Buying guide for Best elevated dog bowls
Elevated dog bowls are becoming increasingly popular among pet parents, and it's not all about sleek aesthetics, either. Thanks to the fact that the bowls are held securely in place by the frame, mealtime tends to result in much less mess. More importantly though, elevated dog bowls can reduce the joint strain caused by bending down to eat and thus provide welcome relief for older and injured dogs.
Elevated dog bowls come in a variety of styles and sizes to suit just about any decor and (almost) every breed. However, it's important to note that elevated dog bowls may increase the risk of bloating in large- and giant-breed dogs due to an increased swallowing of air while eating. If you have a large dog or pup with digestive problems, check with your vet before switching to an elevated dog bowl.
Need help finding the best elevated dog bowl for your four-legged friend? Then read on. Our detailed guide is packed with need-to-know information and helpful tips.
Key considerations
Dog size
Elevated dog bowls (and the dogs who eat from them) come in so many different sizes, it can be tough just figuring out where to start. As a rule of thumb, it's best for an elevated dog bowl to stand square with your dog's chest. This way, there's no straining to reach food and little to no extra pressure on your dog's joints.
We've laid out the following guidelines to give you an idea of which sizes work best for which dogs. For an improved fit, measure the height from the floor to around the middle of your dog's chest before you start shopping.
Smaller breeds generally do best with elevated dog bowls that stand between 2 and 7 inches high. For medium-sized dogs, look for bowls that are elevated between 6 and 14 inches off the ground. Large dogs naturally require a higher eating surface and can benefit from dog bowls that stand between 12 and 20 inches high. If your dog is generally healthy but you're still worried about gas or bloat, using a shorter elevated dog bowl may pose less of a risk.
Capacity
Bowl size can vary from model to model, and it's important to make sure that the elevated dog bowl you're looking at is capable of holding your dog's regular meals. For smaller dogs, this likely won't be too much of an issue. However, when it comes to medium or large dogs, it's a good idea to check capacity before you buy so you don't end up having to repeatedly top up your dog's bowl.
Stability
To keep your elevated dog bowl from being knocked over, a stable, sturdy base is essential — and even more so if you're interested in a taller model. For more stability and fewer messes, we recommend looking for a model with a base that's wider than the top or that has its legs angled outward.
Number of bowls
Some elevated dog bowls only come with one dish, while others include two. If your primary aim is to reduce the amount of mess your dog makes while eating, a single food bowl should be adequate. However, if your dog has arthritis or another condition that limits mobility, it's best to opt for a double-bowl model. This way, you'll be able to raise both their food and water bowls to a more comfortable height.
Did You Know?
Elevated dog bowls make it easier for dogs to keep an eye on their surroundings while eating and may work to reassure and calm nervous or aggressive eaters.
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Features
Material
Most elevated dog bowls have frames made of plastic, wood, or metal. While a good, sturdy frame is essential for many reasons, some dogs will chew on their food or water bowls. Choosing a model that comes with stainless steel or ceramic bowls is an excellent way to avoid inappropriate chewing, and both options offer the benefit of being easier to clean.
Adjustable height
Some elevated dog bowls feature adjustable height settings. If you're not quite sure which size is right for your dog, an adjustable model offers a bit of wiggle room. We suggest experimenting with different heights until you find the most comfortable eating position for your dog.
Storage
A few high-end elevated dog bowls come with a food storage compartment built into the base. While it can be convenient to have all your dog's mealtime necessities in one place, determined pups could end up chewing or clawing their way to an all-you-can-eat buffet.
Non-skid base
Elevated dog bowls with a non-skid base are less likely to slide around on hard floors while your dog is chowing down. If you have a large dog or an enthusiastic eater and plan to put your elevated dog bowl on tiles, wood, or laminate flooring, a non-skid base is worth seeking out.
Style and color
Elevated dog bowls are available in a multitude of colors and styles, with designs that range from sleek and sophisticated to plain and utilitarian. With a bit of looking, it's easy enough to find an elevated dog bowl to complement practically any decor style and color scheme.
If your dog suffers from megaesophagus (a condition that causes enlargement of the esophagus and prevents food from passing), pairing an elevated dog bowl with a Bailey Chair can help make vertical feeding a bit easier.
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Accessories
Non-skid dog feeding mat: Reopet Silicone Dog Bowl Mat
A non-skid feeding mat will go the extra mile to help keep your elevated dog bowl in place and your floor clean.
Dog probiotics: Purina Pro Plan Fortiflora Canine Nutritional Supplement
Adding a probiotic to your dog's regular diet is an easy and effective way to improve digestive health and reduce gas.
Elevated dog bowl prices
Inexpensive: Single elevated dog bowls and simple two-bowl models typically start out at around $10 to $15. These are usually shorter bowls designed for smaller breeds.
Mid-range: For between $15 and $25, shoppers can find a variety of elevated dog bowls in both functional and stylish designs. It's also possible to find a few models for larger dogs in this price bracket.
Expensive: Adjustable elevated dog bowls, extra-tall models for large and giant breeds, and those with storage or intricate decorative designs can cost anywhere from $25 to $90.
Did You Know?
Elevated dog bowls with adjustable height settings can be ideal for puppies who still have a bit of growing left.
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Tips
- Position against a wall: If you're worried about your elevated dog bowl tipping over, placing it against a wall can provide extra stability.
- Use a non-skid feeding mat: If your elevated dog bowl doesn't have a non-skid base, you can still keep it from sliding all over the floor by placing it on a non-skid feeding mat.
- Height settings: Not sure which height is best for your dog? Choose an adjustable elevated dog bowl so you can try out different bowl heights.
- Keep your dog from inhaling his food: If your dog gulps down his food at every meal, replacing his regular bowl with a similarly sized slow-feed bowl will help reduce the amount of air that's swallowed, and can decrease the risk of developing painful digestive problems like gas and bloat.
FAQ
Q. Are elevated dog bowls safe to use?
A. Using an elevated dog bowl shouldn't be a problem as long as your dog doesn't suffer from any major health or digestive issues. While some studies found that using elevated dog bowls may increase the risk of bloat in large- and giant-breed dogs, others were inconclusive. For your peace of mind and your dog's health, we recommend checking with your vet before introducing an elevated dog bowl to large- or giant-breed dogs.
Q. Can I replace the bowls that come with my elevated dog bowls?
A. As long as they're more or less the same size, you should be able to replace the included bowls with dishes of your own. Be sure to measure the diameter of the bowl cavity and try to find a bowl of the same size. If at all possible, opt for a bowl that has a generous lip. This way, your replacement bowl will stay put even if the new bowl's diameter is a bit smaller than the original.
Q. What's the best way to care for a wooden elevated dog bowl?
A. Many wooden models are made from bamboo, which is naturally water-resistant. Other types of wood are usually protected by a water-resistant finish. However, warping and splintering can still occur with prolonged exposure to moisture. We advise keeping your wooden elevated dog bowl's surface as dry as possible by wiping up spills as they happen or soon after.
