Ducks don't need a pond to be happy, but they definitely enjoy splashing and paddling around in a kiddie pool. In addition to having a place to bathe, ducks need a deep enough water source to keep their mucous membranes moist.

Do you need a pond for a pet duck?

Ducks and Water

They do not need big ponds or lakes, but they do need enough water to at least dunk their heads in fully and to have a little swim in. Small hard plastic paddling pools or a small pond will suffice, along with buckets of water for them to have a good dunk in.

Do backyard ducks need water?

Ducks do not just love water, they need it. A duck must not be left without clean water to bathe in, swim in, and drink. ... It does not matter if you are keeping ducks only for eggs, also for meat, or merely as cute farm pets, they all must have water.