I bought a plastic dog bowl already, should I buy a new stainless steel one?

Question

I already bought a plastic dog bowl for the dog that I will adopt soon, now people are telling me that plastic is bad and I should get stainless steel but I already bought the plastic one. It seems sturdy and hard enough to not go bad if it's chewed, but should I get another bowl that's stainless steel for the sake of my dog? I really want the best for my dog, but I already bought the plastic one. I don't want my parents to spend more money if it's not life or death. Will my dog get sick if I continue using plastic?

Answer 1

Plastic is fine, unless you see her/him chewing it. Obviously swallowing chewed off plastic could be dangerous. Also, plastic might be more likely to harbor germs, so make sure you keep it clean.



Other than that, plastic bowls are 100% fine for your dog; definitely not a matter of life or death. When it's time to replace it, get a stainless. Until then, just make sure she doesn't chew and that you keep it clean.



Good Luck with the new dog!

Answer 2

It's not necessarily just your pup chewing on it that is a problem. Plastic has small microscopic holes in it where bacteria can grow whereas stainless does not. If you are willing to thoroughly wash the bowl after every feeding, your dog isn't going to die by any means, but stainless is just a better way to make sure the bowl isn't growing harmful bacteria. I prefer stainless for that reason but plenty of dogs eat out of plastic bowls with no problems.



Oh, the other thing is they last longer. Plastic bowls get gross and need to be replaced fairly often, whereas I've had some of my stainless bowls forever. They don't wear out or get nasty like plastic can so they are a good investment.

Answer 3

Plastic is fine, but don't leave a plastic bowl out in the garden in the sun.



There is a lot of research regarding plastics releasing toxins that can cause cancer when heated in the sun.



So a little bit later maybe transfer to a stainless steel or if you are leaving water in a plastic bowl in the garden then transfer to stainless steel or the china type.

Answer 4

stainless steel is easier to clean(it's hygienic), very hard for your dog to chew, and it's not that expensive. I went to Ross the other day and found some really cool ones for $3(smaller ones) to $5 (really big ones). Don't go to PetSmart or Petco for this sort of thing because they'll charge $15-25. I know because I checked it out before. I also got a deal from Family Dollar. Big stainless steel bowls for $3 each. Hope this helps you out.

Answer 5

In my experience a plastic bowl may not be a good idea. A few years ago, my dog got over excited and picked up her food bowl(plastic) and dragged it all over the place. She made a huge mess and chewed the bowl. Point taken. As far as the whole sick thing, it depends on the brand and how long you continue use after the damage. If I was you, I would buy a new bowl... for your sake and your new puppy. (stone is also a good choice for dog bowls.) Even if your dog is trained NOT to chew, you should still be careful. Plastic is a bad choice.

Answer 6

Crate Crate Pad Bowls (stainless steel) Collar and leash Ear Cleaner Nail Clipper Puppy Shampoo Proper type of brush Quick stop Toys ( Kongs are different prices for different sizes) High quality puppy food Training treats Folder for documents Appointment for first Vet Check up

Answer 7

Our breeder told us to get rid of all of our plastic dishes because it can leach the color out of our dogs noses. They are show dogs so we don't want that to happen. I don't know of any other health reason but if it can do that to a dogs nose, I'd just go to the stainless steel. No point in taking any chances with other possible health problems. You can get a good price at Fleet Farms if you have any in your area, or look on line at PetEdge, they have good prices also.

Answer 8

Plastic is ok, but sometimes dogs like to chew on it or just play with it. When they do, it gets little scratches (sometimes big) and is hard to clean in it. stainless steel doesn't get those dents and scratches so it's more hygienic. And plastic, when it's old, it tend to break in to pieces and your dog can eat it so, i guess that's the only danger.

Answer 9

My dogs and cats use an automatic water bowl, which is 100% plastic. I have always used these water bowls and have never seen any health issues. As long as your dogs doesn't actually eat the bowl, I would say you are safe.

Answer 10

Our vet told us that the stainless steel ones are much more sanitary. The plastic ones hold any & all germs.

Answer 11

Stainless steel ones are much more hygienic and east to clean.

They don't cost much either.

Answer 12

I think you will be fine I have plastic blows for my dogs and one of mine is a puppy and he does not chew on them (just everything else)