Dog Bowls & Feeders
Dog Bowls & Feeders
Choosing the right bowl or feeder can make mealtimes safer, cleaner and more enjoyable for your dog. Durable materials like stainless steel and ceramic are popular because they’re easy to clean and don’t harbour bacteria. Ceramic bowls are heavy and won’t tip over easily, while stainless steel bowls often have non-slip rubber bases (Petworld notes its steel bowls come with an anti-slip rubber underside).Plastic bowls are lightweight and good for travel, though dogs prone to allergies may do better with metal or ceramic.
Specialty designs help with specific needs. For example, slow feeder bowls have ridges or mazes that force dogs to eat more slowly; this slows gulping and reduces bloating and indigestion. Elevated or raised bowls can benefit tall or older dogs by reducing neck strain, studies show raised bowls promote a healthier eating posture. For multi-pet homes, double or stackable bowls (or separate food dispensers) allow each pet to eat at its own pace. Automatic feeders and water dispensers use timers or gravity systems so dogs get fed or watered on schedule, even when you’re out, some models even have programmable timers to dispense meals while you’re away.
Use cases: Puppies and small breeds often do well with low, lightweight bowls or even shallow ceramic dishes. Large breeds may need bigger bowls and may benefit most from raised feeders to avoid neck strain. For fast eaters, try an anti-gulp or slow feeder bowl. For travel and outdoors, collapsible silicone bowls or portable water bottles with attached dishes keep meals neat on the go. And of course, every dog should have a clean water bowl available at all times, drinking fountains with filters can encourage hydration and ensure a constant fresh supply.
Petworld carries all the top brands Irish owners trust. Look for Chanelle, Great & Small, & Petface among others. No matter what you need, Petworld has it, from basic mats and scoops to high-tech feeders. Why shop at Petworld? We’re 100% Irish-owned and make shopping easy. Enjoy free delivery on orders over €30 (no hidden fees) and fast dispatch (1–2 days) so you can get feeding supplies quickly. Our On Repeat Delivery (subscribe & save) program gives extra savings on regular pet staples. Plus, our website suggests related categories, for example, check our Dog Food and Travel Accessories sections to complete your shopping. With Petworld, you get quality dog bowls and feeders backed by Irish customer service, next-day delivery options, and the expertise of fellow pet lovers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are elevated dog bowls better for dogs?
Elevated (raised) bowls can be beneficial for taller or older dogs by reducing strain on the neck, shoulders, and back. Some experts believe raised bowls encourage healthier posture during meals. However, they’re not essential for all dogs—if your dog eats comfortably from the floor, a raised stand is optional.
What is the best bowl for dogs that eat too fast?
For fast eaters, a slow feeder or anti-gulp bowl is ideal. These bowls have ridges or obstacles that make the dog work a bit for each bite. This slows down eating and can reduce bloating, vomiting, or indigestion caused by scarfing food. Many Petworld feeders include “slow feed” designs for this purpose.
How often should dog bowls be cleaned?
Dog bowls should be cleaned daily with hot, soapy water (or in the dishwasher if safe for that bowl material). Scrub any grime or food residue to prevent bacteria buildup. Water bowls especially should be refreshed daily. Routine cleaning helps keep your dog healthy and their feeding area tidy.
Should I get a slow feeder bowl for my dog?
If your dog tends to eat very quickly, a slow feeder is a great idea. It mentally engages your dog while they eat and prevents them from gulping down food in one gulp. This can help prevent choking and stomach upset. Slow feeders are also recommended by vets for dogs with digestive sensitivities.
Are stainless steel dog bowls better than plastic or ceramic?
Stainless steel bowls are often considered the safest choice: they’re non-porous, hygienic, and very durable. Petworld’s stainless bowls even have anti-slip bases. Ceramic bowls are also good (they’re heavy and stable) but can chip or crack over time. Plastic bowls are inexpensive and lightweight, but they can scratch (harboring bacteria) and may trigger allergies in some pets. Overall, stainless steel is usually best for health and hygiene.
How do automatic dog feeders work?
Automatic feeders (or timed dispensers) let you program meal times and portions. At set times, the feeder will open compartments or release food into a bowl. This ensures your dog is fed on schedule even if you’re not home. Some advanced models connect to apps or recognize a dog’s microchip. They’re great for owners with busy schedules or for ensuring consistent mealtimes.