Monday, March 2, 2009

How To Choose The Right Dog Bowls For Your Dog

Photo By Lynne LeBlanc
How To Choose A Dog Bowl or Dog Feeder.

There are many options available in today's market. You should choose accordingly to your dog's size, eating and drinking habits, your personal style and taste, and of course safety issues.

Plastic Dog bowls

Plastic bowls might be inexpensive, but some dogs become allergic to plastic and develop skin irritations, and or lose the pigmentation of their noses.

Plastic being porous can trap dirt, odors and germs, which even your dishwasher will not be able to eliminate.

Plastic can also leach plasticizers (most commonly phthalates) and colorants, into your dog's food, which are very harmful to its health.

Plastic bowls being lightweight will tip and spill over easily and can be chewed on by aggressive or too playful dogs.

Ceramic Dog Bowls

Ceramic dog bowls can be a good choice if chosen wisely.

They are usually heavy enough to be spill-proof, but some decorative glazes can contain lead and other toxics (mainly found in foreign products). So it is important to make sure that the bowls were intended for food usage and have a lead-free glaze finish.

Check the bowls regularly for cracks (especially fine ones which can be difficult to detect), chips and scratches, as they encourage the growth of bacteria. If such a bowl breaks replace it, and do not attempt to super glue it! It is not safe for you dog!

Stainless Steel Dog Bowls

They are the most healthy choice for your dog. Stainless steel has been the material of choice for food processing, dairy and brewery industries. It is durable, sanitary, rust-free, and non-leaching. Such bowls will last a lifetime.

For Older Dogs Or Taller Dogs

Getting an elevated dog feeder for a taller or older dog (or both) is a good idea since it will help them to eat and drink more comfortably from a dog feeder which is at a more natural body levelWhiner and Diner Double Bowl Dog Feeder
Some are outfitted with a single bowl or double bowls to accommodate your space or your dog’s drinking and eating habits.

If bending causes you discomfort, you won't need to bend down as much to pick up or put down heavy, full dog dishes: the stainless steel bowls are light enough to remove for easy cleaning and filling.

Keep Your Dog Bowls Or Feeders Clean

Whichever kind of dog bowls you choose, always keep them clean. Hand-wash them in warm, soapy water (and rinse them well), or put them in the dishwasher regularly. If you have an elevated feeder, wipe its top often to keep it dry and clean.

A Healthy Dog Is A Happy Dog!
Whiner and Diner Eco-Luxury Pet Accessories

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