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People / Anna Popp
Meal times (and play times) are exciting in a dog household (read: lots of barking), and while your pup's attention will be on the food, the dog bowl holding it is quite important, too.
The Best Right Now
The Outward Hound Fun Feeder, our favorite slow-feeding bowl, is discounted 33% at Amazon right now.
We set out to find the best dog bowls for every canine, using our own dogs as judges. After testing 37 pet bowls, we can recommend options with features like non-skid bases, elevated structures, slow-feeder designs, easy cleaning, and more.
Read on for what PEOPLE considers the best dog bowls of 2024.
Our Top Picks
Best Overall
Yeti Boomer 8 Dog Bowl
Rubber edge keeps it from tipping over
Made of easy-to-clean stainless steel
Lightweight enough for travel
Kept water cool
Price is high (but it’s built to last)
Yeti is known for its durable, high-quality products, and the Boomer 8 dog bowl fits that reputation. We tested the eight-cup bowl (there’s also a four-cup size), and our French bulldog loved it. Thanks to the stainless steel material, we appreciated that the water stayed cool for a long time. It’s also easy to clean whether you use dry kibble or wet food because it can be wiped down or washed in the dishwasher, Plus, there’s a rubber edge to keep it in place and prevent tip-overs — even when our Frenchie ran right at the bowl, it stayed upright.
It’s lightweight and portable, making it perfect for travel adventures like camping and road trips. We were so impressed with the quality that we will likely use this dog bowl forever. It’s one of the more expensive dog bowls on our list, but considering you won’t need to replace it, it’s well worth the investment. Plus, it’s available in 11 colors and has a sleek look. There isn't anything we'd change about the Yeti Boomer — absolutely no notes!
Capacity: 4 cups or 8 cups | Sizes: S, L | Material: Stainless steel | Dishwasher Safe: Yes | Colors: 11 | Design: Non-slip rubber bottom, rust-resistant
PHOTO: People / Erin Hooker PHOTO: People / Erin Hooker PHOTO: People / Erin Hooker
Best Budget
Loving Pets Stainless Steel Bowl
Wide design prevented spills
Range of sizes
Doesn't slide around on the floor
Poly-resin exterior might scratch over time
If you want a good-quality, budget-friendly dog bowl, the Loving Pets Bella Bowl is a solid choice. We tested the large size, which holds around 54 ounces, but it comes in a variety of sizes. The bowl's width caught stray kibble while our dog was eating, and it didn’t make any loud sounds during meal times. It also has a rubber ring around the base that prevents sliding.
The stainless steel material was easy to clean and showed no signs of wear during testing. While we opted to hand wash the bowl, it is dishwasher safe (just remove the rubber base). The color wasn’t an exact match to the photo online, but we still liked the design. The poly-resin exterior might show some wear over time, but it’s a good value considering how functional, sturdy, and versatile it is for a variety of dogs.
Capacity: 15 to 72 ounces | Sizes: S, M, L, XL | Material: Poly-resin exterior, stainless steel interior | Dishwasher Safe: Yes | Colors: 10 | Design: Removable rubber base
PHOTO: People / Abby Milligan PHOTO: People / Abby Milligan PHOTO: People / Abby Milligan
Best Slow Feeder
Outward Hound Slow Feeder Dog Bowl
Unique design
Low price considering product's performance
Didn’t show wear or tear
Lightweight so it moved when dog was eating
If your dog likes to inhale their food, a slow feeder is a must. Outward Hound has a series of interactive and engaging feeders with grooves to separate food and force your dog to use more effort to get it. We tested a design that holds around four cups of food and is a little wider than others. It was extremely effective at slowing our dog’s eating. While he usually inhales his food, he had to work to get the pieces out — it tripled his eating time, but he got every morsel.
The bowl made some noise when our dog was eating, but that’s to be expected due to the movement required to maneuver food out of the bowl. It’s very lightweight but it has rubber non-slip grips on the bottom to prevent sliding. The bowl is also easy to clean and didn’t show any wear throughout testing.
