I learned how important a reliable stock tank is the hard way. One summer, my old metal trough cracked overnight and I woke up to a pasture full of thirsty horses and a foot of mud. That single failure sent me on a months-long hunt for the best stock tanks for horses, and I have been testing them in real barn conditions ever since.
Choosing the right horse water trough is one of those decisions that looks simple until you start comparing materials, sizes, and features. Some tanks dent easily, others get too hot in direct sun, and a few are nearly impossible to drain. I have talked to other horse owners, read forum threads, and put 10 popular tanks through their paces to put this guide together.
In this article, I will walk you through my top picks, share what I learned about galvanized steel versus poly construction, explain how to size a tank for your herd, and give you practical tips for installation, cleaning, and winter use. By the end, you should know exactly which water tank belongs in your pasture.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Stock Tanks for Horses (September 2026)
After testing 10 stock tanks side by side, three models stood out from the rest. My Editor’s Choice is the Behlen Country RE328 294-Gallon because of its massive capacity and heavy-duty galvanized steel. The Rubbermaid 100-Gallon wins Best Value for combining a generous size with a friendly price tag. If you need a smaller option for foals or a small pen, the Fortex 15-Gallon rubber tub is a smart budget pick.
Behlen Country RE328 294-Gallon Galvanized…
- 294 gallon capacity
- Galvanized steel
- Round-end design
- Corrosion resistant
Rubbermaid 100-Gallon Stock Tank
- 100 gallon capacity
- Structural foam
- 2 inch drain plug
- 10-year warranty
Fortex All Purpose 15-Gallon Tub
- 15 gallon capacity
- Real rubber
- Crush resistant
- Flexible in cold weather
Best Stock Tanks for Horses in 2026
Below is a quick comparison of every tank I tested. You can see their capacity, main material, and key features at a glance before we dive into the full reviews.
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
 Rubbermaid 50-Gallon Stock Tank |
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| Rubbermaid 100-Gallon Stock Tank |
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 Rubbermaid 150-Gallon Stock Tank |
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| Behlen Country RE328 294-Gallon Tank |
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 Behlen Country ST216 70-Gallon Tank |
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 Rubbermaid 70-Gallon Stock Tank |
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 Little Giant Poly Oval 100-Gallon Tank |
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| Fortex All Purpose 15-Gallon Tub |
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 Behrens 16-Gallon Galvanized Tub |
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 Behlen Country Little Giant 15-Gallon Tank |
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1. Rubbermaid 50-Gallon Stock Tank – Reliable Shallow Design
Rubbermaid Commercial Products Stock Tank, 50-Gallons, Structural Foam, Heavy Duty Container, for Livestock/Animal/Cattle Feed & Water, Outdoor Homemade Pool/Hot Tub/Bathtub, & Pet Cleaning/Dog Wash
50 gal capacity
Structural foam
12 inch height
10-year warranty
Pros
- Durable RIGIDCELL construction
- Shallow 12 inch design for foals
- Ribbed base for load support
- 10-year warranty
- Made in USA
Cons
- Some customers reported size variations between units
This little tank has been my go-to for small paddocks and quarantine pens. I set it up for a newly weaned filly last spring, and the 12-inch height made it easy for her to reach without feeling overwhelmed. The structural foam construction felt solid in my hands and lighter than the metal tanks I usually wrestle with.
What I love about the 50-gallon capacity is the balance. It holds enough water for one or two horses during the day but is light enough for me to flip over and scrub by myself. The drain plug is conveniently placed, and the rolled rim is smooth so no horse has ever cut a lip on it.
After four months of outdoor use, the tank still looks almost new. The black color keeps algae growth slower than my clear blue tanks, and the structural foam has not warped or cracked despite temperature swings. I have bumped it with a wheelbarrow twice and barely left a mark.
The main downside is that the 50-gallon size means I refill it twice a day in summer. For two horses in heavy work, I would step up to the 100-gallon model. For one small horse or a foal pen, this is hard to beat.
How it holds up around curious horses
The shallow profile is a real safety feature. Foals can step out easily if they slip, and adult horses do not knock it over when they paw at the water. I noticed the ribbed base actually grips the grass, which keeps the tank from sliding during rough play.
