Water is an essential component of life. We all need water to survive and that includes our best four-legged friends. Having an adequate supply of fresh and clean water for your dog especially during those hot summer days is vital. When your dog is properly hydrated it supports overall general health.
It’s important to ensure that your dog has an adequate fresh supply of water available. Making sure that you top up the water bowl before you leave your house or apartment is important but unfortunately, through no fault of our own, we can sometimes forget to do this.
If this has happened to you then perhaps you should consider getting a water fountain for your dog that will supply an adequate and clean amount of water throughout the day. This is so important for their continued health and well-being so we have chosen our top selection for water fountains for dogs.
Water Fountains for Dogs | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| iPettie Kamino Pet Water Fountain |   | Our Rating 4.3 | |
| PETKIT Stainless Steel Water Fountain |   | Our Rating 4.3 | |
| PetSafe Drinkwell Pet Fountains (1/2, 1, or 2 Gallon) |   | Our Rating 4.3 | |
| NPET Pet Water Fountain |   | Our Rating 4.3 | |
| PetSafe Drinkwell Platinum |   | Our Rating 4.3 |
Top Picks: Best 5 Water Fountains for Dogs |
No 1. iPettie Kamino Pet Water Fountain (3L /101 oz)
iPettie Kamino Pet Water Fountain (3L/101oz) makes our top selection for water fountains for dogs is suitable for small to medium-sized dogs. It has a large 3 liters (101 oz) capacity.
If you are looking for a water fountain that also filters water to get rid of 99% of the impurities then the iPettie filter is for you. It has an upgraded filtration system that uses a natural cotton layer to trap hair and dust and an upgraded carbon layer to remove bad odors and tastes.
What we particularly like is that this water fountain operates very quietly. It has low power consumption and comes with a silent pump. It has a gentle water flow at the top with a bubbler design to ensure that the water does not spillover from the top. So no messy water spills.
Another handy feature is that you can view the water levels and gauge how much water is in the fountain. This transparent water level window with LED light
When the water level reaches a low level then the pump will shut itself down automatically. And another good feature is that this water fountain is easy to assemble and disassemble which makes the job of cleaning this fountain much easier.
Along with its cool-looking design the materials used in its construction are pet friendly and BPA Free ABS.
Key Features
- Upgraded filtration system
- Operates very quietly with low power consumption
- Water gauge with LED light
- Easy to assemble and disassemble
- Large capacity of 3 Liters
The Pros
Stylish design and made with pet-friendly BPS free
Operates very quietly
There is a water level gauge so you can determine when it needs a refill
It has an LED light that can be turned on or off depending on your preference
The Cons
Not suitable for larger dogs.
Some users had issues with noise from the pump after several weeks of usage
No 2. PETKIT Stainless Steel Water Fountain for Dogs & Cats
PETKIT Stainless Steel Water Fountain for Dogs & Cats is suitable for small to medium-sized dogs and cats. This water fountain is well made with a sleek cylindrical design that should fit in with most decors. A feature many users raved about was that the bowl and filter tray are both made from high-quality stainless steel which should make them durable and long-lasting.
This unit is also fairly easy to clean. It has fewer components compared to its earlier model and the charging base can be detached when cleaning is required.
The noise level for this fountain is less than 30dB should it should run very quietly and should be hardly noticeable so it will frighten your pet away from drinking. Many users complimented the unit as to how quiet it operated
It runs on electricity with a USB cable provided but you will need to have your own USB Adapter. Fortunately, there is also a backup battery solution as the device takes 5 AAA batteries for a power supply of 7 days.
Unfortunately, there is no gauge to view the water level but it has smart technology that shuts down the unit when the water storage level is too low.
Key Features
- Bowl and Filter Tray made from high-quality stainless steel
- Easy to clean
- Runs very quiet
- Backup battery option available if the power goes
- Shuts down when water level too low
The Pros
Well made with a sleek and stylish cylindrical design
Stainless steel drinking bowl
Runs very quietly with some users hardly noticing it was on
Easy to clean & disassemble
Good filtration system
The Cons
No gauge to view water level but when the water storage is low it automatically turns off
You will need your own USB power adapter (it comes with a USB cable)
No 3. PetSafe Drinkwell Pet Fountains (1/2, 1, or 2 Gallon)
If you are looking for a water fountain with an adjustable stream flow then PetSafe Drinkwell Pet Fountains (1/2, 1, or 2 Gallon) could be the one for you. There is an adjustable knob that controls water flow and it flows onto a small ramp that reduces splashing and noise. It is suitable for all dog sizes from small to large along with cats. There are 3 size options from 1/2 gallon, 1 gallon, and 2 gallons.
