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Best Bowls For Shorkies

Lori Ennis
by Lori Ennis
Published:  August 18th, 2021

Finding the right dinnerware for your Shorkie is important because he’s prone to hypoglycemia. We’ve collected the best bowls for Shorkies to make mealtime more palatable!

Many people work toward a free feeder situation with their pets–they like to allow their dogs or cats to eat when they want to, much as we’d do when we’re hungry. Your Shih Tzu /Yorkshire Terrier cross can’t do that, though, as Shorkies are prone to hypoglycemia, particularly when puppies or stressed, so you want to make sure their dining is appropriate and often. Check these bowls out to find the right one for the job.

1. Editor’s Pick: Loving Pets Extra Small Robusto

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This bowl is made of stainless steel and touted as nearly indestructible. Though Shorkies are small but mighty, doubtful they’d be able to do any real damage to it, but it’s nice to know it’s constructed so solidly. And that it’s extra small for your dynamo to easily access.

2. Runner Up: Loving Pets Le Bol

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We also like the Loving Pets Le Bol extra small bowl. It is a stainless material as well, but has a ceramic-like interior that will resist odors and bacteria that like to collect. They come in sweet colors and are easy to care for.

3. Best Slow Feeder: HWDID Fun Feeder

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Yes, even little dogs can get bloat, which is dangerous and a result of overeating. Zealous eaters enjoy the stimulation of getting food from this puzzle feeder and they also bring food into their little bodies in a safer and slower fashion, reducing the chance of too much air and then their stomach twisting.

4. Best Eco-Friendly: KNOWAIR Eco-Friendly Stainless/Bamboo Bowl

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These fun-colored bowls are small enough for your pup but big enough in features to make them a hit. Stainless bowls come out of the eco-friendly and recyclable bamboo insert for easy wash and if your doggo decided to chew on the liner a bit (just saying) no big deal because the material is earth and dog-friendly.

5. Best Slant: Alfie Pet Tilt Bowl

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This two-piece bowl set is tilted to keep the food lower to the bottom and easier for your Shorkie to get to. The bowl part lifts out of the insert for easy cleaning and you can adjust the bowl tilt to make it just perfect for your princess.

6. Best Shape: R-Line Paw-Shaped Melamine

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Want a pawsome and adorable little bowls for indoor or outdoor ease? These are perfect. Made of BPA-free Melamine, the paws are (almost) too cute for your cutie! They’re easy to care for and dishwasher safe, and a nice alternative to heavier ceramic with style.

7. Best Mat Combo: Home of Boutique Non-Skid Stainless Steel Pet Feeder and Silicone Mat

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If you have a Shorkie that tends to create a little (or a large) mess when eating or drinking, the Home of Boutique Non-Skid Stainless Steel Pet Feeder and Silicone Mat may be the perfect solution! This set includes 2 corrosion-resistant stainless-steel bowls and a BPA-free silicone mat. The thick silicone mat is tear-resistant and non-slip, preventing the floors from getting dirty and avoiding the frustration of your dog chasing their bowls across the ground even on hardwood floors.

Unlike similar silicone feeding mats, this design includes 2 spots specifically designed to hold your dog’s dishes in place in the middle of the mat. The mat is easy to wipe clean and dishwasher safe. While the mat is created thick enough to be durable and long-lasting, it is also highly flexible, allowing it to be folded or rolled up for storage. The set comes in two sizes, making it suitable for dogs up to approximately 44l lbs.

8. Best Stainless Steel: Super Design Stainless

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A very basic, but totally functional set of stainless bowls that are some of the smallest we’ve found for your Shorkie, holding a cup. They’re dishwasher safe, anti-rust and can be used as stand-alone food and water bowls or in various feeding station inserts.

9. Best Elevated: Valiai Wooden Elevated Dog Bowls

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This is perfect for tiny dogs that still don’t want to hunch over and eat. Made from blended molded real wood it contains two stainless steel bowls that are the right volume (350 ml) for your small Shorkie. The bowls are also the right depth, so they don’t make your little puppy struggle to get that last morsel at the bottom. The look is also something that you will be very happy to have out in your kitchen as the wood gives it a finished look like a piece of furniture.

10. Honorable Mention: Upsky Double Dog station

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This is another elevated station that is still small enough for your Shorkie to easily access but elevated for slower feeding and function. We love that this station is prepared for messes that may come with kibble dribble, as it catches on the resin lip. It’s easy to wash and care for.