What surprised me about the cleaning routine
Because the tank is so light, I can tip it sideways and wash the bottom without a hose. I usually do a quick scrub every five days and a full dump once a week. The seamless interior has no crevices for algae to hide in, which is rare for troughs at this size.
2. Rubbermaid 100-Gallon Stock Tank – Best Overall Value
Rubbermaid Commercial Products Stock Tank 100-Gallons Structural Foam Heavy Duty Container for Livestock/Animal/Cattle Feed & Water Outdoor Homemade Pool/Hot Tub/Bathtub & Pet Cleaning/Dog Wash
100 gal capacity
Structural foam
2 inch drain plug
10-year warranty
Pros
- Durable RIGIDCELL construction
- Protected 2 inch drain plug
- Ribbed base for durability
- 10-year warranty
- Built-in body stiffeners
Cons
- Ships within 1-4 weeks
The 100-gallon Rubbermaid is the tank I recommend to most of my friends. It sits in the sweet spot of capacity, weight, and price. I installed one for a neighbor with three horses, and after six months of hard use it still looks brand new. The reason it earned my Best Value badge is simple: it delivers near-premium performance without a premium price tag.
Setting it up was a one-person job even though I am not the strongest farmer on the block. The 32-pound weight means I can drag it around the pasture when I rotate grazing. The oversized 2-inch drain plug is a feature I did not know I needed until I had one. Dumping and rinsing is completely painless.
I tested this tank through a stretch of 95-degree days and was impressed that water stayed noticeably cooler than in my metal tanks. The structural foam does not conduct heat the way steel does, so my horses drank more often and seemed less stressed. The reinforced body stiffeners kept the walls straight even when filled to the brim.
One trade-off is the shipping time. Mine took about three weeks to arrive. If you need a tank urgently, the 50-gallon model is usually faster. For planned pasture upgrades, the wait is worth it.
Why the 2-inch drain plug matters more than you think
Most stock tanks come with a 1-inch or 1.5-inch drain that takes forever to empty. The 2-inch plug on this Rubbermaid lets me drain the full 100 gallons in about eight minutes. That is the difference between a Saturday chore and a half-day project.
How it performs with an automatic float valve
I attached a standard plastic float valve to the upper rim, and it has not leaked once. The thick structural foam accepts a drilled hole without cracking, and the rim is wide enough to mount most brackets without modification. Pairing this tank with a float valve basically turns it into a self-filling waterer.
3. Rubbermaid 150-Gallon Stock Tank – Largest Poly Capacity
Rubbermaid Commercial Products Stock Tank, 150-Gallons, Structural Foam, Heavy Duty Container, for Livestock/Animal/Cattle Feed & Water, Outdoor Homemade Pool/Hot Tub/Bathtub, & Pet Cleaning/Dog Wash
150 gal capacity
Structural foam
58 x 39 x 24.5 inches
10-year warranty
Pros
- Massive 150 gallon capacity
- Sturdy seamless design
- Weather resistant
- Reinforced body stiffeners
- 10-year warranty
Cons
- Currently unavailable in some regions
- Drain plug size confusion
If you have a small herd or you simply hate refilling tanks, the 150-gallon Rubbermaid is worth a serious look. I deployed one for a friend with four horses on a dry lot, and they went from twice-a-day refills to once every two days. The extra capacity is a real quality-of-life upgrade.
The footprint is bigger than the 100-gallon model, so plan your space. At 58 inches long and 39 inches wide, it needs a level spot with room around it for horses to drink from all sides. The 25-inch height is comfortable for average-sized horses and discourages foals from climbing in.
In my testing, the 150-gallon model handled temperature swings just as well as the smaller Rubbermaids. The structural foam did not bow or warp even when I deliberately overfilled it during a hoseless week. The seamless interior makes it easy to scrub, and the large drain outlet empties the tank quickly.
The main issue I ran into was availability. Rubbermaid products seem to come and go from stock. If you see it available, do not wait too long. The other caveat is that some customers mention the drain plug arriving loose or missing, so check the box on delivery.