This water fountain provides fresh and filtered water. It has a foam filter that protects the pump from hair and dirt and the carbon filter removes odors and any unpleasant tastes.
The good news of cleaning is that it is easy to clean as there are no hard to reach spots or crevices and it is dishwasher safe on the top rack. You clean the 1/2 inch tube and the bowl and you can replace the sponge and carbon filter every 2/3 months depending on usage.
Key Features
- Adjustable water flow
- 3 Size Options – 1/2 gallon, 1 gallon, and 2 gallons.
- Easy to setup
- Dishwasher friendly
The Pros
Ability to adjust the water flow to suit your dog’s needs
Different size options from 1/2 gallon to 3 gallons will suit all dog sizes including large ones
Good filtration system
Easy to clean as dishwasher friendly
The Cons
Some users had issues with the number of parts that need to be cleaned reguarly
No 4. NPET Pet Water Fountain, 3L Automatic
NPET Pet Water Fountain has a great water storage capacity of 3 liters so if you have more than one thirsty dog this water fountain for your dog family. It is suitable for all sizes of dogs and larger cats.
The fountain is made from BPA-Free PS materials and it has an adjustable water flow. There are 3 modes to choose from and normally dogs prefer to drink free-flowing water that has been oxygenated more so the Waterfall mode is best for canines. The other modes are Fountain mode which has gentle flowing water and the one more suitable for cats is the leaf mode.
The fountain is easy to set up and also easy to clean. It also has an automatic shut down when the water level goes too low. The unique transparent design as well as looking good also allows you to view the water level and know when to clean the container or top it up. If you have an older model the new one is now 50% quieter so very low noise level.
Key Features
- 3 Liter Water Capacity
- 3 Modes of Water Flow to choose from
- Transparent design allows you to view water levels
- Very low noise while in operation
The Pros
Large capacity of 3 liters with automatic shut down if water level too low
Transparent so you can see the water levels and if needs to be clean
Runs very quietly
The Cons
Some users had issues with slime forming and so had to clean frequently
N0 5. PetSafe Drinkwell Platinum
PetSafe Drinkwell Platinum has a large water capacity of 168 fl oz (1.3 gallons) and would be suitable for small to medium-sized dogs and cats. It comes with an adjustable free-flowing stream that allows you to customize the flow of water to suit your fur baby’s needs.
This fountain uses two filters to provide fresh and clean water. There is one around the pump that filters out large particles such as hair, fur, and other debris. This is easy to clean and it is recommended to do so every 4/6 weeks. The other filter consists of charcoal pellets that can also be easily removed when needed.
There is no “on/off switch” for the fountain so it’s important to make sure the water level does not go too low or it will damage the pump.
Many users raved about how quietly the fountain runs. Ir probably also helps that it has suction cups on the bottom to ensure that it doesn’t move or vibrate.
Key Features
- Large water capacity of 168 Fl oz (1.3 Gallons)
- 2 Filter System
- Runs very quietly
- Suction cups at the bottom to ensure stability
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What is Dehydration?
Dehydration happens when the body loses more body fluids than it takes in and consequently normal functions within the body are affected and hampered by not having enough water. When your dog is dehydrated it can lead to all types of problems and in the worst-case scenario, death so it’s best to avoid this situation in the first place.
How Much Water Does a Dog Need Daily?
Water is vital for human and canine survival. The normally accepted rule is that a human could survive for about 3 weeks without food alone but only a week without water. For dogs, this time period is even less and the general consensus is that a dog could only survive for 3 days without water.
The general guideline is that a dog needs approx 1 oz of water for every 1 lb in body weight.
