10 Best Dog Bowls UK – Feeding Simplified!

Is your dog a messy eater? If so, you might need the best dog bowl for your furry friend to minimise the mess. You might think Is it really necessary? Well, it seems like it isn’t but, I had a pet dog named Jeremy and he used to make a lot of mess while eating and cleaning the mess every day was exhausting. As a dog owner, you might have felt the same. So, to help you deal with this messy situation, I have included some of the best dog bowl UK in this article.

Now, it’s obvious for you to think about how to trust the choices presented in the list. You should consider the dog bowl products mentioned in the article as it has been conjured up after conducting thorough research. Also, to provide more clarity on different prospects, I have included a buying guide which will help you get more information about features to consider, factors affecting cost, types of dog bowls, tips on using, perks, drawbacks etc.

Best Dog Bowls

A dog bowl is a container that helps dog owners provide food and water to the dogs. These bowls are designed to reduce stress on dogs’ necks while eating. They come in different shapes, sizes, colours, designs, and strengths. Based on your preferences and dogs’ requirements you can pick a dog bowl that is suitable and within the budget. Below are some of the best dog bowls in the UK that our team at Wewantdogs has picked based on features, types, and other prospects:

1. Mason Cash Colour Mix Grey Stoneware Dog Bowl

One of the best dog bowls out there in the market is the Mason Cash Colour Mix Grey Stoneware Dog Bowl. The bowl has a simplistic modern look with a bone embossed on it to lure dogs. It is made using stoneware and ceramic material which makes it strong. Also, it is resistant to bacteria and mould.

In addition, the design of this dog bowl ensures that the food doesn’t slide off the bowl. You will also find an appealing style and texture which makes the bowl visually attractive. Also, the material used in the dog bowl doesn’t leach into the food or water so, safe for dogs.

As per the manufacturer, you can wash this dog bowl using warm water, sponge, brush, or simply place it in the dishwasher. Also, the bowl is available in three different colours so, you can pick the one which suits your home decor.

2. Raised dog bowl by AISHNA

If you have multiple dogs, with different heights or simply a large dog then, the Raised Dog Bowl by AISHNA will be the perfect option. This elevated dog bowl has three different adjustable heights so, pretty much helpful for small, medium, and large dogs. If there is no need for the additional height, you can move the legs of the stand and tuck it under the raised feeder.

These raised dog bowls have two detachable stainless steel bowls and the design is spillproof. So, the food will remain on top and water drains below. The compartment below the grid above the dog basin can be taken out to get rid of the overflowing water while your dog is having the meal.

In addition, the height of this raised dog bowl stand is comfortable for dogs as it reduces the pressure on the neck, making it easy for them to enjoy their food.

3. Rosewood Deluxe Stainless Steel Dog Bowl

If you need a dog bowl that is of proper material and of low price then, you can consider Rosewood Deluxe Stainless Steel Dog Bowl for your furry friend. The cost is less and the material used in making this dog bowl is durable and resistant to bacteria and mould so, fewer chances of health issues.

The textured design of this bowl makes it stable ensuring the food doesn’t slip off and the dog can easily eat the food or drink water.

This dog bowl can hold water for up to a day and is easy to wash. It is dishwasher safe but, the manufacturer suggests hand washing the bow.

4. Slow Feeder Dog Bowl by CAISHOW

If your furry friend has a habit of eating their food fast then you can explore Slow Feeder Dog Bowl by CAISHOW. This dog bowl is designed to facilitate slow feeding and prevent risks such as bloating, vomiting, or choking in dogs. It is deep and has a bone-shaped design in the bowl which helps slow down the pace of eating.

In addition, the bowl has six small rubber anti-skid bases which prevent movement of the dog bowl providing stability while the dog enjoys their meal.

As per the manufacturer, the material used alongside PP resin to make this dog bowl is non-toxic so, no risk of the substances blending into dogs’ food.

5. Decyam Slow Feeder Dog Bowl 

After seeing the previous dog bowl, you may have thought of looking for a puzzle-designed dog bowl, if so then, Decyam Slow Feeder Dog Bowl will be a good choice. Not only does this dog bowl slow down the pace of eating but, also makes it fun and challenging for the dogs. The design is luring for the dog and they will engage in the puzzle while you feed them.

In addition, this slow feeder dog bowl can hold two cups and is suitable for both wet and dry dog foods. Also, the material used in designing this slow feeder is free of BPA, PVC, or phthalates so, no health risk for dogs.

According to the manufacturer, their dog bowl can reduce the speed of eating by 10 times compared to a normal dog bowl.

6. Double Dog Bowls

Double Dog Bowls by Spider0828 is suitable for dog owners who are looking to have multiple bowls to feed their furry friend. Both the bowls are easy to set up in the tray and you can easily provide water and food at the same time to the dog. The tray is made of silicone tray holds both the bowls and is tight for dogs to shake it off the tray.

