Whatever your pooch loves to eat, the best dog bowls are a must for mealtimes. As pet owners, we're all familiar with the sight of our doggies making an appearance as soon as we step foot into the kitchen, begging for a morsel of what we're cooking or snacking on. When it comes to din-dins for your pup, their cute eyes will spur you on as you empty their dog food neatly into a bowl – which will likely be destroyed in moments when you set it down on the floor.
When looking for the best dog bowls, there are so many options. With differences in material, design and purpose, dog owners are spoiled for choice: retro, quirky dog bowls in a holder, and raised bowls for larger dogs. The possibilities for your pooch to snaffle its wet or dry dog food are endless.
Best dog bowls at a glance:
• Best slow-feeding dog bowl: IOKHEIRA Dog Slow Feeder Bowl - View on Amazon UK
• Best automatic feeder for dogs: PetSafe Smart Feed Automatic Dog and Cat Feeder - View on Amazon UK
• Best ceramic dog bowl: Mason Cash Cane Ceramic Dog Bowl - View on Amazon UK
Perhaps, you're wondering: What type of bowls are best for dogs? You'll be pleased to know we've handpicked many different varieties to see which is the best fit for your pooch. Check out our FAQ section for more guidance on this. Whether it is ceramic or a bowl that encourages your dog to slow down at mealtimes, we've rounded up the best dog bowls on the market and have answered all of your frequently asked questions below.
Best dog bowls
Best slow-feeding dog bowl
IOKHEIRA/AmazonAnti-choking, this IOKHEIRA Dog Slow Feeder Bowl will slow down your dog's eating time, which helps their health and happiness. Made from polypropylene and BPA-free and non-toxic materials, this bowl is eco-friendly and recyclable. The special design will engage your dog while they're eating and will promote intellectual development. Plus, it's dishwasher safe.
Customer Review: "Use this for evening meals with dry food. Nice design and is easy to clean. Recommended for dogs who are eating their food too fast as this helps to slow progress down."
Pros
- Suction cup to keep to the ground
- Durable
- Comes in different colours and shapes
Cons
- Not suitable for very large dogs
Best automatic feeder for dogs
PetSafe/AmazonWith smartphone programming, you can control your pet's mealtimes from anywhere with the PetSafe Smart Feed Automatic Dog and Cat Feeder. With the free smart app, you can set up to 12 meals to feed on your pet's schedule, set flexible portion sizes, and receive alerts when the food level is low and when your pet has been fed. There's even a Slow Feed setting to dispense meals in small amounts over 15 minutes for pets who tend to eat too quickly. This pet feeder is great for giving you peace of mind.
Customer Review: “The app is great at alerting you of any issues like the food is low, or empty. It also lets you know every time it has fed your pet and it is extremely simple to operate and change portion sizes etc. Simple to do the initial set up and if one day they eat all their food (more than usual) it’s simple to give them an additional portion through the app or by pressing the button on the machine! Very impressed! No issues with it so far.”
Pros
- Sturdy, accurate timer
- Smartphone programming
- Flexible portions
- Low food sensor
Cons
- Portion size in ml not grams
Best dog bowl for travelling
JollyHound/Etsywww.etsy.com
A perfect way to keep your pet fed and hydrated when you’re away from home, this Collapsible Pet Bowl for Travel makes a great addition to your travels and walks. The company have lots of colours to choose from, and with the carabiner attachment, you can carry it easily on your person.
Customer Review: “This is a brilliant bowl, high quality, does not smell chemically(!), good size (especially for medium to large dogs). This was exactly what I was looking for and it arrived very quickly! Highly recommend, thank you.”
Pros
- Large
- Convenient and accessible
Cons
- Only best for on-the-go
Best stainless steel dog bowl
AmazonThis set of two durable stainless steel Amazon Basics Pet Bowls to Feed Dogs are perfect for dogs and cats of any size or breed. These bowls hold up to 900g each, good for all dry and wet food, treats and kibble. This rust-resistant stainless steel bowl offers a better alternative to plastic – as it doesn’t hold odours and will endure even the sharpest of gnashers. Plus, the bowl won’t tip or slide away and will protect floors.
Customer Review: “These bowls were stable, easy to clean, didn’t tip over, good price and the dog thought they were just what was needed. Though he (Labrador with appetite) wouldn’t mind if they were twice the size! I recommend them, they fulfil all the requirements and clean lines make them easy to wash. The pack contained two bowls, an added bonus.”
Pros
- Set of two bowls
- Rust-resistant and dishwasher-safe
- No-tip design with rubber base
Cons
- Basic design
Best ceramic dog bowl
Mason Cash/AmazonComing with a vintage-style design, this Mason Cash Cane Ceramic Dog Bowl offers a timeless feel to any kitchen. 13cm in diameter, this ceramic accessory is bite-resistant, and its thick sides prevent chipping. We love this bowl as it’s crafted from heavy stoneware, which provides durability and tipping. Plus, it’s fridge, freezer and dishwasher safe.
Customer Review: “Sturdy, easy to clean, doesn’t slide around the floor like some and looks great. This is my second set of these, and I wouldn’t buy anything else. Great value and a trusted brand!”
