What is an Elevated Dog Feeder?
Many pet parents have wondered, “what are the pros and cons of elevated dog feeders“? An elevated dog feeder is a form of dog feeder that is slightly raised or significantly raised off the ground depending on the needs of your animal. In other words, it lifts the food bowl and the water bowl to a height above floor level. People usually purchase these pet feeders when they have a massive breed of dogs such as the Great Dane. The height of the elevated feeder will depend on the size of the dog or associated health risks.
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You can also buy an adjustable elevated dog feeder just in case you have other animals such as an English Bulldog or a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. Also, they can be used as an elevated cat feeder if your cat likes to stay at higher heights around the house (as many cats do). A suitable height can usually range from 2” a foot depending on your needs. Elevated stainless steel feeders are among the most popular. As well as single elevated dog feeders. Double elevated dog feeders are also on the rise. Elevated pet feeding bowls will also decrease the risk of unwanted bugs such as ants and roaches that like to feed on open food sources.
Pros of Elevated Dog Feeding Bowls
Elevated dog feeders will take the hassle out of feeding time. With that being said, the elevated dog dishes are at a raised height. That will make it much harder for your pet play with if your pet is prone to playing with their feeding bowls or watering bowls. Also, if you have a bowl such as a ceramic dog bowl you don’t have to worry about your pet being able to break.
Dogs may be a little rough and many of them have a very stable base. The elevated pet feeder will surely help in the cleanliness of the dog’s feeding area as many animals love to tip over their bowls.
When a dog eats from a pet food bowl or drinks from their water bowl that is placed on the floor, often it will create a large mess. Water will get underneath their feeders or waterers. This will create an unsanitary environment that will invite bacteria.
Furthermore expanding on the point that you don’t want any unwanted house guests feeding on the food supply of your pets. Also if you are an owner with back problems or other conditions that would make bending down difficult for you, this would be ideal.
Health: Pros of Elevated Feeders
Many breeds of dogs come with associated health risks. A lot of the risks are genetic, meaning more prevalent in that breed. Large breeds may suffer from arthritis making it extremely difficult and, in some cases, painful for them to bend down in order to reach their food or water bowls.
When elevated dog feeders are used it takes the pressure off of their bones and joints due to the inflammation and your dog can eat a little easier. An injury or wound would also be an excellent cause for a raised pet feeder.
Megaesophagus is the enlargement of the esophagus in animals. Symptoms of Megaesophagus include coughing, weight loss and no desire to eat. Raised pet feeders are known to be extremely helpful in the case of this condition as they may also mitigate the risk of choking hazards.
How Do I Choose The Correct Size For The Elevated Dog Feeder?
As a general rule of thumb, you should measure from your dog’s shoulder while they are fully raised on all-fours. Next, you can subtract around 5” from this measurement and that should be a suitable height for their feeder.
Cons of Elevated Feeders for Dogs
Dogs naturally are equipped to eat with their heads at a downward slant. Many people buy feeders with the mindset of the pet eating at a flat angle but they should still be raised at a level that would make your dog’s natural eating position comfortable. Animal health officials have gone back & forth about this very topic.
Many believe that they can lead to bloat as well as many other serious stomach problems in pets while others disagree. Furthermore, it always advisable to seek a professional opinion to see if they will do more harm than good or more good than harm for your specific pet.
As stated above, many animals suffer from health conditions that would make these very helpful. In addition, it is helpful to watch the speed of your dog’s food consumption. If they are really fast eaters then they are more prone to choking and developing stomach issues such as GDV.
Common signs are vomiting and heavy drooling. A slow feeding feature on the elevated bowls may be a viable option.
Popular Materials for Elevated Dog Bowl Feeders
Elevated dog feeders actually come in many materials and treatments. As of late, wooden elevated feeder stands have become very popular. Whilst stainless steel dog bowls being the popular pet feeding bowl of choice. People have many different preferences and needs, so there are also metal elevated feeding stands. They come equipped with a click nob on the side.
If you decide to go the wood dog feeder route then make sure it comes with some type of coating.
The wood should come with a protective layer over so no harm comes to your pet. You can switch out the feeding bowls that go in the actual stand as you see fit. Meaning you can choose between stainless steel dog bowls, plastic or ceramic. If you don’t know which option is best for you and your pet you can check the bottom of this helpful article here.
Conclusion: The Pros and Cons of an Elevated Dog Feeder
Depending on the specific needs of your pup an elevated dog feeding bowl may or may not be a viable option for you. Many experts have gone back and forth over about this topic so it is best to consult with a vet. Many dogs have serious health problems that would make these an effective solution for them while it may cause health problems in others.
These pet feeding bowls tend to not affect normal-sized and smaller sized dogs as much. As they are generally safe for them to use. Many breeds are prone to different things so you may be able to alleviate some of those faults with proper care.
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