Further, the tray is big enough to catch the spills which makes it easy for dog owners to clean it. If your dog is a messy eater, don’t worry, the heightened edges design of the tray ensures there is less spilling.

The tray holding bowls is foldable and portable so, you can take these bowls while travelling with your furry friend.

7. Rosewood Anti scoff Slow Feeder

For dog owners looking for a melamine dog bowl, Rosewood Anti scoff Slow Feeder is an option they must surely explore. This heavy-duty slow feeder dog bowl is made of melamine and features three raised columns which help reduce the pace of dogs when eating.

This melamine dog bowl has a non-skid base to ensure the bowl doesn’t slip which minimises the mess dogs create while eating food from a dog bowl.

Both food and liquid can be served in this melamine dog bowl and it is dishwasher safe so, easy to clean without any complications.

8. Beco Dog Bowl

If you need a dog bowl that is made without plastic or other material, you can consider buying the Beco Dog Bowl for your furry friend. This dog bowl constitutes 62% plant-based material i.e. bamboo, rice husks, and cornstarch and is BPA-free. The design of this dog bowl is simple and the shade of the bowl is fresh like crispy mint to lure a dog towards the bowl.

In addition, the bamboo fibres in these bowls are blended with rice husks which is a by-product of rice farming to make the bowl hard.

The manufacturer suggests not to use this bowl in the microwave. Also, there are different textures of these dog bowls available for dog owners to choose from.

9. ELS PET Dog Water Bowl

For dog owners who need dog bowls for specifically feeding water to the dog then, ELS PET Dog Water Bowl by ELS PET Store will be a suitable choice. This dog bowl has an anti-spill design which ensures there is no overflowing or spilling of water or any other liquid. This water bowl also consists of an adjustable disk to slow down the drinking of the water.

So, when the dog drinks the water, their tongue touches the floating plate and it sinks. The water then passes through the hole and is an effective method of preventing dogs from drinking excessive water.

In addition, the floating disk also controls water easily and then stops dogs’ mouths from getting wet also, the four corners at the base provide stability and make the drinking experience better for the dog.

10. IKITCHEN Dog Bowl 

IKITCHEN Dog Bowl Is suitable for dog owners who need a bowl that can be used to serve food and water simultaneously. The dog bowl is made using high-quality stainless steel and has double wall insulation which makes it long-lasting rustproof scratchproof and environment friendly. The outer part of the bowl is made using Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene to improve its durability. 

In addition, the edges of this dog bowl are flat so, no worries of a dog getting hurt. Also, it is a heavy-duty dog bowl that can withstand the chewing and scratching behaviour of dogs. 

Further, the manufacturer claims to have used polishing technology to provide a smooth layer for easy cleaning. 

Buying Guide: Best Dog Bowls UK

You observed different dog bowls that are available in the market. Now, the variety of bowls may have made it difficult for you, to pick the best dog bowl. So, I have provided this detailed buying guide to assist you in picking one of the best dog bowls for your furry friend. But, before we get into the specifics, let’s understand why dog owners need dog bowls.

Dog bowl – why do dog owners need it?

A dog bowl is a container that helps dog owners feed their dogs or provide water to them. It helps dog owners provide different meals for their age, health, and behaviour. But, these are not the only reasons dog owners need this item. Here are some additional reasons why dog owners need dog bowls for their furry friends:

• To minimise gulping of food – Gulping of food can cause choking, vomiting or bloating in dogs. A dog bowl minimises these risks as it is designed to reduce the speed of eating or drinking and minimise gulping.

• To make the dog comfortable while eating – A dog bowl helps make dogs eat their meal or drink water comfortably. Some bowls are designed to make sure that dogs’ posture isn’t compromised while eating or drinking, especially for senior dogs.

• To protect dogs’ food – Dogs’ food if served without a dog bowl always poses the risk of contamination. The bacteria might compromise the food and it could lead to health issues. Dog bowl design ensures the food is protected.

• To prevent spilling or scattering – Regular bowls in the household are not suitable for dogs and they often make dogs spill or scatter the meal. To avoid such a situation, dog owners need a dog bowl. It prevents scattering and reduces mess while the dog is eating.

Features of a dog bowl

If you need to make sure that you are buying the best dog bowl then, you need to analyse the features of a dog bowl. Also, it is important to match these features with your furry friend’s age, size, mouth size etc. Below are some of the prominent features that you need to look for in a dog bowl:

#1. Material of the dog bowl

While buying the dog bowl you’ll have to check the material it’s made of. The material of the dog bowl suggests hygiene, safety, and appearance. For example, metal dog bowls are easy to clean and are made of aluminium or steel material. They are rust-resistant.

