The 11 Best Storage Containers To Safely Store Your Dog’s Food

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Once opened, pet food starts to degrade. Freshness is key when it comes to maximizing the nutritional value of your dog’s food—which is why it’s important to choose the best dog food storage container for the type of food you’re serving.

We asked the experts what to look for when shopping for a storage container and rounded up our favorites for different types of food.

Best for Dry Food: Stainless Steel Pet Food Storage Container

Safe pet food storage practices start before you even leave the pet store. Dr. Athena Gaffud, DVM, a veterinarian at Honest Paws, recommends checking the expiration or “best by” date on the packaging before purchasing pet food: “It’s always better to offer freshly made pet food than old stock.”

When you open a new bag of dry dog food, Dr. Gaffud recommends “transferring the contents to an airtight container immediately or, if the whole bag can fit in your container, place the whole thing in it.” The container should be sturdy, made from food-safe materials, and have an airtight seal.

This high-capacity dog food container is a good combination of style and function. The BPA-free plastic bucket liner holds up to 35 liters of dog food, and the lid is gasket-sealed to lock in freshness. Noteworthy features include a magnetically mounted scoop, wheels for easy maneuvering, and a locking handle clamp to keep curious pups out. It comes in three sizes: 25, 30, or 35 liters.

Key Takeaways:

• Stainless steel container with plastic liner
• Gasket-sealed lid to keep out air and moisture
• Magnetically mounted food scoop
• Locking handle clamp for added security
• Comes in three sizes: 25L, 30L, 35L

Best for Canned Food: Frisco Silicone Pet Food Can Covers

“Storing canned dog food is quite different from storing dry pet food,” says Dr. Gaffud. She recommends checking the expiration date and inspecting the cans for damage, dents, bulges, or leaks before buying. The unopened cans should be stored in a cool, dry place, since extreme temperatures can affect the quality of the food.

After it’s been opened, canned dog food must be refrigerated and should be consumed within two to three days. Dr. Gaffud recommends transferring the unused portion to an airtight, food-safe container. Alternatively, if you plan to use the rest of the can later that day, you can use a canned dog food lid to keep it fresh in the fridge.

Sold in a set of two, these can covers make it easy to store uneaten portions of wet dog food. They’re made from durable silicone materials, so they won’t snap or break. Because they’re made from flexible materials, they can fit three different-sized lids. Plus, they’re dishwasher-safe for easy cleaning.

Key Takeaways:

• Made from BPA-free silicone materials
• Fits three different-sized lids
• Sold in a set of two
• Dishwasher-safe for easy cleaning

Best for Fresh Food: IRIS WeatherPro Airtight Storage Container

Many pet parents are turning to fresh pet food delivery services to give their pets the best in daily nutrition. Fresh dog food is typically delivered frozen and intended to be thawed a few portions at a time. The food can be kept in the original packaging until opened, but then Dr. Gaffud recommends transferring it to an airtight container.

This 3-piece storage container set from IRIS is a good pick for mixed diets. You can store your dog’s dry food in the larger container and use the smaller one for packages of fresh food in the fridge or freezer. Both containers are made from BPA-free, food-grade plastic with airtight seals and snap-lock latches to keep out air and moisture.

If you’re making homemade dog food, Dr. Gaffud suggests preparing it in small portions to maintain freshness and prevent waste. Use clean, sterilized, food-grade storage containers with airtight lids. It’s also important to label the containers with the food type and production date.

Key Takeaways:

• Stacking set of two containers
• Made from BPA-free, food-grade plastic
• Airtight seal with snap-lock latches
• Good for mixed diets of fresh and dry food

Heavy-Duty Pick: Gunner Food Crate

Some dogs are more food-motivated than others. Dr. Gaffud says, “Pets are curious, and they will attempt to get into food containers and feast on the supply.” Making sure your dog’s food storage container is tightly sealed and the storage area is pet-proof will help prevent contamination and overfeeding.

The Gunner Food Crate is designed with durability in mind. An airtight thermos seal secures against moisture, while a Drawlock latch keeps out even the most persistent pests. Plus, the angled nylon lid protects against UV light to keep food fresh.