Editors Say
“I’ve used this slow feeder for my golden retriever for over a year, and it has drastically slowed down her eating time (by several minutes — yes, I timed it). Not only is it effective as a slow feeder, it’s a durable bowl that’s easy to clean. I use a brush or sponge to get in between the groves, and you can also throw it in the dishwasher should any grime be difficult to remove. It still looks brand new.” — Madison Yauger, shopping editor
Capacity: 4 cups | Sizes: L (other sizes sold separately) | Material: Plastic | Dishwasher Safe: Yes | Colors: 1 | Design: Slow feeder
PHOTO: People / Kaity Velez PHOTO: People / Kaity Velez PHOTO: People / Kaity Velez
Best Elevated
OurPets Elevated Dog Bowl
Ample room for food and water
Made meals more accessible
Durable bowls stayed clean and didn’t show wear
Water bottle holder
Basic, no-frills look
An elevated food bowl can put a little less strain on a tall dog as they won’t have to lean over during mealtime. The bowls in this set are spacious — each holds just over five cups — a huge perk given that our dog, Charlie, drinks a ton of water. Charlie also likes to push around his bowls before he eats, but this bowl’s design prevented that (as well as any scratches from the bowl sliding across the floor).
Charlie is a larger dog and the elevated stand created a comfortable dining experience because he didn’t have to bend over to reach his food. Made from durable plastic and stainless steel, the bowls are dishwasher safe. This feeder stayed fairly clean and didn’t show any signs of wear after testing. As a bonus, there’s a slot to place an upside-down water bottle to continuously refill the bowl.
Capacity: 1.5 to 5.5 cups | Sizes: 4, 8, 12 inches | Material: Plastic base, stainless steel bowls | Dishwasher Safe: Yes (bowls only) | Colors: 1 | Design: Elevated base
PHOTO: People / Taylor Rock PHOTO: People / Taylor Rock PHOTO: People / Taylor Rock
Best Elevated (Cheaper)
Frisco Marble Print Stainless Steel Double Elevated Dog Bowl
Generously sized bowls
Easy for dog to reach
Dishwasher-safe bowls
Sturdy yet lightweight construction
"Marble" doesn't look real
Elevated dog bowls don't have to be expensive, like this set from Frisco that comes with two generously sized stainless steel bowls. Our dog, Poppy, seemed to enjoy eating kibble and drinking water in a standing position — it was a good height to prevent neck strain and the bowls were easily accessible.
This set appears well-made and looks nice in a kitchen, though the melamine "marble" surface doesn't pass as real stone. The metal legs are sturdy yet lightweight and easy to wipe clean. Bonus: You can clean the bowls in the dishwasher. The feeder comes in medium and large sizes and each is less than $35. We'd absolutely recommend this product for pet owners looking for affordable, elevated dog bowls with a decorative design.
Capacity: 3 or 7 cups | Sizes: M, L | Material: Stainless steel, melamine, plastic | Dishwasher-Safe: Yes | Colors: 2 | Design: Two bowls on a raised stand
PHOTO: People / Anna Popp PHOTO: People / Anna Popp
Best Stainless Steel
Mr. Peanut's Interactive Slow Feed Dog Bowl
Solid quality for the price
Easy to keep clean
Rubber footing kept it from sliding around
Small capacity
Stainless steel dog bowls are ideal because, as veterinarian Michelle Dulake, DVM, points out, they make it really hard for pathogens to live and are easily disinfected to prevent diseases like canine papilloma virus, "especially when drinking from communal bowls at dog parks or doggy daycares,” she says.
Our dog, Zoe, seemed to enjoy using the Mr. Peanut's dog bowl — though the slow feeder aspect didn’t slow her down too much. It has a little more density than Zoe’s previous bowl, and the rubber footing kept it from sliding across the floor. We were generally impressed with the overall quality and function of the dog bowl which still looked new by the end of the test. That said, we’re not sure the capacity is big enough for larger dogs’ food.
Capacity: 1.5, 2, or 3 cups (dry food) | Sizes: S, M, L | Material: Stainless steel | Dishwasher Safe: Yes | Colors: 1 | Design: Non-slip rubber base, slow feeder design
Experts Say
Dr. Dulake says that, when possible, you should look for stainless steel bowls because they "do not harbor pathogens and are easy to disinfect to prevent diseases."