Likewise, some dog bowls are made using material like melamine which is a durable plastic material helpful in making kitchenware. The bowls made of this material are bacteria and mould-resistant. In addition, there are other dog bowls made using materials such as ceramic, plastic, and so on.

#2. Size and shape of the dog bowl

The shape and size of the dog bowl should match the dog’s mouth snout and posture with ease. A deep bowl will be feasible for large dogs or dogs with long features. Likewise, a shallow dog bowl will suit small dogs, puppies, or dogs with stout noses. Here are some factors that you need to analyse:

• Capacity – your furry friend’s bowl should be able to hold food or water as per their requirements. For example, the bowl should hold the water or food for at least a day. Likewise, if your dog has a habit of eating more, let’s say they are used to eating twice (two cups of food) then, the bowl must hold two cups of food.

• Width – the dog must have easy access to the food or water present in the bowl. The water or food in the bowl should not bump into their nose or eyes on the sides. In addition, the bowl should be narrow enough to stop dogs from putting their whole face in the bowl.

• Depth – the bowl should be deep enough to allow dogs to eat food or drink water without spilling or scattering it. However, the bowl should not be very deep otherwise dogs will struggle to reach the food and their mouth might get stuck as well. Make sure you measure the length of the dog’s mouth and add an inch or two to the bowl while considering the depth.

• Height – the dog must be able to drink water or eat food at a comfortable height without straining the neck or back. To ensure this, you can measure the distance from the floor to the dog’s chest while they are standing. The bowl height should remain slightly below the chest level.

#3. Design and style

The design and style of the dog bowl are important. The design of the bowl suggests ease of access and the style exhibits the visual impact. The appearance of the dog bowl can lure dogs into eating the food or drinking water from it regularly. Also, if the texture, colour and design of the bowl match the dog’s personality, they are likely to get used to the presence of the bowl.

Now, if while seeking a visually appealing dog bowl for your furry friend, you must not compromise on its functionality. For instance, the design and style of the dog bowl should not restrict dogs’ mouth movement while eating food or drinking water from the bowl. Also, a dog bowl should not have rough surfaces, sharp edges, or small parts which could hurt the dog.

#4. Additional features

If you wish to have a proper dog bowl that simplifies feeding, you need to look for some additional features in the dog bowl. These features make it easy for dogs to have their meal without causing any mess. Below are some of the additional features for you to consider while buying the dog bowl:

• Anti-skid – dog bowls have rubber or silicone bases which stop the bowl from sliding across the floor or tipping over as the dog eats their meal. The anti-skid feature also makes sure that there is less noise while the dog eats and less mess which makes it easy for dog owners. This type of dog bowl is needed for dogs who are quick eaters or have a tendency to paw at different items.

• Anti-choke – to ensure the dog doesn’t choke these dog bowls have a raised centre or maze-like design which ensures that the dog eats their food at a slow and careful pace. This minimises the risk of vomiting, gagging, or choking. The anti-choke dog bowl is useful for dogs who are known to gulp down food or have sensitive stomachs.

• Anti-spill – dog bowls have a lid or a rim which stops food or water from spilling out of the bowl. This will keep the floor clean and dry and also save water and food. These dog bowls come in handy for dog owners whose dog tends to knock over the bowls or splash the items.

• Slow feeder – the slow feeder dog bowls are identical to anti-choke dog bowls but, the design of these dog bowls is complex. The complex design of a slow feeder makes dogs work harder to eat the food and it helps stimulate dogs’ brains, reduce boredom and also make eating more exciting.

Factors to consider while buying dog bowl

We just analysed different features that a dog owner needs to look for in a dog bowl. They are one of the pivotal factors to consider while buying a dog bowl. But, along with the features, there are some other factors which are crucial to consider for a dog owner while buying a dog bowl.

#1. Cost of a dog bowl

One of the prominent factors to consider when buying a dog bowl is cost. It should match your budget and provide you the value for the money you spend on the bowl. Based on the material, size, type, and design the prices of dog bowls will differ. You need to pick a dog bowl that is suitable for your dog and meets your requirements while ensuring the budget doesn’t exceed.

#2. Ease and maintenance of the dog bowl

After the dog is done with their meal, it is important to clean the dog bowl. This is to ensure the hygiene and health of the dog. If the bowl is difficult to clean, it may harbour harmful bacteria which may cause health issues for the dogs. In fact, anyone who comes in contact with a dirty bowl will get infected and suffer from severe health issues.

#3. Preference of dog and eating behaviour

Often dog owners neglect this prospect but, when buying a dog bowl it is important to match the preferences of the dog also, the eating behaviour. The dog bowl you choose will be used regularly and you don’t want your furry friend to resent the dog bowl you purchase. Here are some tips on how you can analyse these prospects;

• Speed of eating – some dogs prefer eating at a slow pace while others are quick. While there is nothing wrong with fast pace eating, it has proven to be dangerous for dogs. So, if your dog is prone to quick eating, you might need a slow-feeder dog bowl and if a slow eater, the normal dog bowl will work just fine.

