Do dogs really need elevated bowls

The Pros & Cons of Elevated Dog Bowls A Quick Guide

If theres one topic that can cause uproar between dog owners, its feeding time. What your dog eats, when it eats, how often it eats, these are all questions that spark debate. Another hot topic is whether or not your dog should be using an elevated dog bowl. While the science is still out on how effective they really are, there are key benefits to elevated dog feeders that may be great for your dog.

About Elevated Dog Bowls

If your dog struggles or misbehaves at eating time, an elevated dog bowl may be right for you. There are different styles of feeders to fit your dogs needs, ranging in overall size, materials, and design.

What are Elevated Dog Bowls?

Also known as elevated dog feeders, elevated dog bowls are simply dog bowls raised from the floor with a stand of some sort to keep it elevated. They come in a variety of sizes, so theyre useful for both toy-sized and large-sized dogs. Elevated dog feeders make your dogs food closer and easier to eat, so a lot of dogs tend to prefer them. Elevated dog bowl stands are also great to keep water and food bowls together on one feeder, instead of having two separate bowls sliding around on the floor.

What Were Elevated Dog Bowls Originally Invented For?

Elevated dog bowls were first invented as a sure-fire way to prevent bloat, which refers to two life-threatening conditions: GD and GDV.

Gastric Dilatation (GD) causes your dogs stomach to painfully fill with gas, which is already a serious medical emergency. Gastric Dilatation & Volvulus (GDV) is when the gas-filled stomach starts to twist on itself, which cuts off the circulation of the stomach and blood flow.

Both conditions are considered extremely dangerous and should be treated as soon as possible Call your vet immediately if your dog shows one or more symptoms of bloat:

• Distended (bloated) stomach and abdomen
• Anxious pacing and restlessness
• Multiple failed attempts at vomiting
• Rapid breathing, yawning, whining

Do Elevated Dog Feeders Actually Help with Bloat?

While they were first marketed as one of the best ways to prevent bloat, the truth is much foggier than what companies first claimed. The problem is that these claims went unchecked at first, but there is more data available now about the truth of elevated dog feeders.

While they can help with bloat, the risk is not as minimized as companies have claimed. Bloat tends to happen more to fast eaters and dogs who tend to eat a lot of air as they eat, so it really depends on your dog if an elevated bowl can help. If your dog is liable to get bloat, talk to your veterinarian about your options to prevent it.

Pros of Elevated Dog Bowls

Regardless of its original purpose to prevent bloat, there are other benefits of using elevated dog feeders that may help your furry friend out. Here are some pros and cons of elevated dog feeders:

Overall Better Posture While Eating

Because theyre off the ground, elevated dog bowls naturally help your dogs posture while eating. The raised dishes are at a more comfortable height, which will relieve some neck and joint stress from ground-level bowls. Make sure to find the right height for your dog to benefit from the elevated feeder.

Easier for Dogs to Eat

The raised height of elevated dog feeders makes access to food and water easier, especially for senior dogs that struggle to eat from traditional bowls. It also helps all dogs with eating more comfortably, since the angle of their neck changes with the elevation. If your dog tends to struggle with eating, an elevated dog bowl may alleviate some discomfort.

Sturdier & more stable than Normal Bowls

Elevated dog feeders can be especially beneficial if your dog would rather play with his dog bowls. They can be sturdier and stable than normal bowls, built to withstand pushing and sliding. Some elevated dog bowls are even designed to prevent tipping, scratching and biting, depending on the model and brand.

• Better posture while eating
• Easier for your dog to eat
• More stable than traditional dog bowls

Cons of Elevated Dog Bowls

As with most products in any category, there are some disadvantages to elevated dog bowls that may change your decision. Here are some disadvantages of elevated dog bowls:

Expensive Compared to Traditional Bowls

Dogs are expensive, no matter how you look at it. An elevated dog bowl is another expense that may be added to the list. While they may not cost hundreds of dollars, they can still get very costly for the more premium-grade models. Consider what the elevated bowl will do and if it would really help before purchasing one.

Harder to Clean and Maintain

With all of the nooks and crannies, the elevated dog bowl stands can be a real pain to clean and take care of. Some models may have multiple separate pieces, which can trap bacteria. Most elevated dog bowl stands are also not dishwasher safe, so youll have to handwash it.

Doesnt Prevent Messy Eating

If you have a messy eater, dont hope for a miracle unless you buy an elevated dog bowl designed to be mess-free. Water will still be dripped and splashed around, just at a higher height. Extra-large breeds with big muzzles like the English Mastiff are notorious for their messy drinking and eating, so an elevated water bowl may not help with that at all.

