10 Best Dog Water Fountains [2023]

If you want your furry friend to stay hydrated, a dog water fountain is a good solution. It encourages the pet to drink more and stay healthy. Besides, it is more hygienic than other traditional water bowls or water bottles.

Every dog needs water to survive. Water helps the body to perform functions such as digestion, body temperature regulation, and waste filtration. But if you leave your dog dehydrated, he may suffer from medical problems such as diabetes, cancer, kidney and liver disease. While a water bowl might be a good option to provide your dog with water, your pet may not drink enough.

Here are the best dog water fountains

We have researched and listed different dog water fountain bowls for all types of dogs’ needs. Each item is unique in its own ways to provide your dog with a steady supply of water. In this article, you’ll find the buying guide and a review of each product to help you make the right purchasing decision. If you have a concept of a pet water fountain, here are links that will help you find the product quickly:

1. PetSafe Drinkwell Platinum Pet Fountain-best overall
2. PetSafe Drinkwell Indoor/Outdoor Dog Fountain-best for large dog breeds
3. PetSafe Drinkwell 1/2, 1, or 2 Gallon Pet Fountains-best for multiple pets
4. Lu&Ba Pet Water Fountain, Automatic Waterfall Dog Water Fountain-best value for money
5. Dog Fountain Water Fountain Dog Sprinkler Step on Dog Sprinkler Toy- most pet-friendly
6. iPettie Kamino LED Light Pet Water Fountain 3L/101oz-The quietest fountain
7. Kitty Dog Animal Water Fountain-Easiest to use
8. Cat Water Fountain Stainless Steel, 84oz/ 2.5L Ultra Quiet Pump Pet Fountain-the most durable fountain
9. Veken 95oz/2.8L Pet Fountain-best fountain for indoor use
10. Veken 100oz/3L Pet Fountain-most accurate results

There are various dog water fountains available in the market. This means that there are different options designed for every dog and home. When purchasing a pet’s fountain, there are vital things to pay attention to.

Here Are 5 Things to Consider In a Dog Water Fountain Bowl

Size

Every pet owner wants a product that fits their dog’s needs. Do you own a small or big pet? Does your dog have mobility issues? Or do you have many dogs in your home? A small pet requires a shorter fountain, while a large pet requires a big dog water fountain.

It can be annoying to spend most of your time refilling the water system. In this case, it is good to know the number of dogs you own and the amount of water they drink before making a buying decision. Besides, consider the space it will occupy in the designated area. This will save you from purchasing a product that will not fit your space.

Material of the product

A good dog water fountain should last for many years. For instance, stainless steel or ceramic are more durable than plastic. Plastics are easily scratched and may have toxic substances that can harm your pet. Plastics are cheaper than other materials. If you must go for the plastic product, make sure it is food-grade and BPA-free to ensure your dog’s safety.

Noise level

Noise can frighten your dog and prevent him from drinking enough water. Thus, it would be good to purchase a quiet pet fountain that will not discourage the pet from drinking water. However, you can consider a noisy water system if your dog is blind. A loud fountain will help the blind pet locate their water.

Ease of cleaning

Like other household products, a pet fountain needs to be cleaned to remove microorganisms. But some materials require a big process to wash. Also, some fountains have unreachable parts, which makes them challenging to clean. Remember, a clean fountain will motivate your dog to consume a lot of water. Also, it will prevent diseases. So, why do you go for a dishwasher-safe product that has few washing instructions? Also, consider one with few separate parts, so you don’t struggle to reach out to the crevices while cleaning.

Ease-of-use

An easy-to-use foundation will give your dog happy moments. It can encourage your pet to drink more water. But if your furry friend finds it difficult to use the fountain, he might lose interest and look for other water systems such as running tap water or dirty water. For instance, a dog with mobility issues may find it challenging to use a step-on dog water fountain. Thus, it is good to ensure that your dog will not have issues drinking from the fountain.

It’s good to note that the ease of use is not only for the dog but also for you. It would be inconvenient if you go for a fountain that is hard to deal with. Thus, focus on ease of assembling, maintaining, and cleaning.

A Review of the Best Dog Water Fountains for Your Pet

1. PetSafe Drinkwell Platinum Pet Fountain-best overall

PetSafe Drinkwell Platinum Pet Fountain contains BPA-free plastic and holds a large water capacity. It can accommodate up to 168 ounces of water. This means that you can keep several dogs hydrated in one fountain.

