Benefits of an elevated dog bowl for an Older Dogs


Benefits of an elevated dog bowl can be found for dogs of all ages, but for older dogs an elevated dog bowl may be essential. A raised dog feeder helps reduce or eliminate the need for dogs to position their head downward during feeding resulting in your dog swallowing less air. Moreover, dogs suffering from arthritis can feed with reduced pain.

Overall, an elevated dog bowl provides a more comfortable and convenient feeding position.

Benefits of Elevated dog bowls:

  • Cleaner - Elevated dog bowls keep feeding areas cleaner by keeping the food and water in the bowls and not on the floor. Dogs are less likely to drip water on the floor when drinking from an elevated water bowl.

    Moisture can get under a normal dish creating a great place for molds and bacteria to grow; an elevated dog bowl helps prevent the puddling and many also come with removable ceramic or stainless steel bowls that can be placed right in the dishwasher.


  • Posture - An elevated dog bowl allows a dog to eat without leaning down and forward putting stress on an older dogs back and forelegs.


  • Nutrition Needs - Older dogs that suffer from arthritis, stiff muscles and joints can be in pain while eating due to having to lean forward and down constantly may eat less than required. An elevated dog bowl can reduce the stress on the canine neck, back and shoulders allowing them to feed for a sufficient time to meet their nutritional needs. Raising food and water to their level by using a elevated feeder encourages eating and drinking.


  • Reducing Choking - Senior dogs can develop a condition called mega-esophagus or an enlarged, flaccid esophagus. In this disorder the food doesn't flow to the stomach properly and will stick in the dog's throat causing them to make choking sounds while they regurgitate the food lodged in the esophagus. An elevated feeding bowl will allow gravity to help get the food down to the stomach.

Selecting an Elevated Dog Bowls

  • Dog Height - Bowl should be no higher than 6 inches below the dog's front shoulders. (4 inches for very small dogs.)


  • Material of Feeding Bowl - Lightweight, rust and rot resistant. If you feed hot food to your dog, stay away from heat conducting metal.


  • Construction of the Stand - The stand for an elevated feeder needs to be sturdy enough for daily use.


  • Capacity - This can range from 2 to 16 cups in volume. Consider how much your dog eats at mealtime and figure accordingly.


  • Design/Number of Bowls - Do you need a 2 or 3 bowl feeder? Do you have more than one dog that you will feed at one time? Consider your pet's needs when making your selection.


  • Cost - Elevated dog feeders vary substantially in price from $30 to over $100 depending on quality and design.