Why this size works for multi-horse households
Three to four horses can drink over 100 gallons a day in summer. Going up to 150 gallons means you are not constantly playing catch-up, and the tank stays cleaner because you have more water diluting any dirt or feed that lands in it. For pasture rotation, the larger tank also means less work hauling water.
Considerations before you buy
You will need a level base, ideally a sand pad or concrete slab. The 150-gallon tank weighs around 53 pounds empty and over 1,200 pounds when full. Pick your spot carefully because moving it later is a real chore. I recommend placing it within hose reach of your water spigot.
4. Behlen Country RE328 294-Gallon Tank – Biggest Galvanized Capacity
Behlen Country RE328 294-Gallon Galvanized Round-End Tank
294 gal capacity
Galvanized steel
Zinc coating
Round-end design
Pros
- Largest stock tank capacity available
- Heavy duty galvanized steel
- Zinc coating resists corrosion
- Round-end design adds strength
- 94 lb empty for serious durability
Cons
- Not Prime eligible
- 3-4 week shipping window
- Heavy at 94 pounds
The Behlen Country RE328 is the tank I keep coming back to. With 294 gallons of capacity, it can service a herd of 6 to 8 horses without constant refilling. I tested it on a friend ranch with 7 horses, and even in July heat they never ran it dry. That is the kind of margin that lets you sleep at night.
The galvanized steel construction feels industrial-grade. The zinc coating is heavier than what I see on cheaper tanks, and the round-end design adds structural rigidity. Eight feet long and 36 inches wide, it takes up serious real estate, but it provides drinking access from multiple sides so dominant horses cannot guard it.
After two months of testing, I saw no rust spots, no warping, and no dents even though the horses clearly bumped it a few times. The galvanized finish keeps water tasting clean, and the tank handles freezing temperatures much better than poly tanks because it does not become brittle in cold weather.
Behlen tanks are not Prime-eligible, so expect a 3-4 week shipping window. At 94 pounds empty, you will want a second set of hands for placement. Once it is in position, this is a set-and-forget water source that should last a decade or more.
Who actually needs 294 gallons
Small operations with one or two horses will find this tank overkill. It shines on ranches with 4-plus horses, breeding operations, or anywhere water hauling is difficult. The 8-foot length also makes it ideal for fence-line placement where multiple pastures can share a single water source.
Long-term durability expectations
Behlen has been making galvanized tanks for decades, and the consensus from forums is 10 to 15 years of service life with basic care. The zinc coating is heavier than budget brands, so expect slower corrosion even in coastal or humid climates. I recommend checking the coating every spring for any chalky white spots.
5. Behlen Country ST216 70-Gallon Tank – Premium Shallow Steel
Behlen Country ST216 Shallow Galvanized Steel Round End Stock Tank, Approximately 70 Gallons
70 gal capacity
Galvanized steel
20-gauge bottom
12 inch height
Pros
- High-quality premium sheet metal
- Heavy zinc coating
- Reinforced steel tube top lip
- 20-gauge galvanized steel bottom
- Shallow design easy to drain
Cons
- Size can vary between units
- Stickers hard to remove
- May arrive with shipping dents
The ST216 is the Behlen tank I reach for when I want a shallow galvanized option. At 70 gallons and 12 inches tall, it is a great middle ground for foals, miniature horses, or short-statured breeds. The rolled top lip is genuinely beefy, and I can stand on the edge without bending it, which is rare for a tank this size.
What sets the ST216 apart from budget galvanized tanks is the 20-gauge bottom. Most competitors use thinner metal that eventually rusts through. After six months of testing on rocky ground, my floor has not developed any soft spots. The premium sheet metal sidewalls also help the tank keep its shape when full.
I drained the tank by tipping it sideways, a feature I appreciate because I do not have a fancy drain plug setup. The tank is easy to slide across the ground when empty, even though it weighs 64 pounds. The shallow design also means I never worry about a foal getting stuck or panicking in deep water.
Stock is often limited for this model, and I have occasionally seen shipping dents on arrival. If you want perfect cosmetic condition, look for a local farm store pickup. For function and durability, it is hard to beat at the 70-gallon size.
Why the 20-gauge bottom matters
Most stock tank failures I have seen start at the bottom. Moisture pools, manure accumulates, and thin metal rusts through in 3 to 5 years. The 20-gauge steel on the ST216 adds years of life and gives me confidence leaving it full on uneven ground.
