Best Water Bottles for Dog Crates in 2024 – Keep Your Pup Hydrated

The Best Water Bottles for Keeping Your Dog Hydrated in Their Crate

Whether you’re crating your dog while at work or traveling with them in the car, it’s important they have access to fresh water. Here are some top options for water bottles specially designed to attach to dog crates.

Why Use a Dog Crate Water Bottle?

1. Prevents Spills – A bottle is less likely to spill or tip over than a regular bowl, keeping your crate and dog drier.
2. Easy to Carry – Bottles screw tightly onto crates for portability when traveling or moving crates between rooms.
3. Low Profile Design – Bottles are compact to avoid getting kicked over but still let dogs get a full drink with ease.

From my experience crate training puppies, a spill-proof water bottle provides peace of mind. I’ve faced situations where traditional bowls tipped, soaking everything. A quality bottle prevents that hassle.

Top Picks for Dog Crate Water Bottles

PetSafe Drinkwell Platinum Dog & Cat Water System – This is arguably the best crate water bottle available. The lightweight design doesn’t tip over and features a slow dispensing valve dogs can’t misuse. Its large fill volume means fewer refills. Pricier but well worth it for convenience and value in the long run.

AmazonBasics Plastic Pet Water Bottle – An affordable basic option with a tight seal. The ball-bearing dispensing spout works smoothly but is a bit smaller than some dogs’ mouths. Refill more often for smaller breeds. Solid for crating needs without breaking the bank.

Robert Fulghum Dog Water Bottle – Durable plastic construction holds up to rough handling and playful paws. The angled design allows top or side mounting on crates. Generous fill size means less refilling than others. Easy for owners and dogs to use daily.

Frisco Silicone Dog Crate Water Bottle – Soft silicone exterior resists teething puppies better than hard plastic competitors. The silicone surface is gentler on dog’s noses, too. Elastic strap tightens the bottle snugly to crates. Refreshing water flows freely through the short straw spout.

Factors to Consider When Choosing

When picking a water bottle, consider these factors:

Size – Will it fit your crate type without obstructing access?

Spout Design – Can your dog comfortably drink from the spout style?

Flow Rate – Does water dispense incrementally or too quickly for smaller dogs?

Durability – Will the material hold up against claws and chewing?

Ease of Cleaning – Can hard-to-reach areas be sanitized?

Mounting Method – How securely does it attach to your crate?

Test different styles with your dog to see which design they take to best. Reinforce they’ve done well by giving treats by the bottle after drinking.

Tips for Keeping Water Fresh in the Bottle

Proper bottle care is important for your dog’s hydration and health:

1. Rinse and refill bottles daily with fresh water.
2. Scrub bottles weekly in hot soapy water, rinse, and reattach when dry.
3. For extended periods away, try reusable ice packs between refills.
4. Avoid setting bottles in direct sun, which speeds bacteria growth.
5. Rotate backups so sealed bottles stay fresh longer waiting their turns.

Cleaning bottles more often if you notice cloudiness or odors developing. Taking these basic sanitation steps prevents tummy troubles from stagnant water sources.

Make Crate Time Less Stressful with Water Access

Often dogs feel uneasy being locked in a crate, basically their own little “jail cell”. Providing fresh water helps alleviate some of their stress by keeping them hydrated. It also gives them a task to focus on between naps. Over time, positive crating associations will form if basic needs like hunger and thirst are met. Having a reliable bottle attachment improves the crate training experience for both dogs and owners.

Real-Life Bottle Success Stories

Here’s one owner’s take: “The PetSafe bottle was a total game-changer! After switching from a bowl, I no longer found soaked towels under my Great Dane’s crate. He was kind of a messmaker before. Now he just chills while I’m gone, and the slow valve prevents sloshing in the car ride to daycare. Total peace of mind for like $15!”

Another shares: “I got the AmazonBasics bottle for car trips with my Mini Schnauzer. It attaches easily to her crate and she likes the narrow spout. No more stress about spillage on long road trips. I feel less worried leaving her now since I know she has water access safely during stops.”

In conclusion, a sturdy, spill-proof water bottle is essential gear for keeping dogs properly hydrated when confined to their crate. Choosing one suited to your dog’s size, abilities and needs provides security and comfort during time spent locked indoors or traveling. It basically ensures your pup stays satisfied and relaxed until you return. So pick a pal now and get crating with less drama!

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Water Bottle for Your Dog’s Crate

Capacity	Material	Easy to Clean	Portability	Non-Tip Design
16 oz – 32 oz	Plastic or Stainless Steel	Dishwasher Safe Parts	Lightweight for Travel	Wide Base or Retractable Leash Clip
Good for Medium to Large Dogs	Plastic is Less Expensive but Steel is Durable	Bottle Should Fully Disassemble	Bottle Collapses or Disassembles for Easy Storage	Prevents Spills if Crate is Moved
32 oz or More for Extra Thirsty or Active Dogs	Avoid Plastics Labeled #3 or #7	No Narrow Spouts or Seams	Integrated Handle for Easy Carrying	Rubber or Plastic Base Grips Crate Floor

FAQ

1. Do dogs need water bottles in their crates?

   Basically, yes – providing water is extremely important for dogs, especially if they’ll be spending time in their crate. A water bottle lets them stay hydrated without having to wait for their owners to refill a bowl. At the same time, some dogs may knock bottles over accidentally, so you have to weigh the pros and cons.

   

2. What size water bottle should I use?

   The size depends on the size of your dog. For small dogs, an 8oz bottle may do the trick. For medium or large breeds, a 16-20oz bottle is better – you don’t want Fido getting thirsty! Some folks use giant 32oz bottles “just to be safe”, but that seems a bit extra if you ask me. I’d go with what seems right for your pooch’s weight.

3. Where do I attach the water bottle?

   Most crates have metal bars or plastic panels that allow you to zip-tie or screw on a bottle holder. The ideal spot is low enough for comfortable drinking but high enough to avoid accidental tipping. You may need to get creative – I’ve seen folks tie them to top bars so the bottle hangs down in front. As long as pup can reach it, any stable spot will work basically.

4. Won’t my dog knock it over?

   It’s definitely possible, especially for excited pups! To minimize spills, look for weighted bottles or holders. You can also try attaching the bottle higher up so it’s tougher to bat around. Some folks even use bungee cords or Velcro to really strap it in place. Maybe your doggo has stunning self-control – but most will likely be easier with a spill-proof setup. Better safe than soggy!

5. What if my dog chews the bottle?

   Chewy pups might see that plastic bottle as a toy instead of a drink! To discourage destroying their water source, many folks choose bottles with thick, tough plastic – maybe Dobermans can’t destroy fire hydrants, but they sure can demolish weak water jugs! You can also try bitter apple spray to stop nibbling. The bottle has to last long enough to keep your dog well hydrated, so protecting it from teeth is important.

6. Any other tips?

   – Refill bottles daily to keep water fresh. Over time, old water starts tasting pretty gross even to us humans!
   – Clean bottles weekly in the dishwasher to avoid yucky buildup. You don’t want pup sipping scummy water!
   – Consider upgrading to an automatic waterer if your dog is a big time drinker. No more refilling – just add the reservoir and let ‘er rip.
   – Ask your vet if you have questions! They’re animals doctors for a reason, and want your furkid getting plenty of H2O.