This dog water fountain bowl has a built-in reservoir which increases the water capacity. Thus, it will extend the time for refilling. Besides, the reservoir is transparent to enable you to see the amount of water left.

Pros

• The free-falling stream entices the pets to drink enough water
• It has an adjustable stream which will help to control the flow of water
• It is quiet
• It is dishwasher safe, making it easy-to-clean

Cons

• It is not perfect for outdoor use

Buyers love this dog water fountain because of its durability. If you maintain it well, it can last for years. That’s why it is advisable to monitor the water level and clean it once per week.

PetSafe Drinkwell Platinum Pet Fountain will keep your pet healthy and hydrated. The free-falling stream will encourage him to drink more. Also, the clean water from the fountain promotes good hygiene for the dog and entices the dog to start drinking.

 

2. PetSafe Drinkwell Indoor/Outdoor Dog Fountain-best for large dog breeds

PetSafe Drinkwell indoor/outdoor dog fountain is BPA-free plastic and can hold a water capacity of up to 450 0z. It has a free-falling stream that entices the dog to drink more. Thus, you will be sure of the proper hydration of your furry friend.

This Drinkwell is convenient for outdoor and indoors. It is UV resistant which prevents fading. Besides, its top shelf is dishwasher safe, making it easy to clean.

Pros

• It is easy-to-clean
• The free-falling stream encourages the dog to drink more
• It provides freshwater due to the replaceable carbon water filters
• It is a good option for outdoor and indoor use

Cons

• It produces noise

This dog water fountain outdoor offers a consistent supply of clean and fresh water. It has two filtering methods: the large foam filter removes large particles, while the layered charcoal filter catches small particles. Besides, it has dual reservoirs, which ensures a sufficient water supply.

Some buyers love the water capacity of this fountain. They feel that it is a great choice for big dog breeds. However, others do not like its noise since it can frighten the dogs.

 

3. PetSafe Drinkwell 1/2, 1, or 2 Gallon Pet Fountains-best for multiple pets

Do you own big dog breeds or multiple pets? PetSafe Drinkwell 1/2, 1, or 2 Gallon Pet Fountains is a perfect solution. It holds up to 2-gallons of water, which can accommodate multiple pets. This dog self-serve water fountain comes with an open bowl design to offer a consistent water supply when the power goes off.

The adjustable flow control will allow you to regulate the speed of water from the free-falling stream. Also, you can turn off the water stream for quieter operations.

Apart from this, it has replaceable carbon filters, which remove bad odors and taste. The foam filter catches the dog’s hair and other residues to keep the water clean.

Pros

• It offers a consistent supply of clean water even when the power goes off
• It has an option for quieter operations
• It has filters that remove pet’s hair and other particles to prevent clogging
• It is easy-to-assemble
• It holds a lot of water

Cons

• It does not provide enough force to push the water hard

Some buyers feel that PetSafe Drinkwell 1/2, 1, or 2 Gallon Pet Fountains is a good choice since one can choose water flow rate. Also, it is easy to clean and does not provide a lot of noise during the operation. But it can be noisy when the water level gets down. That’s why it is good to keep monitoring the water level.

 

4. Lu&Ba Pet Water Fountain, Automatic Waterfall Dog Water Fountain-best value for money

Lu&Ba Pet Water Fountain, Automatic Waterfall Dog Water Fountain is a pet-safe product that provides a consistent fresh water supply. It is 8 inches high and has a 15 degrees inclined water flow to prevent the pet’s hair from getting wet when drinking water.

This fountain is quiet and easy to assemble. It uses shafts and ceramic rotors to minimize noise and increase durability. Also, it has a sponge filter that removes particles and debris that falls in the water. The inside of the filter has Granular Activated Carbon (GAC) which removes odors, calcium, magnesium iron and softens the water.

Pros

• It is easy-to-install and clean
• It has an ergonomic design that prevents the pet’s hair from getting wet and avoid sore necks
• It is easy-to-maintain
• It is sturdy and durable

Cons

• It is expensive when compared to other fountains

Lu&Ba Pet Water Fountain can hold up to 7 cups of water. Buyers love this product because it is easy to disassemble and reassemble. Also, it comes with an easy-to-understand cleaning guide.