PHOTO: People / David Weiner PHOTO: People / David Weiner PHOTO: People / David Weiner
Best Collapsible
Bonza Collapsible Dog Bowl
Ideal for travel
Includes water bottle holder
Durable and easy to clean
Can clip to dog’s harness
No small size available
A collapsible dog bowl is great for travel, but it’s also an asset if you live in a city and take your dog on long walks without a lot of water access — just bring a water bottle and a collapsible bowl. We tested the large size of the Bonza dog bowl and loved the spacious capacity. It was easy for even a small dog (20 pounds) to drink from and didn’t make noise like metal bowls sometimes can.
The lightweight design is great for carrying around: We clipped the bowl to our dog’s harness and she carried it without issue. It proved easy to wash (it’s dishwasher safe) and didn’t show any signs of excessive use after our test. Plus, it comes with a water bottle holder, which is a nice addition.
Capacity: 3 to 7 cups | Sizes: M, L, XL | Material: BPA-free silicone | Dishwasher Safe: Yes | Colors: 5 | Design: Collapsible
PHOTO: People / Sarah Naftzger PHOTO: People / Sarah Naftzger
Best for Puppies
Neater Pets Deluxe Neater Feeder
Generously sized bowls don't require frequent refills
Elevated design prevents neck strain
All components are easy to clean
Doesn't slide around or knock over easily
Minor rattling noise when bowls move
While this bowl comes in three sizes, we tested the medium option and found it to be a good size for large-breed puppies and medium-sized dogs. The generous size means you don't have to constantly refill the water, and the elevated design prevents pups from straining their necks.
The stainless steel bowls made a minor rattling noise when dogs were eating, but this isn’t a deal breaker. They're dishwasher-safe, and the stand is easy to take apart and wipe clean. We like that the holder is lightweight and easy to move around but not so flimsy that dogs knock it over — plus, rubberized grips prevent it from sliding. We weren’t a big fan of the dark brown and beige color combination, but that’s a personal preference. The price is a little steep, but considering the quality and thoughtful design, we think it's a good value.
Capacity: 1.5 to 7 cups | Sizes: S, M, L | Material: Stainless steel, plastic | Dishwasher-Safe: Yes | Colors: 4 | Design: Two bowls on anti-slip platform
PHOTO: People / Kelsey Hansen PHOTO: People / Kelsey Hansen PHOTO: People / Kelsey Hansen
Best No-Spill
UPSKY Dog Bowl
Holds enough water for two large dogs
Quiet
Compact design
Not all water was released
Dog owners know the struggle of a water puddle around their dog’s bowl, and this no-spill Upsky dog bowl delivers on its claim. It holds 16 to 20 ounces of water and is wide enough for two large dogs to drink from at the same time. It uses a slow-release system to let your dog drink a little water at a time without splashes, drips, or other messes.
It’s quiet, easy to clean, and made from three plastic parts that are simple to hand wash. It maintained its quality throughout our tests with no damage or signs of wear. We did notice that the top floating square took on some water without releasing it which could cause future issues with mold or bacteria, but with regular cleaning, this shouldn’t be a problem. The compact design also makes it a good option for travel.
Capacity: 35 ounces | Sizes: One size | Material: Acrylonitrile butadiene styrene | Dishwasher Safe: No | Colors: 5 | Design: Slow-release system for water
PHOTO: People / Lisa Pezzuto PHOTO: People / Lisa Pezzuto
Best Water Fountain
Veken Pet Fountain
Multiple pets can use at once
Lasts several days before needing to be refilled
Virtually silent when not in use
Doesn't require frequent cleaning
Can't adjust stream/flow rate
LED light may not be necessary
We tested the 95-ounce size of this water fountain and found it more than large enough for two cats over six days. Since the water flows out from six separate spouts, multiple pets can drink from it at once. And the elevated design makes it more comfortable and accessible for some pets.
We also liked that the fountain is virtually silent — you can only hear a lapping noise when it's in use. Though you can't adjust the flow, the water comes out in a consistent, gentle stream. It's easy to add water and clean the fountain. The brand recommends cleaning every two weeks and replacing the filters every year or so. We thought the blue LED light seemed unnecessary unless you or your pets need it as a nightlight, but it can be switched off.
