, ideal for those who may not want or need a permanent installation. These filters give you control over when and where you filter the water as they can become portable. While it might require more effort (you’ll need to refill it regularly), it’s a great option for smaller spaces, or if you rent and can't make modifications to the plumbing. A countertop system can be moved around easily—so it’s ideal if you’d like to filter water in multiple locations or even take it with you to other homes. It’s a more hands-on option but offers a balance of flexibility and control. And since you only filter the water when you need it, it might suit those looking for occasional use, especially in less busy households or for single-pet homes.
Supporting Overall Health and Longevity
Clean water isn't just about hydration—it's essential to your dog's overall health. Poor-quality water can carry contaminants that compromise your pet's immune system or lead to gastrointestinal issues. By providing filtered water, you're giving your dog the best possible foundation for a healthy and active life. From maintaining healthy skin and coat to promoting kidney and urinary tract health, access to clean, lead-free, chlorine-free, and fluoride-free water helps support your dog’s long-term wellness.
Switch to a water filter
This article isn't just written from science, yes some of it is. But it's written from dog owning experience. Your dog relies on you to provide the best care possible. We've actively switched from normal water to water filters (no surprise we know) and have seen dog's go back to their bowl. Installing a water filter in your home is an easy yet impactful way to improve their daily hydration and overall health. By reducing chlorine, fluoride and lead from your tap water, you're ensuring your dog enjoys the same high-quality water that benefits you.
Glossary:
Chlorine: A chemical commonly added to municipal water supplies to disinfect it, ensuring it is free of harmful bacteria. It can, however, leave an unpleasant odour and taste in drinking water.
Fluoride: A mineral added to tap water in many areas to help prevent tooth decay in humans. In excessive amounts, it can be harmful to pets.
Lead: A toxic heavy metal that can sometimes leach into water supplies from old plumbing, causing a range of health problems if ingested over time.
Under-Counter Filter: A water filter system installed beneath the sink, filtering all water directly from the tap.
Countertop System: A water filter that sits on the kitchen counter, usually requiring manual refilling or temporary connection to the tap.
References:
- DoggySaurus - "Why Do Dogs Like Drinking Rainwater?" https://doggysaurus.com/why-do-dogs-like-drinking-rainwater/
- Dog Advisory Council - "Is Rainwater Safe for Dogs to Drink?" https://dogadvisorycouncil.com/rainwater-dogs/
- FeelGoodHHS - "Can Dogs Drink Rain Water: Pros and Cons for Your Pet's Hydration" https://feelgoodhhs.com/dogs-drink-rain-water/
- Hepper - "Is Tap Water Safe for Dogs? Vet Reviewed Facts & Concerns" https://www.hepper.com/is-tap-water-safe-for-dogs/
