Do vets recommend slow feeders

9 reasons to use a dog feeding puzzle: Advice from a vet

If youre a pet parent to a clever canine, you might be looking for ways to make mealtimes more fun and stimulating. If this is the case, buying the best dog feeding puzzle might be the answer.

There are many different types ofdog feeding puzzles on the market. Some can be used forwet dog food, others fordry dog food as well as the best dog treats. Some have moving parts, while some are mobile and need to be moved around on the floor. Even the ones that don't move at all can be great at slowing down your dogs eating.

Food toys are great for your dogs mental and physical health and are among thebest dog toys. In fact, reward-based feeding puzzles have many excellent benefits for your canine companion. Were going to look at the main benefits of puzzle feeders for dogs

1. Keeps your dog fuller for longer

Satiety the feeling of fullness plays a crucial role in preventing obesity in dogs. You'll probably be familiar with that feeling of being full to burst, which suddenly descends about twenty minutes after you've squeezed in your last spoonful of dessert. Just like humans, dogs who eat their food too quickly often dont have time to feel full. Instead, theyll spend the next half an hour pestering their doting owners for more food, even if they don't need it and we all know that it can be hard to say no when those big brown eyes look up at you! In fact, not being able to resist begging was thetop reason pet owners gave for their dog being overweight.

Slowing down your dog's eating helps them feel full, which reduces begging and is essential for weight control. Puzzle feeders can be used with various diets (including weight-loss diets) to help your pet slow their eating and increase the feeling of fullness. So if you're wondering what to do if your dog is overweight, a puzzle feeder might help.

2. Helps to prevent bloat and GDV

GDV (Gastric-dilation-volvulus) is a severe and often fatal condition where the stomach bloats and twists, blocking the blood supply to the stomach and sometimes other organs. Bloat is the less-serious version where the stomach just fills with gas without twisting.

GDV has been linked to being deep-chested, with dogs like German Shepherds, Great Danes, and standard Poodles more likely to suffer with it. Its also been linked to certain diet types and eating too fast aka 'scarfing' or 'gorging'.

When your dog eats like this, they swallow a lot of air, which contributes to bloating, which may result in GDV. Puzzle feeders slow your dogs eating down, reducing the chance of your dog suffering from GDV or bloat.

3. Provides mental stimulation for your dog

Your dog is probably more intelligent than you think! After all, they evolved in forests, hunting alongside us. Some dogs have learned over 1000 words and can even infer the names of new objects. Now, when we feed our dogs from a food bowl, it requires no thought and takes no time at all. And, put simply, it gets a bit boring!

Feeding using a puzzle toy encourages your dog to use their brain and problem-solving ability to get their reward. Toys that promote these hunting and foraging instincts are great for your dog's mental ability as well as their contentment!

4. May help reduce problem behaviours

Mental stimulation can help to reduce some problem behaviors in dogs. Bored dogs are more likely to be destructive, so giving them something to work for (like a food puzzle) can entertain them and tire them out. When they are occupied or tired, they're less likely to show problem behaviors.

Behaviorists also use food toys as part of management programs for separation anxiety. In fact, food toys are so helpful they're often recommended for any problem behavior but you should take care if your dog resource-guards and seek professional help if needed.

5. Can provide entertainment when exercise is limited

Of course, we all know the importance of exercising your dog. But as a vet, we sometimes ask that you dont walk your dog for a few days or weeks. This is usually after surgery but may also be due to certain medical conditions or injuries.

Many owners will look at me like Im mad when I ask them to restrict exercise for their dog theyre often worried the dog will be bouncing off the walls without their usual walks. A food puzzle toy can give your dog something to do that doesn't involve going out for walks. However, if exercise is severely restricted, you should pick a stationary toy rather than a ball or rolling toy.

6. Can reduce stress in your dog

Many modern dogs are exposed to stressful situations, such as loud noises, busy social situations, being left alone for periods of time, and being handled when they dont want to be. These tiny stressful situations can add up to anxiety and even cause health problems for your dog.

Food toys can help to reduce daily stress for dogs. In fact, dog enrichment in the form of food puzzles has been shown to decrease barking, pacing, repetitive licking, and lip-smacking (a marker of stress) in shelter dogs.