What should I consider when choosing bowls for my Shorkie?

The first thing to consider is the size of the bowls. Shorkies are small dogs and don’t need big bowls- anything designed for toy or small breeds will usually be a good match for your pooch, and these bowls usually hold up to two cups of kibble or 16 ounces of liquid. Next, you want to pay attention to the materials used to make the bowls- while cheap and colorful options such as plastic might be tempting, it’s better to go for pet-safe, hypoallergenic, and durable materials such as stainless steel, ceramic, or BPA-free, food grade plastic. Not only that these bowls will last longer, but you can rest assured that harmful bacteria or mold won’t harbor as easily with these types of materials.

How often should I clean bowls for my Shorkie?

A good rule of thumb is to clean your pet’s food bowl on a daily basis, and water bowls once or twice a week. Accumulated food bits or traces can spoil really fast, causing harmful bacteria or mold to develop, which can cause a myriad of health problems for your pet. This is why it’s best to rinse out the food bowls after meals, and if needed- scrub with a mild, pet-safe detergent. Some pet bowls are also dishwasher-safe so they can be tossed in for a deep cleaning cycle, as well.

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Lori Ennis
Lori Ennis

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Shorkie

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Why is My Dog Vomiting White Foam?

Sometimes, our dogs can exhibit behavior that can cause great panic in any owner. After all, they can’t talk to us and tell when something is hurting them, or when they feel ill, scared, or angry. So they let their bodies do the talking. One of these scary behaviors is vomiting white foam. It can happen all of a sudden, and frighten you to no end. But is it really a reason to panic? And what causes a dog to vomit white foam in the first place? Let’s find out more.Why Do Dogs Vomit White Foam?The reasons for white foam vomiting can be many, and the cause might not be clear to you immediately. What’s even more frustrating, there are several possible causes for this occurrence. In some cases, the reason for the vomiting can be complex, but often enough it is super simple. It could end up being a sensitive tummy irritated by a new brand of food on the menu, or just a passing belly ache that’s nothing to stress over. However, you should always consult with a vet to eliminate any underlying health issues, as there are many conditions whose symptom is vomiting. One of the conditions that manifests as vomiting foam is bilious vomiting, which is caused when a dog's stomach is empty for an extended period. This leads to the production of gastric acid, so the stomach contents may include a foamy, white substance. Feeding smaller, more frequent meals throughout the day may help prevent this.  Gastritis, or the inflammation of the stomach lining can also cause vomiting. This condition may be triggered by various factors, such as dietary indiscretion, changes in diet, ingesting foreign objects, or infections. The vomit can likewise be white and foamy. The same can happen in the case of gastroenteritis, an inflammation of the stomach and intestines, which is often caused by infections, dietary changes, or the ingestion of inappropriate or spoiled food. Be careful of the expiration dates and the quality of food you give to your dog, as an innocent mistake can cause a lot of digestive issues for your four-legged bestie. Another possible reason for white foam vomit can be the  ingestion of foreign bodies. Dogs may ingest non-food items that can cause irritation or blockages in the digestive tract, leading to vomiting. If you notice them dry heaving, this could be the reason why. The same goes for the ingestion of  toxic materials. Ingesting toxic substances can lead to white foamy vomiting. Common toxins include certain plants, human foods (like chocolate, xylitol, or onions), and household chemicals.

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Scientists Finally Know Why Cats Love Tuna So Much

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Have you ever wondered how your pet  sees the world around them? We all know that the eyes of dogs, cats, and all other animals are not the same as ours, and they often see the world in a very different way. While all we could do is imagine and theorize up until now, thanks to a new breakthrough in technology we will be able to take a peek through the eyes of animals!Scientists have  invented a special camera that uses a unique combination of state-of-the-art hardware and software, in order to create videos and images that show us exactly how certain animals see. For example, with this latest tech, you will be able to see the vivid world of colors that are seen through the eyes of birds and bees. One of the recent demonstrations revealed how a UV-sensitive vision of a bird renders an orange sulfur butterfly - the result is more than striking, as it doesn’t look like anything related to human vision.

How Much Sleep Do Dogs Need?

