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Ditch the boring mealtime routine and try building a balanced bowl for your pet.
Updated on June 19th, 2026
Find out how to tell if dog food has gone bad, how to store it properly, and tips to ensure your pup’s meals stay fresh and nutritious.
Updated on June 19th, 2026

Learn how to store any dog food, from wet to dry diets.
Updated on February 3rd, 2026
Do you top your cat or dog's food? Find out how pet food toppers can help round out your pet's bowl.
Updated on October 23rd, 2025
Learn how to care for your dog, recommended diet and training. Find the right food, supplies and equipment at your neighborhood Petco.
Updated on April 9th, 2026

Dry commercial dog foods are shelf stable and do not require refrigeration or freezing for storage. Store any open food in a food-grade container that seals well at room temperature. Be sure to use all food before the expiration date printed on the bag.
Updated on September 24th, 2025

Great question! I always keep my dog food in an airtight plastic container. It helps keep it fresh, and the container also prevents any other creatures from getting the food such as insects. I recommend a container. I hope this helps :-)
Updated on September 24th, 2025

Hello, and thanks for your question on Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach. It's great that you're being conscientious about this! I recommend ceramic, glass, or stainless steel bowls. They tend to be cleaner, and are safe to throw in a dishwasher cycle now and then. I'd specifically avoid plastic. Hope that helps!
Updated on September 24th, 2025

Hi, thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! If the bag containing the food was air tight and non-pourous it is likely fine. Even if it wasn’t stored with essential oils, 3 months is a long time to store dog food. We worry about mold formation and these foods usually have an expiration date. I’d remove the food from the closet with the essential oils. If it smells like the oils when you open the bag, discard the food. Have a good day
Updated on September 24th, 2025

There are so many differing opinions on this topic. I feel like they don't help or hurt the average large breed dog. They may be needed in dogs that have megaesophagus or neck or back issues. Some large dogs will decide that laying next to the bowl is more comfortable. The only thing I would watch for is Thor eating too quickly. If he gulps his food, you may want to get a bowl with partitions to make him slow down a bit.
Updated on September 24th, 2025