Canine Cognitive Dysfunction (CCD) or 'doggy dementia' is a disease caused by degenerative brain changes in older dogs. It's very similar to Alzheimer's in humans, and symptoms such as forgetfulness, repetitive behaviors, changes in sleep-wake patterns, and anxiety are common.

The good news is that it's possible to keep the brain active well into older age using a range of brain-training games. Food puzzle toys are a great way to motivate your dog to complete various tasks and exercise their mental prowess. Some puzzles are even graded on difficulty, so you can choose a toy that suits your dog's ability.

8. Increases exercise to improve overall health

The canine obesity epidemic is just as bad as the human one. Over 50% of dogs are overweight or obese, and many have painful arthritis and joint disease as a consequence. Keeping dogs active with a puzzle feeder is an excellent way to help them burn calories while theyre eating and keep those extra pounds at bay.

If your dog is overweight but able to get around, a mobile puzzle toy, such as a treat ball or Kong Wobbler, might be a good idea. You can even increase the difficulty by putting something inside the ball to stop the kibble from falling out so quickly, thereby making your dog work harder for their dinner.

9. Helps fussy eaters

Did you know that dogs actually enjoy working for their food? In fact, many dogs show a preference for food they need to work for over food theyve simply been offered in a bowl.

This is partly due to the endorphins released when a dog sniffs, licks, and chews something theyll be doing a lot of with some types of food puzzle. But the intrinsic reward of receiving something youve worked hard for is also an attraction for many dogs. If you have a fussy eater or one who sometimes leaves their food, puzzle toys might be one way to make them more motivated to eat.

Tips for choosing and using dog feeding puzzles

1. Choose a food puzzle that will suit your dog

Youll need to consider their ability, mobility, interests, and food type. Terriers that like to sniff through the grass are more likely to enjoy a snuffle mat, while clever collies can handle complicated 3-step puzzles quite quickly. If your dog is fed wet food, your choices are more limited, so look closely at the materials used to make sure theyre suitable.

2. Introduce the feeding puzzle to your dog slowly

To avoid frustration, you may have to show them how to get to the food or set it to an easy setting at first. This will give them time to get used to the idea, especially if your dog has never had a food puzzle before.

3. Mix up the food you provide in the puzzle

Regular kibble is OK, but what about some cubes of carrot or a couple of treats in there too? The varying textures and smells, as well as the potential of finding something extra tasty, will keep your dog interested for longer.

4. Try to vary the puzzles day-to-day

To maintain your dogs interest, have a couple in the cupboard and rotate them, or alternate them with DIY versions

5. Consider their daily allowance

Think of food puzzles as a way to feed your dog, not a vehicle for loads of treats. Dogs will quickly put on weight if extra food is given in food puzzles. Instead, your dogs food puzzle should be filled with some of their daily allowance, which should be adjusted to take into account any treats theyre given to encourage them to try it.

Conclusion Puzzle toys are a no-brainer!

Using a dog feeding puzzle has a whole range of benefits for your dog's fitness, weight, behavior, and even for their stress levels. It's a good idea to get several styles so that your dog doesn't get bored, and make sure you choose a difficulty level that's suitable for your individual pet.

13 Best Vet Recommended Elevated Dog Bowls in 2024

Do you have a messy eater or a dog who likes to play with his water? Maybe your pooch is getting older and experiencing joint or back pain? These are some of the reasons that dog parents turn to elevated dog bowls.

Raised feeders offer many benefits for dogs, and they can help you keep your dogs dining area cleaner. Thats why I reviewed 13 products on the market to help you find the best elevated dog bowls for your needs.

After evaluating more than 30 elevated dog bowls, we chose the Neater Feeder Deluxe dog bowl as our favorite because this product offers a sturdy base and eating surface for large dogs. With a comfortable, ergonomic design and 8-inch height, its made to aid your pals digestion.

But I understand you might have different needs, whether youre looking foran elevated dog bowl for your brachycephalic dog breed or a slow feeder bowl for your fast eater. That is why I prepared a shortlist of our top favorite elevated bowls that address different needs.

Before we dive into the review, lets talk about the risks and benefits of elevated dog bowls. Well give you some guidelines for determining the right height for your dog. Then, well discuss some rules of thumb to consider when youre choosing a product.

In addition, well answer some common questions from dog parents.

So lets get started.

