Soon-to-be pet parents plan for a lot before introducing a dog into their lives. They consider their housing situation, lifestyle, and finances to prepare for the long haul with their new furry addition. However, few prepare for the impact generic dog bowls and feeders can have on a kitchen’s aesthetic. Not to mention, your dog will presumably be feasting in these daily, so having one that can handle wear and limit mess is ideal.
It’s a balance even professionals struggle with. “Many pet parents choose a bowl because of the cute design — I do this too, so no judgment,” says veterinary nutritionist Dr. Lindsey Bullenopens in new tab. “But I encourage them to remember that the bowl is supposed to ultimately be for their pet, and thus to remember that since their pet is a unique individual, the bowl of choice may be different from what they want to buy.”
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There are other factors to consider as well, namely the size and material makeup of the bowl. Though — as with most things — it’s generally contingent on specific needs and preferences. “It depends on the individual. For example, if you’re purchasing for a puppy, you would likely want to consider the size of the pet (so they can physically get into the bowl), as well as the normal rate of consumption,” Dr. Bullen notes before adding that some puppies tend to eat quickly, so a slow feeding bowl may be a good idea early on.
Additionally, there is some debate surrounding elevated bowls regarding their effectiveness. Dr. Bullen explains that for some pets, such as those who are hyporexic and eat less than normal due to pain from arthritis, an elevated bowl offers an ideal solution. With so many variables, finding the right bowl for your pet and your aesthetic can be challenging. Below are a few feeding options that’ll meet specific needs while also complementing your decor and dog’s appetite.
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The kit includes two bowls made of dishwasher-safe ceramic and two debossed holders, one with an extra water gutter, and a non-slip base. It’s perfect for those who love a minimalist look and hate a wet floor. Plus, Dr. Bullen recommends ceramic bowls as they tend to be easier to clean and harder to stain.
Liked the minimalist ceramic bowl but want some color to make it pop? These Nicolas Newcomb pieces feature matte grey on the outside with a high gloss interior of either aqua, emerald, or coral. Plus, each one is uniquely handmade in Brooklyn. And as Hova says — they go hard.
For particularly chaotic eaters, YETI comes through. The brand is known for its durable products, and the Boomer 8 lives up to the brand’s reputation. This stainless steel option is rust-resistant and puncture-resistant, withstanding any future attempts at dings and dents. However, Dr. Bullen does warn that metallic bowls — while harmless — can produce a taste that picky eaters may be aversed to.
Beyond its Instagram-ready color palette, this offering from Fable is equally practical with a weighted base for max stability and an antimicrobial glossy interior for easy cleanup.
This handcrafted glass bowl comes courtesy of a Mr. Dog and Nick Cotterman collab and features a clear design that only vaguely resembles the jail they held Magneto in. Supervillain vibes aside, Dr. Bullen notes that — similar to ceramic ones — food is less likely to stick to glass bowls, making them less likely to smell.
Ceramic artist Aleisha Ellis has been designing homewares under the brand Utility Objects since 2018. Her work often highlights the organic textures of clay through a modern lens, and these bowls are no different.
If there were ever a statement dog bowl, this is it. These Jonathan Adler feeders feature chic patterns that’ll be appreciated by pets and people alike.
This set includes one solid oak wood tray and two porcelain bowls with a high-gloss finish, appealing to your eyes as much as what will go in them appeals to your pup’s stomach.
Featuring an elegantly simple design, Wild One’s bowls are made of food-grade stainless steel and formatted with a perfectly angled scoop to ensure no food is left behind (or in crevices) confirming that its style is matched only by its practicality.
In addition to its stunning handcrafted minimalistic design, for every bowl purchased Kibble and Bone will donate one pound of dog food to Wags and Walksopens in new tab, a Los Angeles-based rescue that saves dogs from high kill shelters.
Sean Zucker is a writer whose work has been featured in Points In Case, The Daily Drunk, Posty, and WellWell. He has an adopted Pit Bull named Banshee whose work has been featured on the kitchen floor and whose behavioral issues rival his own.
