Quick answer

If you want a decorative statement piece that can double as a trinket dish or wall art, go with the Dashing Dogs plate. If you need a practical, everyday item that still shows off the artwork, the Dashing Dogs coaster is the better choice.

Display vs daily use

The Dashing Dogs plate is designed primarily as decorative art. It comes with a plate stand, works beautifully as a trinket dish or saucer, and can even be mounted on a wall. However, the manufacturer advises against using cutlery on it or serving full meals, because persistent scratching may dull the print.

The Dashing Dogs coaster, on the other hand, is built for regular handling. Its glossy square surface and cork back make it a sturdy, practical item for drinks, and it's small enough to keep on a desk or coffee table. Hand washing is recommended, but it can withstand daily use without the same risk of visible wear.

Size and presentation

The 10-inch plate offers a larger canvas for the Dashing Dogs artwork, making the dog illustrations more prominent. It arrives in a white gift box with a stand, so it feels like a premium, ready-to-gift item. The 8-inch plate is slightly smaller and more affordable, but still comes with the same gift presentation.

The coaster is compact at 9.52 cm square, which limits the visible detail of the artwork but makes it easy to fit into a stocking or small gift bag. It's also much lighter (13.61 g), so shipping costs are lower.

Trade-offs at a glance

  • Plate (10-inch or 8-inch): Best for display: use as a trinket dish, saucer, or wall art. Comes gift-boxed with a stand. Avoid cutlery and full meals to keep the print pristine. If the recipient loves decorative home accents, the plate is the more memorable gift.
  • Coaster: Best for everyday use: protects surfaces, fits under a mug or glass, and is easy to store. Hand wash only, but durable enough for regular handling. If the recipient prefers functional items, the coaster is the practical choice.
  • Price difference: The 10-inch plate is about USD 19.43, the 8-inch plate about USD 15.84, and the coaster about USD 3.74. All are discounted from their catalog comparison prices. The coaster is a budget-friendly add-on; the plate works better as a standalone gift.

Product facts

  • Dashing Dogs 10 inch plate by Nichola Cowdery: This 10-inch hand-printed ceramic plate comes packaged in a white gift box with a plate stand. The included stand and gift box make it an instant, elegant present that can be displayed right away.

    Dashing Dogs 10 inch plate by Nichola Cowdery

    Dashing Dogs 10 inch plate by Nichola Cowdery

  • Dashing Dogs 8 inch plate by Nichola Cowdery: This 8-inch hand-printed ceramic plate is also packaged in a white gift box with a plate stand, at a lower price point. It offers the same premium unboxing experience and display flexibility as the 10-inch version, but for a smaller budget.

    Dashing Dogs 8 inch plate by Nichola Cowdery

    Dashing Dogs 8 inch plate by Nichola Cowdery

  • Dashing Dogs Coaster By Nichola Cowdery: Traditional square glossy coaster with cork back, 9.52 cm x 9.52 cm, hand wash only, made in the United Kingdom. The cork back protects surfaces from moisture, and the compact size makes it a practical, low-cost gift that fits any space.

Which one should you choose?

Best for

  • Dog lovers who appreciate decorative art and want a piece that can be displayed on a shelf, table, or wall.
  • Gift-givers who want a ready-to-present item in a gift box with a stand.

Not for

  • Someone who expects a functional dinner plate for daily meals.
  • A recipient who prefers minimal, space-saving items over decorative pieces.