The Risks & Benefits of Elevated Dog Bowls

You may be wondering why were talking about elevated bowls for your pooch. To understand their value, you need to know what a raised dog dish is and how it could benefit your dog.

Once we look at the pros and possible cons of elevated feeders, well share how to select the right height for your furbaby and some rules of thumb to follow when selecting a bowl.

Also referred to as a raised dish or feeder, elevated dog bowls are stands that are designed to hold one or two dishes. They help to raise the food and/or water to a comfortable level above the floor so that your pup wont have to stoop over as far to eat or drink.

The Benefits

Eases Pain for Dogs With Arthritis, Back Pain, and IVDD

For pups suffering from arthritis, back pain, or Intervertebral Disc Disease(IVDD), a raised dish brings the food or water closer to your poochs mouth. He wont have to place extra strain on his neck or other joints to reach down to the bowl.

Provides More Sanitary and Healthier Eating Environment

You wouldnt eat off the floor, would you? It naturally follows that putting the dogs dish on the floor brings the food closer to dirt, bacteria, and other contaminants. And dogs tend to make less of a mess when they eat from an elevated bowl. More sanitary eating conditions support a healthy lifestyle.

Promotes Healthier Posture

When your furbaby doesnt have to crane his neck to reach dinner, it helps him maintain a healthier posture. Raising the dish to a comfortable height also allows your pup to swallow more easily and aids proper digestion.

Prevents Playing With Water

For whatever reason, some dogs love to play in their water. The problem is that this dish digging behavior creates a huge mess. Lifting the bowl above the floor makes it harder for your pooch to get his paws in the dish and reduces the spillage.

The Risks

Bloat or gastro dilatation-volvulus (GDV) is a potentially life-threatening condition in dogs. Pooches most at risk to develop GDV include deep-chested dogs, large and giant breeds, senior dogs, and pups with other contributing factors.

Often related to large meals, a GDV occurs when food and gas build up in the stomach causing it to expand. Sometimes, the stomach rotates, causing a volvulus. If the contents are unable to escape from the stomach, pressure builds up and can cause a cascade of severe events and eventual death.

Some researchers suggested that using a raised feeding bowl could contribute to GDV in at-risk canines. One study conducted at Purdue University concluded that there was a greater risk of GDV in dogs fed from an elevated bowl versus those fed from the floor level. However, a 2012 study at the University of Pennsylvania found no difference.

With two contradictory studies, theres currently not enough evidence to conclusively declare elevated dog dishes can cause GDV. Until further research can be done, we recommend that owners of at-risk dogs feed their pups at floor level as a precaution.

11 Rules of Thumb to Use When Buying Elevated Dog Bowls

If youve decided that your pooch should have an elevated feeder, you want to know youre picking the best option for his needs. Follow these guidelines to evaluate different elevated bowl characteristics so that you can choose the right product.

• Choosing the Best Height for an Elevated Dog Bowl: Theres more to selecting an elevated dog bowl than brand and size. You also want to choose a comfortable height for your pooch. Clearly, that measurement will be different for a Bulldog vs a Doberman. To determine the best height for your pooch, measure the distance from the floor to his lower chest. Make sure your dog is standing squarely with his feet directly under his shoulders. This is the ideal height feeder for your furbaby. If you cant find the exact height, its best to pick one thats a little lower rather than getting a dish thats too high. Rough heights by breed size are as follows:

• Small dogs such as Corgis, Dachshunds, Pomeranians, and Yorkies will probably need a dish thats 4-6 above the floor.
• Medium dogs including the Australian Shepherd, Basset Hound, Cocker Spaniel, and Whippet should have a dish about 7 above the ground.
• Large dogs such as Boxers, German Shepherds, Golden Retrievers, and Weimaraners need a bowl between 8 and 14 high.
• Extra Large dogs like the Bernese Mountain Dog, Great Dane, Irish Wolfhound, and Saint Bernard will probably need a bowl thats 14-27 high.

