Are Dog Bowls Supposed to Be Elevated?
Dog bowls are an essential item for any household with a furry friend. They come in different forms, sizes, and materials so that each dog can find one that meets its needs.
Some pet owners might choose a simple bowl that sits on the ground, while others might choose an elevated dog bowl.
But what are the pros and cons of dog bowls that are raised? And are the elevated bowls good for your four-legged friend?
In this piece, we'll talk about the pros and cons of elevated dog bowls and give you some things to think about before deciding whether to get one.
The Pros and Cons of Elevated Dog Bowls
Elevated dog bowls are designed to be raised off the ground, which can provide several benefits for your furry friend. Here are some of the pros and cons of using elevated dog bowls:
Pros:
- ● Helps keep the dog's neck and back from getting strained: Dogs that eat from bowls that are directly on the ground may have to stretch their necks and backs to get to their food, which can cause strain over time. Putting the food closer to the dog's mouth can help stop this from happening.
- ● Keeps bowls in place: Elevated dog bowls often have non-slip bases that help keep the bowls in place. This is especially helpful for dogs that move their bowls around while eating.
- ● Some dogs may feel more comfortable: Dogs with arthritis or other joint problems may find eating from a bowl that isn't on the ground easier.
Cons:
- ● Not ideal for all dog breeds or sizes: Elevated dog bowls can help many dogs, but there may be better choices for all breeds or sizes. For example, some vets say that big and giant breeds shouldn't use elevated bowls because they may increase the risk of bloat.
- ● Relatively expensive: Elevated dog bowls might be more costly than traditional bowls, which may be a consideration for budget-conscious pet owners.
- ● It may lead to overeating or bloat: Even though no studies prove elevated dog bowls cause bloat, we still recommend considering it. If you're unsure about this, discuss with the vet is a good idea. You could also research the correct height of raised bowls in advance.
Factors About Using Elevated Dog Bowls
If you're trying to decide whether or not to use an elevated dog bowl for your furry friend, there are a few factors you may want to consider:
- ● Dog breed and size: Some dog breeds and sizes may be more likely to have health problems like bloat when using raised bowls. Talk to your vet to find out if an elevated bowl is right for the type and size of your dog.
- ● Age and health conditions: Older dogs or dogs with joint problems may benefit from a raised bowl because it makes their neck and back less stressed.
- ● Eating habits: Some dogs tend to eat too quickly or too much when their bowls are raised, which can be bad for their health. Before deciding whether to use a raised bowl, consider how your dog usually eats.
- ● Bowl height: It's important to choose the right height for elevated dog bowls. The bowl should be high enough so that your dog doesn't have to stretch to get to it but not so high that it hurts or causes other problems.
- ● Material and shape of the bowl: Dog bowl's material and shape should be safe, sturdy, and easy to clean. Look for bowls with bases that won't slide around to avoid spills and other mishaps.
Things in The End
So, are dog bowls supposed to be elevated?
The answer is that it depends on many things, such as your dog's breed, size, age, eating habits, and health issues.
Although elevated dog bowls can provide many benefits, some dogs may have better choices. Discuss with the vet your vet before buying an elevated bowl for your pet. A suitable bowl and feeding routine ensures your dog is comfortable and healthy while eating. Whether you use an elevated bowl or a traditional one, please keep it clean and replace it as needed to prevent contamination or damage.
