13 Best Vet Recommended Elevated Dog Bowls in 2024

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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 dog’s dining area cleaner. That’s 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, it’s made to aid your pal’s digestion.

But I understand you might have different needs, whether you’re looking for an 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, let’s talk about the risks and benefits of elevated dog bowls. We’ll give you some guidelines for determining the right height for your dog. Then, we’ll discuss some rules of thumb to consider when you’re choosing a product

In addition, we’ll answer some common questions from dog parents

So let’s get started.

The Risks & Benefits of Elevated Dog Bowls 

large mixed breed is eating from his elevated dog bowl

You may be wondering why we’re 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, we’ll 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 won’t 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 pooch’s mouth. He won’t 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 wouldn’t eat off the floor, would you? It naturally follows that putting the dog’s 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 doesn’t 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, there’s 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

2 large breeds eating from their elevated dog bowls

If you’ve decided that your pooch should have an elevated feeder, you want to know you’re 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: There’s 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 can’t find the exact height, it’s best to pick one that’s a little lower rather than getting a dish that’s too high. Rough heights by breed size are as follows:
  • Small dogs such as Corgis, Dachshunds, Pomeranians, and Yorkies will probably need a dish that’s 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 that’s 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 pal’s 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 pup’s chest level.
  • Check Product Stability: The last thing you want is a massive food or water spill. It’s important to choose a product that’s 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 he’ll 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 it’s sturdy and chew-resistant if you have a dog that gnaws. When it comes to bowls, select a product that’s 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 pooch’s needs. If you’re 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 won’t 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 won’t care about these details, they can enhance your decor. Choose a product that fits your style.
  • Pick a Bowl That’s Easy to Clean: When it comes to bowls, select a product made from a material that’s 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 they’re environmentally friendly and don’t contain any harsh or harmful chemicals that could leach into your pup’s 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 you’re purchasing a product that’s durable and will last. A manufacturer’s warranty provides extra assurance about the item’s quality.
  • Look for Products That Are Made in the USA: To help ensure that the elevated dog bowl you choose is safe, select one that’s 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 ½ inches. The stand is made with durable plastic that’s 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.

There’s a spill guard around the upper tier that prevents splashing and messes. It’s 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

  • It’s sturdy
  • It’s easy to assemble
  • It’s easy to clean
  • It’s made in the USA

What Dogs Love About It

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

What We Don’t 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. There’s a removable stainless steel bowl that can hold up to 3 ¾ 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 that’s hard to kick over or spill. 

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

What We Like

  • It’s sturdy and won’t tip over easily
  • The bowl is easy to remove
  • It’s easy to clean
  • It’s affordable and attractive

What Dogs Love About It

  • It elevates the bowl to a comfortable level for large dogs
  • It won’t slide around while your dog is eating

What We Don’t Like

  • It’s 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, it’s 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. It’s lightweight and easy to assemble.

What We Like

  • It’s easy to put together
  • It’s easy to wipe clean
  • The bowls are the right size for medium or small dogs
  • It’s 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 Don’t 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 can’t 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 ¼ 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, it’s made to complement your decor. 

The bowls are dishwasher-safe and stainless steel. Featuring a non-toxic coated finish, they’re 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

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

What Dogs Love About It

  • It’s a comfortable height for large dogs
  • It’s surprisingly sturdy and won’t move around when your dog is eating

What We Don’t 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. They’re 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
  • It’s 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 Don’t 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

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

What Dogs Love About It

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

What We Don’t 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 product’s maximum height is 7 ½ 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. It’s 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

  • It’s easy to assemble
  • It’s easy to clean
  • It’s phthalate-free and non-toxic
  • It’s sturdy and durable

What Dogs Love About It

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

What We Don’t Like

  • It’s hard to clean if you use moist food
  • You can’t 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 dog’s 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 that’s easy to wipe clean, you’ll be able to keep your pal’s 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

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

What Dogs Love About It

  • It won’t slide around when dogs eat
  • It’s adjustable so that you can find a comfortable dining height for your pooch

What We Don’t 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 ½ 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

  • It’s made in the USA
  • It’s portable and lightweight
  • It’s easy to clean
  • It’s 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 Don’t Like

  • The bowls aren’t 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 pup’s 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. It’s also available in small and medium sizes.

What We Like

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

What Dogs Love About It

  • The container is airtight and keeps food fresh
  • It’s the right size for large dogs

What We Don’t 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 ¾ 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

  • It’s easy to assemble
  • It’s easy to clean
  • The stand is made in the USA
  • It’s affordable

What Dogs Love About It

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

What We Don’t 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 ½ inches above the ground.

Each bowl is made of stainless steel alloy. They’re dishwasher safe for easy cleaning. With an 11-cup capacity in each bowl, there’s plenty of room for your pal’s 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
  • It’s easy to assemble
  • It’s 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 Don’t Like

  • It takes up too much floor space
  • The leg bottoms don’t 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 Fido’s 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

  • It’s easy to assemble
  • It’s easy to clean
  • It has an attractive appearance
  • It’s sturdy

What Dogs Love About It

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

What We Don’t Like

  • The wood isn’t finished and can become moldy after it gets wet
  • It’s poorly designed – the highest adjustment blocks the nameplate

Common Questions from Dog Parents

black dog is standing next to his elevated water bowl

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?

Tall dogs 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 pooch’s neck and limbs when he’s 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 dog’s most comfortable eating height. If you can’t 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 that’s 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 dog’s food bowl be?

Your dog’s 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 dog’s 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 dog’s 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

English cocker spaniel dog posing to the camera next to his elevated food and water bowls

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 pup’s food dry. With a comfortable, ergonomic design and 8-inch height, it’s made to aid your pal’s digestion.  

The bowls are large enough to hold a full meal and prevent spilling. They’re stainless steel and easy to clean by hand or in the dishwasher. It’s made in the USA.

Photo of author
Dr. Libby Guise earned her DVM from the University of Minnesota in 1994. After working in private practice in Wisconsin for two years, she joined the USDA as a Veterinary Medical Officer. In 2011, Libby came home to focus on raising and teaching her adoptive daughter. She lives in Wisconsin with her daughter, husband, and two furbabies: Charis, a lab-mix rescue pup, and Chesed, a Springer Spaniel.

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