• Consider Bowl Size: Depending on the product, the bowls can vary in size. Check the dish capacity to make sure that it can hold your pals meals. This is particularly important with larger breed dogs.
• Adjustable Height: Look for options that have an adjustable height range. That way, you can tailor the feeder to fit your pups chest level.
• Check Product Stability: The last thing you want is a massive food or water spill. Its important to choose a product thats difficult to knock over. Generally, the most stable products will have a wider base and slight taper at the top or legs that angle outward.
• Consider Storage Capacity: Some products include a compartment for food storage. While this is convenient, it may be a drawback if you have a determined chowhound. Know your pooch and whether hell wait for mealtime or try to chew and paw at the feeder until he hits the jackpot.
• Check Material: Many elevated dog bowl frames are made from plastic, metal, bamboo, or wood. Some pups may chew on the stand or their dishes. The key for the frame is that its sturdy and chew-resistant if you have a dog that gnaws. When it comes to bowls, select a product thats easy to clean by hand or in the dishwasher. Look for bowls that are stainless steel or ceramic.
• Choose the Number of Bowls You Want: Elevated dog dishes are available in one and two-bowl varieties. Which you choose will depend on your preference and your poochs needs. If youre trying to minimize mess at feeding time, you may only need one dish in the stand. However, for arthritic or geriatric dogs, keeping both the food and water elevated is the preferred option. That way, your furbaby wont have to bend all the way to the floor to get a drink or eat his dinner.
• Pick a Design That Suits Your Taste: Elevated dog bowls come in a variety of styles and designs such as wrought iron or hardwoods. Some products also feature artwork. While your pooch wont care about these details, they can enhance your decor. Choose a product that fits your style.
• Pick a Bowl Thats Easy to Clean: When it comes to bowls, select a product made from a material thats easy to clean by hand or in the dishwasher. Look for bowls that are stainless steel or ceramic.
• Look for Products That Are Eco-Friendly: Check the materials to make sure theyre environmentally friendly and dont contain any harsh or harmful chemicals that could leach into your pups food. This is another reason to choose stainless steel or ceramic bowls.
• Check for a Warranty: Elevated dishes are a significant investment. You want to make sure that youre purchasing a product thats durable and will last. A manufacturers warranty provides extra assurance about the items quality.
• Look for Products That Are Made in the USA: To help ensure that the elevated dog bowl you choose is safe, select one thats made in the USA or another country with strict safety standards and good manufacturing practices. Nations such as Australia, Great Britain, and Canada are other countries that have rigorous safety requirements for manufacturing.

Our 2024 Top Best 13 Elevated Dog Bowls

After reviewing more than 30 elevated dog bowls using the criteria mentioned above, we chose 13 that we think are the best for you and your dog:

Neater Feeder Deluxe

• Material: plastic stand; stainless steel bowl
• Adjustable Height: No
• Stability: Yes
• Warranty: No
• Ease Of Cleaning & DishWasher: Dishwasher safe
• Made in the USA: Yes; bowls sourced from India
• Best for: Our Top Overall Pick

Designed for larger dogs, this tiered bowl stands 8 inches above the floor. If your pooch is extra tall, you can purchase leg extensions to raise the height to 11 inches. The stand is made with durable plastic thats easy to wipe clean. With room for two bowls, you can use the product for food and water.

The bowls are made with dishwasher-safe stainless steel making them easy to clean and sanitize. The food dish has a 7-cup capacity while the water dish can hold up to 9 cups.

Theres a spill guard around the upper tier that prevents splashing and messes. Its contoured for comfortable access. In the front of the stand, perforations allow water to drain to a lower reservoir for easy cleanup. The design is sturdy and should resist kicking and spilling.

What We Like

• Its sturdy
• Its easy to assemble
• Its easy to clean
• Its made in the USA

What Dogs Love About It

• The contoured opening makes it easy and comfortable to use.
• Its spill-proof and keeps the food dry

What We Dont Like

• The bowls tend to rust over time
• The bowls may be too small for very large dogs

Dogit Stainless Steel Elevated Dog Bowl

• Material: plastic stand, metal bowl
• Adjustable Height: No
• Stability: Yes
• Warranty: No
• Ease Of Cleaning & DishWasher: Dishwasher safe top rack
• Made in the USA: No
• Best for: affordable price

Featuring an attractive base, this elevated dog bowl from Dogit is sturdy. The bottom is slip-proof to prevent skidding when your pooch is eating or drinking. Theres a removable stainless steel bowl that can hold up to 3 cups of food.

