Type of Dog Bowls

Pros

Cons

Plastic Dog Bowls

• Available in various sizes, colors, and shapes.
• Inexpensive
• Unlikely to break if dropped
• Many are dishwasher-safe

• Can easily be chewed or scratched by a dog, leaving ideal places for bacteria to multiply.
• Some dogs are allergic to plastic and can develop skin irritation on the chin or face.
• Some types of plastic have chemicals that mimic hormones. Ingestion could cause some form of hormonal imbalance in dogs which can eventually have potentially negative effects on their health and well-being.

Ceramic Dog Bowls (also called Stoneware Dog Bowl)

• The decorations and fun designs of ceramic bowls hold aesthetic appeal.
• Have a protective glaze that makes it easier to keep them clean.
• Most are dishwasher-safe.
• Heavy enough to prevent dogs from pushing and sliding them around.

• These cute dog bowls can easily break when dropped.
• Wear and tear can cause these bowls to chip or crack with time, making them unsafe for dogs. Even the smallest cracks can be a haven for bacteria.
• Needs to be replaced immediately when there are chips or cracks.
• Needs to be washed immediately after every meal because they are made of porous material.
• Should never be used when feeding a raw diet to dogs.
• Ceramic glazes have been found in the past to contain lead which is very toxic.

Stainless Steel Dog Bowls

• Most durable among the different dog bowls.
• Dishwasher-safe
• Some have a non-skid rim on their bottom that can help prevent spillage.
• Inexpensive
• A great choice for dogs with sensitive skin.

• Can develop stains or rust, especially when left outdoors.
• Dogs that love to chew may damage their food bowls and teeth.
• Should never be used outdoors as they can become very hot when the sun is up and frozen when the temperature dips down.
• Bowls made of stainless steel are not created equal. Ideally, dog bowls should have type 304 stainless steel which is also called 18/8 stainless steel.
• Can be a bit loud especially if your dog is a messy eater

Elevated Dog Bowls

• Elevated feeders are dog bowls with a stand that can help prevent gastrointestinal problems in dogs.
• Some dogs, especially giant dog breeds, find it more comfortable eating out of elevated dog bowls.
• An excellent choice for large and giant-breed dogs, senior dogs, and dogs with certain physical handicaps.

• Expensive
• Considering that there have been speculations whether these bowls are appropriate for dog breeds that are prone to bloat, be sure to consult your veterinarian before using an elevated dog bowl.

Automatic Dog Bowls

• Available in programmable and non-programmable options.
• Come in handy for pet owners who work long hours.

• There is always a chance that a dog can break the feeder in order to get at the contents.

Travel Dog Bowls

• Convenient for bringing food and water during trips or outdoor excursions.
• Made of special materials, such as polyester with a plastic or nylon liner.
• Portable -- Can be folded or collapsed into smaller sizes if empty.
• Not very expensive

Silicone Dog Bowls

• Generally available as collapsible silicone bowls.
• Many have clips that you can attach to your bag or belt loop.
• Dishwasher-safe
• Relatively durable
• Lightweight

•  The material can easily be destroyed by dogs that love to chew. To prevent this, pick up the dog bowl when not in use.
• Can cause skin irritation to dogs with sensitive skin.

Slow-Feed Dog Bowls

• Great for dogs that are fast-eaters or those that gulp down their food. In some dogs, fast-eating can lead to digestive upsets, excessive gassiness, vomiting, or even bloat.
• Designed with ridges or other structures to make a dog eat more slowly.
• Can be made of plastic or stainless steel.

Wood dog bowls

• More durable
• Provide aesthetic value to your home.

• Can be expensive.
• Can become stained or warped with time.