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Dogs can benefit from a water fountain as much as humans can. Not only do they provide a steady stream of fresh, filtered water, but it’s also a convenient way to ensure you do not have to constantly fill up their empty water bowl. Pet drinking fountains come in various options depending on your pet’s needs and preferences. I dip into the best water fountains for dogs on the market and my top picks for each category, from the best outdoor dog fountains to automatic pet water dispensers and more.
| Overall | Basic | Battery-Operated | Outdoor | Interactive |
|---|---|---|---|---|
 |  |  |  |  |
| Pektaco | Veken | PetLibro | PetSafe | Trio Gato |
| View On Amazon | View on Amazon | View on Chewy | View on Chewy | View On Amazon |
| Read Review | Read Review | Read Review | Read Review | Read Review |
Benefits Of Dog Water Fountains vs. Bowls
Although you might think investing in a dog water fountain sounds like more hassle than it’s worth, they are relatively easy to set up and maintain. Plus, there are several benefits of having dog water fountains over standard water bowls, including:
- They Help Keep Pups Hydrated. Running water stimulates dogs to drink more, which improves their health. Water fountains are great for pets who need encouragement to drink more water. Learn more about how much water dogs should drink daily.
- Constant Water Supply. You never worry about running out of water if you’re gone for extended periods. They’re also great for homes with multiple animals where you must refill the water bowl more frequently.
- Better Quality Water. The constant recirculation of water keeps it fresh. Most come with filters to add an extra layer of protection against harmful chemicals and a tray to remove debris and hair.
- Fun To Use. Dogs love the motion of the water trickling. Some dogs might think it’s a game and are more likely to want to drink from it.
6 Things To Consider When Picking A Dog Fountain
To reap the benefits of a pet water dispenser, consider the best option for your needs. Here are the six main factors to consider when picking the best dog water fountain.
1. Quality
Electric components and water aren’t the most intuitive pairing, so you must buy a quality option built to last. You don’t have to spend a lot, but if you want it to last, you should avoid buying the cheapest. Some options come with a year’s warranty (subject to eligibility), which usually illustrates their quality; if not, you can get a replacement. Another great way to establish its quality is to look at reviews from other buyers. For these reasons, I only recommend good-quality pet water dispensers with high ratings.
2. Capacity
If you have one dog or a small breed, you might want to pick a smaller option that takes up less room and is easier to drink from. If you have multiple pets or a large breed doggo, you should consider a bigger fountain with a larger water capacity that is more comfortable to use. Most options range from two to four liters, while some reach 12. Some options use the gallon measurement, and one US gallon equals approximately 3.8 liters. Learn more about water intoxication and how much water is too much.
3. Easy To Refill & Clean
Water fountains that are easy to refill are important. Although you should refill them daily, this isn’t always realistic. I lean towards fountains with easy-to-fill tanks using a pitcher without making too much mess. If you’re looking for a new water bowl for this reason, check out our guide on no-spill water bowls for more options.
Water fountains also need regular cleaning to ensure the water quality remains at its best. Fountains with fewer components are easier to disassemble and clean. Owners are less likely to stick with them if they’re too tricky to take apart. Some options can go in the dishwasher, which makes maintaining them much easier. We have a guide to the safest pet cleaning products to use.
4. Noise
Water pumps can be noisy, and the noise level is an essential consideration in a pet water fountain. If you want a fountain with a low sound output, be sure to look at the description and reviews. Motor sounds don’t bother me, and I love the sound of trickling water, but some owners can’t stand it either. And some dogs avoid objects or gadgets with a buzz-type sound. If this is you or your pup, look for no-to-low-noise options.
5. Power Source
Sockets power most pet water fountains, so you must consider the fountain’s placement. However, some options are battery-powered and wireless. Both options have benefits, so you must consider which suits your space and needs best. If you travel frequently, a battery-powered option might be better.
6. Features
Some water fountains have features that can make maintaining them more manageable. For example, a few have a light, window, or app alert so you know when it needs topping up so that Fido never runs out of water. This isn’t necessary for everyone, but it can help some stay on top of water fountain maintenance.
Best Pet Water Fountain
Now for the best pet water fountain reviews. I’ve explored various pet water fountains to help you find the best fit for you and your pup. After considering its features and weighing up the pros and cons of each, I’ve placed them into categories. So, here are my top picks.
Best Overall Pet Fountain: Pektaco Stainless Steel Fountain Review
This pet water fountain is the best overall, thanks to its features and reasonable price. It is a stainless steel bowl with a visible water window so you know when water is running low and can visibly monitor the quality of the water. It has an average 3.2-liter capacity, ideal for small and medium-sized dogs. This fountain has dual water flow, so you can customize the way the water flows thanks to the optional faucet. This recirculating dog water bowl is customizable to suit your pup’s preferences.
