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7 Best Bowls for Messy Dogs

By: Arlene Divina
Arlene Divina, one of the content writers at IHD, loves going on adventures with her adorable fur baby. She now creates informative content for pet parents. Read more
| September 7, 2023
iHeartDogs is reader-supported. Some of the links below may be paid affiliate links, where we receive a small commission on a product at no additional cost to you. 

When it comes to mealtime, not all dogs are neat eaters. Some can turn their dining area into a splash zone of water and a scatter plot of kibble in no time. As a pet parent, you’re not just concerned about the mess but also about how this eating style might impact your dog’s health. In this article, we explore the best bowls designed to minimize the mess while promoting healthy eating habits for your four-legged family member.

 

#1 – Neater Feeder Deluxe Large Dog (Gunmetal Grey) – The Mess Proof Elevated Bowls No Slip Non Tip Double Diner Stainless Steel Food Dish with Stand

The Neater Feeder Deluxe Large Dog is a mess-proof, spill-proof, and kick-proof elevated feeder that separates and contains spilled food at the top, while draining spilled water into a catch basin below. Designed for large dog breeds, it has an 8″ feeding height and a contoured design for easy bowl access. With splash-proof raised walls and non-skid rubber feet, cleaning is made easier and less time-consuming. All parts, including the stainless steel dog bowls, are dishwasher safe. The raised design also provides a more comfortable feeding position and aids digestion and joint pain reduction.





 


#2 – Neater Feeder Express (Small Dog) – With Stainless Steel Dog Bowls and Mess Proof Pet Feeder

The Neater Feeder Express (Small Dog) is a pet feeder designed to keep your feeding area clean and organized. It features separate compartments for spilled food and water, preventing messes from spreading. The feeder is specifically made for small dogs, and all components, including the stainless steel dog bowls and catch basins, are dishwasher-safe for easy cleaning. Additionally, the feeder has rubber feet to prevent sliding.





 


#3 – URPOWER 75oz Raised Dog Water Bowl for Messy Drinkers 3 Height Adjustable Elevated 2.2L Large Capacity No Spill Non-Slip Slow Water Feeder Bowl for Dogs, Cats & Pets

The URPOWER 75oz Raised Dog Water Bowl is a versatile and practical option for dog owners. It can be adjusted to three different heights, making it suitable for dogs of all sizes and ages. The elevated design helps reduce strain on the joints and promotes healthy digestion. The large 75oz capacity eliminates the need for frequent water refills, and the slow water feeder feature prevents choking and splashing. The anti-spill design ensures that the floor remains dry and tidy, making it convenient for both the pet and the owner.





 


#4 – Gobeigo 95oz/2.8L Dog Water Bowl for Messy Drinkers, No Spill Water Bowl Large Capacity Splash Proof Slow Feeder Water Dispenser Vehicle Carried Anti Drip Travel Water Bowl for Dogs, Cats & Pets

The Gobeigo 95oz/2.8L Dog Water Bowl is a large-capacity water bowl designed for messy drinkers. With its 95oz/2.8L capacity, it can provide enough water for even large dogs, allowing them to stay hydrated throughout the day. The bowl features an innovative one-piece mold floating disk, which prevents water seepage, mold, and dirt build-up, making it easy to clean. Its transparent design allows you to monitor water quality and level, ensuring your pet always has clean and healthy water. Additionally, the bowl’s anti-spill design with a floating disk and silicone plugs slows down drinking speed, keeping your pet’s fur dry and avoiding choking and splashing. Cleaning is a breeze, as the bowl can be rinsed and wiped clean with a soft cloth or placed in the dishwasher.





 


#5 – Ormalla No Spill Dog Water Bowl Stainless Steel, 4L/135oz Large Capacity Spill Proof Slow Drinking Dog Bowl for Dogs and Cats, Vehicle Carried Pet Water Dispenser for Messy Drinkers

The Ormalla No Spill Dog Water Bowl is a stainless steel water bowl specifically designed to prevent spills and messes. Its sealed floating disk and fixed border effectively prevent water splashing and keep the floor dry and clean. With a large capacity of 4L/135oz, it is suitable for dogs, cats, and multiple pet families. The stainless steel construction is rust-resistant and dishwasher-safe, making it easy to clean. Additionally, the bowl’s anti-slip design keeps it from moving around and protects the floor.





 


#6 – Decflow 3L Dog Water Bowl Stainless Steel Slow Drinking Dog Bowl with Lid, No Spill Water Bowl for Large Dogs Splash Proof Vehicle Carried Travel Pet Water Bowl Dispenser for Messy Drinkers

The Decflow 3L Dog Water Bowl is a stainless steel bowl designed to provide a large capacity of water for pets. Its slow water feeder feature prevents pets from drinking too quickly and choking, while also keeping their hair dry and tinted. Made of high-quality 304 stainless steel, this spill-proof water bowl is easy to clean and ensures the health of your pet. The floating disk design helps prevent water from overflowing and keeps your floor dry and tidy.





