We all know that water is essential for daily life. We need it, our plants need it, and our dogs do too. But it’s also a sad fact that most of us don’t drink enough water. It might even surprise you to know that your dog could be suffering from dehydration as well. So how do we cure this? The best way is to get a pet water fountain. Let’s educate ourselves on water fountains and the 9 best automatic water fountains for your dog.
Do Dogs Prefer Flowing Water?
Most people think that pet water fountains are an unnecessary luxury for the posh pooches. But this is a common misconception. For most animals and people, it’s instinct to go for a running water source. Even trickling water streams are better than a puddle of mud. So what’s the reason for this?
Our instincts tell us that stagnant water is terrible for us. Water left out for too long is a breeding ground for bacteria and algae. And though dogs don’t understand the concept of germs, they know what’s good for them.
What Is The Benefit Of A Pet Water Fountain?
Other than clean, fresh water at all times, there are plenty of benefits of a water fountain. How else is water fountain good for dogs? For one, your dog will drink more than they ever would from a bowl. By drinking more water, your dog will be healthier, hydrated, and experience fewer stomach illnesses.
There are also plenty of other health conditions that dehydrate your dog more. Some pet owners even praise pet fountains for getting rid of tear stains on their white dogs. So instead of thinking of a water fountain as a luxury, think of it as an investment in your pet’s needs.
9 Best Automatic Pet Water Fountains For Your Dog
Now that we have convinced you that water fountains are a necessary tool let’s look at a few. We have scoured the web and have found the best dog water fountains on the market.
Petsafe Drinkwell Platinum Pet Fountain
The first fountain on our list is the Drinkwell Platinum. This fountain has all the bells and whistles to make for a great water dish. It comes apart easily for cleaning, and the replaceable carbon filter is cheap. Plus, it’s BPA-free plastic, so your pets will always stay safe.
We love the simplicity of this product. No matter if you have large dogs or smaller dogs. This Drinkwell Platinum fountain is perfect for you.
Veken Pet Fountain
Another perfect fountain is this one by Veken. We love that this fountain has a three-stage replaceable carbon filter and foam filter to take out bad tastes. It also has a 3-liter tank famous for its quiet pump. And when you see the suction cups on the bottom, you couldn’t ask for a better water fountain.
And unlike a lot of the other fountains you might see online, this one is easiest for your dog to use. Instead of a stream of water trickling down, its water flow is from the bottom. This design is best for a dog to drink comfortably without straining.
Petmate Replendish Gravity Waterer
If your dog spends a lot of time outside, you might want an outdoor fountain. Simple dishes drain quickly, and they are a breeding ground for bacteria. So instead, opt for the Replendish Gravity Waterer. This dish doesn’t have a flow of water, but it has some excellent qualities to make the top picks.
For starters, there is a carbon filter that keeps your dog’s water clean. Replendish is also made from antimicrobial plastic, so you won’t have to worry about bacterial growth in scratches. So your furry friend can have a constant water supply without any side effects.
PetSafe Drinkwell Multi-Tier Dog Drinking Fountain
What is the best water fountain for dogs? We think this Multi-Tier Drinking Fountain is one of the best options on this list. Not only does this fountain come with everything you know and love about PetSafe. But it’s also top-shelf dishwasher safe! So that cuts down on the cleaning, and your dog will love the unique design.
PetSafe Drinkwell Pagoda
There is some debate out there on the safety of plastic materials. Even if they are BPA-free, some cheaper brands still use carcinogenic plastics. There is also the risk of plastic dishes scratching and harboring bacteria. So to combat these, some people prefer ceramic dishes instead. And PetSafe has heard your concerns.
This Pagoda is made entirely from ceramic that is dishwasher safe. It also doesn’t have too many parts for easy cleaning. So you will never have to worry about hidden dirt. And since this fountain has a two-step filtration, you know that your dog is only getting the best and freshest water.
Pioneer Pet Big Max Drinking Fountain
Another great alternative to plastic is this stainless steel fountain by Pioneer Pet. This fountain is simple to use and clean, and we love how durable it is. The water capacity is just right for several dogs to use with ease or several small dogs. So, pets of all sizes can use it.
iPettie Kamino LED Light Pet Water Fountain
If you are looking for something in several colors and a sleek design, the iPettie has your back. These filters are easy to use and blend in with any decor. They also have a two-step carbon filtration system. So you know your dog is staying well hydrated. And one thing we love about this design is that you can tell exactly how much water is in the reservoir. It might look like a cat water fountain, but we assure you any pet can use it.
Scuddles Step On Dog Sprinkler
For outdoor use, this Step On Sprinkler by Scuddles is perfect for you. Any time your dog needs a drink, he can pounce on the sprinkler, and water will come out. Not only is it fun, but it’s also refreshing and promotes hydration. And there is no more worrying about water level or the bowls drying up.
This sprinkler works by connecting to your outdoor garden hose or spigot. While it’s not a fountain or filtered, it gives your dog access to fresh cool water all day long. And since the hose is only three feet long and white, you don’t have to worry about hot water burning your pup. You might go through a lot of water in the summer with all the fun your dogs will have.
iPettie Tritone Ceramic Pet Drinking Fountain
And last on our list is this Tritone Ceramic Fountain. Not only is this fountain whisper quiet, but it’s also easy to assemble and sterilize. But what really sets this fountain apart is that it has a three-stage filtration system. So not only will you love the ceramic design, but you will also love how clean it is.
How Often Should You Change Water In A Pet Fountain?
Before you head off to buy a dog fountain, let’s talk about cleanliness. Just because a fountain keeps the water fresher for longer doesn’t mean that it is hassle-free. There are a few cleaning tasks you will need to do.
Daily Refills
With a regular pet bowl, we always recommended that you refill the water daily. And unfortunately, you won’t get away from this with a water fountain. Changing the water daily will prolong the life of your replacement filters and motor. Daily changes will also keep your dog happy and healthy.
Bowl Cleaning
It’s also crucial to clean every part of the fountain at least once a week. This includes taking it apart and scrubbing down all surfaces with hot soapy water. Doing this will prevent algae build-up, prolong your filter life, and keep the water tasting crisp.
Filter Changes
And finally, you will have to replace the filters on the fountain regularly. If you only have one dog, you can go as long as four weeks with the same filter. But the more dogs you have, the shorter the lifespan is. One great way to keep these filters lasting is by cleaning the dish and refilling it regularly.
How Can I Flavor My Dogs Water?
If you think that these 9 best automatic pet water fountains for your dog are too much, there is an alternative. You can keep your regular pet bowl and replace the water twice a day. And don’t forget to scrub it with hot soap and water every night. How many ounces of water does a dog need? Usually, an ounce per pound that your dog weighs is enough to keep them hydrated.
But for an added boost of hydration, you could add a bit of flavor. Many people have great success infusing the water they give their dogs using a pitcher like the Homeries Fruit Infuser Water Pitcher. These pitchers will give your dog a little incentive to drink more water in times of need. It also gives them a boost of electrolytes and vitamins.
Or you can use water enhancers like the Nulo Hydrate for Dogs Water Flavoring. But we don’t recommend using this method a lot. It’s a good treat or trick to get a dehydrated dog to drink more water. And you can still feel like the excellent pet parent you are without spending a ton of money.
Go And Get One Today
These 9 best automatic pet water fountains for your dog are great investments. You can’t go wrong with hydration and clean water. And your dogs will certainly love the feel of crisp water. So what are you waiting for? Why don’t you have one already?
Below is a Pinterest-friendly photo…. so you can pin it to your Doodle Board!