• Spilling or dribbling – many dogs are known to spill or dribble lots of food while eating from a bowl. These dogs are prone to make a mess and make feeding a challenge for dog owners. If you have such dog who reflects such behaviour then, you need to use an anti-skid bowl or anti-splash bowl. A heavy-weight bowl will be a good choice.

• Reaction to the bowl – you need to use different household bowls before buying an actual dog bowl. Their reaction to the regular bowl will help you analyse whether they will respond positively to the dog bowl or not. If you see your dog showing a positive response to the normal dog bowl, you can try using a dog bowl.

Types of Dog Bowls

Dog bowls are available in different types and based on the dogs’ behaviour, eating habits, and personal preference, you can pick a specific dog bowl type for your dog. Let’s have a peek at different types of dog bowls:

#1. Plastic dog bowls

If you need a dog bowl that is available easily and affordable then, go with the plastic dog bowl. These dog bowls use synthetic material that is moulded into different sizes, colours, and shapes. The material is durable enough so, won’t break if it gets knocked over.

Perks of plastic dog bowls

• Lightweight and easy to carry around
• The price is low so, easy to replace if damaged
• Easy to clean and dishwasher safe
• Versatile usage so, you can serve dry dog food, wet dog food, water or other treats

Cons of plastic dog bowls

• Susceptible to damage if a dog keeps scratching, or chewing the bowl
• Harmful bacteria can manifest on the bowl, especially if not cleaned properly
• Contains chemicals like BPA, or phthalates which can drain into the food or water compromising the dog’s health
• The material might stain or develop a bio-film over time which can make the bowl smell bad or look dirty

#2. Ceramic dog bowls

These dog bowls are made from clay and hardened with heat. Compared to plastic dog bowls, ceramic dog bowls are heavy so, dogs will have a tough time pushing over the dog bowl with food or water in it. Also, the bowl is easy to clean and doesn’t harbour bacteria like a plastic dog bowl.

Perks of ceramic dog bowls

• More stable compared to plastic dog bowls and heavy
• No scratching or rusting issue and even if it is dropped, it will not break
• Non-porous and easy to clean so, no growth of bacteria or mould
• Dishwasher safe so, easy for dog owners to clean the dog bowl

Cons of ceramic dog bowls

• Prone to cracking or chipping hence, unsafe for dogs
• If dropped or tipped over the impact can break this dog bowl
• Boring for dogs as it is unappealing and no stimulation or interaction at all
• Substances like lead or cadmium, can leach into the meal and affect dogs’ health

#3. Raised dog bowl

Raised dog bowls are lifted off the ground with a stand or a platform. These dog bowls are raised according to the height and size of different dog breeds to prevent bending down too much or stretching up too high to have a meal or water.

Perks of a raised dog bowl

• Reduce back and neck strain for dogs, especially for tall, large, or senior dogs
• Less risk of choking, vomiting, or bloating in dogs as dogs will not gulp or eat too fast
• Spilling is reduced because of the raised levels and less mess on the floor

Cons of a raised dog bowl

• Heavy and bulky, the material used makes it expensive
• Cleaning is tough and needs disassembling or replacing parts of the stand or platform
• The material used in these bowls can produce annoying rattling, clanging, or squeaking sounds when a dog eats

#4. Melamine dog bowls

These dog bowls are made of hard plastic resin. It is mixed with organic compounds and moulded into different shapes and designs. Melamine dog bowls are luring, colourful and easy to clean.

Perks of melamine dog bowls

• Has the capacity to withstand some wear and tear
• Stable, lightweight, scratch-resistant, non-toxic, and shatter-proof
• Material is durable and if dog owners maintain it can sustain for a longer duration
• Cheaper compared to ceramic or stainless steel dog bowl

Cons of melamine dog bowls

• Not feasible to use in a microwave or dishwasher
• Hard to find and limited options in the market
• Toxic chemicals like formaldehyde or cyanuric acid if drained into the meal, could cause health issues in dogs

#5. Stainless steel dog bowl

The stainless steel dog bowls are made using metal alloy which has iron, chromium, and other elements in the mix. It is strong and resistant to rust, dents, and scratches. The metal alloy used in this dog bowl makes it thin so, less rattling or clanging sound while dogs eat their food or drink water.

Peks of a stainless steel dog bowl

• Easy to sanitize and clean (dishwasher safe and non-porous)
• Doesn’t harbour bacteria, odour, or mould
• Resistant of stains, rust, and scratches
• Safe for dogs as no reactive harmful substances or chemicals are present so, no risk of food contamination

Cons of a stainless steel dog bowl

• The surface is smooth which makes it unstable and slippery so, the dog bowl will flip over easily, especially if the dog is a messy or playful eater
• Low thermal conductivity so, can be cold or hot for dogs based on the ambient temperature
• Supply is limited compared to demand in the market so, not available easily

#6. Slow feeder dog bowls

This type of dog bowl is made to reduce the eating speed of the dog. The intent is to minimise the risk of choking in dogs who are habitual of fast eating or are messy eaters.

