How we love to exchange conversations over hot cocoa or gulp down a cup of eggnog to keep our insides warm and fuzzy during the cold months! But don’t forget that our furry pals also want to feel like just that, too. Unfortunately, there are many myths revolving about our pets’ capabilities to get through winter. Many dog and cat owners tend to think that pets are less likely to get dehydrated during the cold months. This is false!
Dehydration is a common problem in our pets during winter. Pets can easily get dehydrated in cold weather as much as they do during the summer months. The problem is a lack of fresh water supply, which you can address by getting a heated pet water bowl. However, vets and pet experts do not recommend giving your pets ice-cold water during these as times for it might contribute to hypothermia. This is especially true if you have a cat who refuses to stay indoors or a dog who loves to spend most of his time playing in the snow.
A heated pet bowl is designed to keep water fresh and invigorating so your furry pals can stay warm and hydrated throughout the winter weather. Additionally, it is a viable option for those who are planning on traveling to areas with extremely low temperatures. Heated water bowls are compact and are easy to carry.
So, how do you bag the best-heated water bowl for pets in the market? We narrowed down 10 of the best units on the market, so you won’t have to browse through hundreds of products. We also provided a short buying guide so you will have an inkling about the item you are looking for.
What to Look for
Capacity
Choosing an appropriately sized bowl saves you from doing constant refills. The capacity of the heated water bowl depends on your pet’s size, as well as the number of pets you have in your household. For instance, a heated water bowl with a 1.25-gallon capacity is too big for a Pomeranian. It is best suited to a large breed such as a Labrador Retriever or a German Shepherd. But if you have two or more small dogs, then a large bowl would be beneficial.
Materials Used
The construction materials are crucial, especially when electricity is involved. Heated pet bowls are mostly made of plastic or stainless steel. Stainless steel bowls are sturdier, hygienic, and are easier to clean than plastic ones. Most importantly, they do not warp or melt. However, they cost more.
Power Cord
The power cord should be long enough and must be encased in a protective material that keeps your pets safe, especially if you have an aggressive chewer in the house.
Heating Element
Some heated water bowls are plug and play devices, while others feature a thermostatically controlled built-in heater. If you don’t want to constantly monitor your pet’s water, opt for the latter. As its name indicates, a thermostatically controlled heater turns on to heat up your pet’s drink and automatically enters standby mode.
Another advantage of choosing a thermostatically controlled water bowl is low maintenance costs. Plug and play bowls increase your energy bill since it remains on for as long as it is plugged in.
10 Best Heated Water Bowls for Pets
1. K&H Thermal-Bowl Heated
Dogs and cats who love to play in the winter snow need a thermostatically-controlled water bowl by K&H Pet Products. In case you forgot, this product makes sure your pet has access to fresh drinking water all day. It has a capacity of 32 ounces, which is suitable for the needs of a small dog or is enough to keep a large dog’s thirst at bay.
This thermal water bowl is made with high-quality BPA-free plastic and has been deliberately tested by MET Laboratories. Certified safe, it exceeds the strict electrical safety standards in the USA and Canada. But not only is this product safe, it is also energy efficient. Its operation cost is less than your average dim light. It turns on and off as necessary to keep water warm, even when the temperature outside is 5°F. Adding to that, this thermal water bowl is a breeze to clean, as you only need to use a damp cloth for spot cleaning or a mild detergent for weekly cleanups.
This product may come from China, but take note that K&H has the lowest product returns in the pet industry. Its 5.5-inch steel-wrapped cord is abrasion-resistant and all the electrical components are safely sealed. Plus, the company offers a one-year warranty for your peace of mind.
With all these features, it comes as no surprise why this product is recommended by thousands of vets and pet experts!
pros
- Thermal operation keeps water warm all day, all night
- Water won’t frost even below 20°F
- Made with BPA-free plastic
- Accredited by MET Laboratories
- Energy efficient (uses only 25 watts)
- Comes with a 1-year warranty
- Internal heater and other electrical components are tightly sealed
- The 5.5-inch power cord is steel-wrapped and abrasion-resistant
cons
- Frost may still build up on the top edge of the bowl
- Water capacity does not meet suggested water intake for a large breed
2. Farm Innovators QT-1
A heated water bowl, such as the QT-1 by Farm Innovators, makes sure your pet’s water won’t freeze even through sub-zero temperatures. This bowl is thermostatically controlled. Its internal heater operates at 25 watts, so it is ideal for frugal consumers’ year-round use. It comes into play whenever the temperature drops below 35°F and thus, it prevents water from solidifying into ice.
