Best Dog Bowl Material: Stainless Steel vs Ceramic vs Plastic
Your dog eats and drinks from the same bowl every day, so the material matters. Here's how the most common dog bowl materials compare on hygiene, durability and safety, and which one we recommend.
Quick answer: what's the best material for dog bowls?
For most dogs, food grade stainless steel is the best dog bowl material. It's non-porous, hard to damage, easy to clean and safe for food and water. Ceramic is a good second choice if it's lead-free and undamaged.
Dog bowl materials compared
Stainless steel
- Pros: non-porous and hygienic, doesn't chip or crack, dishwasher safe, lasts for years
- Cons: basic bowls can slide and be noisy; look for a non-slip base
Ceramic
- Pros: heavy and stable, available in many colors
- Cons: can chip or crack, and cracks can trap bacteria; the glaze must be food safe and lead-free
Plastic
- Pros: cheap and lightweight
- Cons: scratches easily, and scratches hold bacteria; some dogs react to plastic with chin irritation
Silicone
- Pros: flexible, great for collapsible travel bowls
- Cons: can hold odors and is easy for chewers to damage
Best material for a dog water bowl
Water bowls sit out all day, so hygiene matters even more. Stainless steel is the best material for a dog water bowl because it doesn't build up a film as quickly as scratched plastic. Wash it at least a few times a week.
What we use
Our stainless steel dog bowls are made of food grade, double-wall stainless steel with a removable non-slip rubber base. They're dishwasher safe once the base is removed and come in 18 oz (532 ml) and 32 oz (946 ml), personalized with your dog's name.
Dog bowl material FAQ
Are stainless steel bowls better than ceramic for dogs?
Both can be good. Stainless steel is more durable and won't chip, which makes it the safer long-term choice for most households.
Why do vets recommend stainless steel dog bowls?
Because stainless steel is non-porous, durable and easy to sanitize, it's less likely to harbor bacteria than scratched plastic or cracked ceramic.
How often should I wash my dog's bowl?
Wash food bowls after every meal, or at least daily, and water bowls several times a week.