Capacity: 95 ounces | Sizes: One size | Material: Plastic, stainless steel | Dishwasher-Safe: No | Colors: 5 | Design: Automatic electric with filter
PHOTO: People / Jess Hoffert PHOTO: People / Jess Hoffert PHOTO: People / Jess Hoffert
Best for Small Dogs
Ethical Pet Crock Pet Dish
High-gloss, shiny finish
Budget-friendly
Easy to keep clean
No non-slip coating on the bottom
Straight sides made it difficult for bigger dog to get all the kibble
This ceramic stoneware bowl is another great dog bowl option. It’s available in several sizes, and we tested the largest at 9.5 inches. Our 90-pound Great Pyrenees did well with this bowl for the most part. The only challenge came due to her size which is why we would recommend this bowl for a smaller dog.
For instance, she seemed to struggle to get the food that lay along the edge of the bowl so she pushed the bowl across the floor while she worked to get each piece of kibble. Since there is no rubber grip, it slid quite easily. The ceramic made some noise while the dog was eating, but the shiny finish has a sleek look that keeps it looking new. The bowl was easily washed in the dishwasher and held up well despite several washes during testing.
Capacity: 0.5 cups to 8 cups | Sizes: 3, 4, 5, 7.5, 9.5 inches | Material: Ceramic | Dishwasher Safe: Yes | Colors: 1 | Design: Ceramic
Experts Say
Veterinary surgeon Linda Simon, MVB, MRCVS, recommends ceramic bowls because they're "durable, sturdy, easy to clean, and less likely to harbor bacteria compared to other materials like plastic."
PHOTO: People / Madelaine Jerousek-Smith PHOTO: People / Madelaine Jerousek-Smith PHOTO: People / Madelaine Jerousek-Smith
Best for Large Dogs
Yangbaga Elevated Dog Bowls
Elevated for dogs' comfort
Attractive set
Showed no signs of wear
Deep for medium-sized dogs
Large dogs usually have to lean over to reach their food or water bowls, and an elevated option like the Yangbaga set solves that problem. Both bowls are wide enough for a dog to comfortably eat from — they were a little deep for our medium-sized dog, Leo, but would be great for a larger dog.
One hiccup (which can happen with stainless steel bowls) is that Leo’s collar tag clanged against the bowls while he ate, which scared him. The bowls were easy to clean and disinfect in the dishwasher. The raised stand is sturdy, too, so your dog won’t be able to move the bowls around. Plus, the set comes with a floor mat to catch any spills.
Capacity: Not listed | Sizes: M, L | Material: Bamboo stand, stainless steel bowls | Dishwasher Safe: Yes (bowls only) | Colors: 1 | Design: Elevated, includes a floor mat
PHOTO: People / Jennifer Montes PHOTO: People / Jennifer Montes
Tracks food intake and activity
Helps with portion size and weight maintenance
Bowl has wide opening
Not elevated; may not be comfortable for all dogs
P2 device sold separately
This high-quality stainless steel bowl feels weighty and has non-slip grips to keep it in place on the floor. We noticed no signs of wear at the end of the testing period and loved how easy it was to clean. The inner bowl is dishwasher-safe, and the waterproof base can be rinsed off or wiped down as needed. Although it's not raised, the wide opening and tilted design offer a comfortable feeding position, even for bigger dogs.
It’s also a solid choice for tech-savvy pet owners who want to track their dog's health. This smart dog bowl connects to the P2 Pet Health and Activity Tracker (sold separately) and the PetKit mobile app. It automatically logs your pet's food intake and physical activity to give you a complete picture of their dietary needs so you can optimize portions and help your pup maintain a healthy weight.
Capacity: 7 cups | Sizes: One size | Material: Metal | Dishwasher-Safe: Yes | Colors: 4 | Design: Battery-powered anti-slip bowl
PHOTO: People / Lisa Pezzuto PHOTO: People / Lisa Pezzuto PHOTO: People / Lisa Pezzuto
Best for Travel
KindTail Portable Dog Bowls
Set nests and has a handle
Silicone material is dishwasher- and microwave-safe
Structured more like a traditional bowl
Not small enough for tiny dogs
When you’re traveling with your furry best friend, you need a dog bowl that’s portable like the Kind Bowls Travel Dog Bowl. We tested the small bowl (there’s also a large size) and felt like it would work well for small or medium-sized dogs. It comes with a food and water bowl that nest within each other, so the water bowl is slightly larger and deeper than the food bowl.
