Most pet owners don’t really think about what feeding system will work best for their dogs. We are all accustomed to seeing a dog eating from a bowl on the floor, but elevated dog bowls are actually healthier and better.
A relatively common problem with larger dogs is that they need to bend pretty far to get to food placed on the ground, and that can lead to two problems. Gulping food that is far below the shoulders causes a build up of air in the belly. This can lead to the second problem of that air occasionally lead to bloat, which is a dangerous and often fatal condition. The best way to prevent this is to get an elevated feeding station.
Just like how the dog steps benefits dogs joints and muscles. Elevated dog bowls help with digestion, keeping your dog healthy. Which will make him a much happier dog.
Ideal Eating Height
The best height for a dog bowl is six inches below the height of the withers. The withers are the front shoulders of an animal. If you have a small dog, like a toy Poodle or Pekinese, then eating out of a bowl on the ground is fine. Otherwise you should invest in an elevated feeding station. Many such stations are adjustable and come in single, double, or triple bowl configurations.
To figure out how high you need your station to be, measure your dog at the withers and subtract 6 inches. That is the height you want for your feeding station. If your dog is still growing and you don’t want to purchase different stations as he grows, you should consider an adjustable station that has sufficient range to meet your later needs.
Additional Benefits
If knowing that your dog is eating in an ideal position isn’t enough incentive, then consider this. For older dogs with joint problems and arthritis, the position required for eating from a low bowl places a lot of stress on the wrists, elbows, and shoulders. To get out of this position as quickly as possible, dogs will eat even faster. A bowl at the right height helps them to slow down.
Getting the food up off the floor prevents problems with insects as well. If you choose a station that has a lip formed around the edge of the platform, you will dramatically reduce the amount of food or water that ends up on the floor. That also translates to less clean up for you. On top of that, your dog isn’t the only one getting older. If you have a hard time bending over, then raising the food dish by a foot or more can be a real boon.
Stylish Statement
There really isn’t anything appealing about a stainless steel bowl on the floor. You can get elevated dog bowls nestled in modernistic plastic stations or opt for a more classic warm wood unit. Wrought iron units are very attractive and do great outside as additional watering stations. Picking a style that matches your tastes is easy and fun.
Elevated dog bowls are good for your dog’s health, convenient to use and look nice. With no down side and so many benefits, there is no reason not to give them a try. Your dog will thank you for it.