With that, your pooch has access to water even if you are gone for a few hours. But, if you expect this heated water bowl to keep your pet’s water toasty, you’re wrong. This bowl only keeps the water from freezing, not necessarily making it warm.
Nevertheless, it boasts of a sturdy anti-tip construction. It can withstand multiple raccoon encounters and the wear and tear caused by your pet. Additionally, this heated water bowl is easy to clean and has a wide opening to boot. It has a capacity of 32 ounces, which is good enough for a small dog. If you have a large dog, you may have to refill it more often.
Bottom line, this product works like a charm at a price that surely delights! It has been proven effective and reliable over time, as many pet owners have used this product for their dogs, cats, and chickens winter after winter.
pros
- Thermal operation starts when the temperature drops below 35°F
- Water won’t ice even below 20°F
- Features a heavy-duty plastic construction that won’t tip
- Energy efficient (uses only 25 watts)
- Comes with a 1-year warranty
- Internal heater and other electrical components are tightly sealed
- The anti-chew power cord is about 5.5 inches long
cons
- Water stays liquid but it does not make it warm
- Sun exposure causes the paint to fade
- Needs frequent refilling for large dogs
3. PetFactors Thermal Water Bowl
Gone are the days where you have to refill your pet’s water bowl several times on a sub-zero day! The PetFactors Thermal Water Bowl has a capacity of one gallon, which makes it ideal for a large dog or if you have a colony of cats or bunnies. The bowl has a thoughtful design that allows multiple pets to drink simultaneously, as well as improve their drinking position.
Since there are thermostats inside, this water bowl automatically heats up to between 97 - 109°F to ensure no ice crystals will form in your pet’s drink. It won’t make your pet’s drink hot but rather maintain the right temperature for drinking. Fire or overheating is not a concern, as this water bowl shuts down automatically if the temperature reaches its maximum setting. It is also followed by a standby mode.
In addition, this unit features a waterproof on-off switch with a signal light so you can just glance out the window to see if it is working. You don’t have to open or close the switch every day, as the unit works continuously. It only uses 35 watts and comes with a well-made protected cable. What’s more, this product is available in three prints: camouflage, polka dots, and jungle blue. If you have a gigantic dog, this heated bowl probably isn't for you, but for a large dog, it's perfect!
pros
- 1-gallon capacity (3.8 liters) reduces the need for frequent refills
- Ideal for a group of small pets or a medium-sized dog
- Has a wide mouth to allow multiple pets to drink simultaneously
- Elevated design reduces strain on the neck
- Includes a waterproof on-off switch with signal light
- Features auto-shutdown and standby mode
- Generates warm water that is pleasant to the touch
- The 69-inch power cord is steel-wrapped to ensure safety and durability
cons
- Frost will still form around the edge of the water bowl
4. Allied Precision Industries Plastic Heated Water Bowl
Water is a crucial component in your pet’s diet, but it is difficult to come by in winter, especially if your furry companion refuses to stay indoors. The Allied Plastic Heated Water Bowl would be a good choice to keep your pet hydrated while he is out in the pastures during the cold season.
This heated water bowl holds 32 ounces of water. However, you need to watch the water level attentively, as it does seem to speed up evaporation. This unit doesn’t have the automatic on/off feature, unlike its competitors. Regardless, you can safely plug it for four to eight hours straight.
