3 Best Dog Bowls We Tested and Reviewed

Zack Keithy, our author, is a certified veterinarian technician (UC Blue Ash) for over 6 years (contact him here). The articles written here are based on his expertise and experience, combined with a review by our expert vet reviewers including Dr M. Tarantino. Learn more about us here.

When it comes to mealtime, our furry friends deserve the best possible setup.

After all, they spend a significant amount of time around their bowls, whether they’re indulging in their favorite treats, quenching their thirst, or patiently waiting for the next refill.

That’s why choosing the right dog bowl is crucial for ensuring their comfort and well-being.

Through extensive testing of over a dozen different dog bowls, we’ve gained valuable insights into what truly makes a great bowl.

After hundreds of hours of hands-on evaluation, we’ve identified the Max & Neo Heavy Stainless Steel Non-Skid Dog Bowl as our top pick.

This deep bowl features a raised rim, which helps prevent splashing and keeps mealtime clean and contained.

Additionally, it comes in four different sizes, ensuring a perfect fit for your dog’s appetite, and boasts a full silicone non-slip bottom, keeping the bowl firmly in place during mealtimes.

Read on as we present all the options and their pros and cons.

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How To Choose The Right Dog Bowl

When selecting the perfect dog bowl, consider these practical tips:

  1. Material Matters: Opt for bowls made from durable, safe materials like stainless steel or ceramic. These materials are easy to clean and less likely to harbor bacteria or odors.
  2. Size it Right: Ensure the bowl’s size is appropriate for your dog’s breed and age. A bowl that’s too small can lead to spills and frustration, while an oversized bowl may encourage messy eating habits.
  3. Slip-Proof Base: Look for bowls with non-slip bottoms or rubber grips to prevent sliding and spills, especially if your furry friend is an enthusiastic eater.
  4. Easy Cleaning: Prioritize bowls that are dishwasher-safe or have a seamless design for easy hand-washing, as regular cleaning is essential for maintaining hygiene.
  5. Elevated or Floor-Level: Consider your dog’s size and any potential joint or mobility issues when deciding between elevated or floor-level bowls. Elevated bowls can promote better digestion and posture for larger breeds.

Remember, mealtime is a sacred ritual for our canine companions, and providing them with the right bowl can enhance their overall dining experience and well-being.

Take the time to evaluate your options and choose a bowl that caters to your dog’s specific needs and preferences.

Best Overall Dog Bowl

Max and Neo Stainless Steel Dog Bowl

man and neo dog bowl

Key Benefits

  • Multiple sizes
  • Full rubber non-skid bottom
  • Ability to deter splashing
  • Deep with a rim to deter splashing
  • Tested for heavy metals

When it comes to choosing the perfect dog bowl, stainless steel is a popular and practical choice.

Not only is it easy to clean and maintain, but it’s also incredibly durable and unlikely to break or crack, even with the most enthusiastic eaters.

One of the key advantages of this bowl is its deep design with a small rim around the edge.

This raised rim helps prevent messy spills and splashes, ensuring a cleaner feeding area. It also means it’s easier for you to handle and move the bowl as needed.

The entire bottom of the bowl is covered in a non-slip material, preventing it from sliding around during your pup’s eager mealtimes.

Available in three convenient sizes (4 cups, 6.25 cups, and 10 cups), this bowl caters to dogs of various breeds and appetites.

Crafted from heavy 204-grade stainless steel, it has undergone independent testing to ensure it is free from potentially harmful heavy metals and elements like lead, mercury, and arsenic, providing peace of mind for conscientious pet owners.

What sets this bowl apart is its substantial weight and thickness. The small size weighs 9 ounces, the medium bowl weighs 16 ounces, and the large bowl weighs an impressive 1.2 pounds.

This added weight not only contributes to the bowl’s durability but also helps prevent it from being easily tipped over or pushed around during mealtime.

I personally love this last point: with every purchase of a Max & Neo product, the company donates a similar item to animal rescues, making it a socially responsible choice for pet owners who value supporting worthy causes.

Best Budget Dog Bowl

Loving Pets Stainless Steel Bowl

loving pets stainless steel dog bowl

Key Benefits

  • Four sizes
  • Several colors and designs
  • Rubber base to avoid slipping
  • Great price

When it comes to finding an affordable and functional dog bowl that still looks great, the Loving Pets bowls are an excellent choice.

These bowls offer a perfect blend of practicality and style, making them a popular option for pet owners on a budget.

With a stainless steel interior and a colorful poly-resin exterior, these bowls not only ensure durability and easy cleaning but also add a touch of personality to your pet’s feeding area.

Available in four different sizes and various designs featuring adorable bones and paw prints, you can easily find a bowl that complements your furry friend’s unique character and your home’s decor.

One of the standout features of these bowls is their rubber base, which helps prevent sliding and spillage during mealtimes, especially for those enthusiastic eaters.

Additionally, the base is removable, allowing you to easily clean the bowl in the dishwasher, ensuring optimal hygiene for your pet’s dining experience.

Best Dog Bowl For Slow Feeders

outward hound slow feeder

Key Benefits

  • Slows down mealtime
  • Non-slip base
  • Sturdy and durable

If your furry friend tends to inhale their meals, investing in a slow feeder bowl can be a game-changer.

Not only does it encourage them to savor their food, but it also introduces an enriching activity that provides mental stimulation.

With a few different patterns and sizes available, you have the flexibility to find the perfect option for your pup.

I highly recommend the Outward Hound slow feeder bowl, available in both two- and four-cup capacities.

To amp up the challenge and encourage a more mindful eating experience, consider selecting a size larger than your dog’s typical portion.

This particular design is a favorite among pet owners because it strikes the right balance of difficulty – not too easy, yet not overly frustrating for your canine companion.

Take note though: dogs can quickly adapt to these feeders, so it’s better to rotate between multiple designs to keep the experience fresh and engaging.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How often should I clean my dog’s bowls?

You should clean your dog’s food and water bowls daily. Wash them with hot, soapy water to remove any residue or bacteria buildup.

How do I keep dog bowls from sliding?

To prevent dog bowls from sliding, look for bowls with non-slip rubber bottoms or bases. You can also place a non-slip mat underneath the bowls to keep them in place.

Do elevated dog bowls help with digestion?

Here’s a concise summary:
While elevated dog bowls were thought to reduce the risk of bloat (gastric dilatation volvulus or GDV) in larger dogs, a study found that large and giant breed dogs that ate from elevated bowls actually had a higher risk of developing this potentially deadly condition. Purdue University’s Veterinary College recommends that dogs at high risk of GDV should avoid using raised feeding bowls.

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Zack Keithy
Zack Keithy

Hey, I'm Zack, the Chief Editor here. I was formerly a Certified Veterinary Technician (CVT) for a good 6 years before moving on to greener pastures. Right now, I am still heavily involved in dog parenting duties, and it is my desire to share all our knowledge with fellow dog owners out there! Connect with me on LinkedIn, or read more about Canine Care Central!

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