Are you considering purchasing an elevated feeder for your pup? Buying a stylish and convenient food station for them can be tempting, but it’s important to understand the pros and cons of dog feeders before making that final investment. Elevated dog feeders provide benefits and drawbacks that must be considered for pet owners to make the best decision for their furry friend's health. In this post, we will explore the advantages and disadvantages of these elevated feeding bowls so you can decide whether or not one will work best for Fido’s daily routine.
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What are elevated dog feeders?
Elevated dog feeders have raised platforms that hold food and water bowls for your pup to eat out of. These elevated stands come in various sizes, shapes, and materials, so you can find the perfect fit for your pup's needs. Feeders are designed to be at a height that is comfortable and ergonomic for your pup to eat from and can be adjusted as your pup grows. Elevated feeders help keep feeding areas mess-free by raising the bowls off the ground, which makes it easier for pet owners to clean up spills and other debris.
Pros of Elevated Dog Feeders
1. Helps reduce symptoms of megaesophagus
Elevated feeders benefit dogs that suffer from megaesophagus, a condition where the esophagus enlarges and weakens. The elevated platform helps keep food in the correct position, allowing gravity to assist digestion. This reduces regurgitation, which can be very painful for pups with this condition. Elevated food bowls are also designed to be adjustable so you can find the perfect height for your pup. Having their food at an optimal level will help ensure they don’t strain themselves while eating and reduce any potential discomfort from this condition.
2. Easier to eat and clean
One of the major pros of using elevated dog feeders is that it makes it easier for your pup to eat and clean. With bowls raised off the ground, tall dogs no longer have to bend down or strain their necks to get food from a bowl on the floor.
This can help prevent neck and back issues commonly associated with eating from a too-low bowl. Raised dog bowls can keep food and water off the ground, making it easier for pet owners to clean up any spills or debris. The elevated height also helps reduce messes by keeping ants and other pests away from your pup's food and water bowls.
3. Helps minimize arthritis symptoms
One of the most beneficial aspects of elevated dog feeders is that they can help diminish arthritis symptoms in older dogs. Reducing the strain on your pup’s joints, neck, and muscles when eating, can help to alleviate pain associated with arthritis and other joint issues. Elevated feeders are also great for large breed pups who tend to slouch when eating, as they can help maintain good posture. It can also help reduce bloating and indigestion, as the food is not being gulped down from a lower level.
4. Prevents joint pain and discomfort
Elevated feeders are great for larger breeds who may suffer from joint pain. As the name implies, elevated feeders provide relief by eliminating strain on their necks and backs while they feed. This can help alleviate joint pains caused by reaching down to the floor each time they eat or drink. These feeders also help prevent bloating and indigestion in dogs by promoting better posture while they eat. Raised dog bowl also makes it easier for senior dogs to enjoy their meals, as they can easily access the bowls without straining.
Cons of Elevated Dog Feeders
1. Doesn’t Prevent Messy Eating
Although elevated feeders are beneficial for many reasons, one of their drawbacks is that they only sometimes prevent pups from making a mess when eating. As these platforms raise the bowls off the ground, it can also make it easier for pets to drag food and water onto the floor. Additionally, some pups may find elevated feeders uncomfortable, especially if they are too tall. So it's important to find the right height feeder that is comfortable and appropriate for your pup. Also, elevated feeders may not be suitable for smaller breeds as they may need help reaching the bowls. Lastly, these feeders can be difficult to store due to their bulky size. So it's important to consider your pup’s needs before purchasing an elevated feeder.
2. Harder to Clean and Maintain
One of the major cons of using elevated dog feeders is that they can be more difficult to clean and maintain. As they are made out of various materials, they require extra effort to ensure they stay clean and free of germs. If your pup has a habit of spilling their food and water, it can be harder to get access to the source of the mess and clean it up. Additionally, some elevated feeders are made from wood which can be difficult to keep in good condition as they can warp or rot over time. Furthermore, they may require more frequent checks and changes of bowl liners as food particles can build up easily in these feeders.
3. Expensive Compared to Traditional Bowls
The primary disadvantage of elevated dog feeders is that they tend to be more expensive than traditional bowls. This often means pet owners must make a larger initial investment to provide their pup with the best feeding experience. Additionally, the materials used in raised feeders are typically heavier and difficult to move or transport when necessary.
Some elevated feeders are less stable than traditional bowls and may move or tilt when bumped. This can cause spills or messes and may be difficult to clean up. As such, pet owners should consider the size and weight of their pup when selecting an elevated dog bowl to ensure it can hold up during use.
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Frequently Asked Questions FAQs
Is it better for dogs to eat from elevated bowls?
It is generally better for dogs to eat from an elevated dog food bowl. Dogs who strain their necks and shoulders to eat out of ground-level bowls are more likely to develop joint problems. Elevated bowls can also be easier on the digestive system, decreasing bloat and regurgitation.
Why do dogs move their food bowl before eating?
Sometimes, dogs move their food bowl before eating because of instinct. Some canine ancestors would scavenge for scraps in the wild and needed to quickly adjust the location of their meal when other animals threatened it. Other times, a dog may prefer to eat from a different place or spot that is more comfortable for them.
Do elevated dog bowls help with digestion?
Yes, elevated dog bowls can help with digestion in some cases. Eating from an elevated bowl is thought to decrease the chances of bloat and regurgitation by reducing strain on the neck and shoulder muscles and creating a better posture for swallowing food. In addition, dogs who eat from elevated bowls tend to be less likely to gulp their food, which can help reduce the risk of choking.