This storage container is available in two sizes to hold 30 or 50 pounds of dry dog food. It features elevated rubber feet, and it has an IP66 rating, which means it’s both waterproof and dust-proof. Like all Gunner products, it’s US-made and backed by a lifetime warranty.

Key Takeaways:

• Airtight thermos seal keeps out moisture
• Sturdy latch protects against pests
• Waterproof, dust-proof, and odor-proof
• Available in two sizes (30 or 50 pounds)

Best for Freeze-Dried Food: Van Ness Pet Food Storage Container

When unopened, freeze-dried dog food has a shelf life similar to (or longer than) dry dog food. “Some types of food might have specific storage requirements,” says Dr. Gaffud, “so read and follow the storage guidelines provided by the pet food manufacturer.”

Unopened packages of freeze-dried dog food should be stored in a similar way to canned food—in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, extreme temperatures, and humidity. Once opened, Dr. Gaffud suggests storing it “in the original packaging, if possible, and make sure that it is sealed tightly when resealing it.”

Simple and affordable, this Van Ness storage container is great if you just need something to place bags of freeze-dried food in. It comes in several sizes, all made from food-grade plastic with airtight lids. The snap-lock latch makes this container easy to open and keeps it shut securely.

Key Takeaways:

• Affordably priced
• Made from food-grade, BPA-free plastic
• Available in several sizes
• Has an airtight lid and snap-lock latch

Best for Raw Food: Rubbermaid Brilliance Glass Storage Containers

“Storing raw pet food safely is crucial to prevent contamination, spoilage, and the growth of harmful bacteria,” explains Dr. Gaffud. It should be kept frozen until ready to serve, then thawed in the refrigerator. “It should be consumed within a few days after thawing,” she adds, “and any unused portion should be disposed of properly.”

Made by the trusted brand Rubbermaid, these glass food storage containers are ideal for storing portions of raw, fresh, or homemade dog food. The clear design enables you to see what’s inside while the airtight, leak-proof lids keep food fresh. These containers are designed for stacking to save space, and they’re freezer-, refrigerator-, and dishwasher-safe. Without the lids, they can also be used in the microwave or oven.

In addition to storing raw dog food safely, Dr. Gaffud recommends that pet parents prevent cross-contamination and the spread of harmful bacteria by always washing their hands and any utensils that come into contact with pet food. She also suggests keeping pet food separated from human food as much as possible.

Key Takeaways:

• Clear, hygienic glass containers
• Available in multiple sizes and sets
• Leak-proof, airtight lids
• Refrigerator-, freezer-, and dishwasher-safe

Portable Pick: Gamma2 TRAVEL-tainer Complete Dog Feeding System

Whether you’re going on an extended road trip with your dog or heading out for a weekend hiking excursion, make sure you have enough dog food—and a little extra. Dr. Gaffud recommends “a smaller, airtight, and handy container with UV protection that can hold enough food for the duration of your trip and can be used outdoors.”

Designed specifically for travel, this all-in-one dog feeding system fits the bill. Made from heavy-duty, BPA-free plastic, this container holds up to 6 cups of dry food. A sturdy metal handle connects the two ends of the container. When you take the system apart, you’ve got two 3-cup bowls for food and water. The whole system is tightly sealed to protect your dog’s food from air, moisture, and pests.

While you’re packing for your trip, it doesn’t hurt to include a spare portable bowl. Dog water bottles also come in handy for quick water breaks during travel.

Key Takeaways:

• All-in-one food storage and portable bowls
• Holds up to 6 cups of dry food
• Made from sturdy BPA-free plastic
• Metal handle makes it easy to carry

Best for Treats: Paw Prints Tin Dog Treat Jar

Because they’re typically sold in smaller packages, dog treats are usually easy to store. You can simply keep the bag in a cool, dry area away from direct sunlight. If an open bag is too tempting for your dog, place the whole bag in a small airtight container out of reach.

This sturdy tin treat jar features a cute print, so it will look right at home on your countertop. Though it’s lightweight, it’s surprisingly sturdy, and the lid fits tightly to keep your treats fresh. It measures about 5.25 inches in diameter and stands 7.5 inches tall.

For both food and treats, Dr. Gaffud recommends that pet parents “regularly check the storage area for the presence of moisture, mold, dirt, insects, rodent droppings, and pests that pose health risks for your pets.”

