Do I need to wash my dog's bowl every day: the answer of dog trainers

We wash our dishes after each use for hygiene reasons. But do we need to clean the bowl that pets eat from as often? After all, they often eat dry food, which does not stain dishes as quickly. Dogs, in particular, eat it all without a trace and lick the bowl well, almost to a shine.

OBOZREVATEL asked dog handlers and veterinarians for their opinions on the matter. Here's how caring for dog dishes can affect your pet's quality of life and health.

What nuances affect the frequency of washing

First of all, you need to consider what the animal eats. Dry food does not leave any traces on the dishes. But wet food stains it with sauce, jelly, etc. So do natural cereals.

It's also important to consider the conditions in the place where the food is placed. The warmer and more humid the air, the more often you need to clean the dog's dishes because bacteria, including dangerous ones, can quickly develop in them.

How often to wash dog dishes

If your dog eats dry food, experts advise washing the bowl at least 3-4 times a week. Any wet food, whether canned or natural, requires washing after each feeding. The water bowl should be washed daily so that dust and saliva do not accumulate in it and the water is always fresh and clean.

It is also important to empty the dog's dishes in hot weather, and not to leave any uneaten food or products, especially meat, in them. Spoiled food can cause food poisoning. In addition, it is better to put a few ice cubes in the water bowl in the heat of the day so that the animal can cool down.

What is the best way to clean dog bowls

Just like children's dishes, dog bowls need a delicate approach to cleaning. It is best to wash them with natural products without dyes and fragrances. In particular, gels and liquids for baby dishes are suitable. If a strong odor remains on the bowl, the dog may refuse to eat from it.

Baking soda or mustard powder are good for cleaning dog dishes. They will wash away all residues, help to wipe off dried pieces and rinse off completely, leaving no residue on the dishes.

It is better to soak bowls with dried residue before washing because it is a bad idea to scrub a dog bowl with a metal brush or other sharp objects. They will leave scratches on the surface where bacteria can accumulate.

It's best to clean your pet's dishes separately from your own. In particular, because of the different composition of saliva and different diets. You can have a special basin for this or wash the bowls by hand under running water and then clean the sink. It is better not to put the animal's dishes in the dishwasher.

Earlier, OBOZREVATEL told you how to properly remove a tick from a dog.

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