Moreover, this product operates using 35 watts, which is just enough to keep the water just above freezing temperature. Take note: it doesn’t heat up the water but rather prevents the formation of ice. The quality of the bowl is good for the price, but a heavy dog could tip it over if he starts messing around with the cord.
pros
- Always keeps water thawed
- Energy efficient (uses 35 watts)
- One of the easiest bowls to clean
- The chew-proof power cord is up to 4 ft. in length
- Good quality at an affordable price
- UL listed
cons
- Needs to be unplugged to shut down
- A thin layer of ice may still form if the temperature drops below 10°F
- Not windproof
- Needs frequent refilling as the bowl easily dries up when plugged in
5. Farm Innovators SB-60
The Farm Innovators SB-60 Stainless Steel Bowl is a good size for stray cats, birds, and for the wandering critters that pass by during winter. With a 1.25 gallon capacity, it holds enough water to quench a large dog outside.
This unit operates using 60 watts and keeps water thawed even during bitter below-zero temperatures. You can also use it to warm up moist food. However, water evaporates pretty fast with this bowl. According to a customer, a bowl that is half full will be gone within the next 12 hours. So, you need to do frequent refills, particularly if you use it for multiple pets.
Moreover, this product is a hygienic option for your pet because it is stainless steel. Likewise, it is a breeze to clean, but since the stainless steel bowl is permanently attached to its plastic housing, you have to only wash it manually.
We guarantee this unit is sturdy, reliable, and made to last for several years. As long as you don’t drop it from 6 feet off the ground, it will operate without fail.
pros
- Made with high-quality stainless steel
- Hygienic and easy to clean
- Thermostatically controlled
- Keeps water and moist food warm even when the temperature drops below zero
- 1.25-gallon capacity is large enough for one large dog or multiple pets
- The anti-chew power cord is approximately 5 ft.
- The cord can be coiled and kept to the bottom of the bowl for a tidy shelf appearance
cons
- Evaporates fast
- Not dishwasher-safe
6. Allied Precision Industries 1.25 gallons
This model by Allied Precision Industries is a great choice for a large dog or for multiple pets. It can hold up to 1.25 gallons of water and hence, wild birds and neighboring critters can also steal a drink.
It is thermostatically controlled and it operates using 50 watts. Performance-wise, this unit does a flawless job at keeping your pets’ drink nicely warm even when the temperature is below 0°F. We promise you won’t find a thin layer of ice all winter! Now that your pets have a safe and reliable source of water, they will no longer have to wait for you in the bitter cold!
Just like other products from Allied Precision Industries, this model is also UL listed. It is made with heavy-duty plastic so it won’t crack or melt, unlike some other plastic bowls. When winter is over, simply detach the heating element and use it as a regular water bowl. Its power cord is chew-proof, too.
Lastly, this dish is a cinch to clean and because of its high sides, it won’t collect dirt and debris as much. It is also fairly heavy, so it won’t get easily tipped over.
pros
- Thermostatically controlled
- Keeps water warm even when the temperature drops down to 0°F
- 1.25-gallon capacity is suitable for a large dog or for multiple small pets
- Saves you from constant refills
- Can be used as a regular water bowl when the heating element is removed
- A breeze to clean
- The power cord is approximately 4 ft.
- The cord can be coiled and kept to the bottom of the bowl for a tidy shelf appearance
- UL listed
cons
- Not dishwasher-safe
7. Farm Innovators D-19
The D-19 Heated Water Bowl by Farm Innovators is definitely a breath of fresh air with its bright red color and square sides! Its shape allows several pets to simultaneously drink water from the bowl. It has a 1.25-gallon capacity, so it holds enough water for a large dog or for several small animals. You can fill the bowl right up to the rim and the water won’t spill. Considering its size, the bowl is a little heavy, which is a good thing as it won’t easily tip over. It works great and is heavy and won’t tip over. This product is also easy to clean.
This product operates using 60 watts and is thermostatically controlled. It does a great job at keeping water toasty during winter even in sub-zero conditions. It also works fine if you use it to warm up canned food. It has a nice sturdy cord that won’t be affected by weather or water. The cord is also long to boot.