Sleep allows all big and little creatures to rest, regenerate, grow, and gain strength for further milestones in life. Dogs, too, need to have enough  sleep to thrive – both during the day and through the night. But some doggos love to snooze more and others, and then there are those who won’t sleep that much at all. So what is the bottom line? How much sleep do dogs need exactly? While there can’t be a general, straightforward answer (after all, not all dogs are identical), there are some general rules and guidelines to follow. How Much Sleep Do Dogs Need Daily?The amount of sleep a dog needs can vary depending on factors such as their age, breed, and activity level. Generally, dogs sleep a significant portion of the day, and their sleep patterns can be quite different from humans. Here's a rough guideline for how much sleep dogs typically need on a daily basis – based on their age, lifestyle, and so on.Puppies, naturally, need a lot of sleep, usually around 18 to 20 hours a day. They have bursts of energy and playfulness, which are followed by periods of deep sleep. Puppies are still growing, and sleep is essential for their development.Adult dogs, on the other hand, are not such sleepy heads. Still, they will sleep more often than not. Most adult dogs sleep around 12 to 14 hours a day, although this can vary. Larger breeds tend to sleep more than smaller breeds. Active and working dogs, such as herding or hunting breeds, may require more sleep to recover from their daily activities. There are also seniors, who get tired more quickly and need plenty of rest during the daytime. Older dogs may sleep more than younger adults, often in the range of 14 to 16 hours a day. Senior dogs tend to be less active and love to snooze whenever there’s a chance. It's important to note that individual dogs can have different sleep needs. Some dogs may sleep more or less than the average, and this can be influenced by their overall health and well-being. It's also influenced by their daily routine, exercise, and mental stimulation. Then again, some doggos are straight-out lazy – they love to snooze, hate to jump around and exercise, and snore as much as they want! This is not something you should worry about unless it comes about suddenly. That’s just how some dogs are. 

How Do I Train My Dog to Wear a Muzzle?

Introducing a new tool to your dog can feel like uncharted territory. While some dogs will readily accept whatever is thrown their way, others will become stressed or anxious when presented with something new. Unfortunately, if you are in a position where a muzzle is necessary for the safety of your dog or others around you, forgoing a tool because your dog appears to be uninterested in it isn’t an option. So, what do you do? How do you train your dog to wear a muzzle? This guide will dig into the importance of conditioning when planning to muzzle your dog. This includes explaining what conditioning is, walking you through the process step-by-step, and sharing some helpful tips to set you up for success. What is Muzzle Conditioning? Before expecting your dog to wear their muzzle, it is recommended that you take the time to focus on muzzle training, also referred to as muzzle conditioning. This is the process of introducing the muzzle alongside positive rewards. If each time your dog sees or interacts with the muzzle, they get “good things,” it will create a positive association. Over time, they will not only tolerate the muzzle but happily accept it. Why? They recognize that wearing their muzzle means they will receive good things like verbal praise, pets, and their favorite treats. How Long Does It Take for a Dog to Get Used to a Muzzle? There is no one guaranteed timeline when working on muzzle conditioning. While some dogs will quickly take to the muzzle, adjusting in just a few days, others will take longer. Some factors that can impact this include your dog’s personality, trainability, previous experience (positive or negative) with a muzzle, and their trust/bond with you as the person introducing this tool to them. It’s important to keep in mind that the time it takes does NOT mean you are doing better or failing at your training efforts. We have three dogs, all of which have been muzzle-trained. While two of our dogs took to the muzzle relatively quickly, Lucifer’s nerves and anxiety made the process more challenging. This doesn’t mean it was impossible. With time, patience, and consistency, he is now the dog that is most comfortable in a muzzle out of the three. We just had to move at his pace.

Can You Prevent Joint Pain in Dogs?