• More expensive than traditional bowls
• Feeder stands can be hard to clean
• Can still be really messy (especially slobbery dogs)

Final Thoughts

There are many reasons to buy or not to buy an elevated dog bowl, but your dogs health and wellness should always be a priority. If your dog may benefit from an elevated dog bowl, it may save you money in the long run. Theyre great for most dogs, even for breeds as small as a Yorkshire Terrier.

Dogs are expensive, no matter how you crunch the numbers. Adding another product to the list may get costly, but elevated dog bowl stands are usually a one-time purchase. If youre hesitant about spending the extra money, think about how it may benefit you and your dog in the long run. Also, you may end up buying an elevated dog bowl years later when your dog becomes a senior, so you may want to invest in a stand before that time comes.

If your dog struggles to eat while standing or tends to slide the bowl around, an elevated dog bowl may be the right option. Its important to look for high-quality brands with features that benefit your dogs eating habits. Except for a few small disadvantages, an elevated dog bowl can be a great investment for a more comfortable mealtime experience.

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Featured Image Credit: Peteris Zalitis, Shutterstock

Do Boxers Need Elevated Food Bowls? The Benefits Explained

Elevated food bowls can be beneficial for Boxers, as they can help prevent a condition called bloat. Bloat, or gastric dilatation-volvulus (GDV), is a life-threatening condition that can occur when a dogs stomach twists. Using elevated food bowls can reduce the risk of this happening, especially in deep-chested breeds like Boxers.

Are you aware that gastric dilatation volvulus (GDV) is the leading cause of death in Boxers? This condition, more commonly known as bloat, occurs when a dogs stomach fills with gas and twists on itself.

While there is no surefire way to prevent this condition, research suggests that using an elevated food bowl can help reduce the risk of GDV in your beloved Boxer.

In this article, we will explore the benefits of using an elevated food bowl for Boxers, how to choose and install one correctly, and any potential drawbacks associated with them.

Understanding Gastric Dilatation Volvulus (GDV)

You should be aware of Gastric Dilatation Volvulus (GDV) if you have a boxer, as it can be potentially life-threatening and using elevated food bowls may help prevent it. GDV is an emergency condition that occurs when the dogs stomach becomes over-filled with gas or air and then twists on itself, cutting off the blood supply to the stomach.

The most common symptom of GDV is nonproductive retching (dry heaves). If left untreated, this can lead to shock and death within hours. Other symptoms include restlessness, abdominal pain, drooling, and pale gums.

Its important to recognize these symptoms in order to get your dog immediate medical attention. Early diagnosis and treatment are key for a positive outcome in treating GDV.

One way of preventing GDV from occurring is by using elevated food bowls which helps reduce the amount of pressure placed on the abdomen while eating or drinking. This will help reduce the risk of twisting in your boxers stomach as well as other health issues related to digestion such as bloat or gastric torsion.

Elevated food bowls also make it easier for boxers with joint problems like arthritis or hip dysplasia to access their meals without having to strain their joints too much while bending down low. Furthermore, elevated food dishes can also help improve digestion by allowing better alignment between the mouth and esophagus when swallowing food which can reduce choking hazards associated with traditional dishes placed close to ground level.

Elevated food bowls are an easy solution that may help prevent twisting in a boxers stomach due to Gastric Dilatation Volvulus (GDV), so if you own a boxer it would be wise to consider investing in one for your pets safety and well being!

Benefits of Elevated Food Bowls

By using an elevated food bowl, you can ensure your pups tummy wont suffer from any uncomfortable twirls. Elevated food bowls can provide multiple benefits for boxers suffering from Gastric Dilatation Volvulus (GDV). They make interactive feeding easier and more comfortable, while also helping to prevent dietary changes that may lead to GDV.

Here are some of the key advantages:

• Easier Mealtime: An elevated food bowl makes it easier for a boxer to eat comfortably without having to bend down or strain their neck. This is especially beneficial for aging boxers who may struggle with mobility issues.
• Improved Digestion: By keeping the stomach in an upright position while eating, an elevated food bowl helps improve digestion and reduce the risk of GDV. It also encourages slower eating which can help reduce overeating and vomiting due to indigestion.
• Reduced Stress: Eating at a raised level can also be calming for boxers since it simulates natural feeding behaviors like scavenging on higher surfaces. This helps them feel relaxed during mealtimes and less likely to develop anxiety-related conditions that could lead to GDV.

Elevated food bowls are easy to implement into your boxers daily routine and make a great addition to their diet regimen if theyre prone to GDV or other digestive issues. The best way to determine whether an elevated food bowl is right for your dog is by consulting with your veterinarian who will be able to assess your pups individual needs before making a recommendation.

How to Choose the Right Bowl

When it comes to choosing the right bowl for your pup, theres plenty of options to consider from height and material to capacity and design.

For boxers, an elevated food bowl is particularly beneficial in preventing twisting in their stomach. To choose the best option for your pup, youll want to look at a few key factors.

