Does My Dog Need a Water Fountain?

The question of whether your dog may need a water fountain may seem odd. However, it is something you should consider. Whether your dog could benefit from such a device depends on many factors relating to your dog’s lifestyle and their individual needs.

Water fountains for pets have gained popularity due to their many benefits, including promoting hydration and even preventing health issues. In this exploration, we will look at water fountains for dogs, and even touch briefly on how helpful they can be for our feline companions.

There are so many benefits when it comes to using water fountains for your dog. These benefits include:

• Promoting hydration: One of the biggest benefits of water fountains is that they encourage hydration in dogs. The constantly flowing water can be much more appealing than a bowl of stagnant water, making them more likely to drink.
• Preventing overconsumption: Some dogs will slurp up their water in one sitting, which can cause vomiting and discomfort. A water fountain is a controlled flow that can help your dog regulate their water intake.
• Filtered and clean water: Many water fountains come with filters that remove impurities, ensuring that your pup has clean and fresh water. This is super beneficial in areas where water quality may be of concern.
• Entertainment and mental stimulation: The flowing water can be very entertaining and add some mental stimulation for your pup. They may enjoy pawing at it or playing with the water.

What to Consider with a Dog Water Fountain

If you’ve decided to get a water fountain for your canine companion, you should consider:

• Your dog’s sensitivity to sound: Some dogs can be much more sensitive to sound than others which means that the hum of the water fountain could be bothersome. It is super important to see how your dog reacts and if they are comfortable with noise.
• Maintenance requirements: Water fountains must be cleaned regularly to prevent any bacteria that could build up. If you can’t commit to its upkeep, a water fountain won’t be ideal.
• The device’s size and accessibility: Consider your dog’s individual size and accessibility needs. Some breeds may struggle to reach water in certain fountain designs. Some will benefit from larger fountains if they have a higher storage capacity.
• Whether your dog prefers still water: Not all dogs actually LIKE flowing water. Some dogs prefer still water, and forcing them to use a fountain could just cause eventual dehydration.

Combating Dehydration in Dogs

There are many reasons why a dog may become dehydrated, from spending too much time outside to having to share a single water bowl with multiple dogs. While a water fountain is one way to quench your dog’s thirst, some other considerations include:

• Monitoring your dog on walks. If you notice your dog slowing down, panting excessively, or drooling, this could mean they need water. There are water bottles that double as water bowls for dogs. Just be sure not to share! Dogs have germs in their mouths.
• Offering ice cubes to your dog. There’s nothing better than sucking on an ice cube on a hot summer day. You could even freeze low-sodium beef broth for a bit of flavor.

Other Ways to Increase Canine Comfort

There are plenty of things you can do to help your canine feel more comfortable, and it all begins with being attuned to their needs. The following things can help your pet feel much better in their day-to-day lives:

• Orthopedic beds: Ensuring that your dog is comfortable is extremely important. Orthopedic beds are expertly designed to provide support to dogs dealing with joint issues, arthritis, and other discomfort problems. They can help promote better sleep, alleviate discomfort, and better their quality of life.
• Proper nutrition: Feeding your dog a balanced diet can change their life. It is fundamental that they get everything they need. Definitely speak to your vet to ensure that your dog is getting exactly what they need from their diet.
• Regular exercise: Dogs are animals that absolutely thrive on regular physical activity, and regular exercise is absolutely crucial for their physical and mental well-being. Creating a routine based on their breed, size, and energy levels will create a healthy, happy pet.

Cats Love Water Fountains

While the focus of this blog is primarily on dogs, water fountains are very much recommended for cats. As most cat owners will know, cats can be very picky when it comes to their water sources. Luckily, a fountain can attract them to drink much more water and more frequently.

This ensures that they get proper hydration. Cats are super prone to serious urinary tract issues, and offering adequate hydration can contribute to their overall well-being greatly. The sound of flowing water may also mimic natural water sources, encouraging your cat to drink more.

So, the answer to, “Should I get my cat a water fountain?” is YES!

Your Dog Deserves Nothing but the Best

At the end of the day, your decision to provide a water fountain for your dog will depend on many different factors. Most of these factors will be centered around your dog’s preferences, health considerations, and your lifestyle. While water fountains are handy and can offer numerous health benefits, some dogs may not like them.