Answer: A 170 gallon water trough is ideal for mid-sized livestock operations, ranches, and large pets. This guide compares top options to help buyers choose durable, weather-ready troughs that minimize maintenance and ensure steady water access. Best choices are suited for cattle, horses, goats, and multiple dogs, with durable materials and built-in features that reduce refills. The table below highlights the five recommended products and core specs to compare at a glance.
| Product | Capacity | Material | Best For | Why Pick |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rubbermaid Stock Tank 300-Gallon | 300 gallons | Structural Foam | Large farms, multi-animal setups | Extreme durability and USA-made; long warranty |
| Rubbermaid Stock Tank 150-Gallon | 150 gallons | Structural Foam | Medium-sized operations, multiple animals | Balanced capacity with rugged construction |
| Rubbermaid Stock Tank 50-Gallon | 50 gallons | Structural Foam | Small herds, portable setups | Compact, lightweight, still rugged |
| 12 Gal Stainless Steel Automatic Trough | 12 gallons | Stainless Steel | Small farms, mixed livestock | Automatic float valve for low maintenance |
| Tarter Oval Ultra 170-Gallon Stock Tank | 170 gallons | Stock Tank | Equine and mixed livestock farms | Specialized 170-gallon option with proven design |
Rubbermaid 300-Gallon Structural Foam Stock Tank
The Rubbermaid 300-Gallon Structural Foam Stock Tank is designed for heavy-duty outdoor use and large animal access. Its rigidcell construction provides durability against weather and animal activity. Best for large herds or combined water and feed setups where higher capacity reduces refill frequency. The tank is USA-made with a category-leading 10-year warranty, making it a strong choice for commercial operations and homesteads needing reliable water storage. A potential limitation is its large size, which requires more storage and placement space.
Rubbermaid 150-Gallon Structural Foam Stock Tank
The Rubbermaid 150-Gallon Stock Tank offers durable structural foam construction and USA-made quality with a 10-year warranty. It strikes a balance between capacity and manageability, making it a solid choice for mid-sized farms, ranches, or households with multiple pets. Best for producers who want sturdy performance without the footprint of larger tanks. A consideration is that it may require more frequent refilling than higher-capacity options in very hot, high-usage environments.
Rubbermaid 50-Gallon Structural Foam Stock Tank
The 50-Gallon Rubbermaid Stock Tank is ideal for smaller operations or portable setups where mobility matters. It uses durable structural foam and carries the same USA-made quality and a long warranty. Best for small herds, veterinary clinics, or temporary corrals. Limitation: its smaller capacity requires more frequent refills on hot days or with high water turnover.
12 Gal Stainless Steel Automatic Livestock Trough
This stainless steel trough features an automatic float valve and a drainage hole, designed to reduce daily refills for multiple animals. Although it holds less water, it uses stainless steel for outdoor resilience and straightforward cleaning. Best for farms that prioritize automation and easy maintenance. Limitation: capacity is well below 170 gallons, so it’s not a direct substitute when high-volume water access is required.
Tarter Oval Ultra 170-Gallon Stock Tank
The Tarter Oval Ultra 170-Gallon Stock Tank provides a dedicated 170-gallon option with an oval design. It is a straightforward choice for suppliers seeking a purpose-built 170-gallon capacity. Best for equine-oriented operations and mixed livestock settings where a 170-gallon benchmark is preferred. Limitation: basic “Stock Tank” labeling may offer fewer advanced features than some ultra-premium models.
Buying Guide
- If you run multiple large animals, prioritize higher capacity (150–300 gallons). For smaller herds, a 50–150 gallon model may suffice.
- Structural foam tanks are lightweight and durable; stainless steel offers corrosion resistance but higher cost. Consider climate and exposure to sun and weather.
- Ensure there is level ground and enough room for the trough to accommodate all drinking animals. Consider access for cleaning and filling.
- Automatic float valves minimize refills, while built-in drains simplify cleaning. Weigh ease of sanitation into the setup.
- US-made options with long warranties tend to offer better coverage and support for commercial use.
- Design and depth should fit the largest animals on the property to promote safe drinking without splashing or waste.
FAQ
- What size trough should I choose for horses? For multiple horses, consider 170–300 gallons or larger, depending on turnout and drinking frequency.
- Are stainless steel troughs worth the extra cost? They last longer in harsh weather and are easier to clean, but cost more upfront.
- Do I need an automatic filling valve? Automatic valves reduce labor by maintaining a consistent water level, especially in busy pens.
- Is a large trough better than multiple small ones? Large troughs reduce refilling time, but multiple smaller units can separate different animal groups and improve access.
- How should I position a trough outdoors? Place on level ground, away from direct runoff and at animal reachable height; consider shaded areas to reduce algae growth.
- What maintenance schedule is recommended? Regularly rinse, inspect fittings, and check float valves for proper operation to prevent leaks and overflow.