Updated August 10, 2024
Does your dog enjoy running around the yard? Do they love the water? A dog sprinkler is a fun way to combine the two and let your dog have some fun in the sun.
This post will look at dog sprinklers and the different types available to help you choose the best one for you and your pup.
Table of Contents:
| What Are Dog Sprinklers? | |
| Are Sprinklers Good For Dogs? | |
| Do Dogs Like Playing In Sprinklers? | |
| Can Dogs Drink From A Sprinkler? | |
| What Are The The Types Of Dog Sprinklers? | |
| Best Dog Sprinklers |
Related: Best Splash Pad For Dogs To Beat The Heat, Pool Steps And Ramps For Dogs, Best Dog Cooling Mat To Beat The Heat, Best Dog Cooling Vests For Hot Days, Best Dog Pools To Keep Your Pup Cool, The Best Life Jacket For Your Dog
What Are Dog Sprinklers?
Dog sprinklers are sprinklers made to be used and have fun by dogs. They allow your dog to run around while getting wet and cooling off at the same time.
Dog sprinklers usually also have some kind of anchoring system that allows for the sprinkler to stay in place if your dog knocks into it while playing.
Are Sprinklers Good For Dogs?
Sprinklers can be a great alternative to having a pool. It is more affordable and it allows your dog to run and burn off more energy.
That said, always supervise your dog while playing with a sprinkler. They may slip and fall or try to drink the water coming out of the sprinkler, which is not safe for them to do.
Do Dogs Like Playing In Sprinklers?
This is more of a personal preference for your dog. We had a dog that loved to lounge in a baby pool but hated sprinklers. Our current dog hates water in general and won’t even walk past a house with a sprinkler while out on walks.
Your dog may enjoy running around and chasing the water coming out of the sprinkler or they may hate it. You won’t know unless you give it a try with your dog.
Can Dogs Drink From A Sprinkler?
Dogs should not be allowed to drink from a sprinkler. One reason is if your sprinkler attaches to a garden hose. If so, your dog may be exposed to toxic chemicals, like lead, in addition to bacteria or other microbes which can make your dog sick.
Another reason is if your dog drinks too much water from a sprinkler, this can lead to water intoxication. According to the American Kennel Club, symptoms of water intoxication include:
- Lethargy.
- Bloating.
- Vomiting.
- Loss of coordination.
- Restlessness.
- Drooling.
- Pale Gums.
- Dilated Pupils.
- Glazed Eyes.
As symptoms progress, your dog may have difficulty breathing, develop seizures, slip into a coma, all of which can lead to death.
This is yet another reason why it is important to always supervise your dog when playing in the sprinkler.
What Are The The Types Of Dog Sprinklers?
There are a few different types of sprinklers available for your dog to enjoy. These include inflatable, step on, and hose sprinklers. Let’s look at each.
Inflatable Sprinklers
These sprinklers come in different shapes and sizes. They are lightweight and can be transported anywhere. To use this type of dog sprinkler, it needs to be inflated. Once inflated, attach your garden hose. Turn on the water and watch your dog have some fun!
Pros:
- Easy to use.
- Can be used anywhere there is a hose attachment.
- Easy to store – just deflate it.
Cons:
- Lightweight so can blow away if it is not anchored properly.
- You need a pump to fill it with air.
- Can be easily punctured by your dog’s teeth or nails during playtime.
Step-On Dog Sprinkler
A step-on dog sprinkler has a platform that your dog steps on to make the water come out of it. This allows your dog to control when and how much water flows from it. To use this type of sprinkler, attach it to a water supply or garden hose. Some step on dog sprinklers have a filter so the water is safe to drink, others do not. Some allow for a steady stream of water to come out, others do not. So you may need to look around to find one that suits your dog’s behaviors.
Pros:
- Teaches your dog to press the platform to make the water come out.
- Your dog determines when the water comes out.
- Can act as a water source for your dog to drink if it is filtered.
Cons:
- May or may not offer a steady stream of water for your dog to play with.
- Water is not always filtered.
Hose Sprinkler
A hose sprinkler has water that comes out of one or two hoses that move around in an unpredictable way. This allows your dog to run around and chase the water as the hose sprays water in all directions. This type of sprinkler attaches to your garden hose.
Pros:
- Easy to use.
- Weighted to avoid movement as your dog plays with it.
- Can have one or two hoses for your dog to play with.
- Encourages your dog to run around.
Cons:
- Some dogs may not like the unpredictability of it.
- Dogs may try to attack the hoses.
- Water is not filtered.
Best Dog Sprinklers
Here are 5 dog sprinklers to give your dog some outdoor fun. Product information is according to the manufacturer.
Best Inflatable
BigMouth Pet Balloon Dog Sprinkler
This sprinkler includes an anchoring kit and is over 3 feet tall.
- Water sprays from both the head and the tail.
- Includes an anchoring kit.
- Inflate and connect a garden hose.
- Deflates for storage.
- Over 3 feet tall.
- Includes a hand pump.
- Inflated size is 36 x 22 x 42 inches.
- Has a repair patch, if needed.
- Made of PVC.
- Cleans with a wet cloth.
BigMouth Inflatable Fire Hydrant Sprinkler
This sprinkler is 5 feet tall and has a spinning sprinkler on the top.
- Stands over 5 feet tall.
- Water sprays out of the top and each side.
- Creates a 360 degree sprinkler.
- Top sprinkler spins.
- Inflate and attach a garden hose.
- Includes an anchor kit.
- Deflates for storage.
Best Step-On Dog Sprinkler
Pet Fit For Life Dog Step-On Sprinkler Dog Toy
This sprinkler has a water filter to make the water safe for your dog to drink.
- Combines water play with a hydration system.
- Includes a giant tennis ball to play with.
- Has fountain screws to attach your garden hose.
- Includes a splitter so you can access your outdoor water.
- Has a flow control valve to adjust the water pressure that is good for your dog.
- Features a built in filter to ensure the water your dog drinks is clean.
- Your dog steps on it to allow the water to come out.
- Includes adapter for non-standard spigots.
- Measures 10.24 x 8.7 x 8.7 inches.
- Made of coated metal.
Gitelle Outdoor Dog Water Sprinkler
This sprinkler also allows for a 360 degree sprinkler in addition to your dog being able to step on it.
- Available in two colors.
- Can be used as a water fountain and sprinkler.
- Dog activated by pressing on it.
- Includes 4 water spray balls for a 360 degree sprinkler.
- Flow of water is adjusted by a knob on the side.
- Made of PP material.
Best Hose Dog Sprinkler
Wild Dogs Water Toys The Wild Duo
This sprinkler comes with either one or two hoses and is made to withstand rambunctious dogs.
- Has a 2 hose sprinkler.
- Made to withstand rough play.
- If it gets punctured, it will not leak.
- Has an industrial grade Y piece that the hoses attach to.
- Base is weighted for stability.
- Made in the USA.
- Available in a single hose option.
A dog sprinkler can allow your dog to spend more time outdoors burning off energy while keeping cool at the same time. There are a variety to choose from and you may have to try different types before you find one that works for your dog. Always supervise your dog while they are playing with a sprinkler.
Please check out our other posts on Health, Indoor, Outdoor, and Travel accessories for your dog, as well as Reviews of various products and travel destinations.