Are Elevated Feeders Good for Dogs?

Considering buying an elevated feeder for your pup or aging dog? Elevated dog dishes are becoming the more popular feeding bowl on the market these days. They are available in various designs, materials, heights and price ranges. Unlike your run-of-the-mill feed bowl, raised dog feeders can provide a number of benefits for both you and your furry friend, but be sure to do your research to see if it’s the right fit for your four legged friend.

Here at BrakeFast, we uncover the pros and cons of elevated dog feeders.

Pros

• Raised dog bowls are recommended by veterinarians for geriatric dogs, dogs of large breeds – such as Great Danes and German Shepherds – and dogs with certain medical conditions.

• Raised feeders provide ease of access to food and water which can help facilitate movement of food when traveling from the mouth to the stomach.

• Consuming food from elevated dog bowls places less strain on the dog's neck, hips, shoulders and joints, which promotes better posture. This is a major importance for dogs of advanced age and those with arthritis.

• Using an elevated dog feeder keeps the feeding area cleaner than if you merely placed the feed bowls on the floor. Furthermore, raised dog feeders are easier to clean. No more getting down on your hands and knees to scrub the feeding area clean. Instead, you simply wipe the surface of the feeder table clean. 

• Reduce sloppy behavior: some dogs find joy in splashing the water out of their bowl and on the floor. Using elevated dog bowls helps to minimize this type of behavior.

• Make the dog food “stay put”: It is not uncommon for dog bowls to slide across the floor as Fido is trying to enjoy his dinner. Switching to raised dog bowls provides a stable feeding surface that your pup doesn't have to chase as he's trying to eat.

• Make it easier on yourself: Raised dog feeders raise the bowls off the ground which means owner's don't have to bend down as far when filling the bowls. This eliminates unnecessary strain on the back.

Cons

• Expense – elevated dog feeders are considerably more expensive than your standard feeding bowls. While more costly, think of it as an investment in your best friend’s health. Here at Brake-Fast, we offer a variety of stylish designs at a discount.
Learn more about Brake-Fast Elevated Feeders.

• Some studies suggest elevated feeders can increase risk of bloat. Dogs with a family history of bloat or belong to a breed that is high risk for bloat should think twice before using a raised diner. If bloat or gassiness is a concern, consider using a Brake-Fast slow-feed bowl instead.

Have you or someone you known ever used an elevated feeder? Share your comments with us on what you liked (or disliked) most about them.