Raised Pet Dishes - The Best Dog-Friendly Feeding Option

Previously we posted an article regarding the dangers of plastic dog bowls and the reasons why ceramic and stainless steel bowls are much better options. Following up on that topic, there’s an even better way to feed your dog.

Raised or elevated pet dishes are a much better choice when it comes to feeding dogs, for a variety of reasons. Purely from an aesthetic standpoint, they come in a number of different designs, styles, sizes, shapes and materials, including stainless steel and ceramic options. But there’s more than meets the eye, and your dog’s mouth, when it comes to the rewards of using raised feeders and bowls.

Rewards Outweigh Minimal Risk
While some say there is a slight risk of dogs developing bloat and gastric torsion as a result of using elevated dishes, the fact is that significantly more veterinarians recommend them than not. The bottom line is that there are no real statistics out there that can either completely prove or disprove any relationship between raised feeding dishes and this dangerous gastric condition.

Most veterinarians agree that since bigger dogs are already at a greater risk for this condition in the first place, raised feeding platforms are likely better for their more delicate digestive tracts. Since the exact causes of bloat are unknown, assumptions about what could contribute to them are essentially guesses.

Better For Digestion

Again, while there’s no specific evidence to support this claim, many people believe that raised dog dishes are better for canine digestion. Veterinarians and dog owners alike have noticed that when dogs eat from an elevated position, they’re less likely to gobble their food and more likely to eat at a more relaxed, slow and regular pace. This behavior could conceivably reduce the development of gas, prevent indigestion, and reduce the risk of obesity.

Easier Access

Imagine having to bend down and eat with your mouth lower than your stomach! Although we don’t have four legs, and it’s easier for us to eat at the table, larger dogs have to reach a great distance to the floor for their food and water. Raised feeders facilitate access, allowing gravity to assist the passage of food and drink from the mouth to the stomach.

Less Mess

Elevated food and water dishes also discourage dogs from splashing around and burying their face in their food, which causes spillage. Debris and wet floors, besides being messy, can cause unnecessary “slip and fall“ type accidents. Also, well-made raised dishes stay in place, eliminating further mess caused by sliding, spilling, and sloshing, as well as potential accidents caused by a dog dish in an unexpected location underfoot.

Easier On Both Of You

Having to bend down less when eating can help dogs avoid unnecessary neck and back strain. It can also be easier on canines with arthritis, especially in their backs, shoulders, and other joints. Since we’ve already established that raised feeders create less of a mess, you won’t have to clean the floor as often, not to mention the fact that it’s also a shorter distance for you to reach down to fill and refill your dog’s bowls.

For the sake of you and your four-legged friend, take the time to consider a better, cleaner, safer and healthier environment for your dog’s eating area. Elevated feeding stations are a superior option for both you and your dog.

(Article contributed by Amber Kingsley)