First, consider the size of the bowl. Boxers need a large enough bowl that can hold meals easily but also one that fits into their feeding area comfortably. Look for bowls with adjustable heights that can accommodate any size dog. Additionally, think about interactive feeding options which can help prevent bloating or indigestion in boxers by slowing down mealtime.

Next, look at materials used for the bowl itself. Stainless steel bowls are durable and easy to clean but may be too slippery for some dogs who have difficulty eating out of them consistently without spilling their food all over the floor. Ceramic bowls are another popular option as they come in various styles and designs; however, these bowls are heavier than other types so they may not be suitable if your pup needs something lightweight or movable during mealtime.

Finally, its important to factor in cost when shopping around for elevated food bowls as some models tend to be more expensive than others depending on features such as adjustable heights and materials used in construction and design of the product itself. Be sure to read reviews online or ask friends who have similar breeds before making a purchase decision that makes sense financially for you and your pup both!

Installing an Elevated Food Bowl

Installing an elevated food bowl for your pup is like putting on a seatbelt its a simple, yet essential process that secures their wellbeing. Elevated bowls are especially important for boxers, as they can help prevent twisting in the stomach caused by eating from a regular bowl.

Its easy to set up an elevated food bowl: all you need is the right kind of feeder and some basic materials.

Start by getting an adjustable feeder designed specifically for dogs, such as those made of stainless steel or heavy-duty plastic. Make sure that the height of the feeder is appropriate for your boxers size and age. The correct height will allow them to eat in a natural position without straining their necks or backs.

Additionally, make sure that your pup has enough space around the feeder so they can comfortably reach their meal without interference from other housemates or furniture.

Next, youll want to consider portion control when using an elevated food bowl with your boxer. Eating from a raised dish can cause them to consume more than usual since its easier for them to access their food at once; this could lead to weight gain if not monitored carefully. Try feeding smaller meals throughout the day rather than one large meal at once; this will help keep track of how much theyre consuming and minimize any indigestion issues related to overeating.

Finally, remember that raised bowls are beneficial because they encourage healthier eating habits in boxers; however, its also important to provide proper nutrition along with these feeding techniques. Be sure to research what type of diet is best suited for your pup and adjust portions accordingly this way your four-legged companion can enjoy healthy meals while avoiding digestion problems associated with eating from low-level dishes!

Maintaining an Elevated Food Bowl

Once the elevated food bowl is in place, its important to ensure its longevity and effectiveness by maintaining it regularly. Here are a few tips for taking care of an elevated food bowl:

• Clean the bowl at least once a week using warm water and mild dish soap. This will help avoid messes and bacteria buildup.
• Make sure the height is adjusted properly so that your boxer can eat comfortably without having to strain their neck or back.
• Check the base of the bowl for any signs of damage or wear and tear, such as rust or sharp edges. If you find any, replace the bowl immediately.

Its also important to keep an eye on your boxer while theyre eating from their elevated food bowl, as some may have difficulty transitioning to this new type of feeding system at first. If you notice your boxer struggling with it, try adjusting the height again or use treats as rewards when theyre eating from their new dish to encourage them further.

Finally, keep track of how often you clean and check the elevated food bowl so that you can be sure your pet is being given proper nutrition in a safe environment free from risk factors like twisting stomachs.

Potential Drawbacks of Elevated Food Bowls

While maintaining an elevated food bowl can help prevent twisting in a boxers stomach, there are potential drawbacks to be aware of.

First, it may encourage pickiness. Some dogs may prefer to eat from the elevated bowl since they can see and smell their food more easily. While this could be beneficial if your dog is a picky eater, it could create problems if you need them to eat something they dont like or switch foods frequently. On the other hand, if your boxer is already a picky eater and isnt eating enough, using an elevated bowl could help them feel more comfortable with their food and get the nutrition they need.

Another potential drawback of using an elevated food bowl for boxers is that it can cause stress in some dogs due to its unfamiliarity. Dogs are creatures of habit and changing up their routine could cause stress or anxiety. A sudden change in feeding height might also cause neck pain as your boxer struggles to adjust to the new angle at which they have to bend down and eat from the bowl. If your dog seems stressed out by the elevation switch, try gradually introducing them to the higher height over time rather than making a sudden change.

Finally, while raised bowls can help reduce bloating in some dogs, others may find themselves struggling with regurgitation after eating due to pressure on their stomachs that occurs when bending down too low for extended periods of time while eating from a raised bowl. In this case, youll want to experiment with different angles or heights for your dogs bowl until you find one that works best for them without causing any digestive issues or regurgitation afterwards.

A raised food bowl can offer many benefits for boxers suffering from twisted stomachs, but take care not to make any abrupt changes that could end up stressing out your pup instead! Carefully consider all aspects before switching up your pups feeding routine so that you can find what works best for both you and them!