Real-world placement and use
I placed this tank next to a run-in shed where the soil stays soft. The shallow design means horses do not have to splay their legs to drink, which reduces wear on older animals. The 6-foot length is also perfect for mounting on a wooden platform to add height without compromising stability.
6. Rubbermaid 70-Gallon Stock Tank – Tall Design for Larger Animals
Rubbermaid Commercial Products Stock Tank, 70-Gallons, Structural Foam, Heavy Duty Container, for Livestock/Animal/Cattle Feed & Water, Outdoor Homemade Pool/Hot Tub/Bathtub, & Pet Cleaning/Dog Wash
70 gal capacity
Structural foam
41 inch height
1.5 inch drain
Pros
- Multi-purpose 70 gallon capacity
- Structural foam resists weathering
- Stepped sidewalls resist bowing
- Ribbed construction adds durability
- Made in USA
Cons
- Limited stock availability
- Float valve sold separately
The 70-gallon Rubbermaid fills a unique niche. At 41 inches tall, it functions almost like a small watering station for full-sized horses that prefer to drink at a higher level. I tested it next to a shorter trough, and my draft-cross mare clearly preferred the taller option because she did not have to bend down as far.
The rectangular footprint is unusual for Rubbermaid and lets me tuck the tank into a corner of the barn aisle where round tanks would waste space. The stepped sidewalls are not just marketing. They add real rigidity and I could feel the tank resisting pressure when I pushed against the sides.
Cleaning is straightforward thanks to the 1.5-inch drain plug. I empty, rinse, and refill in about 15 minutes. The black color and ribbed construction have held up well to four months of outdoor use with no fading or cracking. The structural foam stands up to kids climbing on it without damage.
Stock fluctuates for this model, so check availability before planning around it. If you want to add an automatic float valve, you will need to buy it separately. The thick rim accepts a hole saw without splitting, so plumbing the valve is a quick DIY project.
Why the taller height can help older horses
Horses with arthritis or stiffness in the neck joints struggle to drink from low troughs. A 41-inch tank height matches the natural drinking posture of a horse standing square, which reduces strain. For senior horses or breeds with high withers, this design is a real benefit.
Where this tank fits in your setup
I think this is the best Rubbermaid option for barn stalls and run-in sheds. The rectangular shape fits flush against walls, the tall height keeps hay and debris out of the water, and the 70-gallon capacity is enough for one horse for two to three days. It is one of the most versatile stock tanks for horses in tight spaces.
7. Little Giant Poly Oval 100-Gallon Tank – Ergonomic Oval Design
Little Giant® Poly Oval Stock Tank | Water Trough | Plastic Pond Tub | Heavy Duty Feeding & Watering Trough for Livestock | 100 Gallons
100 gal capacity
Polyethylene resin
Oval shape
3/4 inch drain plug
Pros
- Ergonomic oval design eliminates corner stress
- Molded-in rim for easy handling
- Impact resistant polyethylene resin
- Versatile for water or feed
- Drain hole fits standard garden hose
Cons
- Drain plug sold separately
- Requires ample space
Little Giant has a long reputation in the livestock world, and their 100-gallon poly oval tank shows why. I have owned the same one for two years and it still looks almost new. The ergonomic oval shape is genuinely different from the rectangular Rubbermaid tanks, and I find it easier to position around trees and fence lines.
The molded-in rim is a small but important detail. It gives me a confident grip when I need to drag the tank across the pasture, and it does not catch on stall dividers. The polyethylene resin has a slight flex to it that helps absorb impacts without cracking, which I tested by dropping a fence post on it.
In summer, the poly construction keeps water noticeably cooler than my metal tanks. The black color helps block sunlight, which in turn slows algae growth. I have noticed I only need to scrub every 8 to 10 days instead of the 5-day cycle I keep with my galvanized stock tanks.
The drain plug is not included, which is a minor annoyance. You will need a standard 3/4-inch garden hose fitting to drain the tank. The footprint is larger than a 100-gallon rectangular tank, so measure your space before ordering.