Due to the lightweight silicone material and handle design, it’s a great travel set. We washed it in the dishwasher and saw no wear or tear. The structure of this bowl is sturdier than, say, a collapsible bowl, and more closely resembles a traditional dog bowl. This travel set isn’t small enough for tiny dogs but should work for the majority of dogs.
Capacity: Not listed | Sizes: S, L | Material: Silicone | Dishwasher Safe: Yes | Colors: 4 | Design: Microwave safe nesting bowl set with lid and handle
PHOTO: People / Anna Mejorada PHOTO: People / Anna Mejorada PHOTO: People / Anna Mejorada
Best Adjustable
Pet Zone Adjustable Dog Bowls
Can be used elevated or on the floor
Spacious 7-cup capacity
Seems durable
Plastic base can slide across the floor
If you want a set of dog bowls that will grow with your dog from puppyhood to adulthood, consider the Pet Zone Elevated Dog Bowl. The black plastic base can be raised or lowered to best fit your dog’s size (though the bowls are quite large, and don’t come in different sizes). Our dog, Karl, is a bit of a grazer and seemed content eating from this bowl throughout the day.
While we only used around 4.5 cups of food during each feeding, the bowl can hold up to 7 cups. The stainless steel bowls were easy to clean and proved durable during testing, showing no signs of wear after two weeks. The stand was lightweight and Karl knocked it slightly while eating, but it generally seemed sturdy. We thought the stand felt a little cheap, but looked nice, and for the price, we think it’s a good value.
Capacity: 7 cups | Sizes: One size | Material: Stainless steel bowls, plastic stand | Dishwasher Safe: Yes (bowls only) | Colors: 1 | Design: Adjustable base
PHOTO: People / Steph Hunter PHOTO: People / Steph Hunter PHOTO: People / Steph Hunter
Best Lick Mat
Lukito Licking Mats
Keeps dogs occupied
Durable and dishwasher-safe
Can be used for slow feeding or distraction
Food can get stuck (but comes out in the dishwasher)
These lick mats are a great way to slow your dog’s eating or keep them entertained. They have textured surfaces with various grooves and indentations. You can spread or sprinkle food onto them to slow down feeding, distract your pet during grooming, or sneak out of your home. We used peanut butter to keep our two dogs quietly occupied and entertained. The silicone held up well to heat and cold and showed no signs of wear during testing. Food got stuck in the grooves, but since the mats are dishwasher-safe, they were easy to clean. We also appreciate the suction backings that held them in place.
We wish the instructions included more suggestions on what to place in the mats, but a quick internet search yielded plenty of ideas (cream cheese, yogurt, wet food, small kibble, and crushed dog treats). Overall, there's nothing we'd change about this product.
Capacity: N/A | Sizes: S, L | Material: Silicone | Dishwasher-Safe: Yes | Colors: 6 | Design: Flat textured suction pads
PHOTO: People / Kathryn Braet PHOTO: People / Kathryn Braet PHOTO: People / Kathryn Braet
Best Non-Skid
Max and Neo Stainless Steel Dog Bowl
Stainless steel material is easy to clean
Durable and showed no signs of wear
Requires frequent water refills
Whether your dog is a voracious eater or just likes to play with their bowls, non-skid bowls help prevent floor scratches and messes. While no bowl is completely secure, the rubber base of this bowl kept movement to a minimum. The stainless steel bowl comes in three sizes, and we tested the small bowl which holds up to four cups. While we found that this size was just right for food, it was a bit small for water.
Despite the metal material, it was quiet when our dog was eating. We also found that — while sturdy — the bowl was quite lightweight and felt it would be more skid-resistant if it had a bit more weight. The bowl was durable and easy to clean, and it didn’t show any wear throughout testing. As a bonus, the company donates one dog bowl to a dog rescue for every bowl purchased.
Capacity: 32, 50, or 80 ounces | Sizes: S, M, L | Material: Stainless steel | Dishwasher Safe: Yes | Colors: 1 | Design: Rubber base
PHOTO: People / Danielle St. Pierre PHOTO: People / Danielle St. Pierre PHOTO: People / Danielle St. Pierre
Best Investment
Pets So Good Oreo Table Bowls
Contemporary and aesthetically pleasing design
Elevated bowl was easier for dog to use
Porcelain is durable and easy to clean
Only available in small and medium sizes
If you want a contemporary take on an elevated bowl, consider the Pets So Good Oreo Table Dog Bowl. The porcelain bowl attaches to what looks like a three-legged table. It’s more sleek than the larger tray-style elevated bowl sets.