The 15W water pump is energy efficient and operates at a noise level below 25dB, and users agree with the low noise description. The 304 stainless steel material is BPA-free, rust-resistant, and easy to clean. Pektaco has upgraded its water purification system from previous models to create a more hygienic system and enhance quality water. It utilizes pre-sponge filtration, along with ionic resin and activated carbon filters. This plug-in fountain comes with a one-year warranty, too.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Made with durable stainless steel | It only comes with 1 filter |
| It has a water window | |
| Features 2 water flow options | |
| Low noise | |
| Upgraded triple filtration system | |
| Reasonable price | |
| 1-year warranty |
Pricing
- Fountain: $29.99 ($29.99 / Count)
- Replacement Filters (6-pack): $21.99
Best Basic Pet Water Fountain: Veken Automatic Pet Fountain Review
This Veken pet fountain is an excellent option as a started water fountain. It is a budget option, and it holds 2.8 liters, making it ideal for smaller dogs, and it doesn’t take up too much space in the home. It has two levels to make it easy for pets of all sizes to drink from (including birds and cats.) This fountain comes in various colors and styles to suit your preference and decor. It features a water-level window to indicate when it needs refilling and has a light that you can switch on and off.
There are two drinking modes: flower mode, which creates numerous faucet flows, and a gentle fountain option, which is more similar to a standard bowl but with central bubbling. The five-stage filtration system keeps water fresh, and it comes with two filters. Veken offers a one-year warranty, which is great for a basic option. Some users report that cleaning can be fiddly, and you need a bottle brush cleaner to get into the small spaces.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Water level window to see when it needs refilling | Not easy to clean |
| Quiet and long-lasting pump | No smart shut-off feature |
| Good-grade, BPA-free material | Some users report small leaks |
| 4 colors to choose from (blue, grey, teal, green) | Small water capacity |
| Triple filtration system (ion, carbon, and cotton) | |
| It comes with 2 replacement filters | |
| LED light | |
| 1-year warranty |
Pricing
Best Battery-Operated Pet Water Fountain: PetLibro Wireless Fountain Review
View on Amazon | View on Chewy
If you’re limited in space and without power, this battery-operated pet water fountain from PetLibro might be a good fit. It can hold up to 2.5 liters of water. This wireless pump and charging base have no external wires, so you can place it anywhere in your home. It is also an excellent option for traveling, and you don’t have to worry about power cuts. This fountain emits 23dB noise level, making it very quiet, which users agree and are very happy with. The stainless steel bowl and simple design make it easy to clean and dishwasher safe (except for the pump.)
The built-in rechargeable battery can last up to 30 days on a single charge thanks to the 5,000mAh lithium-ion battery. However, this is based on average cat usage, so it will likely be less for a canine. Many users state it lasts about a week for their pups, which is a handy reminder to clean it. This fountain alerts you to low water and low battery. The induction mode activates a 42-second water flow when it senses your pet within 50cm, which allows it to preserve power and stimulates your dog to drink. If you want continuous water flow, it can also be plugged in. The water pump switches off when the water level becomes too low or detects a foreign object, preventing burnout and blockages.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Battery operated | The constant mode requires plugging in |
| Quiet noise level | Not ideal for larger dogs |
| Alerts you to low battery and water | On the pricier side |
| Auto-switch off when water becomes too low or detects foreign objects | |
| Easy to clean, dishwasher safe | |
| 2 water modes, motion-activated or constant | |
| Great for traveling with |
Pricing
Best Pet Water Fountain For Outdoors: PetSafe Drinkwell Everflow Dog Fountain Review
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PetSafe’s Everflow fountain is an excellent outdoor dog water fountain option. This fountain holds up to 192 ounces of water, approximately 5.7 liters. A 12-liter option is also available. Both options are ideal for larger dogs or multi-pet households. The fountain can be hooked up to your garden house and automatically refill itself when it runs out of water, making it easy to use. This outdoor dog fountain is durable, UV-resistant, and withstands weather elements.
