Finding the right horse water tub involves durability, weather resistance, and ease of use. This guide highlights top horse tubs and troughs that perform well in outdoor stalls, paddocks, and ranch settings. Each option emphasizes sturdy construction, animal safety, and simple maintenance to support healthy, consistent hydration for horses and other livestock.
| Product | Brand | Capacity | Key Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rubbermaid Commercial Products Stock Tank 100-Gallons | Rubbermaid Commercial Products | 100 gallons | Durable, weather-ready, USA-made |
| Rubbermaid Commercial Products Stock Tank 150-Gallons | Rubbermaid Commercial Products | 150 gallons | Large-volume water storage, rugged |
| Fortex All Purpose Tub for Horses, 15-Gallon | Fortex | 15 gallons | Flexible, crack and crush resistant |
| Little Giant Heavy Duty Rubber Tub, 6.5 Gal | Little Giant | 6.5 gallons | Crush/crack resistant, indoor/outdoor use |
| Horsemen’s Pride Horse Feed Tub, 18 Quarts | Horsemen’s Pride | 4.5 gallons | Durable polyethylene, US-made |
Summary: The five products above offer a mix of large, long-lasting stock tanks for continuous hydration and compact tubs for smaller spaces or portable setups. They balance durability, weather resistance, and cleanability to support regular water access for horses. Availability varies by capacity, so consider field size, pasture layout, and ease of cleaning when choosing a tub.
Rubbermaid 100-Gallon Stock Tank
The Rubbermaid 100-Gallon Stock Tank features a durable rigidcell construction designed for all weather conditions. It carries a category-leading 10-year limited warranty and is proudly made in the USA. This large tank provides ample space for horses to drink and cool off, while its sturdy build reduces risk of warping or cracking in temperature extremes. A good option for year-round water access in larger pastures or wash areas.
Rubbermaid 150-Gallon Stock Tank
This 150-gallon stock tank provides substantial water capacity for larger horses or high-traffic environments. It shares Rubbermaid’s durable rigidcell construction and a USA-made guarantee, making it suitable for paddocks with limited maintenance access. Its size helps minimize refill frequency and supports consistent hydration on busy farms or during hot weather.
Fortex All Purpose Tub, 15-Gallon
Fortex offers a 15-gallon tub with crack and crush resistance and flexibility in low temperatures. Real rubber with fiber reinforcement provides durable performance as a water trough or feed tub for horses or other livestock. This size is convenient for smaller barns, clinics, or portable setups where frequent relocation is needed.
Midollarle Heavy Duty Rubber Feeder Pan, 3 Pack
These 3-pack rubber feeder pans each hold about 3 gallons and are designed to resist tipping and cracking. Made from durable rubber, they can function as water bowls or feeders for horses, goats, and other livestock. The 3-pack format offers flexibility for multiple water stations across a paddock or stable setup, with measurement marks for easy portioning.
Little Giant Heavy Duty Rubber Tub, 6.5 Gal
This 6.5-gallon tub emphasizes crush and crack resistance with a durable corded rubber body. It’s suitable for indoor or outdoor use, features easy cleaning, and includes a hanging hook for wall or fence mounting. It’s ideal for supplementary water stations in smaller stalls or training areas where a compact, rugged tub is preferred.
Horsemen’s Pride Horse Feed Tub, 18 Quarts
This small tub measures 14 inches across and 9 inches deep, offering an 18-quart (4.5 gallons) capacity. It is suitable for use as a compact water trough or feed tub for horses and other livestock. Made in the USA from durable polyethylene, it provides a lightweight option for portable hydration setups or limited-space areas.
Buying Guide: Key Purchase Considerations
- Capacity needs: Large stock tanks reduce refill frequency in hot climates; smaller tubs support portable setups or limited space.
- Material durability: Look for crush- and crack-resistant rubber or heavy-duty plastic designed for outdoor weather and animal use.
- Weather and temperature suitability: Choose materials that resist sun exposure, freezing, and temperature fluctuations to prevent warping or cracking.
- Portability vs. permanence: Consider whether you need fixed installations with wall mounting or movable troughs for seasonal pasture shifts.
- Maintenance and cleaning: Smooth interiors and simple drain designs help reduce algae buildup and make cleaning easier.
- Safety features: Ensure there are no sharp edges, and the tub height accommodates safe head depth for drinking without straining.
- Installation considerations: If using large stock tanks, confirm stable placement, drainage access, and secure positioning to prevent tipping.
- Cost vs. lifespan: Higher initial cost can be offset by longer warranties and durable construction in demanding farm environments.
- Multi-use potential: Some tubs double as feeders or wash basins, which can streamline barn operations.
- Brand support and warranty: Prioritize brands offering solid warranties and readily available replacement parts or accessories.
When selecting a horse water tub, align the choice with your herd size, pasture layout, and maintenance routines. A combination of a large main water tank for day-to-day hydration and smaller portable tubs for traveling arenas or clinics can offer flexible hydration management and improve overall horse well-being.