Made of stainless steel, the bowl is easy to remove and dishwasher safe. The stand height is 9 inches allowing easy access for large dogs. The design provides a sturdy base thats hard to kick over or spill.

With this product, you can help ease stress on your pals joints and back. Its available in small and large sizes There are four attractive color options.

What We Like

• Its sturdy and wont tip over easily
• The bowl is easy to remove
• Its easy to clean
• Its affordable and attractive

What Dogs Love About It

• It elevates the bowl to a comfortable level for large dogs
• It wont slide around while your dog is eating

What We Dont Like

• Its not made in the USA
• The bowl is too small

IRIS Large Plastic Elevated Feeder

• Material: plastic frame, stainless steel bowls
• Adjustable Height: Yes
• Stability: Yes
• Warranty: No
• Ease Of Cleaning & DishWasher: Dishwasher safe
• Made in the USA: Frame Yes, bowls No
• Best for: Small & Medium Dogs

This elevated feeder from IRIS has removable legs. Without the extensions, the bowl platform stands about 4 inches above the floor and is a comfortable height for small to medium-sized dogs or puppies. When you snap the legs into the base, its 12 inches tall.

Complete with 2 removable 2-quart bowls, the base has raised outer rims to contain any spills. Easily cleanable, the stand is made of water-resistant plastic, and the bowls are dishwasher-safe stainless steel.

There are four color options available which allow you to find the best match for your style. Its lightweight and easy to assemble.

What We Like

• Its easy to put together
• Its easy to wipe clean
• The bowls are the right size for medium or small dogs
• Its affordable

What Dogs Love About It

• The base is a comfortable height for small and medium-sized dogs
• It has room for food and water

What We Dont Like

• The legs are a little flimsy, and the stand may sway when your dog uses it
• The bowls tend to tip forward a little, so you cant fill the water to the top

Platinum Pets Double Diner Feeder Bowls

• Material: stainless steel
• Adjustable Height: No
• Stability: No
• Warranty: Yes limited, 1 year
• Ease Of Cleaning & DishWasher: Dishwasher safe
• Made in the USA: No
• Best for: Large Breeds

Standing 11.5 inches above the ground, this elevated diner from Platinum Pets is a comfortable level for most large breed dogs. It features two large bowls that can hold up to 6 cups of food or 50 oz of water.

The stand is constructed from forged, wrought iron and has non-skid bottoms. With a sleek design, its made to complement your decor.

The bowls are dishwasher-safe and stainless steel. Featuring a non-toxic coated finish, theyre available in 18 color options so that you can find one to fit your style. You can also purchase this stand in four other sizes.

What We Like

• Its easy to clean
• Its easy to assemble
• The bowls are easy to remove and adjust
• It keeps food off the floor

What Dogs Love About It

• Its a comfortable height for large dogs
• Its surprisingly sturdy and wont move around when your dog is eating

What We Dont Like

• The plastic coating can come off the bowls
• The bowls tend to chip

Platinum Pets Modern Double Diner Feeder

• Material: Stainless Steel
• Adjustable Height: No
• Stability: No
• Warranty: Yes 1 year, limited
• Ease Of Cleaning & DishWasher: Dishwasher safe
• Made in the USA: No
• Best for: Giant Breeds

With a wrought-iron frame and stainless steel bowls, this elevated feeder provides a convenient way to feed your giant-breed dog. The bowls stand 18 inches above the ground and each one has a 10-cup capacity.

With a non-toxic powder coating, the bowls come in a range of color options. Theyre designed to be fade, scratch, chip, and rust-resistant. The dishes are dishwasher safe to allow for easy cleanup.

The sleek design and non-skid base make this elevated feeder a fashionable complement to your decor. It is also available in four smaller sizes.

What We Like

• It comes with a limited warranty
• It has non-slip feet
• Its lightweight and easy to move
• The bowls are easy to remove for cleaning

What Dogs Love About It

• The height is comfortable for giant breed dogs
• The bowls are extra-large capacity

What We Dont Like

• The bowls scratch easily
• The coating can come off if you wash them in the dishwasher

Fluff Trough Elevated Slow Feeder Dog Bowl

• Material: Silicone
• Adjustable Height: Yes
• Stability: Yes
• Warranty: No
• Ease Of Cleaning & DishWasher: Dishwasher safe
• Made in the USA: No
• Best for: Flat-Faced Dogs

Made from silicone, this elevated feeder is designed to prevent your pooch from gulping his food. The dish insert is top-rack dishwasher-safe for simple cleaning. It has an ergonomic slope that makes it easier for flat-faced dogs to eat.