Key Takeaways:

• Lightweight but sturdy metal design
• Tight-fitting lid helps keep treats fresh
• Cute dog-inspired print
• Affordably priced under $10

Best for Multiple Dogs: Gamma2 Vittles Vault Stackable Pet Food Storage

When it comes to size, Dr. Gaffud says the best dog food storage container “can hold the amount of pet food you usually buy at once with a reasonable allowance in case you’d like to store more than usual.” Dr. Gaffud recommends pet parents consider the number of pets, their size, and their consumption within a specific time period.

While it may seem practical to choose a large storage container for multi-dog households, Dr. Gaffud recommends a set of smaller, stackable containers instead. This enables you to make the most of your available space while keeping your pet food clean, fresh, and safe. By dividing your dogs’ food into multiple containers, you’ll only be exposing a small amount to air and moisture each time you open the container.

Designed for durability, the Vittles Vault from Gamma2 is ruggedly constructed from BPA-free, food-grade plastic. It features a wide opening for easy access to your dog’s food, and the lid screws on to create a tight air- and moisture-resistant seal. Choose from 40-pound or 60-pound capacities. Both sizes stack neatly and securely.

Key Takeaways:

• Made from BPA-free, food-grade plastic
• Large opening for easy access to food
• Designed for stacking
• Twist-on lid creates an airtight seal

Most Stylish: Harry Barker Classic Dog Food Storage Container

Buying fun accessories is part of the fun of being a dog parent. If you’re considering a stylish dog food storage container, however, Dr. Gaffud emphasizes the importance of quality materials and a safe design. “Plastic, glass, and stainless steel are common options,” she says, “but make sure any plastic is BPA-free to avoid leeching harmful chemicals into the food.”

Available in white and silver, these dog food containers are made from FDA-approved recycled steel. They’re a modern-looking alternative to plastic but still keep your dog’s food fresh thanks to a food-seal, vacuum-locking lid. Due to the printed design, these containers should be washed by hand.

The Harry Barker Classic dog food container comes in several sizes. The smallest holds up to 10 pounds of dry food and the largest holds up to 40 pounds.

Key Takeaways:

• Modern design made from recycled steel
• Vacuum-locking lid keeps food fresh
• Available in three sizes to hold up to 40 pounds of dry food

Best Feeder/Storage Combo:  IRIS WeatherPro Elevated Feeder with Airtight Food Storage

If floor space is at a premium in your home, a combination feeder and food storage container may be a practical choice. This model from IRIS features a molded lid that holds two stainless-steel bowls. Simply remove the lid and scoop food from the container directly into your dog’s bowl.

This IRIS elevated feeder comes in a range of sizes and heights to accommodate dogs of different breeds and ages. It’s made from BPA-free plastic with a reinforced, locking lid. The lid serves not only to preserve freshness, but it keeps your dog from getting into the food between meals.

When using a combination dog food storage container and feeder, it may be tempting to simply top it off as needed. Dr. Gaffud cautions against mixing batches, however, to prevent contamination. She recommends that pet pet parents “sanitize containers between batches to prevent oil and contaminant build-up that can lead to rancidity and spoilage.”

Key Takeaways:

• Combines food storage and feeding station
• Includes two stainless-steel bowls
• Made from BPA-free plastic
• Sturdy locking lid keeps food fresh and protected

How We Chose

We selected the products featured here based on a combination of our own hands-on testing, comprehensive analysis of customer reviews across a wide variety of retail platforms, and interviews with veterinary experts.

When selecting the best dog food storage containers, we prioritized durable and hygienic materials, properties to keep out air and moisture, and convenience features like wheels and handles. Our picks are also influenced by the experience of living and playing alongside our own much-loved and strongly opinionated pets, who are never stingy with their feedback.

Further Reading

• The Best Dog Food Lids to Keep Canned Dog Food Fresh
• Our Favorite Dog Water Bowls, Plus Which Style You Need, According to the Experts
• All About Puppy Food—The Basics Plus Our Picks for Pups for All Sizes
• The Best Dog Food Bowls for Speed Eaters, Travelers, and All Types of Pups