Besides, it has one filter. Thus, it will not cost you a lot when replacing or maintaining.

 

5. Dog Fountain Water Fountain Dog Sprinkler Step on Dog Sprinkler Toy- most pet-friendly

Dog Sprinkler step-on toy encourages dogs to drink more water while playing. This dog water fountain is controlled by the dog’s paws. When he steps on the pad, the water comes out, and he can drink as much as he wants. But when he steps off, the water stops. This situation helps to preserve more water. All you need is to adjust the water pressure and leave the dog play while drinking water.

This dog water fountain pedal is made of heavy gauge steel, which enhances durability. Also, it has rubber friction pads underneath to prevent it from moving when the dog is playing.

Pros

• It does not require electricity or battery to function
• It encourages the dogs to play and drink enough water
• It is durable
• It is easy to connect to the hose

Cons

• Lightweight pets may not be able to push down the valve

Some buyers feel that it may take time for the dog to get used to it. But it is a great choice if you want to motivate your dog to drink more. Besides, it is sturdy and easy to assemble. You will only require attaching it to the hose, and the fun begins.

 

6. iPettie Kamino LED Light Pet Water Fountain 3L/101oz-The quietest fountain

iPettie Kamino LED Light Pet Water Fountain provides continuous drinking water for your pet. It comes with a sleek design and can blend with any décor. Also, it has dual filters. Hence, it will catch even the tiniest particles.

This fountain has a large capacity of 3L/101 Oz. Thus, you will not require refilling it frequently. The LED light around the edges entices the dogs to drink more while serving as home décor.

Apart from this, it is BPA-free, durable, and easy to clean. It is silent and runs a low power consumption. Thus, it won’t scare your pet. Also, you won’t have a fear of the electricity bill going up.

Pros

• It has a dual filtration system that removes odor and particles
• It is a great choice for small and big pets
• It holds a large water capacity
• The LED light encourages the pet to drink more
• It powers off when the level of water goes down

Cons

• One must clean it daily to keep it in good working condition

iPettie Kamino LED Light Pet Water Fountain has high-quality filters that can get rid of 99% impurities. Buyers love its transparent water level window and the LED light, which remind them that they need to add water. Also, when the water level drops, the pump shuts off automatically.

 

7. Kitty Dog Animal Water Fountain-Easiest to use

Kitty dog water fountain is a great choice if you own a small or medium-sized pet. It holds a water capacity of 3L/101 oz. which can last for two weeks. Thus, you will not have worries about water issues when you are away.

This fountain will provide your pet with clean water. It features a food-grade filter that consists of coconut shell-activated carbon and a PP cotton layer. This feature helps to remove 99% of impurities.

When the water level is less than 650 ml, the LED light changes from blue to red. This is a reminder that you need to refill the water fountain.

Pros

• It features a bright color and free-falling stream to encourage the dog to drink more often
• It has a continuous water circulation system that provides hygienic water for your pet
• It holds a large water capacity
• It operates at a silent level

Cons

• Its filters are pricier than others

Some buyers love this product because of its safe design. Also, it reminds when the level of water goes down. But others feel that the white color gets dirty easily. Despite this,  Kitty Dog Animal Water Fountain is a great product. It is easy to clean and comes with easy-to-read washing instructions.

 

8. Cat Water Fountain Stainless Steel, 84oz/ 2.5L Ultra Quiet Pump Pet Fountain-the most durable fountain

84oz/ 2.5L Ultra Quiet Pump Pet Fountain is a high-grade stainless steel product that is durable and easy to clean. Also, it is hygienic and dishwasher safe. It features a LED light indicator that turns red when it is time to refill the fountain.

You can consider this fountain if you own multiple pets. It has a 360-degree multidirectional stream to ensure that every pet gets its spot on the fountain.

Pros

• It is made of stainless steel materials. Thus, it is durable and rust-free
• It can serve several pets
• It is easy-to-use

Cons

• It may be too big for just one cat

84oz/ 2.5L Ultra Quiet Pump Pet Fountain is an easy-to-set-up product. It is quiet and can take a day or two for your dog to get used to it. The stainless steel material is easy to clean and does not corrode.

