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Old Dog Resources
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Elevated DogBowls
Benefits of an elevated feeder can be found for dogs of all ages, but for older dogs an elevated
feeding dish may be essential. A raised dog feeder helps reduce or eliminate the need for dogs
to position there head downward during feeding resulting in your dog swallowing less air. Moreover, dogs suffering from
arthritis can feed with reduced pain.
Overall, an elevated feeding position provides a more comfortable and
convenient feeding position.
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Benefits of Elevated Feeding Bowls: |
Cleaner - Elevated feeders and dishes keep feeding areas cleaner by keeping the food and
water in the bowls and not on the floor. Dogs are less likely to drip water on the floor when drinking from an elevated water bowl. Moisture
that may get under the dishes creates a great place for molds and bacteria to grow; elevated dishes, such as the attractive
Wrought Iron
 elevated
feeders help prevent that. Many elevated feeders, such as the
Elevated Scroll Double Diner, come with removable ceramic or stainless
steel bowls that can be placed right in the dishwasher.
Posture - An elevated feeder allows a dog to eat without leaning down and forward putting stress on an older dogs back and forelegs.
Nutrition Needs - Older dogs that suffer from arthritis, stiff muscles and joints can be in pain while eating due to having to lean
forward and down constantly may eat less than required. An elevated feeder can reduce the stress on the canine neck, back and shoulders allowing them
to feed for a sufficient time to meet their nutritional needs. Raising food and water to their level by using a elevated feeder encourages eating
and drinking.
Reducing Choking - Senior dogs can develop a condition called mega-esophagus or an enlarged, flaccid esophagus. In this disorder
the food doesn’t flow to the stomach properly and will stick in the dog’s throat causing them to make choking sounds while they regurgitate the food
lodged in the esophagus. With an elevated feeding bowl, like the
Posture Pro
will allow gravity to help get the food down to the stomach.
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Considerations when Selecting an Elevated Feeder |
Dog Height - Bowl should be no higher than 6 inches below the dog’s front shoulders. (4 inches for very small dogs.)
Material of Feeding Bowl - Lightweight, rust and rot resistant. If you feed hot food to your dog, stay away from heat conducting metal.
Construction of the Stand - The stand for an elevated feeder needs to be sturdy enough for daily use.
Capacity - This can range from 2 to 16 cups in volume. Consider how much your dog eats at mealtime and figure accordingly.
Design/Number of Bowls - Do you need a 2 or 3 bowl feeder? Do you have more than one dog that you will feed at one time?
Consider your pets’ needs when making your selection.
Cost - Elevated dog feeders vary substantially in price from $30 to over $100 depending on quality and design.
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Related Articles |
Elevated feeders - What are the benefits of an elevated feeder?
Veterinarians recommend elevated feeders for dogs and cats because they offer a number of advantages: hygiene and cleanliness, comfort
for dogs and cats with arthritis or neck or back problems, and benefits for cats and dogs with megaesophagus or other conditions that make swallowing difficult.
Source: Veterinary & Aquatic Services Department, Drs. Foster & Smith, Inc
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Places to view Elevated Feeding bowls
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Drs. Foster & Smith - Pet owners can trust that Drs. Foster & Smith-brand products offer the absolute best quality
available. These products are made in America, are available only through Drs. Foster & Smith, AND are frequently less expensive than pet supplies found in
retail pet stores.
PETSMART - At PetSmart, they
believe pets are family, and encourage you to bring your pets into the stores when you shop.
Overstock.com - you'll find a great
selection on your favorite brands, all backed by the warranties and service you'd expect.
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