With a raised back, the stand helps to prevent spilling and messes. The feeder bowl fits neatly inside the stand. It has a 2 cup capacity for food and stands about 5 inches from the ground. There are non-slip footers on the legs to keep the stand in place while your furbaby eats.

BPA-free and non-toxic, this product is approved by veterinarians and is food safe for your pooch. The trough also comes in an XL size and has four attractive color options.

What We Like

• Its easy to clean
• Its durable and sturdy
• Its non-toxic and BPA-free
• It has effective non-slip footers

What Dogs Love About It

• It has an ergonomic shape for easy eating
• Its a comfortable height for eating

What We Dont Like

• It has a limited food capacity
• The front lip is shallow, and food spills out easily

Neater Raised Slow Feeder

• Material: ABS plastic, PVC
• Adjustable Height: Yes
• Stability: Yes
• Warranty: No
• Ease Of Cleaning & DishWasher: Dishwasher safe top rack
• Made in the USA: Yes
• Best for: Fast Eaters

With adjustable heights, you can change the height of this elevated slow feeder to suit your dog. The dish alone stands 3-inches above the floor. By placing the bowl in the base, you can elevate the feeder to 5 inches. With leg extensions, the products maximum height is 7 inches.

The bowl features two compartments so that you can provide your pal with food and water at the same time. Featuring an egg-crate design, the slow-feeder side is made to help prevent bloat and improve digestion. It can hold 2.5 cups of kibble.

This product is made in the USA using phthalate-free ABS plastic. Its non-toxic and safe to wash in the top rack of your dishwasher. With non-skid bottoms, the four-leg design is sturdy. This elevated bowl is available in four color options.

What We Like

• Its easy to assemble
• Its easy to clean
• Its phthalate-free and non-toxic
• Its sturdy and durable

What Dogs Love About It

• It has adjustable heights for comfortable eating
• The slow-feeder has a design thats gentle on the mouth and gums

What We Dont Like

• Its hard to clean if you use moist food
• You cant change the water without removing unfinished food and vice versa

X-ZONE PET Raised Pet Bowls for Dogs

• Material: bamboo frame, stainless steel bowls
• Adjustable Height: Yes
• Stability: Yes
• Warranty: No
• Ease Of Cleaning & DishWasher: Dishwasher safe
• Made in the USA: No
• Best for: Elevated bowls for dogs with arthritis, IVDD & Back Pain

Made with adjustable sizes to grow with your pooch, this elevated feeder from X-ZONE PET comes with 2 stainless steel bowls. The product is easy to assemble and raises your dogs bowls 7.9, 11.4, or 15 above the ground for easier eating and drinking.

The stand is made from bamboo and includes the required parts and tools for assembly. Anti-slip feet are included to keep the stand in place while your pooch eats or drinks. There are slots in the legs that allow you to tip the bowls forward for easier eating.

With dishwasher-safe bowls and a stand thats easy to wipe clean, youll be able to keep your pals dinner area sanitary and safe. The bowls each have an 8.5 cup or 60 oz. capacity. This product is also available in a smaller size that raises bowls to 5.1, 7.5, or 10.

What We Like

• Its easy to assemble
• Its sturdy and has a wide base
• Its easy to wipe clean
• The bowls are large enough to minimize spills

What Dogs Love About It

• It wont slide around when dogs eat
• Its adjustable so that you can find a comfortable dining height for your pooch

What We Dont Like

• The slots for the tilt option are not properly aligned
• Some of the screw holes are not properly aligned

Dexas Popware for Pets

• Material: plastic stand; silicon bowl
• Adjustable Height: No
• Stability: Yes
• Warranty: No
• Ease Of Cleaning & DishWasher: Dishwasher safe
• Made in the USA: Yes
• Best for: Travel & Camping

Lightweight and collapsible, this single bowl elevated feeder from Dexas is easy to bring with you when you travel. No matter which size you purchase, it weighs under one pound. The small option has a 1 cup capacity while the large product can hold up to 4 cups.