Unfortunately, many customers reported how the unit’s heating element easily burns through the bottom and causes the plastic component to melt to the floor. If you buy this product as a quick fix, we suggest you unplug it during the night hours.
pros
- Thermostatically controlled and operates at 60 watts
- 1.25-gallon capacity is ideal for multiple pets or one large dog
- Square sides allow more pets to drink
- Heavy and won’t easily tip over
- Easy to clean
- The cord measures 5 ft. long and has a metal protector to deter chewing
cons
- May overheat when plugged in for several hours straight
8. Namsan Heated Water Bowl
The Namsan Heated Water Bowl is recommended for barns, kennels, and for insulated pet houses. It features an automatic on-off overheating protection, so it shuts down when the water level is low. Thus, it grants you the peace of mind that your pet has access to clean lukewarm water at all times without worrying of potential fire hazards.
In addition, this heated water bowl has an LED indicator to let you know it’s working and a waterproof switch to boot. This unit has a capacity of 0.58 gallons and has a temperature control range between 77℉ – 109℉. At 35 watts, this product guarantees low energy costs.
Moreover, it includes a heavy-duty cord that measures four feet long. The cord is flexible and easy to place. All electrical components are safely sealed inside the bowl. Likewise, the cord is steel-wrapped to deter chewing.
pros
- Features a smart thermostat control and an LED light indicator
- Shuts down automatically
- Holds 0.58 gallons of water
- Energy efficient (uses 35 watts)
- Made with BPA-free plastic
- Accredited by ETL laboratories for safety
- Certified CE, RoHS, and IP67
- The power cord is 4 ft. long, chew-proof, and flexible
- The company offers a 1-year warranty
- Easy to clean
cons
- Needs frequent refills for a large pet
- Used only for roofed open spaces such as barns, kennels, and dog houses
9. Farm Innovators P-60
Got messy little drinkers? With a bowl this sturdy and deep, your pets would never have to tip over their water, or jump into the bowl and have it flying again. This unit is thermostatically controlled and it heats your pet’s water using 60 watts of power. Its built-in heater does a remarkable job at keeping water ice-free even in sub-zero temperatures.
Moreover, this heated water bowl holds 1.5 gallons of water. Since it holds a lot of water, you may also use this bowl as a bird bath for the wild birds and cute critters who come around. The bowl may not detach from the base but cleaning is not a problem. The cord is wired to keep chewing damage to a minimum. However, it is only three feet long so you may need to use an extension wire.
pros
- Large 1.5-gallon capacity
- Thermostatically controlled
- Uses 60 watts of power
- Features a durable anti-tip construction
- Deep and wide enough for bird bathing
- Guaranteed for 1 year
cons
- The wire around the cord may rust eventually
- The power cord is only 3 ft. long
10.Allied Stainless Steel Heated Pet Bowl
Water is always in short supply outdoors during winter, so why not gift your four-legged companion the best stainless heated water bowl this Christmas? The Allied Precision Industries Heated Water Bowl is thermostatically controlled, making your pet’s water nicely warm during the coldest days and nights! It is made with high-quality stainless steel so you can use it for many years to come.
With a 1.25-gallon capacity, it holds enough water to quench a big dog’s thirst during hot weather. Yes, you can use this bowl in summer by simply removing its heating element. Since it’s stainless steel, this water bowl is much easier to clean than the plastic ones. It is also dishwasher-safe.
Moreover, this 50-watt unit won’t overheat or get too hot. This product is UL listed, so you don’t have to worry that it might burn your house down. What’s more, its power cord is fully wrapped in a protective wire, making it difficult and quite undesirable to chew on.
Our only gripe is the gasket. Many customers mentioned that little cracks form underneath the bowl as a result of wear and tear. Unfortunately, the gasket isn’t under warranty and the company does not offer replacement parts for this. This is apparently a design flaw that the company should address.
pros
- Made with high-quality stainless steel
- A hygienic option
- Thermostatically controlled
- Keeps water ice-free even when the temperature drops down to 5°F
- 1.25-gallon capacity is large enough for one large dog
- The heating element is removable (can be used all year round)
- Cleans up well and is dishwasher-safe (much easier to clean than plastic)
- The power cord is approximately 4 ft.
- The cord can be coiled and kept to the bottom of the bowl for a tidy shelf appearance
- UL listed
cons
- The bottom part of the bowl needs improvement
- Tiny crusts of ice may still form on the top rim