Do Dogs Need a Water Fountain? A Vet‘s Perspective on the Pros and Cons
As a veterinarian and lifelong dog lover, I‘m often asked by pet parents if they should get a water fountain for their canine companion. Many have seen these products advertised as an ideal way to keep their dog hydrated, but aren‘t sure if they‘re really necessary or worth the investment. In this article, I‘ll break down how dog water fountains work, explore their benefits and drawbacks, and ultimately help you decide whether one might be right for your pup.
How Do Dog Water Fountains Work?
A dog water fountain is essentially an electric-powered dispenser that continuously circulates water through a filtration system. The main components are:
- Water reservoir – Holds the water supply, usually a larger capacity than a standard bowl
- Pump – Sits in the reservoir and pumps the water up through the fountain
- Filter – Removes impurities from the water as it flows through
- Spout or fountain – The part the water comes out of, usually designed for easy drinking
- Bowl or basin – Catches the flowing water for your dog to drink from
The pump constantly circulates the water from the bowl back through the filter and out the spout again. This movement helps prevent bacteria growth and keeps the water tasting fresh. The filter catches hair, dirt, food particles and other debris.
Potential Benefits of a Dog Water Fountain
Fresher, Filtered Water
The constant circulation and filtration can provide cleaner, better-tasting water than what may sit stagnant in a regular bowl. Dogs‘ mouths harbor a lot of bacteria, which they transfer to their water bowl when drinking. The filter removes this along with any foreign material like dust or hair. So a fountain can be beneficial if you notice your dog‘s water quickly getting slimy or dirty in their regular dish.
Entices Reluctant Drinkers
The stream from a fountain can actually encourage more water consumption for dogs who don‘t drink enough. Vets estimate around 1 in 5 dogs drink less than their daily needs. If your pup is prone to dehydration or you just want to get them to drink more, a fountain may pique their interest more than a stagnant bowl. The running water stimulates their natural instinct to drink from moving sources like rivers and streams.
Easier for Owners
Most fountains hold a larger water capacity than standard bowls, some up to a gallon or more. This means you can fill it less often while still providing your dog with plenty of fresh water – great for busy owners or those who work long hours away from home. The filter also cuts down on how frequently you need to wash the actual bowl.
Cons to Consider
Higher Cost
Dog water fountains range anywhere from $20 to $200 depending on size and features. Even at the low end, this is quite a bit more than a basic stainless steel or ceramic bowl. Replacement filters are also an ongoing cost to factor in. However, the convenience and potential health benefits may outweigh the added expense for some dog owners.
Regular Maintenance Required
While a fountain can cut down on daily washing, it‘s not completely hands-off. The pump and filter require regular maintenance to prevent clogging and keep things flowing smoothly. Manufacturers generally recommend changing the filter every few weeks and cleaning the fountain once a week. Ignoring this can lead to fountain malfunctions and defeat the purpose of providing cleaner water. You‘ll still need to scrub and sanitize it routinely.
Noise and Splashing
Some dogs may find the trickling noise of a fountain annoying or disturbing, especially if they‘re already sensitive to sounds. Placing it away from their sleeping area can help. Certain fountain designs are also prone to splashing, which can leave puddles around the bowl – problematic if your dog likes to play in their water. Reading product reviews can give you an idea of which models are quietest and least messy.
The Bottom Line
So back to our main question – do dogs need a water fountain? In most cases, no. The majority of dogs will drink adequate amounts of water from a regular bowl without any issues. However, dog water fountains can certainly be beneficial in some situations. I recommend them most for:
- Dogs who aren‘t big drinkers or don‘t seem to like still water
- Households with multiple pets who quickly contaminate a shared water bowl
- Owners who work long days and worry about their dog‘s water supply
- Pups with recurrent urinary issues who need to up their water intake
Choosing the Right Water Fountain
If you do decide to get your dog a water fountain, selecting the right one is key. Consider your dog‘s size, drinking habits, and your household needs. Here are some factors to look at:
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Capacity – You want a fountain with a water reservoir large enough to accommodate your dog‘s daily needs, especially if you won‘t be home for frequent refills. A good rule of thumb is 1 ounce of water per pound of body weight.
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Material – Plastic, ceramic, and stainless steel are the most common materials. Plastic is lightweight and inexpensive, but can harbor bacteria over time. Ceramic is stylish but fragile. Stainless steel is the most durable and hygienic.
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Filtration – Fountain filters are typically made from activated carbon, charcoal, or foam. Look for one that‘s easy to remove and clean. Some models even have multiple filtration levels.
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Noise level – If you have a skittish dog or just want to minimize noise, read reviews to find a fountain with a quiet pump.
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Ease of cleaning – Since regular cleaning is essential, choose a fountain that disassembles easily and is safe to put in the dishwasher.
Proper Fountain Maintenance
To get the most benefits from a dog water fountain, you have to commit to a regular cleaning and maintenance schedule. These are my vet-approved tips:
- Rinse and refill the fountain daily, completely emptying it once a week for a thorough cleaning.
- Replace the filter every 2-4 weeks, or more often if you notice a decrease in water flow.
- Disassemble the fountain and wash all parts (except the pump) in hot, soapy water at least once a week. Use a brush to remove any slimy biofilm.
- Soak the parts in a 50/50 mixture of water and white vinegar for 10-15 minutes to remove hard water deposits.
- Rinse everything thoroughly before reassembling and refilling. Make sure the pump is completely dry before plugging it back in.
Additional Ways to Keep Your Dog Hydrated
While a well-maintained water fountain can help encourage your dog to drink more, it‘s not the only way to prevent dehydration. In addition to providing fresh water around the clock, you should also:
- Offer water before, during and after exercise or playtime.
- Re-fill your dog‘s bowl or fountain with cool water on hot days.
- Provide multiple water stations around your home and yard.
- Include moisture-rich foods in your dog‘s diet, like canned food or homemade broths.
- Use a pet water bottle or collapsible bowl on walks and car rides.
- Add water to dry kibble or offer it as a "gravy" to entice picky drinkers.
Know the signs of canine dehydration, including lethargy, sunken eyes, dry mouth, and loss of skin elasticity. If you notice any of these symptoms along with decreased drinking, take your dog to the vet right away. Proper hydration is essential for your pup‘s overall health and quality of life.
While a water fountain isn‘t a necessity for every dog, it can be a worthwhile investment for many households. By providing fresh, filtered water and encouraging your dog to drink more, a fountain may help support their kidney and urinary health. Choosing the right model for your needs and keeping up with regular maintenance will ensure your pup gets the most benefits.
