The Best Dog Bowls: Reviewed for You

Written by Hannah Ward
Updated: November 24, 2022
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Choosing the right food bowl for your pet is an important decisions, but it can be a minefield as there are so many different options on the market today. Some people may choose to feed their dog in different ways like on a snuffle mat or a slow feeder, however, the majority of dog owners feed their dogs out of a trusty dog bowl. However, all dogs are different and require bowls of varying materials, structures, sizes, etc.

Materials range from ceramic to stainless steel to wood and sizes from extra-small to as large as you need. If your dog is a messy eater or needs an elevated bowl, there is an option out there designed for you. Our goal is to help narrow down the multitudes of each bowl that exist to give you the best ones out there to choose from.

  1. YETI Boomer 4 Stainless Steel Dog Bowl

    •Deep-well dog bowl

    •Stainless steel

    •Non-slip bottom

    •Various colors

    Check Amazon
  2. PAW5 Wooly Snuffle Dog Mat

    •Handmade, sturdy, sustainably sourced materials

    •Cotton-polyester provides extra durability

    •Non-abrasive

    Check Chewy Check Amazon
  3. BurgeonNest Slow Feeder Dog Bowls

    •2 stainless steel dog bowls

    •Plastic puzzle feeding bowl

    •Medium sized dogs

    •Non-slip, non-tip mat

    Check Amazon
  4. Outward Hound Fun Feeder Interactive Dog Bowl

    •Slow feeder puzzle bowl

    •Varying puzzle types & colors

    •Food-safe plastic

    •Multiple sizes

    Check Chewy Check Amazon
  5. HTB Adjustable Elevated Dog Bowls

    •Adjustable, elevated dog bowl set

    •Bamboo stand

    •Stainless steel bowls

    •3 heights

    Check Amazon
  6. Ceramic Pet Bowl Set with Bamboo Stand

    •Food-grade ceramic bowl set

    •Bamboo stand

    •Multiple color options


    Check Amazon
  7. Neater Pets Neater Feeder Deluxe

    •Dog bowl set in neat feeder

    •Backboard to keep food in

    •Reservoir for spilled liquid

    •Elevated available

    Check Chewy Check Amazon
  8. Rest-Eazzzy Collapsible Dog Bowls

    •2-pack silicone bowls

    •Collapsible

    •Carabiners for attachment

    Check Amazon

The Top Dog Food Bowls: Ranked

#1 Best Overall: YETI Boomer 4 Stainless Steel Dog Bowl

The YETI Boomer 4 Stainless Steel Dog Bowl takes first place in our eyes because of its durable design, various color options, and non-slip floor grip.

YETI is highly regarded for manufacturing quality products for household pets. The Boomer 4 is a stainless steel dream. It’s non-slip so you’ll never worry about your dog tipping it over. The bowl holds an impressive 32 ounces and is rust-resistant and puncture-proof.

The YETI bowl holds up to four cups of food, treats, or fresh water. It has a non-insulated stainless steel wall resistant to roughhousing and rust. There are 12 color options to choose from, including regular steel, yellow, blue, navy, and even olive green.

Now, this bowl comes with a deep well and measurements of 6.77 x 6.77 x 3.1 inches. So, it’s excellent for large dogs but may not be the right product for small dogs or puppies. While this bowl is on the pricier side, it is worth it for the previously mentioned reason and its longevity as a bowl to last a lifetime.

Pros and Cons of the YETI Boomer 4 Stainless Steel Dog Bowl

ProsCons
This bowl has a non-slip bottom which prevents it from sliding or getting tipped over.The large size is unsuitable for smaller dogs or puppies.
It is made from high quality stainless steel which is rust-resistant.It is a more expensive option.
This bowl has a deep well and holds up to four cups of food or water.
Best Overall
YETI Boomer 4 Stainless Steel Dog Bowl

•Deep-well dog bowl

•Stainless steel

•Non-slip bottom

•Various colors

Check Amazon

2. Best for Enrichment: Paw5 Wooly Snuffle Dog Mat

If you have an energetic, young dog, the Paw5 Wooly Snuffle Feeding mat is a great choice for you.

Snuffle mats are meant to mimic dogs scavenging in the grass, encouraging your dog to think and work. The unique feeding technique efficiently forces your pup to both slow their eating but also burn energy and increase brain activity as they search for food in the folds. You get to turn mealtime into a fun, stimulating, and personalized activity.