 

9. Veken 95oz/2.8L Pet Fountain-best fountain for indoor use

Veken 95oz/2.8L Pet Fountain is a good choice if you want to keep your dog hydrated and free from urinary tract diseases. It holds a large water capacity of up to 2.8L. Besides, it has two water flow designs: gentle fountain and flower bubble waterfall. The water stream draws the pet’s attention and encourages him to drink severally.

This fountain is made of food-grade materials and is BPA-free. Thus, it is a durable product that can last between 2-4 years. The water level window will allow you to check the amount of water left to prevent the fountain from getting dry.

Pros

• It has a triple filtration system to keep the water fresh
• Its compact design makes it occupy less space
• It consists of durable materials
• It does not make noise when operating
• It requires little energy consumption

Cons

• It is not a good option for outdoor use

Veken 95oz/2.8L Pet Fountain is a long-lasting fountain. It has a probe that detects the water level. Thus, extending the life of the pump. When the fountain gets dry, the pump can get damaged. The probe allows the pump to stop working immediately; it detects water shortage. And the LED light will remind you to refill the fountain.

 

10.Veken 100oz/3L Pet Fountain-most accurate results

Veken 100oz/3L is a double-deck pet fountain. If your pet doesn’t like sharing with others, he can appreciate this two-stage setup. The pet can drink from the free-falling stream, upper bowl, or lower bowl.

The bubbling spout will attract your dog’s attention and encourage him to drink more often. The 100oz/3L water capacity will keep him hydrated all the time.

This dog water fountain has three replacement filters. Each filter has a non-woven fabric, iron exchange resin, and activated carbon, which helps to remove 99% of impurities.

Pros

• It consists of an energy-saving pump that is quiet during the operation
• The pre-filter sponge helps to extend the pumps life
• It is a good choice for multiple pets

Cons

• It is heavier than other fountains

Buyers love the high-efficiency filtration of Veken 100oz/3L Pet Fountain. This product has a recirculation mechanism that ensures optimum oxygenation. The triple filtration system removes impurities and odors to keep the dog in good health.

 

FAQs about Dog Water Fountains

Water is essential for keeping your dog healthy and rinsing out toxins. But you might notice that your pet is not a big fan of drinking water. Maybe it’s because water is smelly or the inability to reach the water. But a dog water fountain provides a natural source of water flow, which dogs view as fresh and clean. But pet owners are not sure whether to purchase a dog fountain or not. We have researched and developed 11 FAQs about dog water fountains to help your dog stay hydrated.

Is a water fountain good for dogs?

Yes, a water fountain is essential to provide clean and fresh water for your furry friend. Bad taste and odor can impact the amount of water your dog consumes. Tap water might contain chemicals that can prevent your pet from drinking enough. But a dog water fountain with filters can solve the issue. It will provide flavor and odor-free water for your pet.

The water circulating continuously in the fountain keeps it cooler and encourages the pet to drink more.

Do vets recommend water fountains?

Yes, vets recommend water fountains since they motivate the dogs to drink enough. Little water consumption can lead to dehydration and organ failure. Thus, regardless of your dog’s breed, it is important to ensure that he consumes enough water. An automatic dog water fountain will provide a steady supply of water. Also, it will filter the water to improve its quality and ensure that it is free from contaminants and impurities.

Do pet water fountains attract bugs?

Yes, a dog fountain can attract bugs if it is not cleaned properly. Your pup can drink water with leftover foods in their mouth. The food can then build up in the system, which can attract bugs. If you want your dog water fountain to be free from bugs, it is good to develop a cleaning routine.

Steps on how to clean a dog water fountain

• Unplug the dog fountain
• Drain the fountain. Remove water from the canals and the main tank unit
• Disassemble the fountain so that you can access the motor
• If the fountain is dishwasher safe, you can use a dishwasher to clean it except for the motor and cord
• Clean the motor cavity with soapy water
• Reassemble the fountain and replace the filters

Can you leave a dog water fountain on all the time?

Yes, it’s okay to leave your fountain running all the time. The fountain uses little energy. So, you won’t have worries about the electricity bill rising. But it is good to check whether the fountain has enough water. When the pump runs dry, it might get damaged.

However, you can unplug the fountain when you are away or at night. But remember, it won’t filter or circulate the water when unplugged.

Should I get my dog a water fountain?