Perks of slow feeder dog bowls

• Reduces the speed of eating to prevent overeating in dogs
• Less choking issues as food will not get stuck
• Slow eating speed helps improve digestion

Cons of slow feeder dog bowls

• Dog will get used to pace eating and might get lazy
• Cleaning is tough, especially if the slow feeder has a complex design
• Some dogs may get frustrated with the puzzle design and refuse to eat their food

Factors Affecting the Cost of Dog Bowls

The cost of a dog bowl is a significant buying prospect and one must thoroughly analyse the prices and factors that influence the prices of different dog bowls. This will help in picking the best possible dog bowl within the budget. Below are some of the prominent factors affecting the prices of dog bowls:

#1. Material of the dog bowl

The material of a dog bowl indicates the strength, appearance, and hygiene of the bowl. It is one of the prominent factors influencing the prices of a dog bowl. Plastic bowls are the cheapest among the different dog bowls available but, are easily chewed on, scratched, or stained by the dogs. Metal or stainless steel bowls are costly as they are easy to clean and can withstand the chewing, or scratching behaviour of the dog.

In addition, ceramic dog bowls are more costly compared to plastic dog bowls but, cheaper than stainless steel or melamine dog bowls. These bowls are heavy and prone to cracking or chipping. Further, you will also find some eco-friendly bamboo dog bowls in the market. These dog bowls are strong, have a nice design, and are environment friendly however, the material used is expensive compared to other dog bowls.

#2. Dog bowl size and shape

The size and shape of the bowl influence the prices because the material used in different sizes and shapes of bowls varies a lot. For instance, the large dog bowls can hold more water and food so, the material used in making them is more and hence, the prices of these dog bowls are higher.

Hence, the elevated dog bowls, or adjustable dog bowls will cost more than the ones with simpler or complex shapes. The reason is simple, complex shapes of the dog bowls not only need more material but, require pristine technology, more labour, and time to produce.

#3. Dog bowl design

A dog bowl’s design also impacts the price of a dog bowl. Based on the visual appearance appeal, style, and specific structured design, manufacturers increase the cost of a dog bow. For example, if a dog bowl is stylish and attractive compared to others, the price will be high.

This high price is mainly because of the colour, patterns, shapes, or themes in the bowl which demand extensive effort and precision. The method used to design certain dog bowls requires more labour, specific tools, and materials. So, the prices will be higher, especially if the design is unique or patented.

#4. Innovative or additional features

Some dog bowls are made with innovative or additional features and the prices of these dog bowls are usually high. The reason behind the high price is the functionality and appeal of the product. For instance, if a manufacturer provides an automatic feeder to make feeding easy, the dog bowl will be expensive.

Likewise, if the dog bowl is made to facilitate slow feeding, the design will be different and the slow feeding feature will make the dog bowl expensive. In addition, to help dog owners, many dog bowls have anti-slip mats or anti-choke features which require extra effort and elevate the production cost. So, expect the prices of such dog bowls to be high.

Additional factors affecting the cost of dog bowl

Apart from the material, size, shape, design, and features of the dog bowl, there are a few other factors which affect the overall cost of a dog bowl. So, let’s have a peek at these additional factors:

• Supply and demand of the dog bowl

Like any other dog product in the market, dog bowl prices are affected because of supply and demand. A dog bowl with more popularity and high demand is likely to be expensive compared to other bowls, especially if the supply of such a dog bowl is limited. On the contrary, if there is a low demand for new dog bowls in the market, the price will be relatively less compared to the popular dog bowls.

• Reputation of the brand

The reputation of the brand manufacturing a dog bowl will have a significant impact on the overall cost. This is because of the quality of material used in the dog bowl and the customer trust that they have managed to build over the years. So, if you see high prices for a branded dog bowl don’t be surprised. The loyal customer base of that specific brand encourages such high prices.

Perks of Using the Dog Bowl

We saw different types of dog bowls that are at your disposal. Each of them has its unique benefits and based on dogs’ eating habits and preferences, a suitable dog bowl could provide ample benefits. The following are some of the prominent perks of using dog bowls for dogs:

#1. Improved posture

The design of regular bowls makes it tough for dogs to have their meal or drink water. Dog bowls are made such that the height is comfortable for them and less physical stress. The dog bowl aligns water or food with your furry friend’s natural feeding position and allows dogs to remain in a straight and comfortable posture when eating or drinking.

So, a dog doesn’t need to bend too much or strain their neck to reach the food. The amount of strain experienced while bending or stretching is significantly reduced and joints around the neck are also relieved. This helps in maintaining proper posture, especially for senior dogs who are prone to joint issues.