Dogs have a dynamite sense of smell but poor eyesight. You could say canines see the world with their noses and the Snuffle Feeding Mat teases their nose, allowing them to “look” for their food, which enriches their mental abilities.

The mat is handmade using safe, non-toxic, ethically-sourced materials that are not abrasive to your dog’s snout. It’s easy to fill and fun to watch as your dog searches. The snuffle mat is perfect for pretty much all breeds of any size or age, and a huge plus is that it is machine washable.

Although this mat has a lot going for it, some customers have reported that it is smaller than expected. Additionally, some found that their pets lost interest after around ten minutes.

Pros and Cons of the Paw5 Wooly Snuffle Dog Mat

ProsCons
Snuffle mats encourage dogs to think and work to find their food.The size runs small.
This snuffle mat is handmade using safe, non-toxic, ethically-sourced materials.Some dogs lose interest.
It is not abrasive so does not harm the dog’s snout.
It is suitable for dogs of all sizes and ages.
This snuffle mat is machine washable.
Most Durable
PAW5 Wooly Snuffle Dog Mat

•Handmade, sturdy, sustainably sourced materials

•Cotton-polyester provides extra durability

•Non-abrasive

Check Chewy Check Amazon

3. Best Slow Feeder: BurgeonNest Slow Feeder Dog Bowls

The BurgeonNest Slow Feeder Dog Bowls are our choice as the best slow feeder bowls for food-crazed pups.

These bowls are great for those over-excited pups that love to topple their bowls or gobble down their food in a flash. A bowl for water and a bowl for food are nestled into their designated spots on a silicone, non-slip mat meant to keep the bowls in place, so even if your dog comes in full speed, they won’t get toppled over.

Both bowls are made of stainless steel while the food bowl has a removable, washable puzzle, which is great for slowing down a gobbling dog. Both bowls can be removed from their holders on the mat so they can be cleaned and filled.

There are three color options of black, blue, or brown available and overall sizing is great for medium-sized dogs, although not so much for smaller pets.

Unfortunately, some customers found that their larger pups still managed to push these bowls around some. Also, some reported that the slow-feeder puzzle was a little too small and tricky for some pets.

Pros and Cons of the BurgeonNest Slow Feeder Dog Bowls

ProsCons
These bowls come with a silicone non-slip place mat to prevent them from being pushed around or toppled over.The size is not suitable for smaller pets.
The bowls are made from high quality stainless steel.Some dogs can still manage to push the bowls around.
The food bowl has a removable slow-feed puzzle in it.The slow-feeder puzzle is too difficult for some dogs.
Best Slow Feeder
BurgeonNest Slow Feeder Dog Bowls

•2 stainless steel dog bowls

•Plastic puzzle feeding bowl

•Medium sized dogs

•Non-slip, non-tip mat

Check Amazon

4. Best Puzzle Bowl: Outward Hound Fun Feeder Dog Bowl

The Outward Hound Fun Feeder Dog Bowl is our top pick for a puzzle bowl because of the variety of types they offer.

Puzzle bowls are great slow feeders for food-driven dogs and this bowl comes in several puzzle options: swirl, zig zags, concentric circles, and even a flower shape. The food falls in the grooves of the bowl, meaning your dog has to use a combination of licking and chewing before moving onto the next bite, versus taking huge bites all at once. The action extends eating and the resulting slowed pace prevents regurgitation, bloating, and overeating.

Manufactured from safe plastic, this durable bowl has a non-slip base and comes in a variety of colors. Various sizes are available for different breeds, sizes, and ages. The bowl is also top-rack dishwasher safe and free from PVC, BPA, and phthalates.

Although this fun bowl undoubtedly has a lot going for it some customers have reported that the non-slip base is not strong enough to hold it in place for large or particularly enthusiastic dogs. Also, some found that the grooves can be too deep for some pets. Therefore, it is important to carefully consider the size of your pet when choosing which design option to purchase.

Pros and Cons of the Outward Hound Fun Feeder Dog Bowl

This bowl is available in a variety of different puzzle patterns and shapes to suit the needs of different dogs.The non-slip base is not strong enough to hold it in place for large or particularly enthusiastic dogs.
It has a non-slip base.The grooves can be too deep for some pets.
It is made from non-toxic, BPA-free plastic.
Best Puzzle Bowl
Outward Hound Fun Feeder Interactive Dog Bowl

•Slow feeder puzzle bowl

•Varying puzzle types & colors

•Food-safe plastic

•Multiple sizes

Check Chewy Check Amazon

5. Best Elevated Bowls: HTB Elevated Dog Bowls

If your dog requires an elevated bowl, the HTB Elevated Dog Bowls are our recommendation.

