Is Sharing a Water Bowl Harmful to Dogs?

Restaurants and stores will often provide water bowls for dogs, especially when the weather is warm. This offer is taken up by many four-legged companions. Can the animals get sick if they share the bowl with another dog?

It is nice to see a water bowl in restaurants, beer gardens and even at the vet. Is it safe to let your dog drink from the bowl, or could it spread germs? After all, many dogs have had their tongues stuck in the bowl.

Can communal bowls be harmful to your health?

Dogs do not pose a threat to themselves by eating from communal bowls. As long as the animals are not immune compromised and healthy. Astrid Behr, Federal Association of Practicing Veterinarians, told “DPA” that dogs can drink from puddles and streams without any problems.

The U.S. vet Dr. Eric Barchas gives his approval on the portal Dogster: “It might seem very logical but only a handful of communicable disease are spread orally.” Accordingly, the water is injected directly into the stomach of the dog, where the acidity makes it difficult for germs to survive. According to experts, contagious diseases spread through other routes – such as the respiratory system.

It’s better to be safe than sorry.

If in doubt, dog owners can always check the communal bowl first to see if the water there is clean. You can also ask the restaurant or the veterinarian when the last time the water was changed. The water should be changed several times per day.