The stand is made of durable plastic and features foldable legs that angle outward for greater stability. Non-slip rubber footers prevent slippage when your pooch eats. A collapsible silicone bowl allows you to compress the feeder for easy packing and storage. The bowl is also dishwasher safe so that you can keep the product clean and sanitary for your pooch.

Made for small dogs, the feeders stand 4 or 5 inches above the ground depending on whether you purchase a large or small size. You can select from seven color combinations to better find a product that suits your taste.

What We Like

• Its made in the USA
• Its portable and lightweight
• Its easy to clean
• Its a good value for the money

What Dogs Love About It

• There are no harmful chemicals
• The rubber footings keep the bowl securely in place while your dog eats

What We Dont Like

• The bowls arent shaped well for flat-faced dogs
• The bowls can develop mildew stains over time if used for water

IRIS USA Large Bowl

• Material: plastic stand; stainless steel bowls
• Adjustable Height: No
• Stability: Yes
• Warranty: No
• Ease Of Cleaning & DishWasher: Dishwasher safe
• Made in the USA: Yes bowls from India
• Best for: elevated dog bowls with storage

This large elevated pet feeder from IRIS offers convenient storage. Featuring a plastic food container with space for two 2-quart bowls in the lid, the product has a sturdy base.

The bin has room for 64 cups of dry kibble. With a snap-on lid and airtight lock, the container is made to keep your pups food fresh. The removable bowls are stainless steel and dishwater safe for easy cleaning.

The lid of the product is about 15 inches high, which is a comfortable height for some large dogs and most giant-breed pooches. Its also available in small and medium sizes.

What We Like

• Its easy to clean
• The containers are made in the USA
• Its sturdy
• The lid is easy to open and close

What Dogs Love About It

• The container is airtight and keeps food fresh
• Its the right size for large dogs

What We Dont Like

• The bowl walls are too thin
• Water can collect under the bowls and cause an odor

Pet Zone Designer Diner ADJUSTABLE Bowls

• Material: plastic stand; stainless steel bowls
• Adjustable Height: Yes
• Stability: Yes
• Warranty: No
• Ease Of Cleaning & DishWasher: Dishwasher safe
• Made in the USA: Yes bowls from India
• Best for: Adjustable elevated dog bowl

Made for a variety of dog sizes and all life stages, this elevated dog dish from Pet Zone is adjustable. There are removable legs that you can attach in two different ways to create heights of 2 inches, 8 inches, and 12 inches. When not in use, the legs can also be tucked under the stand platform for easy storage or travel.

Featuring two openings for stainless steel bowls, you can use this for both food and water. Each container holds up to 7 cups or 56 ounces and is dishwasher safe. The bowls and stand are easy to clean.

With a stylish black stand, the elevated bowl is made to complement your decor. You can use this with puppies, adults, and seniors.

What We Like

• Its easy to assemble
• Its easy to clean
• The stand is made in the USA
• Its affordable

What Dogs Love About It

• It brings food and water to a comfortable level
• Its easy on the neck and joints

What We Dont Like

• Water can collect on the stand and make a mess
• The legs are flimsy

Bergan Elevated Double Bowl Feeder

• Material: plastic stand; alloy steel bowls
• Adjustable Height: Yes
• Stability: Yes
• Warranty: Yes 1 year, limited
• Ease Of Cleaning & DishWasher: Dishwasher safe
• Made in the USA: Yes bowls from India
• Best for: Easy-to-Clean Elevated Bowl

Sleek and adjustable, the Bergan Elevated feeder has space for two bowls. The legs are removable so that you can adjust the height as your pooch ages. When at full extension, the bowls are about 15 inches above the ground.

Each bowl is made of stainless steel alloy. Theyre dishwasher safe for easy cleaning. With an 11-cup capacity in each bowl, theres plenty of room for your pals food and water.

The stand has a stylish appearance of gray and black molded plastic. Made in the USA, the materials are BPA-free and safe for your pooch.