Why use elevated bowls, you wonder? These specific food and water bowls reduce neck slouching and improve digestion. Elevated dog bowls are usually used for very tall dogs with elongated necks or for senior dogs who need a little support on their aging joints. Before switching to an elevated bowl for your dog, check with your veterinarian that it is the right choice for your dog.

This feeding station has three adjustable settings to 2.8, 8.3, or 12 inches, giving you the option of lowering or raising it to the height your dog needs. The stand is made from sturdy and long-lasting bamboo that is easily wiped down just using water. The bowls are made of stainless steel which are durable and easy to clean. There are several size options available, fitting small to large breeds. However, some people found that the size of the bowls run small and are not suitable for very large dog breeds.

Pros and Cons of the HTB Elevated Dog Bowls

ProsCons
This feeding station is adjustable with three height settings — 2.8, 8.3, and 12 inches.The size of the bowls run small and are not suitable for very large dog breeds.
The stand is made from bamboo that is easily wiped down just using water.
The bowls are made from durable stainless steel.
Best Elevated Bowls
HTB Adjustable Elevated Dog Bowls

•Adjustable, elevated dog bowl set

•Bamboo stand

•Stainless steel bowls

•3 heights

Check Amazon

6. Best Ceramic Bowl: Ceramic Pet Bowl Set with Bamboo Stand

The Ceramic Pet Bowl Set with Bamboo Stand is the perfect choice if your dog requires a ceramic bowl or if you are going for a more sophisticated look.

The bowl set comes with a bamboo stand to hold them both and to keep the bowls in place as your dog eats while also looking stylish. The bamboo stand is slightly elevated for improved digestion and keeps the dog bowls from slipping and sliding on the floor. These bowls are designed for a sleek look and a functional use. They are made from food-grade ceramic which is perfectly safe for your pets. Each bowl also has a non-slip bottom to prevent your pet from pushing them around.

The size options include 1.7 cups or 3.6 cups which great for small or large dogs, although some customers found that the ran smaller than expected. This isn’t great as they are already a pricier option than some of the other bowls on offer.

Pros and Cons of the Ceramic Pet Bowl Set

ProsCons
These ceramic bowls come with a bamboo stand which is slightly elevated for ease of feeding and stability.Customers reported that the bowl sizes run smaller than expected.
The bowls have non-slip bottoms.These are more expensive than some of the other bowls on offer.
There are two size options available.
Best Ceramic Bowl
Ceramic Pet Bowl Set with Bamboo Stand

•Food-grade ceramic bowl set

•Bamboo stand

•Multiple color options


Check Amazon

7. Best for Messy Dogs: Neater Feeder Deluxe Dog Bowl

If your dog is a messy eater then consider the Neater Feeder Deluxe Dog Bowl.

The best feature of this feeding station is the genius backboard which holds food inside its walls if your pet is flinging them around. Excess liquid also drains into a tray, preventing spillage with its lower reservoir. This dog feeder includes a stainless steel food bowl holding up to seven cups and a stainless steel water bowl holding up to nine cups.

The Neater Feeder is a colorful, potentially elevated (you can buy leg extensions separately) dog bowl with a contour that makes for easy feeding for large dogs. It comes in a variety of colors to fit in with any décor so will look good and make doggy mealtime much easier too.

Unfortunately, at more than $60 it is quite pricy, although its benefits arguably outweigh this. Also, some pup parents found that the bowls are not large enough for very large dog breeds.

Pros and Cons of the Neater Feeder Deluxe Dog Bowl

ProsCons
This feeding station has a backboard to prevent spillage.At more than $60 it is an expensive option.
It has a tray to catch any liquid spills.The bowls are not large enough for very large dogs.
There are separate leg extensions available to make this into an elevated feeding station.
It has tough stainless steel bowls.
Best for Messy Dogs
Neater Pets Neater Feeder Deluxe

•Dog bowl set in neat feeder

•Backboard to keep food in

•Reservoir for spilled liquid

•Elevated available

Check Chewy Check Amazon

8. Best for Travel: Rest-Eazzzy Collapsible Dog Bowls

Backpacking, camping, or all-day adventures with your dog are the most fun and we recommend the Rest-Eazzzy Collapsible Dog Bowls for food and water on-the-go.

