These Best Dog Bowls Serve Up the Perfect Meal for Your Pup
Dogs come in many shapes and sizes, and dog bowls do too. With so many choices available, we’re here to help you find the right one for your dog—including the best material.
Things to Consider About Your Dog
Is your dog young and energetic, or older and needing extra support? Do they eat slowly, or finish meals so quickly they get sick? There are several important factors to consider when feeding your pet:
- Age – Older dogs with gray whiskers may have different feeding needs than younger ones.
- Size – Larger dogs may benefit from elevated bowls, while smaller dogs usually need shallow dishes.
- Breed – A dog’s breed can influence the best bowl choice, especially for those with short snouts.
- Eating speed – Fast eaters may need special slow-feeder bowls to help prevent stomach discomfort.
Different Types of Bowls and Who They’re Best For
After considering your dog’s needs, take a look at the following bowl types to find the best fit.
The Classic Bowl
There isn’t much to say that most pet owners don’t already know about the standard dog bowl. In reality, it works well for many dogs, which is why it has remained so popular for so long. It’s often easier to describe which dogs it may not be suitable for. You may want to avoid this type if you have:
- A large breed dog, since repeated bending may put strain on their joints
- A short-snouted breed that may need special feeding support due to health concerns
- An older dog with limited mobility
- A fast eater, as the standard bowl can allow them to eat too quickly
As these represent the standard options, let’s examine the various materials used and how they influence your pup’s eating habits.
- Plastic – These are generally discouraged as they are the most budget-friendly but least resilient choice. Dogs can easily scuff or gnaw on them, creating crevices that are difficult to sanitize. Furthermore, some dogs may develop sensitivities to the material itself. It is best to avoid these entirely.
- Stainless Steel – A superior choice regarding longevity and hygiene. Bowls featuring a rubberized base, like this bowl, are ideal for enthusiastic eaters who tend to shove their dishes across the floor.
- Ceramic – A stylish alternative, though it shares certain drawbacks with plastic. These are susceptible to chipping and cracking, making them suitable only for gentle eaters.
Based on these materials, stainless steel is evidently the optimal route, offering both durability and value.
Elevated Bowls
Elevated bowls are a fantastic option for larger breeds or dogs that have a harder time bending down low to reach their food. They help reduce strain on the neck and joints during mealtime, making eating more comfortable and natural. For smaller breeds with mobility issues, there are also very short bases that allow the pup to eat comfortably; they aren’t just for the big guys. What’s more is that the bases come in a range of styles and heights, so finding one specifically tailored to your pup isn’t a hard task.
It’s worth mentioning that the elevated option typically works by placing traditional bowls into the raised stand, so keep materials in mind when making your choice. Use the same recommendations from above to go about selecting the best option for your furry friend. It’s also important to make sure the base is sturdy and able to handle more energetic food lovers if you have one!
Slanted Bowls
These bowls are great for pups that have a short snout and should be your number one choice if your pup has one. The shallow, angled opening—created by tilting a traditional bowl—makes it much easier for brachycephalic breeds like Pugs and Bulldogs to eat safely and comfortably.
A slanted bowl is a choice made entirely based on the health needs of your pup. Dogs with short snouts or a “flat” face run the risk of injury or discomfort if they have to push their faces deep into a standard dog bowl. Slanted bowls help reduce this risk by allowing the dog to eat in a more natural, forward-facing (horizontal) position rather than forcing a steep downward angle.
Automatic Feeders
Timed dispensers are an effective way to streamline your feeding routine. This style of feeder resembles a water cooler and operates on a similar principle: as the basin at the base empties, the reservoir above replenishes it. Certain models are quite sophisticated, featuring programmable mechanical settings for precise scheduling.
Like any specialized bowl, these have a specific target audience—primarily slower eaters who can be trusted with a constant food supply. When evaluating this option, consider whether your dog prefers to graze throughout the day or if they instantly devour their meal. If it is the latter, this setup is likely unsuitable. Additionally, since these units are almost exclusively constructed from plastic, you should weigh your options carefully if your pet has specific material sensitivities.
Automatic Feeders
Timed dispensers are an effective way to streamline your feeding routine. This style of feeder resembles a water cooler and operates on a similar principle: as the basin at the base empties, the reservoir above replenishes it. Certain models are quite sophisticated, featuring programmable mechanical settings for precise scheduling.
Like any specialized bowl, these have a specific target audience—primarily slower eaters who can be trusted with a constant food supply. When evaluating this option, consider whether your dog prefers to graze throughout the day or if they instantly devour their meal. If it is the latter, this setup is likely unsuitable. Additionally, since these units are almost exclusively constructed from plastic, you should weigh your options carefully if your pet has specific material sensitivities.
Slow Feeders
If your dog is a food enthusiast that seems to inhale their kibble rather than chew it, you might feel like you’re watching a nature documentary of a wolf devouring its prey. If this sounds familiar, a slow feeder is an essential tool for your pet.
Similar to slanted bowls, slow feeders are a health-oriented choice. Rapid consumption can lead to digestive issues such as indigestion or vomiting. These bowls are designed with various ridges and obstructions that prevent immediate access to the food, effectively pacing your dog’s intake. As an added benefit, they provide excellent mental stimulation, functioning as an engaging puzzle where the meal serves as the ultimate reward.
Travel Bowls
If you’re constantly on the move and bring your pup with you, or simply want a space-saving option at home, travel bowls are an excellent choice. They are typically compact in design, making them easy to store and carry. Many models are also collapsible, allowing for flat packing when you need to save even more space.
Materials are just as important here as they are with traditional dog bowls. When choosing a travel bowl, it’s essential to consider how enthusiastic your pup is while eating. Some travel bowls are made from silicone, which can tear or wear down more easily with heavy use. If that might be an issue, consider fabric-based travel bowls instead, as they are often made from more durable, rip-resistant materials designed for travel and outdoor use.
So How Do I Choose?
Don’t worry! We’re here to help with that. After considering your dog’s needs and reviewing all the available bowl types, ask yourself a few key questions to find the best dog bowl for your pup.
- Does my dog have any health needs to be taken into consideration? If yes, what are they? (i.e., allergies, mobility issues, short snout, etc.)
- How big is my dog, and would their size affect the way they eat?
- Is my pup an aggressive eater, or are they a grazer?
Using these three questions can quickly narrow down the type of bowl that is best suited for your pooch. As always, much of the decision comes down to personal preference and your dog’s individual behavior.
It’s also important to keep in mind that if you’re shopping for a puppy, a classic stainless steel bowl can easily become a long-term “forever bowl” if you choose it early on—but exploring different options along the way never hurts either!
The Takeaway
No matter how your pup eats, or what specific needs they may have, there is a dog bowl designed to suit them. In most cases, a traditional set of food and water bowls is a simple and effective option that works well for many dogs, as long as you choose the right materials for their needs. Using this guide can help make your decision much easier. Bon appétit to you and your pup!