Pros
- Vintage, retro design
- Durable and bite-resistant
- Fridge, freezer and dishwasher safe
Cons
- Not shatterproof
Best budget dog bowl
The Rangewww.therange.co.uk
From The Range, we have this bargain buy Stainless Steel Pet Bowl, suitable for food and water. They’re a classic pet bowl, easy to clean and made from high-quality materials. Lightweight, this bowl could even be good for on-the-go. They come in different sizes, too.
Pros
- Small, medium, large and extra-large sizes
- Durable, simple and well-priced
- Dishwasher-safe and lightweight
Cons
- May slip on a hard floor
Best quirky dog bowl
Oliver Bonaswww.oliverbonas.com
Give your pup their din-dins in style with this Bone Ribbed Blue Ceramic Pet Bowl from Oliver Bonas. This ribbed bowl has a cute bone print in the middle. It has been painted with a green-blue reactive glaze, which gives it that unique finish. Looking for a unique and quirky dog bowl? This could be just the ticket…
Customer Review: “We love this bowl so much we bought another, the colour is so beautiful and very well made. There is some weight to the bowl which stops it from moving around when the dog’s eating.”
Pros
- Quirky, retro design
- Weighty – so, no moving around
- Durable and stylish
Cons
- Best for medium-sized dogs
- No shatterproof
Best personalised Pick
Yappywww.yappy.com
Coming in a choice of Small (14.5 x 5.5 cm) or Large (17.5 x 7 cm), this personalised “Icon” dog bowl from Yappy is a winner. Yappy.com is a favourite at Take a Break Pets, making cute, stylish and awesome personalised bits for your furry friends: from blankets to pet bowls. They’ve got it all. Maybe it’s time your pup ate in style with a personalised dog bowl, which is available in four colours.
Customer Review: “This is Max’s 2nd bowl. We accidentally smashed his previous one after 3.5 years and we loved it so much that we had to immediately replace it. The bowl is a great size, is a good weight and Max won’t eat out of anything else - well maybe his sister’s bowl.”
Pros
- Small and large sizes are available
- Other designs are available
- Made from heavy and durable ceramic
Cons
- Recommended handwash
Best sustainable choice
BecoIf you’re looking for something a little eco-friendlier, this Beco Pets Classic Bamboo Dog Bowl is made from natural plant fibres found in bamboo and rice husks. They’re understated, stylish and classic. With a simple design, these food and water bowls sit comfortably in any home. There are small or large sizes, coming in a few different designs.
Customer Review: “Love these bamboo bowls. Great size, light, easy to clean and modern looking. Will buy more.”
Pros
- A sustainable material
- Lightweight
- Hard wearing
Cons
- Handwash recommended
- Not entirely durable
Best raised or elevated dog bowls
FOREYY/AmazonMade from bamboo and stainless steel, the FOREYY Bamboo Elevated Raised Dog Bowls could suit your pup well. Some vets agree that a raised pet holder can place less strain on your dog’s neck, hips, shoulders and joints, which can promote better posture. So, these bowls can facilitate easy swallowing and much better digestion. They’re anti-slip, easy to clean and water-resistant, too. However, not all experts agree - and some have concerns about bloating.
Take a Break Pets recommends that you do some research on elevated and/or raised bowls before you buy – to see if they’re a good fit for your pooch. Speak to your vet if you need any more questions answered.
Customer Review: “Beautiful and simple design that fits in any room. The stainless steel keeps water fresh. No need to spend money on a fountain. The bowls are wide, so they can eat easily. Love everything about it.”
Pros
- Small, medium, large and extra-large
- Adjustable to three heights
- Made from sustainable bamboo and premium stainless-steel
Cons
- Elevated feeders may increase the speed at which a dog eats, and this can raise the risk of bloat (see our FAQs for more information)
Best dog bowls in a holder
Pets at Homewww.petsathome.com
Made from ceramic, this Pets at Home Bamboo and Ceramic Raised Double Dog Bowl set (complete with bamboo holders) could suit your pup well. Many vets agree that a raised pet holder can place less strain on your dog’s neck, hips, shoulders and joints, which can promote better posture. So, these bowls can facilitate easy swallowing and much better digestion. They’re non-slip, dishwasher-safe and simple too.
Customer review: "I bought this for my Jack Russell as she looked uncomfortable eating from a bowl on the floor and it's really so much better for her. She now eats a lot slower & clears her bowl. I am really pleased with the quality & the height of the bowls."
Pros
- Dishwasher-safe and non-slip
- May help with digestion
- Pretty design
Cons
- Not shatterproof
- Not adjustable height
Best bowls for dogs with long ears
Pets at Homewww.petsathome.com
With a narrow opening to keep ears away, this bowl is perfect for any long-eared friend. It’s great for food and water, too. This stylish beige bowl makes the perfect addition to mealtimes as it keeps your pup’s long ears away from the bowl, which means less mess. Plus, it won't move about when they're tucking in.
Customer Review: “Bought this as a drinking bowl for my Spaniel. It’s a good weighty bowl that won't get knocked over. My only negative is that the pattern looks like something from my own crockery set that I've just put on the floor, would be better with dogs or bones as a pattern.”