Forget the hassle of lugging your dog’s normal food and water bowls along and go with these travel-ready dog bowls that fit just about anywhere and are ready to use in no time. This two-pack of collapsible bowls for both food and water are so convenient that you’ll never need to travel with anything else.

The bowls are made from lightweight, food-grade silicone that can collapse or expand into whatever size you need. The bowls attach to your pack with the included carabiners so you don’t lose them and can access them quickly. They are also easy and quick to clean and do not break if dropped. However, the main drawback of these bowls is that they are not chew-proof.

Pros and Cons of the Rest-Eazzzy Collapsible Dog Bowls

ProsCons
These bowls can easily be collapsed for storage when they are not needed.These bowls are not chew-proof.
They can be attached to a backpack with the attached carabiner clips.
They are made from lightweight food-grade silicone.
Best for Travel
Rest-Eazzzy Collapsible Dog Bowls

•2-pack silicone bowls

•Collapsible

•Carabiners for attachment

Check Amazon

Our Criteria: How We Chose the Best

Our team at A-Z Animals is full of animal lovers and pet owners, so many of understand the struggle of finding the right products for our pets. With something so popular as dog bowls, it can be especially burdensome trying to pick between seemingly similar bowls or different price options, only to have it not work out and having to start all over again. In our research, we take into account many factors that we would as though we were the ones purchasing a product, because sometimes, we are! So, what are some of the main points of focus?

Material

The material that your dog’s bowl is made of matters more than you think. Stainless steel or plastic are the most common choices, as they are durable and washable. However, some pets have sensitive skin that may be irritated when eating out of these materials, so, other options like ceramic are a good substitute and are also washable.

Personality

Dogs are fun because they are all unique in their own ways, even when it comes to eating habits. Some dogs take pieces of food out of their bowls one by one to eat them on their beds, others gobble their food in one swift bite. Knowing what kind of eater your dog is prior to purchasing a bowl is a must. If you have a gobbler, a puzzle bowl might be up your alley. If you have a dainty eater, you can choose from pretty much any bowl option, as your dog won’t break it or leave a huge mess.

Affordability

We recognize that not everyone can break the bank on a top-notch dog bowl. Great news! You don’t have to. There is a great diversity of high-quality, affordable options on the market today.

Size

Obviously small breeds such as Chihuahuas and Pomeranians require less food than larger breeds such as German Shepherds and Great Danes. Therefore, different sized bowls are the smart choice in these cases.

Best Dog Bowls: Summary

Ultimately, when it comes to choosing a dog bowl for your pet, it is important to consider the individual needs of your dog. The factors to consider include the size of the bowl relative to your dog, the material it is made from, and even whether your dog needs a slow-feeder bowl. However, choosing a dog bowl doesn’t need to be difficult, and we hope that this product review has given you some useful information, and narrowed down the choices for you.

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About the Author

Hannah is a writer at A-Z animals where her primary focus is on reptiles, marine life, mammals, and geography. Hannah has been writing and researching animals for four years alongside running her family farm. A resident of the UK, Hannah loves riding horses and creating short stories.

The Best Dog Bowls: Reviewed for You FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions) 

Is it better for dogs to have elevated bowls?

Elevated bowls aren’t for any dog. Your puppies won’t be able to reach them, for example. Nor will your toy poodle or other small dogs. Elevated designs are for tall and large dogs. These animals are putting a strain on their necks to reach ground-level food. With an elevated bowl or a bowl for crates, you alleviate the strain and make relaxed eating automatic.

Do dogs prefer plastic or metal bowls?

Your dog won’t necessarily have a preference. Plastic bowls won’t be scratch-resistant and may capture bacteria. Your dog could exhibit an allergic reaction to plastic. Experts in plastic studies argue the material possibly emits dangerous chemicals like BPA which might seep into food. (It’s the same argument about plastic water bottles). Stainless steel bowls are durable, unbreakable, and easy to keep and clean.

What is the best material for a dog bowl?

Stainless steel is the best material. But you want to have an understanding of the material’s grading. Poor manufacturing can lead to harmful contamination. That notwithstanding, of the available bowl materials, stainless steel lasts longer and requires less maintenance. Ceramic is okay. We’d put it before plastic too.

What's the best size for a dog bowl?

Bowls have to be large enough where your pooch can comfortably close and open his mouth to get to the food. Your Great Danes or Chihuahuas, even as puppies, don’t need the same bowl.

Thank you for reading! Have some feedback for us? Contact the AZ Animals editorial team.