PetSafe’s fountain is easy to clean, and all parts except the pump are dishwasher-safe. The fountain-style water encourages pups to drink, and the motor is relatively quiet. Some people have reported turning this outdoor pet water fountain into an indoor one by connecting it to a garden hose with their sink or an adapter to their indoor water supply. Only a few users report that the attachment occasionally pops off when attached to the garden hose outside.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| It can be used indoors or outdoors | If used outdoors, it requires a power source (not weather permitting) |
| Made with UV-resistant, BPA-free plastic | On the pricey side |
| Large capacity, suitable for pets of all sizes | Some users report fit attachment popping off when attached to garden hose |
| Dual filter (carbon and foam) | |
| Dishwasher safe | |
| The free-falling stream mimics a faucet | |
| No need to refill (if hooked up to the garden hose) |
Pricing
- Fountain: Check Amazon for availability
- Replacement Filters: Visit Chewy
Best Interactive Pet Water Fountain: Trio Gato Dog Outdoor Step-On Dispenser Review
This outdoor water fountain lets dogs step on the paw-activated drinking pet dispenser. If your dog is smart enough to figure it out, they can get water that shoots into the air, which turns staying hydrated into a fun game. The inner filter ensures the water quality is suitable for drinking and has non-slip pads to prevent slipping. This fountain has a training PDF file with great tips to help Fido work it out.
This option is made with heavy-gauge steel to make it durable against constant use. It also comes with a Y hose splitter, so you can keep it hooked up to your hose without worrying about constantly changing it around. The valves allow you to control water pressure. The hose is made with anti-bite material, which is great for curious pups, and the paint coating is anti-rust to improve its longevity. This water fountain for dogs outdoors is fun for the whole family, and kids can have fun with it, too.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Can control water pressure | It can only be used outdoors and must be hooked up to a hose |
| Interactive element for stimulation | Better for larger dogs |
| Dogs can drink unlimited water on demand | |
| Made of steel and has friction pads to prevent sliding | |
| Comes with a Y-hose splitter | |
| Great fun for the whole family |
Pricing
Best Dog Water Fountain For Large Breeds: PetSafe Drinkwell Outdoor Water Fountain Review
View on Amazon | View on Chewy
You need a big dog water fountain if you have a large pup. This large dog water dispenser from PetSafe is my top pick for the best large dog water fountain due to its capacity of 450 oz. With 3.5 gallons of water, you don’t have to refill it often and can even hydrate multiple big dogs or animals at a time. It’s the largest on my list and one of the largest on the market. The water stream encourages dogs to drink, and the high sides prevent water from spilling.
It has refillable one-gallon reservoirs that indicate the water level. This fountain isn’t the most stylish option, but it’s easy to clean and safe to put on the top rack of the dishwasher. It’s great for outdoor and indoor use, although it is quite bulky for inside the home. PetSafe’s large dog water dispenser comes with a one-year manufacturer warranty for peace of mind.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| 12-liter water capacity | Limited filtration system (carbon only) |
| UV-resistant BPA-free plastic for use indoors or outdoors | Bulkier design and limited technology features |
| 5.5′ long, anti-bite cord | On the expensive side |
| Dishwasher safe to clean | |
| Refillable reservoirs | |
| 1-year warranty |
Pricing
Best For Dispensing Only: Junspow Pet Automatic Water Dispenser Review
You might want a pet water dispenser if you need an easy way to keep your dog’s bowl full without the fountain feature. This automatic dog water dispenser uses gravity to fill the water when it’s low, so you don’t have to worry about a pump or noise. You won’t get many bells and whistles with this essential water dispenser, but it does the trick for those who need convenience and can’t fill the water often.
It holds nearly 2.5 liters, which makes it better suited to smaller pups. This option doesn’t filter the water; it only dispenses whatever water you fill it with. It is reasonably priced and comes in white or a more stylish black option, with a stainless steel bowl. The clear bucket allows you to view the water level. It can be used outside and doesn’t require a power source. Few users reported water getting under the bowl, causing it to float.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| No pump or motor means it’s quiet | Smaller water dish, more difficult for larger dogs to drink from |
| No power required or filters to replace | No light or smart features |
| Transparent bucket to see the water level | Some report difficult-to-clean and low-quality |
| It comes in 2 colors | No advanced filtration system |
| Made from food-grade materials | |
| It comes with a pet placemat |
Pricing
Best Ceramic Water Dispenser: PetSafe Drinkwell Ceramic Pet Water Fountain Review
View on Amazon | View on Chewy
This ceramic fountain holds 70 ounces of water, just under two liters, making it the smallest on my list. But if you’re searching for a stylish ceramic bowl, this is a great water dispenser for smaller dogs. This seascape design looks like a zen spa and will blend in with a home without looking like a dog water bowl. Its dual filtration system improves water quality, collects hair and debris, and removes odors and bad taste. This option needs a power source but comes with a relatively long cord.
