Product testing and inspecting organization NSF International examined 30 everyday items from 22 different households, and discovered that pet food dishes ranked fourth in the final list of germiest spots.
It was beat out by kitchen sponge/dish rag, kitchen sink, and toothbrush holder.
When it comes to your pet's food dish, if you think you don't need to wash it as often if you're giving Spot dry food, think again.
Veterinarian Dr. Jessica Vogelsang says dry foods leave behind residue that can result in bacteria like E. coli and Salmonella living in food bowls. To prevent you, or your dog, from catching a nasty bug NSF recommends washing food and water bowls daily, either in a dishwasher or with soap and hot water.
You might also want to choose stainless steel or ceramic bowls, as plastic ones can crack easily, giving germs an easy place to hide.