#2. Digestion gets better

The comfortable position while eating meals or drinking water from the dog bowl improves digestion in dogs. Dogs can relax and eat the food gradually at their own pace. This minimises the risk of bloating, choking, or vomiting. These issues occur when dogs swallow their food or eat their food too fast.

A dog bowl ensures that the pace is not too fast and the flow of food and saliva in the digestive tract remains proper. This helps in nutrient absorption and also, eliminates the risk of constipation. However, to improve the digestion in dogs, you need to make sure that the size of the dog bowl matches your furry friends’ mouth and is of proper shape and capacity.

#3. Keeps dog food clean

The dog food or water you serve the dog remains fresh and clean in a dog bowl. This is possible because of the material used in making the dog bowl. However, the food in the dog bowl doesn’t remain fresh or clean for a longer duration. You have to make sure that it is not left out for a longer duration. Long-time exposure to an open environment will surely contaminate the food in the bowl

#4. Helps provide mental stimulation

Some dogs are highly energetic and they require challenging tasks or intense exercise to match their energy levels. So, to achieve this prospect many manufacturers make dog bowls which are designed like puzzles to challenge the dog and make the feeding process through the dog bowl more exciting.

However, as a responsible dog owner, you need to make sure that your furry friend is comfortable with the design of the dog bowl. You don’t want them to resent the use of a dog bowl by unintentionally denying them food.

Dog bowl benefits for dog owners

The benefits of a dog bowl are not limited to canines, the owners also leverage several perks while using a dog bowl for their dogs. Below are some of the benefits of using dog bowl for dog owners:

• Time-saving

It is frustrating for dog owners to clean up the mess that a dog leaves behind after they are done eating their meal. One of the reasons for this mess is the feeding bowl or plate used makes it difficult for them to eat the food. So, they spill it out and eat the food directly from the floor.

So, a dog bowl minimises this spilling and less mess is created around the area. Dog owners don’t need to spend time cleaning up after their meals like before. Also, some of the dog bowls have anti-skid feature which provides stability to the bowl and reduce the spilling of food.

• Easy to wash

The material used in dog bowls makes it convenient for dog owners to clean the bowl using water, detergent, soap or a dishwasher. It can withstand different substances and the high temperature of the dishwasher without getting damaged or reacting with the material.

• Improves bond with the dog

Dogs prefer enjoying their daily meals and if they don’t feel comfortable while eating the food in a regular bowl then it can reflect in their behaviour. Many dog owners have observed this prospect and seen their dogs get aggressive. In fact, this is one of the reasons why dog owners buy a dog bowl for their furry friends and the change in dogs’ behaviour is noticeable.

Once the dog gets used to the dog bowl, they reflect positive behaviour and dog owners can spend time playing with them, training them to learn new things, or simply resting in a quiet place. Some dogs even start to gesture towards the dog bowl when they feel hungry.

Tips on Using Dog Bowl

To leverage the benefits of dog bowls, it is necessary for dog owners to use them properly. Also, if the dog is not used to eating from the bowl, then training them to get used to the dog bowl becomes crucial. So, before I share some tips on using dog bowls, let’s have a closer look at some prospects that dog owners need to consider to train dogs to eat from the bowl.

Tips to train dogs to eat from the dog bowl

Dogs need to get used to the bowl before they start eating food in it. Below are some of the tips that you can follow to make your dog comfortable with eating in a dog bowl:

• Pick a suitable dog bowl – the dog bowl you pick should meet your preferences and also, match the dog’s mouth size. If size is not proper, the dog will probably feel discomfort in the mouth and stop eating.
• Place the bowl in a proper location – if the dog has a specific spot where they spend their time resting, eating, or playing, place the bowl in such a location. This helps in making dogs comfortable when introducing them to a dog bowl.
• Introduce your dog to the dog bowl – when you introduce your dog to the dog bowl make sure that you keep the bowl empty. Yes, empty, because it will allow the dog to analyse the bowl as its original shape.
• Allow the dog to sniff the bowl – the dog might try and sniff the bowl to get used to the scent and make sure it is not a threat. So, if your dog sniffs the bowl, allow it.

Now, when your dog is sniffing the bowl observe their reaction. If they are reflecting positive behaviour, you can put some food in it. However, if they react aggressively, for instance, push away the bowl then you need to put their favourite meal to lure them.

Once, your dog is comfortable with the presence of the dog bowl, here are some tips to ensure effective usage of the bowl:

#1. Select the right bowl for the dog

As a responsible dog owner, you need to pick a suitable bowl for your dog. This means, that the material used in the dog bowl should be of proper quality, durable, easy to clean, and bacteria-resistant. These are some of the common features to consider in a dog bowl.