Our dog, Willow, has one cup of food in the mornings and one cup in the evenings, and this bowl was just the right size (it's advertised to hold two cups). The bowl didn’t move and was quiet when Willow ate from it (even when her collar hit the side), and it was easier for her to use than previous bowls given its elevated position. The porcelain bowl easily lifts off the metal base when it’s time to refill or clean in the dishwasher. While the bowl was a little small, and only came in small and medium, it’s a good option for small and medium-sized dogs.
Capacity: 0.5 cups or 1.5 cups | Sizes: S, M | Material: Steel stand, porcelain bowls | Dishwasher Safe: Yes (bowls only) | Colors: 5 | Design: Elevated base
PHOTO: People / Rachel Marek PHOTO: People / Rachel Marek PHOTO: People / Rachel Marek
Best Set
The Wild One Mealtime Kit
Includes silicone edges and a placemat to contain spills
Available in several colors and sizes
Holds a good amount of food
We wish the bottom of the placemat had suction
While it’s always nice to have a matching set of dog bowls, dog owners know that you often have to replace one for various reasons and then you’re left with a mismatched pair. That won’t be the case with this set from Wild One. It comes in one size and holds up to four cups of food or water. Our dog, Peach, comfortably used the bowls, which are slightly angled at the bottom.
Though lightweight, the set has a silicone base which keeps it from sliding around. While the mat got some dirty paw prints on it, it didn’t show any wear or tear and is dishwasher safe, as are the bowls. Although the price is a little high, we think it’s worth it for the quality. One thing we would add is rubber suction to the bottom of the placemat.
Capacity: 4 cups | Sizes: One size | Material: Stainless steel with silicone ring and placemat | Dishwasher Safe: Yes | Colors: 4 | Design: Includes a placemat
PHOTO: People / Kaylene Konigsmark PHOTO: People / Kaylene Konigsmark PHOTO: People / Kaylene Konigsmark
Add to Cart
While you’re adding dog bowls to your cart, check out some of our other PEOPLE-Tested pet product winners. Our editors and independent testers put each product through the wringer to bring you the best of the best.
Other Dog Bowls We Tried
LickiMat Wobble Slow Feeder Dog Bowl: A lick mat is a great interactive tool to use for your dog, and in this case, it’s a bowl. Technically it holds up to three cups of dry kibble, but it wobbles quite a bit, so we think it would make a better lick mat for occasional entertainment. It did significantly slow the dog’s eating down, going from two-minute meals to 10 minutes. The silicone material is durable, but the bumpy design made the bowl challenging to clean. Overall, it’s a really fun and playful bowl, but not ideal for everyday use.
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People / Kimberly Souza
What to Know About Dog Bowls
Design
We’ve discussed many design elements that contribute to the success of each dog bowl and how well it works for your dog. “For me, a good bowl needs to be an appropriate size (no point using a small one for a Great Dane!), heavy enough so it doesn't get knocked over, and easy to clean,” says Dr. Simon.
If you like an elevated design but appreciate a more subtle appearance, something like the Pets So Good Oreo Table Dog Bowl will work well. Of course, if you want a raised design at a lower cost, then you might prefer the Pet Zone Elevated Dog Bowl. For a non-skid design, we like the Max and Neo Heavyweight Non-Skid Rubber Bottom Dog Bowl, and the Upsky Dog Bowl no-spill bowl can help reduce mealtime mess.
Dogs who inhale their food will benefit from a slow feeder like the Outward Hound Non-Skid Plastic Slow Feeder Interactive Dog Bowl. If material matters the most to you, then a classic stainless steel option like Mr. Peanut’s Stainless Steel Interactive Slow Feed Dog Bowl is the way to go. For those who want a matching set, we suggest The Wild One Mealtime Kit. And of course, for the best of all design elements, we have to recommend the Yeti Boomer 8 Dog Bowl as our best overall dog bowl.
Dog Size
For small dogs, you’ll want a dish that’s not too deep, such as the Ethical Pet Stoneware Crock Ceramic Dog Dish. For larger dogs, elevated bowls that are also wide such as the Yangbaga Elevated Dog Bowls are a good choice.