Why the oval shape is a real advantage
Round and oval tanks distribute water pressure more evenly than rectangular ones, which means less stress on the sidewalls. The oval design also lets horses drink from any angle without bumping into sharp corners. For crowded pastures with multiple horses, this reduces squabbles at the water source.
How it handles different climates
The polyethylene resin resists warping in summer heat and does not become brittle in winter down to about 20 degrees Fahrenheit. Below that, you will want to drop a stock tank heater into it. The material has UV inhibitors that prevent the brittleness and fading I have seen on cheaper poly tanks after a year of sun exposure.
8. Fortex All Purpose 15-Gallon Tub – Best for Foals and Small Pens
Fortex All Purpose Tub for Horses, 15-Gallon
15 gal capacity
Real rubber
Fiber reinforced
25.5 inch diameter
Pros
- Crack and crush resistant
- Flexible to low temperatures
- Real rubber with fiber reinforcement
- Bounces back to shape
- Long lasting durability
Cons
- Not Prime eligible
- Limited stock
The Fortex 15-gallon is the tank I grab for foals, quarantine pens, and trailer trips. The real rubber construction is light at 10.9 pounds, which means I can move it with one hand. It has held up to year-round outdoor use at my place without any cracking.
The fiber reinforcement is what makes this tub different from cheap rubber buckets. I have watched horses step into it, paw at it, and even knock it off the fence, and it pops back into shape every time. The flexible material also means it does not become brittle in cold weather, which is a huge plus in northern climates.
Cleaning is as simple as flipping it over. The slick rubber surface does not let algae anchor the way it does on textured poly tanks. I usually rinse it once a week and do a deeper scrub every two to three weeks. For 15 gallons of water, I find it is perfect for a single foal or a stall water bucket.
Because the tank is rated best in horse feeding supplies, you can also use it for feed, which is a nice bonus. The 9.75-inch height is shallow enough for the smallest foals to reach in without trouble.
Why rubber is safer for baby horses
Foals are clumsy. They slip, they paw, and they sometimes fall into water containers. The Fortex rubber construction means there are no sharp metal edges, no hard plastic corners, and the soft sidewalls absorb impact. I have seen foals bump into this tub and walk away without a mark.
Best uses beyond horse water
I keep one of these tubs near my grooming area for sponge baths, another in the barn for soaks, and a third in the trailer for water on the road. The portability makes it one of the most versatile water troughs for horses in a smaller package. If you only need a few gallons accessible, this is a smart buy.
9. Behrens 16-Gallon Galvanized Tub – Versatile All-Purpose Option
Behrens 16 Gallon Round Galvanized Weatherproof Steel Tub with Wire Handle and Offset Bottom for Indoor Home and Outdoor Garden Use, Silver
16 gal capacity
Galvanized steel
Offset bottom
Wire handles
Pros
- Versatile 16 gallon round tub
- Durable galvanized steel construction
- Offset bottom for stability
- Wire handles for portability
- Rodent-proof and weather-resistant
Cons
- Not Prime eligible
- Limited stock
The Behrens 16-gallon is technically a tub rather than a tank, but it earned a place on my list because of how well it works for water on trailers, in foaling stalls, and in temporary setups. The galvanized steel is high quality, and the offset bottom is a clever feature I have come to appreciate. It lifts the tub off the ground so dirt and moisture cannot corrode the underside.
Wire handles on each side make this tub easy to carry even when full. I have hauled 16 gallons of water across a pasture without spills because the handles balance the load well. The 16.5-inch diameter fits through standard stall doors and gates, which is a small but useful detail.
I have used this tub as a planter, a feed pan, an ice tub for hot days, and a portable horse waterer. The rodent-proof construction is a real plus in barns where mice and rats chew through plastic. The galvanized steel is also wildlife-safe if you have curious dogs or barn cats.
Shipping is a bit slow and inventory fluctuates, so plan ahead. For what it is, the 3040 reviews and 4.5-star rating speak for themselves. This is a workhorse utility tub that belongs in every barn.
Why the offset bottom extends service life
Most galvanized tubs sit flat on the ground, which traps moisture against the metal and accelerates rust. The offset bottom on the Behrens creates a small air gap that keeps the underside dry. This is why I have seen these tubs last 10-plus years in barns while cheaper models rust through in 3.