Apart from these features, you need to make sure that the size of the dog bowl matches your furry friends’ mouth size. Smaller breeds will require shallow bowls whereas, larger breeds will need deeper bowls to fit their mouth in. Selecting the right dog bowl for your furry friend will lay grounds for effective usage.

#2. Set up the dog bowl in a comforting spot

Your furry friend needs to feel comfortable while eating in the dog bowl. Set up their bowl in the spot where they spend the majority of their time. Placing the bowl in their favourite spot will help them associate with the dog bowl positively.

So, when you feed them the food in the bowl, they will not resent it. The distractions are minimal in their favourite spot and if you give them their favourite food treat, they are likely to enjoy eating food in the dog bowl.

#3. Command train your dog

Your dog will need to be command trained to make sure that they eat their food properly without spilling it. The command training to have meals from the dog bowl will be crucial for aggressive dogs. Use commands like “Come eat” or “Dinner time” when feeding them using a dog bowl.

Make sure your dog responds to the command and to make it a routine, use it every time you feed them their food. To ensure a smooth transition, make sure to use commands such as “sit” or “stay” when they arrive at the location where you set up their feeding bowl.

#4. Reward your dog

Normally, you reward dogs with food treats when you train them or introduce them to different objects. So, it is obvious that to reward the positive behaviour of eating from the dog bowl will require something different. You can use your furry friends’ favourite toy to acknowledge their positive behaviour.

Further, you can always try using encouraging words to make them feel praised. Also, pat them gently or cuddle them. This will encourage the dog to maintain good behaviour every time you feed them using the dog bowl.

#5. Regular cleaning of the dog bowl

To use the dog bowl for a longer duration and ensure dogs’ safety, you need to regularly clean the dog bowl. Use warm water, a sponge, brush, soap, detergent, or a dishwasher to clean the dog bowl of your furry friend. However, make sure you follow the instructions to wash the dog bowl.

Many dog bowls are only hand washable and not dishwasher safe so, make sure you verify it with the manufacturer and only wash the dog bowl in a dishwasher if it’s made to sustain extreme temperatures of the washer.

These are some of the tips that you can follow to use the dog bowl effectively for your furry friend. Make sure you don’t skip the command training part otherwise, your friend will not follow your instructions.

Drawbacks of Using Dog Bowl

While there are ample benefits to using a dog bowl, there are many drawbacks as well, especially if dog owners are not careful with the usage of a dog bowl. Here are some of the prominent drawbacks of using dog bowl:

#1. Risk of infection and bad health

A dog bowl can harbour bacteria, bad smell, or chemicals that can contaminate the water or food in the bowl. The risk of infection is higher if you are using a dog bowl made of wood, plastic, or porous material. Ingestion of contaminated food can lead to health issues like vomiting, diarrhoea, or trigger allergies in dogs.

In addition, dog bowls are made using different chemicals and materials and some of these substances can react with the food or water causing severe health issues for the dog. So, it is important for dog owners, to check the material of the dog bowl before the purchase to ensure dogs’ safety.

#2. Choking and bloating issues

Some dogs are messy eaters and eat their food quickly. Many dog bowls help slow down the pace of eating, but, some dogs are aggressive and continue with quick eating habits. This often makes them choke on their food and leads to other issues. Not to mention some dog bowl materials get scraped into pieces and get mixed with the food, which can hurt the dog.

For instance, if the dog is chewing on the dog bowl then it could break into pieces and if these pieces are sharp or pointy, they could cause injury to dogs. At times, these pieces get stuck into the digestive tract or in their throat causing discomfort for the dog.

#3. Makes dog anxious

Once the dogs begin to get used to eating food in their dog bowls, they begin to protect their dog bowl, especially if there is some food left inside the bowl. So, if you approach to take the bowl they will react aggressively even if you intend to clean the bowl.

Likewise, if any other individual or family member approaches the dog bowl, they will consider it as a threat and due to the fear and anxiety, they will bark aggressively or even hurt the individual. Sometimes, they get frustrated because they cannot have the meal properly. Meaning, that the design of the bowl restricts their movements or makes it tough for them to finish up the remaining meal.

Drawbacks for dog owners

You saw the potential drawbacks of dog bowls for the dogs but, even if you are careful with the usage of the dog bowl, there are some drawbacks as well. Here are some of the drawbacks that you may encounter:

• Risk of injury and health issues

A dog bowl surely helps in feeding the dog but, not without risks. There are certain risks involved when using the dog bowl. The dog bowl can harbour bacteria which can cause health issues for dogs. Also, the risk of injury is a huge drawback, especially if the dog is aggressive in nature or a messy eater.

Messy eaters or aggressive dogs often chew through and a dog owner always feels anxious because of these risks as it impacts the health of their furry friend.