A water fountain provides your dog with a metal stimulation that can increase water intake. This water system recirculates the water supply, which helps to remove odor and keep the water cool. Apart from this, you will be sure that your furry friend will consume water free from bacteria and other contaminants. However, not all water fountains for dogs will fit your furry companion. It is good to study your pet before purchasing one. Does your dog have medical issues? What is the size of your dog? Where do you want to place the fountain?

If you own a big dog, you can consider a large dog water fountain. If you want to place the system outside the dog shed, you can go for an outdoor dog water fountain.

How often do you change the water in a cat fountain?

Your furry friend requires access to clean water. Clean water is vital for your dog’s health. That’s why it is advisable to change the water in a cat fountain regularly. But how often to change the water depends on different factors.

Number of dogs

If you own multiple pets, it is advisable to change the water every 3 to 4 days. But for a single pet, you can change after 5 to 6 days.

The filter system

If your fountain has a filtered system, you can change the water every week. But for the unfiltered system, you can change after two days to ensure that the water is clean and safe for drinking.

Persistent bubbles

At times, foam and white bubbles are a result of organic matters that are dissolved in water. Because of this, the water might not taste fresh. That’s why it is good to change the water immediately you notice bubbles or foam.

Why does my dog’s fountain get slimy?

Saliva and food particles from your dog’s mouth can drop in the water, which can be a source of bacteria. The bacteria can attach to the surface and release a glue-like or slimy substance that can stick on stainless steel, ceramic, or plastic materials. But how can you prevent slime in your fountain?

Here are tips to prevent your dog water fountain from getting slimy

• Clean the fountain regularly
• Change the water more frequently
• Place the fountain away from heat because warmth encourages bacteria growth.

Where should a dog’s water fountain be placed?

Where to place your water fountain for your dog depends on your pet and household’s needs. Does your dog spend most of the time indoors or outdoors? Do you have enough space in the pet’s house? Your furry friend requires a lot of water to keep him hydrated. Thus, you need to ensure that water is always available anytime he needs it. If he loves playing outside, you can consider a water dog fountain outdoor, and if he spends indoor, you can go for an indoor fountain.

Besides, there will be some splashing going on around the fountain. In this case, it is good to place the fountain on a hard surface that is easy to clean and cannot get damaged from water exposure.

You could also consider using a dog feeding station. In that case, give your dog a small area where he can satisfy all of his eating and drinking needs.

How long do dog water fountains last?

A Pet water fountain can last for 3 to 4 years if it is well maintained. Hence, it is good to inspect the filter and pump and replace them when necessary. Also, check the water level from time to time so that the fountain shouldn’t be empty.

Besides, the materials play a crucial role in the durability of the water fountain. For instance, ceramic can last for many years than plastic.

The quality of the fountain can also determine how long it will last. For instance, a DIY dog water fountain might not last long because you may not have the necessary tools and experience to create one. That’s why it is advisable to purchase one from the market.

Can you put ice cubes in the dog’s water?

Yes, ice cubes help the dog cool down. While some pet owners believe that ice cubes can cause health issues such as bloating, Dr. Michael Tuder explains that a small amount of ice cubes is good for your dog to enjoy the hot season.

However, excessive consumption of ice cubes can lead to shivering responses, dental damage, and issues with the pet’s throat. According to Dave Leicester, pets with signs of heatstroke should avoid ice cubes since they can cause serious problems.

Should dogs drink tap or filtered water?

Your dog needs clean and safe water to drink. While tap water is readily accessible and cheap, it might contain bacteria that can harm the health of your dog. Also, if your tap water is high in iron and nitrates, it can cause health issues. But giving your pet filtered water will keep it from contaminants such as chlorine, metals, parasites, or bacteria that may be in tap water. Therefore, if you want your pet to consume clean water, a dog water fountain with filters is a good option.

Final Verdict: Best Dog Water Fountains Provide a Steady Supply of Clean, Fresh Water

A good dog water fountain provides a consistent, clean water supply and encourages the pet to drink more. Some pet owners store pet’s water in the bowl. While this ensures proper hydration, it may be unhealthy as it remains still for many hours.

But with a water fountain, you will be sure that your pet consumes clean water all the time. We have reviewed 10 different pet water fountains that are good for providing clean water. Our top pick is PetSafe Drinkwell Platinum Pet Fountain. This product is easy to use and holds a large volume of water. Also, it is quiet when operating. Thus, it won’t frighten your pets. Its filter is of high quality and removes 99% of impurities.