The soft flow and low water pressure mean the pump is quiet, and some dogs find this much more appealing. This water fountain is easy to clean and can go on the top rack of your dishwasher. It is on the pricier side, but it is about as pretty as dog water bowls come. The price is the only criticism of this bowl, but customers state it has encouraged more water drinking, so it is worth the higher price tag. This option comes with a one-year warranty and is a great recirculating dog water bowl.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Elegant design | It does not automatically shut off |
| Ceramic material is not prone to bacteria or mold | There is no reserve tank of water – all in the bowl itself |
| Dual filtration system | On the pricey side |
| 5.5 ft cord | |
| Dishwasher safe | |
| Quiet noise level | |
| 1-year warranty |
Pricing
- Fountain: $94.95
- Replacement Foam Filters (2-pack): $5.59
- Replacement Carbon Filters (12-pack): $12.95
Things To Consider When Using A Dog Fountain
There are several factors you want to consider about the kind of dog drinking fountain you need and where to place it in your home. Here are the main considerations:
- Near A Plug. Most dog water fountains require a power source, so you need to place it close to an outlet.
- Low Traffic Area. The dog water fountain might splash and spray droplets of water onto the floor, so it’s best to have it tucked away so that passersby won’t slip and fall. The cord could become a trip hazard. Placing it on a rubber mat makes it easier to clean, too.
- Accessible For Fido. It needs to be somewhere your pup can access.
- Noise Level. The sound of a water fountain might relax or keep you up at night. Based on your tolerance level for the noise, make sure you put the dog water dispenser somewhere that’s ideal.
How To Keep A Pet Water Fountain Clean
Now that you have a better idea of the kinds of fountains available, you might wonder how to prevent slime in the fountain. You must clean your water fountain regularly to prevent mold and bacteria and maintain water quality and function. You should never put anything else in the fountain besides water, even if they are one of the few dogs that like sparkling water.
Cleaning usually consists of disassembling it and washing all the parts with a sponge or brush, warm, soapy water, and changing the filter. Some products can be cleaned in the dishwasher, but not the pump. Cleaning instructions vary by make and model, but this video should give you a good idea of the maintenance involved and how to change the filter.
Frequently Asked Questions
Keeping our pups hydrated is vital for their health and well-being, and many of our readers still have questions. If you don’t see yours below, let us know in the comments, and we’ll find the answer for you.
Are Water Fountains Good For Dogs?
Although dogs don’t need filtered water, water fountains are a great way to provide and encourage hydration with high-quality water. Dog water dispensers give your pup continuous access to fresh, filtered water without requiring you to refill their bowl constantly. Water filtering removes the chlorine, other chemicals, and bacteria, and it usually tastes fresher. It achieves this by running it through several filters, including foam and carbon filters. Many dog water fountains have a built-in filter that recirculates and refreshes water and removes hair and debris.
Do Water Fountains Need Filters?
While technically, you can use these water fountains without a filter, it’s best to have the water as clean as possible for your pup. Each dog water fountain’s filters are unique to the product, and using the wrong or knock-off filter can reduce the fountain’s life. So, I added replacement filters in the pricing section for each fountain I reviewed for your convenience.
Do Dogs Like Water Fountains?
Like water fountains for humans, they are refreshing, and most are filtered for better water quality. So who wouldn’t like them? Plus, for dogs, the sound of water is stimulating and is more interactive than standard water bowls. However, some dogs might take a while to get used to a fountain, so changing from a bowl to a dispenser might require patience. If your dog needs a little variety in their beverages, check out our alternative drinks for dogs.
Are Dog Water Fountains Worth It?
Access to fresh and clean water is critical to your dog’s health and happiness, and a water fountain can improve the water quality and intake. A gentle flowing stream may make your pet more excited to drink, and it stimulates them, too. Having a dog water fountain in the summer means that the water can remain cool and refreshing.
Water Fountain Alternatives
If you’re not sure a pet water fountain is the best option for you or your pup, you might be looking for an alternative to your water bowl. We review the popular and top-quality Yeti dog bowls. And it might be a good time to upgrade your dog food bowl. You might also be interested in our review of dog water bottles for drinking on the go.
Have you tried any of these water bowls? Perhaps you have another that your dog loves to drink from? Let us know your experiences and other recommendations in the comments below.
Why Trust Canine Journal?
Emma has over 20 years of experience with dogs and is the proud owner of two rescue dogs. Her senior dog, Bonkers, forgets to hydrate, so she always looks for ways to encourage him to drink water. She has also worked as a professional dog walker and sitter for many years, caring for countless dog breeds with different needs. Emma dedicates many hours to researching the latest pet care, health, food, and training developments to keep her two best buddies and other doggy clients as happy and healthy as possible. She works with a professional and experienced team to give our readers the best, most accurate, and up-to-date information.
