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Dog Bowls: The Best Type For You and Your Dog

DOG BOWLS – PART ONE OF TWO (CATS UP NEXT!)

Dog bowls are more than just a container to serve food and water! They serve a variety of functions aiding in optimal digestion and hydration. Some of the information detailed in this post can also be applied to cats but cats have special needs distinct from dogs so we will be devoting our next blog post to the felines in our lives “Part Two of Two: Cat Bowls”.

Each dog is unique in eating habits and preferences. Fast eaters, messy eaters, free feeders, scheduled feedings. Regardless of your situation, we have a solution! And don’t underestimate the importance of the water bowl! Unless your dog is a free feeder, meaning the food is left out for on-demand munching, most food bowls are put down and picked up again shortly thereafter. Water bowls are different, in that they are left out 24×7. You may want a different solution for the hydration station than for the feeding station.  Also the placement of the dog bowls can also impact your dog’s eating experience.

Choose the Right Type of Dog Bowl for Your Canine 

 

The size, height, eating habits and lifestyle of your dog will be a factor in determining what dog bowl is best for your dog for food and water. Also consider that your dog’s need may change over time. What worked at age 2 may not be appropriate at age 12. Four basic dog bowl types:

  • Floor bowls
  • Raised bowls
  • Slow feeding bowls
  • Portable bowls

Floor Bowls

 

Bowls that rest on the floor are the most prevalent. We recommend either high-grade stainless steel or lead-free ceramic.  Most ceramic dog bowls are dishwasher safe. We offer a line of hand painted bowls, made in the USA, with different designs and colors available to match your décor. Stainless steel bowls come with rubberized bottoms to prevent slipping and spillage, great for rambunctious puppy or dogs that like to lick the bowl clean to perfection.

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Raised Dog Bowl Feeders

 

Large breed dogs benefit from raised feeders which reduce gastrointestinal upset such as bloat and offer relief to arthritic seniors. However, even small breed dogs experience the same benefits. Elevated dog bowl stands and raised dog feeders aid with digestion, arthritis and bloat. A dog will take in less air while eating from a raised dog bowl. Most noteworthy, raised dog bowls will reduce neck strain and provide easier access to food and water. Since dogs drink throughout the day, a raised dog bowl is an excellent choice for the water bowl.

  • Natural Wood Raised Dog Bowl Feeders – Elevated hand-crafted rubberwood feeding station comes in different sizes, single or double bowl and three wood stain choices. Square ceramic bowls are lead free and dishwasher safe. Replacement bowls are available and it is always a  good idea to have a second set on hand. This dog bowl feeder is a sophisticated design that looks good with any home decor.

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  • Modern Brushed Stainless Steel Dog Bowl Feeder – Raised dog bowl feeders in a contemporary style that is also easy to clean. Single or double dog bowl option choice and comes in different height sizes.

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Slow Feed Dog Bowls

 

For those dogs that just inhale their food! Made of high quality stainless steel with rubber lining the bottom of dog bowl. The inside of the dog bowl has raised humps to promote slower eating, which helps reduce the risk of bloat and aids in digestion. Any kind of dog food such as kibble, canned food and raw food can be served in slow feed dog bowls.

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Portable Dog Bowls 

 

Portable bowls are for dogs on the go! Perhaps you take your dog to work with you or have a lifestyle where you are in different places all the time. When traveling with your dog, you need a convenient, collapsible solution for food and water. Expandable food and water bowls are a great solution! Our’s come with a carabiner clip making it easy to bring with you anywhere and can be latched to handle of a dog’s leash, belt loops, backpacks. Also perfect for taking on long walks, exploring parks or road trips. Comes in two sizes, BPA free and dishwasher-safe.

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Messy Eaters

 

Some dogs just love to make a mess while eating. We have a fix for that! A molded silicone mat that has raised edges to act as a barrier around the dog bowls. Available in a single or double format and helps prevent spills from getting on the floor. Easy to clean and can be placed on top rack of dishwasher to sanitize. Place mats have a non-skid rubber backing and are easy to clean. Place mats come in different sizes and some are machine washable.

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What to Avoid in Dog Bowls

Plastic – The least preferred, for the reason that dog bowls and dishes made of plastic can harbor bacteria. When ingested this bacteria can cause issues in the digestive tract and can also lead to skin irritations. Dog bowls made of plastic get scratched easily and could be a potential hazard to dogs if they ingest pieces of them.

Stainless Steel and Ceramic Made in China – Stainless steel dog bowls from China have tested positive for Radon. Toxins may also be present in the glaze used in ceramic pet bowls. Made in the USA is the way to go for your dog’s safety.

Helpful Tips

 

  • Raised dog bowls should be level with the stomach to offer aid in digestion and hydration.
  • Be sure to wash food  bowls in hot soapy water or the dishwasher daily.
  • When dogs drink water, food particles in their mouth are transferred to the dog bowl and can create bacteria. You may notice a film build up on the inside of dog bowls. Empty water bowls daily, filling with fresh water and, topping off as needed. Wash out water bowls at least once a week.
  • Keep a second set of dog bowls on hand for use while sanitizing bowls or in case of breakage.
  • Store portable dog bowls in your vehicle for those spur of the moments.
  • Most dogs enjoy eating in a social, risk-free environment. Not isolated. Multi-pet households offer a challenge but is manageable with some fore thought. Feeding time should be peaceful and stress free. Consider giving your dog a chew while preparing a meal.

Further Considerations

What is IN the bowl is most important!  Nutrition makes the difference between your dog surviving and your dog thriving! Goodness for Pets can help you not only select the perfect dog bowls but also the best nutrition and hydration for your dog!