Pros
- Dishwasher-safe
- Weighted to stop bowl moving
Cons
- Not shatterproof
Best double dog bowls
Bonve/AmazonThis smaller double set from Amazon contains two stainless-steel bowls with a non-slip silicone mat to support them. For food and water, your pup’s thirst will be quenched, and its tummy will be full. We couldn’t think of a better bowl set for a smaller dog.
Customer Review: “This item is the perfect size for my pug.”
Pros
- Double unit; for food and water
- Non-slip silicone mat
- Easy to clean and is anti-overflow
Cons
- Double bowls are suitable for smaller dogs
FAQs
What types of bowls are best for dogs?
Stainless Steel dog bowls are durable, dishwasher-safe and usually skid-proof. Though they don’t come in any fancy designs or quirky patterns, they’re practical, inexpensive and last longer. However, take care of your stainless-steel dog feeding bowls and avoid leaving them outdoors as they can rust.
Ceramic bowls are a favourite as they often come with funky designs and have a lovely, retro-vintage feel to them. We love that they’re mostly dishwasher-safe and easy to clean. However, they’re not shatterproof and can harbour bacteria in the cracks. So, make sure to keep an eye on it.
Plastic bowls are not recommended for dogs. Though inexpensive, these bowls can be easily scratched and chewed up by your pup. Plus, some dogs can get allergies to plastic. So, look elsewhere.
Automatic bowls allow your pup to be fed at regular intervals if you’re out for a while. Automatic pet feeders are the ultimate convenient tool for your pooch. Some are app-controlled, too. Smart.
Slow-feeder bowls can help food-obsessed dogs take their time during dinner and engage them while they munch. These bowls can have a positive impact on your pooch’s mental and digestive health.
Elevated bowls have advantages in larger and older dogs. They can also be good bowls for long ears to stop them from dangling in their food. However, it can affect the eating speed of your pup. We’ve summed up our thoughts on raised bowls for dogs below in our dog bowl FAQs.
Silicone bowls are great for on-the-go. They’re easy to clean, generally dishwasher friendly and can be quite durable. However, they aren’t a long-term solution as a big gnasher can mess them up.
Travel dog bowls are handy additions to your trips abroad, hiking or long walks that involve a few stops along the way. After all, your pup needs to stay hydrated and kept fed on the go – just like you.
Are ceramic or metal bowls better for dogs?
Most dog owners agree that stainless steel is likely the best option for pet food bowls. But, have we asked our pups about their favourite type? Do dogs prefer certain bowls? Are ceramic or metal bowls better for dogs? We're not quite sure we'll get a straightforward answer; perhaps a wagged tail of approval and an empty bowl is a thumbs up.
As dog food bowls, stainless steel is durable – it won’t break when dropped, is lightweight – easy to carry and relatively easy to clean. Plus, it’s the safest for your dog. However, with a stainless-steel bowl, you’ll likely be compromising on style, which is a factor that may be further up on your list.
We recommend Amazon's Stainless Steel Dog Bowl Set - if you're looking for durability and practicality.
Is it better for dog bowls to be elevated?
Raised pet feeders are said to offer lots of benefits, especially for older dogs – as they offer less strain on the neck, hips, shoulders and joints. Plus, they can be a little bit better for those of you who are house-proud as there’s less spillage this way. And, they’re said to reduce the risk of bloat.
However, an NIH study revealed that elevated feeders may increase the speed at which a dog eats, and this can raise the risk of bloat. Eating off the floor typically helps slow down eating speeds in dogs. Of course, there are dog bowl slow feeders, which could help.
Do vets recommend raised dog bowls?
As you'll have read above, there are pros and cons for dog bowls to be elevated. A vet will always want to do the best for the animals in their care, so there may be certain circumstances where a vet will recommend raised bowls for dogs, such as if your pup suffers from arthritis or other orthopaedic conditions. We would suggest talking to your vet before switching your dog to a raised bowl to get their opinion.
What is the proper way to store dog food?
With the help of Animal Friends Pet Insurance, we’ve put together a list of tips:
Moisture – will lead to mould. Keep the food dry and cool.
Temperature – is important, also. To keep the food dry and cool, store it in a cupboard.
Air – will cause exposure to bacteria. Remember, keep it airtight.
Packaging – is intended to keep the food fresh, as well as retain the fat content and flavour. Keep the food in its original bag and pop it in a storage tin or container.
Keep it away – from your greedy puppy. Store the dog food where your dog can’t get in and eat all of it. Remember, overeating isn’t fun and can lead to awful tummy troubles for your pooch.
Canned food – needs to be popped in the fridge once opened. Keep something over the top and use it within five to seven days. To take it a step further, use some cling film to keep the smell away.
Raw food – is not intended to be stored for a long time, unlike canned food. So, it should be OK in the freezer for around six months if it’s sealed properly. Treat raw doggie food hygienically and check storage guidelines if you’re unsure.
Piper Huxley is a Homes, Garden and Wellness Product Writer for Take a Break, specialising in pet health. When she’s not barking about dog supplements, she’s online devouring cat content.