As dogs near their golden years, different health issues tend to pop up – sometimes completely out of the blue, and sometimes a little less unexpectedly. One of the more common health problems dogs experience as they age that can be predicted fairly easily and as such prevented on time are joint issues. Providing proper support for your dog while they are still young and agile can dramatically improve their quality of life later on, so it pays to start thinking ahead when it comes to joint health, especially if your pet is in a high-risk group for developing this type of problem (large breed dogs, working breeds, highly active dogs, etc). Here’s what you need to know to make sure your pet doesn’t suffer from joint pain in their senior years.5 Crucial Steps to Prevent Joint Pain in DogsWhile some factors contributing to joint pain are beyond our control, there are different proactive steps we can take to support our pet's joint health:#1 Maintain a Healthy WeightJust as in humans, obesity in dogs exacerbates joint strain and can accelerate the onset of joint problems. A balanced diet will go a long way in helping your pet maintain a healthy weight, so strive to ensure they are getting only quality food that is based mostly on protein and doesn’t contain unhealthy fats and too many fillers such as soy or corn.#2 Provide Regular ExerciseModerate, low-impact exercise helps keep joints limber and muscles strong. However, be mindful of your dog's limitations, as pushing them too far can end up being counterproductive. Activities like swimming and walks are excellent choices, just make sure to tailor the pace to your pet’s capabilities.#3 Quality Supplementation Providing a diet rich in essential nutrients, including omega-3 fatty acids, glucosamine, and chondroitin, supports joint health. However, even when feeding a good quality kibble, it’s not always feasible to rely on your pet’s diet alone to be enough to provide all of these joint-nurturing ingredients in the right ratio. This is where dog joint supplements come in to enrich your pet’s diet with specific nutrients. 

What to Know About Cat Reproduction

With a better understanding of feline reproduction, you can take steps to prevent unwanted litters, and you’ll know what to expect if you have an intact female or male.What does it mean when a queen (intact female cat) is in heat? How long does a pregnancy last? And why does it seem that cats are so good at reproducing? Below are the basics to help you get started.  There Are Multiple Stages in the Cat Heat CycleA cat’s estrous cycle, also known as her heat cycle, consists of multiple phases. Also, females are seasonally polyestrous, so they can go into heat more than once throughout the breeding season.The stages of a cat’s heat cycle are:Proestrus – During this phase, which will last about a day or two, you probably won’t notice any obvious changes in your cat.Estrus – During this phase, which lasts about a week on average, a female cat will behave in a way that lets males know that she wants to mate.Interestrus – If a cat doesn’t mate, she’ll go into this phase, which can also last about a week on average, until she goes into proestrus again. If a queen mates, ovulates, and becomes pregnant, she will enter diestrus.If a queen isn’t in a heat cycle at all, she’s in anestrus, which can last months.Cats Can Get Pregnant When They’re a Few Months OldCats become sexually mature around 6 months of age, on average, but it can happen even sooner than that. For example, a female can go into heat when she’s a mere four months old.This means that even kittens can mate and get pregnant. If you have intact male and female kittens, this is definitely something to be aware of. Talk to your veterinarian about the best time to spay or neuter your feline companions to prevent unwanted pregnancies. Cat Pregnancy Is Roughly Two Months LongA cat’s pregnancy can be shorter at 60 days or longer at 71 days. On average, a cat will give birth in about nine weeks, or 63 to 65 days. In other words, the pregnancy will be roughly two months long.On average, a cat will have four kittens, but she might have just one or she might have six or more. A queen’s age may affect the size of her litter—for example, a cat who’s pregnant for the first time is more likely to have a smaller litter, as is an older queen.After giving birth, a cat might go into heat again sooner than you think. It might even happen while her kittens are still nursing. So, if you’re caring for a mother and her litter, it’s important to prevent another pregnancy by keeping her safe indoors and away from intact males. Cats Are Induced OvulatorsWhat’s interesting about cats is that they’re induced ovulators. Put simply, when cats mate, the female ovulates, releasing eggs from her ovaries. And since the eggs are released with mating, it times out in a way that boosts the odds of pregnancy.A queen typically needs to mate multiple times before eggs are released, and she could mate with more than one male while she’s in heat.  A Litter of Kittens Can Have Different FathersAs mentioned above, a queen will mate more than once while she’s in heat. Well, another interesting fact about cats is that they can mate with more than one male while they’re in heat, so they could end up with kittens that have different fathers.In other words, a single litter of kittens could have two or more fathers. This is known as superfecundation.There Are Several Signs of Pregnancy in CatsHow can you tell if a cat is pregnant? Even though there are going to be several signs as the fetuses develop, you might not notice anything right away.You might first notice the queen’s nipples becoming more obvious. This is followed by weight gain that will eventually cause her belly to be big and round. Changes in behavior are also often seen in pregnant cats. Her appetite will increase, she may become more needy and affectionate, and she’ll look for a nest where she can give birth safely and comfortably.If you are caring for a pregnant cat, consider getting a product like the Sport Pet Pop Open Pet Kennel, which features two entryways, has a waterproof bottom, and comes with a removable, machine washable pad. She might view this as the perfect nesting box, and you’ll feel good knowing she’ll be secure in there with her kittens.

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