6 Best Galvanized Troughs For Sheep for Small Flocks

You walk out to the pasture and see it: the plastic water trough, cracked and leaking from a winter freeze. Or maybe the flimsy feed pan has been flipped over again, wasting expensive grain on the ground. Getting your flock’s water and feed system right is one of those foundational chores that makes everything else run smoother.

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Why Choose Galvanized Steel for Sheep Troughs?

Galvanized steel is the benchmark for farm equipment for a reason. Unlike plastic, it won’t get brittle and crack under intense sun or in a deep freeze. Sheep can be surprisingly rough, leaning and bumping against their troughs, and steel holds up to that daily abuse without complaint.

The durability extends to cleaning. A non-porous steel surface is simple to scrub clean of algae and grime, which is crucial for flock health. Their sheer weight is also a feature, not a bug. A full galvanized trough is nearly impossible for a few sheep to tip over, preventing water waste and ensuring they always have access.

The galvanization process involves coating steel with a protective layer of zinc to prevent rust. This makes the troughs last for decades, even when constantly holding water. For livestock, this is a time-tested and safe material that proves its worth season after season.

Behlen Country Round End Tank: A Classic Choice

This is the tank you picture when you think of a farm. The Behlen round end (or "sheep-end") tank is a classic for its simple, effective design. The rounded ends are a key safety feature, as they prevent a less dominant sheep from getting trapped in a corner by a bossy ewe.

These tanks are incredibly versatile. Use a 40-gallon model for water for a small flock of 5-10 sheep, or use a larger one as a hay feeder in the winter. They are built from heavy-gauge steel with a sturdy, rolled rim, and most importantly, they come with a threaded drain plug. That plug turns the chore of cleaning from a bailing-and-flipping ordeal into a simple drain-and-scrub job.

For a small flock, a tank in the 40 to 70-gallon range often hits the sweet spot. It’s large enough to provide a buffer for a couple of days but small enough to move and clean easily. It’s a foundational piece of equipment you’ll never regret buying.

Tarter Oval Galvanized Stock Tank for Lambs

When lambs arrive, you quickly realize that a standard stock tank can be too tall for them to drink from comfortably. Tarter‘s oval tanks often come in shallower profiles, making them a perfect solution. The lower height ensures even the smallest lambs can get a drink without straining or falling in.

The oval shape is also highly practical, fitting neatly against a fence line or the side of a barn, saving valuable space in a small pen. This design allows several animals to line up and drink at once, reducing the jostling and competition you might see at a round tank. It’s a small detail that creates a calmer environment.

Like other quality tanks, look for features like a rolled top edge for safety and a drain plug for cleaning. An oval tank is an excellent choice for a lambing pen or for any shepherd who wants a space-efficient, accessible water source for animals of all sizes.

CountyLine Round Stock Tank: A Durable Option

You can find CountyLine tanks at most farm supply stores, and they represent a fantastic balance of durability and value. These are no-nonsense, hardworking tanks built to last. They typically feature a heavy G90 galvanized coating, which provides excellent corrosion resistance.

The most noticeable feature is the corrugated sides. These aren’t just for looks; they add immense structural integrity, helping the tank resist dents and dings from equipment or animals. This is the kind of trough you can expect to use for twenty years without a second thought.

While a round tank takes up more central floor space, it offers 360-degree access. This can be beneficial for reducing squabbles, as no single sheep can dominate the entire trough. If you have the space and want a simple, bombproof water source, a CountyLine round tank is a solid investment.

Little Giant 13-Quart Galvanized Feed Pan

Switching from water to feed, every shepherd needs a good set of portable pans. The Little Giant galvanized feed pan is a staple for a reason. It’s perfect for doling out daily grain rations, supplements, or special minerals to individual animals.

Its design is brilliantly simple and effective. The pan is wide and low to the ground, making it extremely difficult for a sheep to tip over and spill its contents. The heavy steel construction means it won’t crack if stepped on, and it’s easy to stack and store when not in use.

This is a specialized tool, not an all-purpose trough. It’s far too small for water and would be fouled instantly. But for controlled feeding, it’s indispensable. Having a few of these on hand makes managing rations for a small, diverse flock much, much easier.

Behlen Country Galvanized Bunk Feeder for Fences

A bunk feeder is a game-changer for reducing feed waste. This type of feeder mounts directly onto a fence panel or gate, keeping hay and grain off the ground. When feed is on the ground, sheep will inevitably walk on it, soil it, and waste it.

The Behlen bunk feeder solves this problem elegantly. By elevating the feed, you ensure it stays clean and palatable. Most have a V-shaped bottom that funnels feed toward the sheep as they eat, making sure they can get every last bit. This design is particularly effective for feeding chopped hay or silage.

This feeder is more than just a container; it’s a management tool. It encourages orderly eating along a fence line and makes cleanup a breeze. For anyone tired of seeing expensive feed trampled into the mud, a bunk feeder is a smart, efficient upgrade.

Hastings Black Label Tank: Heavy-Duty Durability

If you believe in the "buy once, cry once" philosophy, the Hastings Black Label tank is for you. This is the top-tier, heavy-duty option for those who want equipment that will likely outlast their farm. Hastings uses thicker, 20-gauge steel and a 4-ply bottom seam, making their tanks exceptionally rugged.

This level of construction is designed to withstand the abuse of cattle and extreme weather, which makes it more than tough enough for a flock of sheep. It will not dent, bend, or warp. The zinc coating is thick and applied for maximum longevity.

The tradeoff is cost and weight. A Hastings tank is a significant investment and is much heavier to move than a standard stock tank. But if you are setting up a permanent watering station and want the absolute most durable trough on the market, you will not be disappointed.

Sizing a Water Trough for Your Small Sheep Flock

A common rule of thumb is that a sheep will drink between one and two gallons of water per day. That number can easily double for a lactating ewe or during a summer heatwave. For a small flock of eight ewes, you need to plan for at least 10-16 gallons of water consumption every single day.

This is why a larger trough is always a good idea. A 40 or 50-gallon trough provides a crucial buffer. It ensures that if you’re running late one day or a hose freezes overnight, your flock won’t run out of water. It gives you peace of mind and your animals security.

However, a bigger tank isn’t an excuse to clean less often. Water still needs to be fresh. Plan to dump and scrub your trough at least once a week to prevent algae and bacteria from building up. A trough with a drain plug makes this a quick, five-minute chore instead of a half-hour struggle.

Ultimately, the best galvanized trough is one that fits your flock size, your pasture layout, and your daily routine. Investing in a durable, well-designed steel trough for water and feed is one of the smartest decisions you can make. It simplifies your chores and provides a reliable foundation for the health and well-being of your sheep for years to come.