Is Plastic Really a Bad Choice for Dog Food Bowls?

So, you’ve made the switch from traditional kibble to cold-pressed dog food—great choice! Now, the question is: what kind of bowl will you use to feed your dog? We’re not here to tell you to avoid plastic at all costs. Some people might say that, but our advice is to think it through and be cautious.

Plastic has plenty of good qualities that make it ideal for a lot of things. However, there are also some known risks associated with it, specifically when it comes to using it as a food bowl. Ultimately, that decision is up to you. If you’re concerned, glass and metal are great alternatives.

Plastic's Potential Hazards

There’s been a lot of buzz around plastic lately, with some people ready to declare it public enemy number one. While some of the claims are overblown, there are real concerns you should be aware of. One of the big ones is a chemical called bisphenol A (BPA), which is found in many commercial plastics. At high levels, BPA has been linked to cancer, infertility, and other health issues.

The FDA says that BPA isn’t a safety risk in small amounts, but what counts as “small” is up for debate. We just don’t know enough about BPA to say for sure how much is too much.

Beyond BPA, there are other chemicals in plastic that could have long-term health effects on both humans and animals. We mention this not to scare you, but to remind you that the risk is there. How serious is it? That’s hard to say. If you’re worried, switching to a metal or glass bowl might be the way to go.

Known Plastic Hazards

While the potential chemical risks of plastic are still being studied, there are some hazards we know for sure. One of the big ones is the risk of choking.

Plastic bowls can be or become brittle. They’re not as sturdy as metal or glass, which means there’s always a chance a piece could break off, especially with dogs who like to chew or are a bit rough with their bowls. A broken piece of plastic could be a choking hazard or cause issues in your dog’s digestive system.

Here are a few other known risks with plastic bowls:

• Porosity – Many types of plastic are porous, which can be an issue if the bowl isn’t cleaned properly. Porous plastic is an open invitation for bacteria to grow, and over time, that buildup can be a health concern.
• Allergies – Just like people, dogs can be allergic to certain compounds in plastic. Eating from a plastic bowl could cause reactions like skin irritation, a rash, or even a runny nose.

The debate over plastic dog food bowls has been going on for years, and there are valid arguments on both sides. In the end, it’s up to you to decide what’s best for your dog.