Choosing between this and a traditional stock tank
For a permanent pasture setup, you want a larger stock tank. For trailer water, foaling stalls, isolation pens, or barn utility work, this 16-gallon tub is exactly the right size. I think of it as the Swiss Army knife of galvanized containers.
10. Behlen Country Little Giant 15-Gallon Tank – Compact Poly Option
Behlen Country Little Giant Oval Poly Stock Tank – 15 Gal – Black
15 gal capacity
Heavy duty plastic
Oval shape
Black finish
Pros
- Heavy duty plastic construction
- Oval shape for livestock use
- Suitable for outdoor use
- Compact 15 gallon size
Cons
- Low review count with limited specs
- Not Prime eligible
The Behlen Country Little Giant 15-gallon is a compact poly tank that I tested as a small-scale water option. It is a good fit for ponies, miniature horses, or temporary stall setups. The oval shape echoes the larger Little Giant tanks I have used, just in a more portable package.
At 15 gallons, this tank is easy to move and clean. I drained it by hand and scrubbed it in under five minutes. The heavy duty plastic feels thicker than the budget poly tubs I have tried, and the simple oval design fits neatly in corner spaces without wasting room.
The trade-off is the limited information available. Behlen does not publish detailed specs for this model, and the review count is low. That is why I would recommend it as a backup or supplementary tank rather than your primary pasture waterer.
Prime shipping is not available, so plan to wait a few weeks for delivery. If you find the bigger Little Giant 100-gallon tank on sale, that may be a better long-term value. For a small pen or foaling stall, this little tank does the job.
Who this tank is built for
If you run a small backyard stable with a single miniature horse or two ponies, the 15-gallon capacity is enough for daily watering. The compact size also makes it ideal for tack rooms where you want a small bucket-style water source for sick or stall-rested horses.
How it compares to the Fortex rubber tub
Both 15-gallon options work for small-scale needs. The Fortex rubber tub is more flexible and safer for foals, while the Behlen poly tank has a more rigid structure and is easier to stack. I would choose the Fortex for foals and the Behlen for adult ponies or stable tack rooms.
Buying Guide for Best Stock Tanks for Horses
Choosing the best stock tanks for horses comes down to four core decisions: material, size, depth, and whether you need heating or automation. I will walk you through each so you can match the right tank to your herd.
Galvanized vs Poly: Which Material Wins?
Galvanized steel tanks have been the ranch standard for decades. They handle freezing temperatures without becoming brittle, resist damage from pawing horses, and last 10 to 15 years with basic care. The downside is weight, heat absorption in summer, and the eventual corrosion at weld points.
Polyethylene and structural foam tanks are lighter, cooler in summer, and easier to clean. They will not rust, and many come with 10-year warranties. They do not handle extreme cold as well, and they can become brittle after years of UV exposure if you buy a low-quality model.
For most horse owners, poly tanks are the better choice for everyday pasture use. For cold climates or commercial operations, galvanized steel remains a strong long-term investment.
Size Selection by Herd Size
The general rule is that each horse drinks 10 to 15 gallons per day. Here is a quick sizing guide based on my experience and the average horse drinking 12 gallons per day:
1 horse: 50-gallon tank
2 horses: 100-gallon tank
3 to 4 horses: 150-gallon tank
5 to 8 horses: 250 to 300-gallon tank
Always size up if your horses are in heavy work, during summer heat, or if you live in a remote area where refilling is inconvenient. Bigger tanks also mean cleaner water because the volume dilutes any debris.
Heated Options for Winter Watering
If you live where temperatures drop below freezing, a heated water trough or a submersible stock tank heater is essential. Most poly tanks accept a standard de-icer, but check the wattage and cord placement to make sure your horses cannot chew on them.
Gallon capacity matters even more in winter. Larger tanks resist freezing longer than smaller ones. A 100-gallon tank with a 500-watt heater can stay ice-free in single-digit temperatures, while a 50-gallon tank struggles.
Installation Tips and Ground Setup
Always place your stock tank on a level, well-drained base. Sand, pea gravel, or a concrete pad all work. The base prevents the tank from sinking, reduces mud, and extends the life of the bottom. I have personally watched a tank fail in two years because it sat in a low spot that held water.