 


#7 – Lewondr Elevated Dog Water Bowl No Spill, with 2.5L Large Capacity Water Bowl for Messy Drinkers and 1.1L Slow Feeder Dog Bowl, 3 Heights Adjustable Raised Dog Bowl Stand for Small to Large Dogs

The Lewondr Elevated Dog Water Bowl is a product designed to provide a convenient and mess-free drinking experience for dogs of all sizes. It features a large-capacity water bowl that can hold 2.5L of water, making it suitable for large dogs or households with multiple pets. The bowl also includes a slow water feeder to control the drinking speed and prevent splashing. Additionally, the adjustable raised stand design helps reduce pressure on the pet’s neck and joints, making it ideal for older dogs or those with muscle or joint problems. The dog bowl set is made of high-quality materials and is easy to clean, ensuring durability and convenience for pet owners.





 


What Should I Look for When Choosing a Bowl for a Messy Dog?

Material

  1. Stainless Steel: These are durable, easy to clean, and resistant to corrosion.
  2. Ceramic: Heavy enough to minimize movement but can break if dropped.
  3. Plastic: Not recommended as they can harbor bacteria and may be chewed by the dog, but some high-quality, BPA-free plastics are available.

Design

  1. Non-Slip Base: Look for bowls with a rubber or silicone base to minimize sliding.
  2. High Sides or Sloped Design: These can help contain food within the bowl.
  3. Partitioned Bowls: These have sections that can slow down a fast eater.
  4. Wide Base: A wider base can give the bowl more stability, making it less likely to tip.

Special Features

  1. Slow Feeder Bowls: These have obstructions or mazes that the dog has to eat around, slowing down their eating and making a mess less likely.
  2. Automatic Feeders: Some are designed to release a certain amount of food at a time, reducing the chance for mess. However, they may not be suitable for all types of food.
  3. Raised Bowls: These can be easier for some dogs to eat from but consider your dog’s size and health needs before opting for a raised bowl.

Ease of Cleaning

  1. Dishwasher Safe: Makes cleanup easier.
  2. Smooth Surfaces: Avoid bowls with a lot of crevices where food can get stuck.

Size

Choose a bowl that is appropriately sized for your dog. Too small and you’ll be refilling it constantly; too large and it might encourage overeating.

Health Considerations

If your dog has specific health issues like arthritis, you may want a bowl that is elevated to a height that is comfortable for them to eat from. Always consult your veterinarian for personalized advice.

Before making a purchase, it might be beneficial to read reviews from other dog owners who have similar issues with messy eating. This could give you a better idea of how effective a particular bowl design may be for your needs.

Frequently Asked Questions About Bowls for Messy Eater/Drinker Dogs

  1. What type of material is best for a messy eater/drinker dog? Stainless steel is generally recommended for messy eaters and drinkers because it’s durable, easy to clean, and resistant to scratches where bacteria could grow. BPA-free plastic and ceramic are other options but may require more regular cleaning.
  2. Are there any bowls designed to slow down eating for messy eaters? Yes, slow feeder bowls are designed with obstacles or compartments that make the dog work a bit harder to get their food, which can help to reduce the speed at which they eat and minimize mess. They also have the added benefit of aiding digestion and preventing bloating.
  3. How can a bowl’s design help minimize water spillage? A bowl with high sides or a special lip can help catch overflow, thereby reducing spillage. Some bowls also have a moat-like design that catches spilled water, keeping it away from the floor.
  4. Can I use a raised feeder for a messy dog? Raised feeders can sometimes help with mess by containing it to one area, but they aren’t a guaranteed solution. Make sure to look for a raised feeder with non-slip feet and a sturdy construction to prevent tipping.
  5. Is it easier to clean certain types of bowls? Bowls made from stainless steel are generally the easiest to clean and are often dishwasher-safe. BPA-free plastic bowls are also easy to clean but may hold onto odors and stains more readily.
  6. Do I need to buy a specialized water bowl for my messy drinker? It may be helpful to invest in a “no-spill” water bowl, which features a design to minimize the amount of water that can be splashed out of the bowl.
  7. Are there any bowls that can attach to a crate or wall? Yes, there are bowls designed to attach to a crate or wall to prevent tipping. These can be a good solution for very energetic or messy dogs.
  8. Is the size of the bowl important for controlling mess? Yes, a bowl that is too small may result in more spilled food and water. Make sure to choose a size appropriate for your dog’s size and appetite.
  9. What features should I look for to prevent the bowl from skidding? Look for bowls with non-skid rubber bottoms or silicone bases to prevent the bowl from moving around during mealtime. This can greatly reduce mess.
  10. How often should I clean my dog’s bowl to maintain hygiene? Regardless of how messy your dog is, bowls should be cleaned at least once a day to prevent bacterial growth. Some materials, like stainless steel, make this task easier due to their dishwasher-safe nature.

Conclusion: Best Bowls for Messy Dogs

Managing a messy eater can be a challenging task, but the right feeding bowl can make all the difference. By focusing on bowls that are designed to contain spills, slow down fast eaters, and endure the wear and tear of enthusiastic meal times, you can create a more enjoyable dining experience for both you and your pet. Your dog may never learn perfect table manners, but with the right bowl, at least mealtime can be less of a clean-up challenge.

iHeartDogs is reader-supported. Some of the links below may be paid affiliate links, where we receive a small commission on a product at no additional cost to you. 

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