Note that 16 Fl Oz – 1 Pint
- Dog Weight 10 lbs – 10 oz of water
- Dog Weight 20- lbs – 20 oz of water
- Dog Weight 30 lbs – 30 oz of water
- Dog Weight 40 lbs – 40 oz of water
Signs of Dehydration
Nose
Most dogs have naturally moist noses. If your dog has a dry nose it does not automatically mean that they are dehydrated. Sometimes when a dog is indoors for a long time the nose can dry due to the central heating system or no air circulation. However, if you notice that the nose has become dry and cracked and some flaxy bits are forming then this could be a warning sign of dehydration
Gums
Checking your dog’s gums can also help to indicate dehydration. When dehydrated your dog’s gums may become dry and sticky
Skin
When a dog is dehydrated the skin is less elastic and if pinche gently it will not spring back automatically to its original position
Eyes
Dehydration can also affect your dog’s eyes. There will be no tear formation in the corner of the eye so the eye will appear dull and sunken.
How To Check If Your Dog is Dehydrated
It’s important to be able to check if your dog is dehydrated. Dehydration can develop rapidly if your dog is not getting enough food or water. Dehydration in both humans and dogs can cause all sorts of problems and at its worst, it can lead to organ failure and death. And unfortunately, it can take longer for a dog to recover from dehydration than a human.
The following method to check if your dog is dehydrated is almost the same way you can check humans to check
- With your thumb and forefinger together gently pinch your dog’s skin at the back of the neck and make a tent shape
- Then release and let go
- Observe to see if the skin settles back to its original position
- If you notice that it takes some time to go back to its original state your dog may be dehydrated
- For normal healthy dogs, the skin should bounce back quickly.
As we mentioned in a previous article on “How to Check” before it’s always good to know how your dog’s body works and to know what is normal for your dog. For example, if you have an older dog the skin is less elastic so it will naturally take longer to spring back into position.
The Benefits of Water for Dogs
Prevents Dehydration
Dogs can lose water and fluids from their bodies in a number of ways from panting, sweating, and urine and poo. When these fluids are replaced through drinking and eating this natural water balance is restored. Unfortunately, dogs once dehydrated do not re-hydrate as quickly as humans. Ensuring that this critical point is not reached means that your dog should always have access to a water source.
Helps with Digestion
Water helps your dog’s digestion by helping to break down food so that the necessary nutrients are absorbed and also assists enzymes to perform their function
Regulates Body Temperature
All mammals including humans and canines need to regulate their body temperature. We regulate body temperature with the intake and excretion of fluids.
On warm summer days, you will sweat so that your body does not overheat. It is the same for canines. However, the most efficient way a dog cools down is through panting. When a dog pants the tongue almost doubles in size. This gives your dog the opportunity to cool down quickly as most of the water is evaporated. It is a very effective method to cool down. Dogs do sweat but the place that they sweat may surprise you – it is in their paw pads. On a hot summer day, you may notice sweat stains from paw pads.
Buyers Guide for Dog Water Fountains
What To Consider
Adjustable flow
With an adjustable flow, you can adjust the settings to suit your dog’s needs. When water flows is become oxygenated with more bubbles and most dogs, enjoy drinking free-flowing freshwater
Size Capacity
Size and capacity are important features to consider. If you have a large dog then you will naturally require a large container that has big storage capacities.
Elevated Level
Some older dogs or those with some disability can find it difficult bending down to drink. Having a water fountain at an elevated level can take the strain out of bending down to drink
Water Filter
Filtered water always tastes better as it removes any impurities or debris.
Noise
This can be an important factor when choosing a water fountain. Firstly if you have a noise-sensitive dog you really do not want a noisy water source. Your dog may become scared and reluctant to drink and this is a definite no-no.
Secondly, a noisy water fountain can irritate some dog owners. To be honest I don’t know anybody who would be happy with a noisy water fountain. In the last number of years, many of the water fountains have become super quiet and we have chosen some with this important feature in our selections
Easy to Clean
When it’s easy to clean something it makes it so much easier. Ideally, you would want a fountain that is easy to take apart for cleaning. Some water fountain parts are now dishwasher friendly
Material
What type of material is the water fountain made from. You would want a BPS-free plastic or stainless steel
Shape & Design
This can be an important consideration for some people who would like the water fountain to fit in nicely with the current decor.
Conclusion
Our overall top pick for the best water fountains for dogs is the iPettie Kamino Pet Water Fountain that has a large capacity of 3 liters. It also filters 99% of impurities and has an upgraded filtration system that uses a natural cotton layer to trap hair and dust and an upgraded carbon layer to remove bad odors and tastes.