Portability
If you travel with your dog a lot, you might consider a bowl’s portability, too. For day-to-day commuting, long walks, or other short-term adventures, a collapsible bowl like the Bonza Large Collapsible Dog Bowl is a good option. For road trips, plane rides, camping, or other more extensive travel, a sturdier option like the Kind Bowls Travel Dog Bowl is a better choice.
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People / Sarah Naftzger
Behind the Scenes
For two weeks, we had our dogs test 37 top-rated dog bowls to see which served up the best results. Before testing, we cleaned the bowls according to the manufacturers' guidance (usually with warm water and pet-safe soap).
- Performance: We filled the bowls with food and/or water and observed the dogs using them daily. Additionally, we noted the noise level, including whether it distracted the dogs or was irksome to us. We also examined any special features or digital controls, like the stream of a water fountain or smart food tracking.
- Design: Our team considered the material, quality, and capacity of each bowl. If the design was elevated or angled in some way, we considered how that affected our dog's ability to use the bowl effectively and comfortably. For slow feeders and lick mats, we tested their efficacy in slowing down eating.
- Durability: Since dog bowls see a lot of action, we also wanted to make sure they'd hold up to our furry friends. We looked for general wear and tear at the end of the testing period and considered ease of cleaning — bonus points if the bowl was dishwasher-safe.
Frequently Asked Questions
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What are the best bowls for dogs to drink out of?
Generally, stainless steel bowls are the best types of bowls for dogs to drink out of because they are easy to wash and disinfect, especially when shared by multiple dogs. You can wipe them down between uses, and they have a classic design that fits into most homes.
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Should dogs have elevated bowls?
Elevated bowls can be beneficial for large dogs so they don’t have to bend over to reach their food or water. Dr. Simon adds that elevated bowls can be used to “minimize mess” as well as benefit dogs who “struggle with mobility and who have stiff necks, IVDD (intervertebral disc disease), or arthritis.” She says for these types of dogs, “elevated food bowls can help reduce strain and make mealtime a bit easier and more enjoyable.”
She counters the misconception that elevated feeders reduce the risk of bloating, despite other health benefits. It should also be noted that some dogs don’t like elevated bowls due to the stand, so you’ll have to make that judgment based on how skittish your dog is.
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Are slow feeders good for dogs?
“Slow feeders can be beneficial for some dogs that need to eat at a slower pace to prevent issues such as bloating, obesity, and vomiting/regurgitation,” says Dr. Dulake. Most slow feeders have a design that separates the food into smaller sections to prevent the dog from taking big bites and essentially inhaling their food.
Why Trust PEOPLE?
Madison Yauger is a shopping editor at PEOPLE who frequently covers pet-related topics like the best calming dog beds, pet cameras, and a wealth of other dog supplies. She has numerous veterinarians, animal behaviorists, and pet experts she relies on for insights, but for this story, she spoke to Michelle Dulake, DVM, and Linda Simon, MVB, MRCVS, to determine the qualities that separate a great dog bowl from just average ones. Theresa Holland is a commerce writer, editor, and product reviewer specializing in pets, consumer goods, housewares, and lifestyle products. She is keenly familiar with the top online retailers and buzzworthy brands and knows how to find today's best products. She updated this story with our latest dog bowl winners.
Our Expert Panel
- Michelle Dulake, DVM is a veterinarian, acupuncturist, and founder of Fera Pets, an animal supplements and welfare brand.
- Linda Simon, MVB MRCVS is a veterinary surgeon and veterinarian at SeniorTailWaggers.com with over a decade of experience and a focus on geriatric patients, endocrinology, and dermatology.
What Is PEOPLE Tested?
We created the PEOPLE Tested seal of approval to help you find the very best products for your life. We use our unique methodology to test products in three labs across the country and with our network of home testers to determine their effectiveness, durability, ease of use, and so much more. Based on the results, we rate and recommend products so you can find the right one for your needs.
But we don't stop there: We also regularly re-review the categories in which we've awarded the PEOPLE Tested seal of approval — because the best product of today might not be the best of tomorrow. And by the way, companies can never buy our recommendation: Their products must earn it, fair and square.
In short, PEOPLE Tested provides recommendations you can trust — every day, every purchase.