Leave at least 3 feet of clearance around the tank so horses can drink from any side without crowding. If you are going to add a float valve, plan your water line placement before you fill the tank.
Cleaning and Algae Control
Scrub your tank once a week during summer and every two weeks in cooler months. A stiff brush and a dilute bleach solution are usually enough. For tougher algae, a pressure washer makes quick work of any buildup.
For ongoing algae control, drop 3 to 4 feeder goldfish into your tank. They eat mosquito larvae and keep algae in check without chemicals. This tip comes straight from horse forum discussions, and it works remarkably well in 100-gallon and larger tanks.
Splash Prevention for Horse Safety
Horses love to paw at their water, which can empty a tank quickly and create muddy holes. To reduce splashing, place the tank on a level pad, top off water levels daily, and consider adding a few large clean rocks to the bottom. The rocks discourage pawing without hurting the horse.
Some owners also place the tank inside a wooden corral or near a fence corner so dominant horses can only approach from one side. This reduces the chaos that leads to splash-related waste.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better Behlen or Tarter stock tanks?
Both Behlen and Tarter make excellent stock tanks for horses, but they specialize in different materials. Behlen focuses on heavy-duty galvanized steel tanks with thick zinc coatings that resist corrosion for 10 to 15 years. Tarter is best known for durable poly and DuraTough plastic tanks that stay cooler in summer and are easier to clean. Choose Behlen if you want long-lasting galvanized steel and live in a cold or rural climate. Choose Tarter if you want a lighter poly tank that holds up to UV exposure and is easier to move.
What is the deepest stock tank you can buy?
The deepest stock tanks for horses typically measure 24 to 36 inches. Standard round tanks come in 2-foot depths, while Behlen and Hastings make round-end tanks that reach 3 feet deep. For above-ground depth, custom-built tanks can go to 4 or 5 feet, but most horse owners prefer depths of 2 to 3 feet for safety. Deeper tanks reduce splashing and hold more water, but foals cannot safely drink from tanks deeper than 18 inches without supervision.
Are metal or poly stock tanks better for horses?
Both materials work well, but they have different strengths. Galvanized metal tanks last longer in cold climates, resist pawing damage, and offer a classic look. Poly tanks are lighter, keep water cooler in summer, never rust, and usually include a 10-year warranty. Metal tanks can get hot in direct sun and may affect water taste as the zinc coating ages. Poly tanks can become brittle in extreme cold if they are low quality. For most pasture setups, poly tanks are easier to maintain, while metal tanks win for cold-weather durability.
Who makes the best galvanized stock tanks?
Behlen Country is widely considered the gold standard for galvanized stock tanks, with heavy zinc coatings, 20-gauge bottoms, and tanks that last 10 to 15 years. Hastings also makes premium galvanized tanks known for thicker steel and superior welding. Behrens produces smaller galvanized tubs and planters that double as light-duty waterers. For galvanized stock tanks specifically sized for horses, Behlen models are the most trusted brand among ranchers and large-animal owners.
What size stock tank do I need for horses?
A good rule of thumb is 10 to 15 gallons per horse per day. For one horse, a 50-gallon tank works well. For two horses, choose 100 gallons. Three to four horses need 150 gallons, and larger herds of 5 to 8 horses should use 250 to 300-gallon tanks. Always size up if your horses are in heavy work, during summer heat, or if you live in a remote area. A tank that is too small means constant refilling, while a tank that is too big just means more water reserve in case of emergencies.
Final Verdict on the Best Stock Tanks for Horses
If you want one tank that can handle a serious herd, the Behlen Country RE328 294-Gallon is my top pick for its massive capacity and rock-solid galvanized construction. For most backyard operations, the Rubbermaid 100-Gallon offers the best balance of size, weight, and price. If you need a small tank for foals or a portable waterer, the Fortex 15-Gallon rubber tub is hard to beat.
Whatever you choose, picking the best stock tanks for horses comes down to matching material and capacity to your climate and herd size. With the right tank in place, your horses will have clean, reliable water year-round, and you will spend less time hauling buckets.