What We Like

• The stand is BPA free and made in the USA
• The legs are angled outward and provide extra stability
• Its easy to assemble
• Its easy to clean

What Dogs Love About It

• The height is adjustable to grow with your dog
• The dishes are larger and able to minimize spillage and mess

What We Dont Like

• It takes up too much floor space
• The leg bottoms dont have any grips to prevent sliding

WANTRYAPET Elevated Bowls Adjustable 3-6 Heights

• Material: steel frame, bamboo platform, melamine bowls
• Adjustable Height: Yes
• Stability: Yes
• Warranty: No
• Ease Of Cleaning & DishWasher: Dishwasher safe
• Made in the USA: No
• Best for: Design

With a stylish, heavy-duty steel frame, this elevated dog dish is designed to grow with your pooch. It has three height adjustments of 5, 7, and 9. You can easily raise the bamboo plank to suit Fidos comfort level.

The dish platform is easy to wipe clean between meals. It holds two bowls so that you can provide your pooch with food and water at the same time. Made of melamine, the bowls are dishwasher-safe and break-resistant. They hold about 3 cups.

The stand includes an attractive bone-shaped metal nameplate that you can hang from attached hooks. It comes in black and gray colors and is also available in a large size.

What We Like

• Its easy to assemble
• Its easy to clean
• It has an attractive appearance
• Its sturdy

What Dogs Love About It

• Its adjustable to the right height for most dogs
• It keeps food off the floor so there are no more ants

What We Dont Like

• The wood isnt finished and can become moldy after it gets wet
• Its poorly designed the highest adjustment blocks the nameplate

Common Questions from Dog Parents

Should I Be Using An Elevated Bowl To Feed My Dog?

Not all dogs need an elevated dog bowl, but they can make eating easier for many pups. If you have a geriatric dog or a pooch with arthritis, raised feeders can ease tension on the neck and joints. They may also be helpful if your pup has IVDD or megaesophagus.

Should tall dogs have raised bowls?

Talldogs naturally have further to stoop when eating off the floor. For healthy pups, this is not a problem. However, if your large or giant breed pooch has arthritis, back problems, or other issues that make bending down difficult, you should consider an elevated bowl.

Are elevated dog bowls more comfortable for dogs?

Elevated bowls can help older or arthritic dogs because they put less strain on your poochs neck and limbs when hes eating.

Are elevated dog bowls good or bad?

For older dogs with joint or back problems, elevated feeders can help ease their pain. It may also help your dog slow down if he tends to eat too fast. However, some dogs will not eat from a raised dog bowl. There are also some questions about whether elevated dishes are a contributing factor for bloat in dogs.

How do I measure my dog for an elevated feeder?

Measure from the bottom of the chest to the floor to determine your dogs most comfortable eating height. If you cant find a feeder that matches your measurement, choose the next smaller size.

Can a raised dog bowl cause bloat?

There is limited evidence that raised dog bowls may contribute to bloat. More research needs to be done. If you have a pooch thats prone to bloat, or you have any concerns, consult with your veterinarian.

Are stainless steel bowls bad for dogs?

No. Stainless steel bowls are easy to clean and sanitize. They are excellent food and water containers for dogs.

Should dogs eat standing up?

Dogs by nature tend to eat standing up, and this is a good thing. The erect posture is helpful for digestion and may be particularly beneficial for some health conditions such as megaesophagus.

How big should my dogs food bowl be?

Your dogs food bowl needs to be large enough for him to comfortable grab or lick the food. You should also choose one with enough capacity to hold a full meal.

Do small dogs need elevated bowls?

If you have a dog that suffers from megaesophagus, IVDD, back, or joint issues, an elevated dog dish could be beneficial. Consult with your veterinarian.

How often should you clean your dogs bowl?

Like our plates, dog bowls can collect residues that make a rich breeding ground for pathogens and other bacteria. We recommend you clean your dogs bowls with hot water and soap after each meal.

What dog breeds are prone to bloat?

While any dog can develop bloat, it most commonly occurs in large, deep-chested dogs. Some of the most susceptible breeds are Great Danes, Saint Bernards, and Weimaraners.

The Final Woof

After reviewing the above products and comparing our findings to our rules of thumb and desirable criteria, we recommend the Neater Feeder Deluxe for the best elevated dog bowls.

This product offers a sturdy base and eating surface for large dogs. It has a spill-proof base with a drain that allows you to keep your pups food dry. With a comfortable, ergonomic design and 8-inch height, its made to aid your pals digestion.

The bowls are large enough to hold a full meal and prevent spilling. Theyre stainless steel and easy to clean by hand or in the dishwasher. Its made in the USA.