• Difficult to locate the spot

The dog bowl needs to be set up in a specific location so that dogs can enjoy their meal without disturbance. Normally, the spot dog spends their time resting or playing does the trick but, some dogs will not prefer eating in that spot. Also, if the dog bowl is set up close to an area where there is high traffic or the presence of other family members, it could spook the dog.

It becomes difficult for dog owners to locate a spot that is within their reach, less noisy, less dirty, and not too close to cause anxiety issues for the dogs.

• Continuous monitoring of the dog

Even if the dog is well-behaved and makes less mess while eating from the dog bowl, it is important to continuously monitor them while they are eating their food from the dog bowl. This is because dog bowls may break while the dog eats and end up swallowing the pieces which can cause injury.

Also, many dogs are quick eaters and might make a mess around the bowl so, it’s crucial to watch them closely to avoid these issues.

• Conflict between dogs

If you have multiple dogs at home, it becomes difficult to provide each dog with its own bowl. Also, it is tough to provide a spot for each dog, and it is a nightmare of a situation if different dogs like the same spot. They might fight over the place to establish their dominance and get the space for themselves.

A fight over the place can happen over the space or to protect the dog bowl, regardless, it is not good for the dogs. As a responsible dog owner, you’ll have to figure out a way to resolve such a conflict.

Things dog owners must avoid while using a dog bowl

To avoid the drawbacks and ensure proper usage of the dog bowl, dog owners must avoid certain things while using a dog bowl for their furry friend. Here are they:

• Avoid using the dog bowl as a scoop – the dog bowl has a biofilm which can stick to the surface of the bowl. So, if it is used as a scoop by dog owners, bacteria such as E. coli, salmonella, and MRSA can mix with the food of the dog. This can lead to infection issues for the dogs and possibly the dog owner as well.

• Leave no food in the dog bowl – food left in the dog bowl for a longer duration can lure insects, other animals, or rodents. This happens because of the bacterial growth and contamination of the food inside the dog bowl. Long-time exposure to the atmosphere will spoil it and if not cleaned, the dog may eat it and get sick. They will suffer from digestive issues, diarrhoea, or vomiting.

• Avoid putting the dog bowl near a warm place, stove or bathroom – putting a dog bowl in a warm area, or near a stove or bathroom can elevate the risk of bacterial growth and contamination in dogs’ food or water, especially if the bowl is near a stove or a bathroom. Bacteria can multiply quickly because of the favourable environment and spoil the food faster.

• Avoid using the same bowl for food and water – using the same dog bowl to serve water and food will elevate the risk of infection and diseases in dogs. This happens due to cross-contamination of bacteria, parasites, dirt, and viruses from the food to the water or vice versa. Also, with frequent use of the same bowl for feeding food and providing water, there is a risk of underfeeding or overfeeding the dog.

• Using dog bowls with unsafe material – dog owners should avoid using dog bowls that are made of unsafe materials like copper, lead, or BPA plastics. These materials can mix with food or water and cause health issues for dogs. For instance, copper or lead can lead to metal poisoning in dogs which can cause issues like vomiting, anaemia, seizures or death. Likewise, BPA plastics can release chemicals that are harmful to dogs. The release of harmful chemicals can disrupt the endocrine system and cause reproductive, developmental and neurological problems in dogs. Also, materials like glass or ceramic can cause issues for dogs if ingested.

• Avoid using a dog bowl of improper size – dog owners should make sure the dog bowl they use for their dog is not too deep, small, shallow, or big. If the dog bowl is too deep, the dog will find it tough to reach the bottom of the bowl, dogs who have a short snout or a flat face will face more difficulty. A big size dog bowl can intimidate dogs and excessive food or water in the bowl makes them think that they have to finish it to compete with other resources or dogs. A shallow bowl will cause the dog to scatter the food or spill it. Also, they might choke on food while eating it quickly.

• Using a dog bowl with a boring design – may seem unusual but, dogs do get affected by the texture and design of the bowl. If the bowl has having dull design or texture, dogs’ senses might not be stimulated and it could make them not have their meal or drink water from the bow. Also, a dull design or texture of a dog bowl can make the dog feel unappreciated or unhappy and this can often make them follow the messy eating habit and make a mess around the dog bowl while eating.

FAQs

Conclusive Remarks for Best Dog Bowls

The best dog bowls are not that expensive but, based on your requirements and furry friends’ preferences, you may have to buy the one which is high in cost to avoid any issues. You need to make sure the dog bowl is proper in size, is made of good material, and has a nice design to lure the dog. Picking the best dog bowl will be a challenging task, especially after going through the different choices that are provided in the article.

But, with the help of the buyer’s guide, I hope that you were able to pinpoint the best dog bowl for your furry friend. Still, if there is any confusion within your mind or you need more insights on which dog bowl will be suitable for your dog then feel free to share those queries. Also, if you have used any of these dog bowls, share your experience to help out your fellow dog lovers.