How to Choose A Dog Drinking Fountain?

If you want to make sure your pooch has permanent access to clean water, it’s time to consider a dog drinking fountain. The problem is there are so many models on the market, pet parents don’t know what to look for and how to choose a dog drinking fountain. No worries, we’ve got you covered.

In this article we’ll explain all you need to know about filtration technology, circulation systems and pumps. And, of course, how to convince your pet the thing won’t bite him!

Dogs Love to Drink More Water than Cats

Dogs drink more water than cats, so they need to have a constant supply of fresh water, even when you’re at work all day. According to experts, to stay well hydrated, a dog needs an ounce of water per pound of body weight per day. A small 10-pound dog will need 10 oz of water, while a 50-pound one will need 50 oz. That’s a lot of water, and sometimes you just don’t have the time to fill that bowl once it’s empty. If you have more pets, just add up their water needs to see what tank capacity the drinking fountain should have.

Also, keep in mind that pregnant and lactating dogs need more water, and so do puppies.

Guide about Using Dog Drinking Fountain

When you get your brand-new dog drinking fountain, you might be tempted to show your dog how it works immediately. Don’t rush it. Put it on the floor and let the dog sniff around it for a bit. Just that he gets used to it.

Next step, remove the water bowl and turn the fountain on. Encourage the dog to sniff around some more. Dogs actually like running water. In the wild they used to drink from rivers, so it’s in their instincts. You just need to wake up that instinct.

If the dog is reluctant to drink, you can try wetting his lips with a little water from the fountain to give him a taste of it. Most dogs love the fresh cool water of a drinking fountain.

Yet, dogs have a powerful smell and he might find the new water unfamiliar. You can trick your dog by smearing the end of the drinking fountain with a little nutritional cream. Or perhaps a bit of peanut butter. Some chicken broth in the water, maybe. Just until he gets used to it. Don’t worry, all the parts of the water fountain are very easy to clean!

Advantages of Dog Drinking Fountains

There are many advantages to switching to a dog water fountain, besides you not having to fill the dog’s bowl all the time. Water coming from a drinking fountain is actually cleaner than the one that sits in a bowl for hours. And a fountain keeps the water 1-2 degrees cooler than the water in the bowl. Dogs love cool water, especially on hot summer days.

• Circulation system

A drinking fountain keeps the water circulating, and this is not only fun to watch, but also safer for your dog. Water that keeps circulating keeps bacteria and other nasty things from multiplying. Also, it won’t get a film of dust, hair and what not like the water left in the bowl all day.

• Filtration technology

When you shop around for a dog water fountain, make sure it has some type of filtration, preferably charcoal-activated filters. The filters remove bacteria from the water, as well as dirt particles or hairs. Your dog’s water will be as safe as can be.

• Quiet pump

Look for a water fountain with a quiet pump. For your own good as well as that of your dog. Some dogs may get scared if the contraption you just bought makes too much noise. He might not want to get anywhere near it. Fortunately, dog water function manufacturers know about that! And you’ll be much happier if you don’t hear a whirring sound all night. Some models are so quiet you can keep the water fountain in your bedroom, if your pet wants to cuddle with you.

• Independent inner tank

After you’ve decided what tank capacity best fits your needs, well, those of your pets, that is, look for a model with an independent inner tank. You want a drinking fountain with an easily-detachable tank for express cleaning. In most cases, a quick rinse will do the trick, but from time to time you might want to give it a more thorough clean. Most water tanks are dishwasher safe, but give it an extra rinse to make sure it doesn’t smell funny.

• Water pump protection mechanism

Dogs are curious and like to stick their nose where they have no business doing so. When you choose a drinking fountain, make sure it is equipped with a water pump protection mechanism. This way he won’t get hurt, and he won’t damage the fountain.

• Material safety

The whole point of buying a dog water fountain is to make sure he has safe, clean water. To make sure of that, have a look at the material the tank and bowl are made of. Many water fountain models use plastic, which is great. Just make sure it’s food-grade and BPA-free.

Hope these introductions can help you if you’re planning to have a dog drinking fountain!