Why Every Dog Owner Needs a Water Fountain—And the Best Ones to Buy!
The Best Water Fountains for Dog Owners: Keep Your Pup Hydrated
Hello, fellow dog mums! Whether you’ve just welcomed a new puppy into your life or you’re the proud mum of a senior snoozer, keeping your dog hydrated is one of the most important things you can do for their health.
As a lifelong dog owner (and the proud mum of a cheeky spaniel named Daisy), I’ve learned a thing or two about how to keep our furry friends healthy and happy. One of the best investments I ever made was buying a dog water fountain. Trust me—once you see the benefits, you’ll wonder how you ever managed without one.
In this post, I’ll cover everything you need to know about dog water fountains, including why they’re worth it, what to look for, and which ones I personally recommend. Let’s dive in!
Why Dogs Need a Water Fountain
You might be thinking, “Why can’t I just stick with a regular water bowl?” Well, you absolutely can, but there are so many reasons why a water fountain is a game-changer.
Encourages Better Hydration
Dogs are naturally drawn to running water—it’s an instinct that goes back to their wild ancestors, who would seek out flowing streams because they’re fresher and less likely to contain harmful bacteria.
When I first got Daisy, I noticed she barely touched her water bowl during the day. I worried she wasn’t drinking enough, especially in the summer. But when I introduced a water fountain, it was like magic! She was so curious about the flowing water that she started drinking more right away.
Keeps Water Clean and Fresh
A traditional bowl can quickly get dirty, with floating bits of hair, food crumbs, or even drool (especially if you have a big, slobbery breed!). A water fountain keeps the water circulating, which helps prevent bacterial growth and keeps it tasting fresh.
Convenient for Busy Dog Mums
Let’s be real: between work, family, and everything else life throws at us, it’s easy to forget to refill the water bowl. A good fountain can hold several litres of water, so you don’t have to worry about refilling it constantly. Plus, many come with filters that trap dirt and debris, meaning you’ll spend less time scrubbing.
Perfect for Multi-Pet Households
If you’ve got more than one pet (I also have a very curious cat who thinks she’s the boss), a fountain is a brilliant way to ensure everyone stays hydrated without needing multiple bowls. Many fountains even have multiple streams, so there’s no fighting over who gets to drink first!
What to Look for in a Dog Water Fountain
Not all water fountains are created equal, so here are the key features to consider when choosing one for your pup:
1. Capacity
The size of the fountain should match your dog’s needs. Smaller breeds or single pets might do fine with a 2-litre fountain, but larger breeds or multi-pet households will need something closer to 4-6 litres.
Pro Tip:
If your dog drinks a lot of water (like my Daisy after a long walk), opt for a larger capacity to avoid frequent refilling.
2. Material
- Plastic: Lightweight and affordable but can scratch over time, making it harder to clean.
- Stainless Steel: Durable, rust-resistant, and great for hygiene—it’s what I use for Daisy.
- Ceramic: Stylish and heavier, so it’s harder for your pup to knock over.
3. Filtration System
A good filtration system is essential for keeping water clean. Look for fountains with multi-layer filters that trap dirt, hair, and impurities. Some even include activated carbon filters to remove odours and improve the taste of the water.
4. Noise Levels
If you’re placing the fountain in a quiet space, like the living room or a bedroom, go for one with a quiet motor. The last thing you want is a constant humming noise in the background.
5. Ease of Cleaning
Nobody likes scrubbing fiddly parts, so pick a fountain with dishwasher-safe components. Trust me, it makes life so much easier!
The Best Dog Water Fountains in the UK
Here are my top picks for the best water fountains, all available on Amazon UK (with handy affiliate links so you can check them out right away):
1. PetSafe Drinkwell Platinum Fountain
This is an absolute classic and perfect for larger breeds or multi-pet households. It has a huge 5-litre capacity and an adjustable water flow, so you can customise it to suit your pup’s preferences.
- Pros: Large capacity, easy to clean, replaceable charcoal filters.
- Cons: A bit bulky for smaller spaces.
- Price: Around £55.
2. Catit Flower Fountain
Don’t let the name fool you—this is great for small dogs and puppies too! Its compact size and adorable flower design make it a fun and practical addition to any home.
- Pros: Affordable, compact, and comes with three flow settings.
- Cons: Not ideal for larger breeds.
- Price: Approximately £30.
3. Petkit Eversweet 3
This one’s for the tech-savvy dog mums. It’s equipped with a smart filtration system and even connects to an app, so you can track water usage and get reminders to refill or replace filters.
- Pros: Smart features, ultra-quiet, energy-efficient.
- Cons: More expensive than other options.
- Price: About £75.
4. Dogit Design Fresh & Clear Fountain
If you’re on a budget but still want a reliable fountain, this is a great choice. It holds up to 6 litres, making it perfect for larger breeds.
- Pros: Affordable, simple design, large capacity.
- Cons: Plastic material isn’t as durable.
- Price: £40-£50.
5. iPettie Tritone Ceramic Fountain
This fountain is as beautiful as it is functional. The ceramic design is both stylish and hygienic, and the quiet motor means it won’t disturb your peace.
- Pros: Elegant design, great for hygiene, quiet operation.
- Cons: Heavier and pricier than other models.
- Price: Around £80.
How to Maintain Your Dog’s Water Fountain
To get the most out of your fountain (and keep your dog healthy), regular maintenance is key. Here’s how to do it:
Clean It Weekly
Wash the fountain with mild soap and warm water to remove any buildup. If it’s dishwasher-safe, even better!
Replace the Filters
Most fountains require a filter change every 2-4 weeks, depending on usage. It might sound like a hassle, but it makes a huge difference in keeping the water fresh.
Check for Limescale
If you live in a hard water area (like me), you might notice limescale buildup over time. A quick soak with white vinegar can help remove it.
Inspect the Pump
Make sure the pump is working properly and isn’t clogged with hair or debris. A clean pump equals a happy pup!
Tips and Tricks for Getting the Most Out of Your Fountain
- Add Ice in Summer: If your dog loves cold water, pop a few ice cubes into the fountain on hot days.
- Use Filtered Water: This can extend the life of your fountain’s filter and reduce mineral buildup.
- Introduce It Gradually: Some dogs might be wary of a new fountain at first. Encourage them with treats or place the fountain near their favourite spot.
Real-Life Testimonials from Fellow Dog Mums
- Emma, Manchester: “The PetSafe Platinum was a lifesaver during last summer’s heatwave. My Labrador drank so much more, and I didn’t have to worry about refilling it every few hours!”
- Lucy, London: “I got the ceramic fountain for my little Maltese, and it’s not only functional but also looks gorgeous in my kitchen.”
- Jenna, Bristol: “The smart Petkit fountain is perfect for my busy schedule. The app reminders are brilliant!”
FAQs About Dog Water Fountains
Q: Are water fountains safe for all breeds?
A: Absolutely! Just make sure to pick the right size and flow rate for your dog’s breed and age.
Q: Can I leave the fountain running all day?
A: Yes, but ensure the pump is submerged to prevent damage.
Q: How much do fountains cost to run?
A: Most are energy-efficient and cost just pennies a day to operate.
Conclusion: A Simple Upgrade for a Healthier Pup
Investing in a dog water fountain might seem like a small change, but it can make a big difference in your dog’s health and happiness. From encouraging better hydration to keeping water fresh and clean, it’s a win-win for both you and your furry friend.
Check out the links above to find the perfect fountain for your pup, and don’t forget to let me know which one you choose. Here’s to happy, hydrated dogs everywhere!