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For most dogs (and their humans), mealtime is the highlight of the day. But is your furry friend enjoying their dinner as much as they could be? If you notice your dog is awkwardly hunched over their floor-level bowl, perhaps it’s time to consider an elevated dog dish. Elevated food bowls for dogs can make dining a more comfortable experience—and they may even aid in your pup’s digestion.
Curious about how your dog would fare with a raised food bowl? Let’s see how they stack up against regular floor-level dishes.
Are Elevated Dog Bowls Better?
While experts remain divided on the matter, there’s ample anecdotal evidence that elevated food bowls benefit certain dogs. But are they right for your dog? The answer will depend on several factors, including your dog’s size, health, and eating habits.
Generally, raised bowls are best for tall dogs who would otherwise have to bend and strain their necks to eat. By promoting a neutral spine during meals, elevated bowls are a comfortable alternative for dogs with arthritis. They’re also good for senior dogs dealing with the aches and pains of old age.
Tired of messy kibble strewn across the floor? Elevated food bowls tend to slide around less than regular bowls, resulting in neater meals. Plus, the added height is a barrier to unwanted critters.
Raised bowls can help dogs with mild megaesophagus, or those who regurgitate their food. The jury is still out on whether or not raised bowls can prevent bloat in dogs, with some experts touting them as a remedy and others reporting they worsen the condition. The best way to see if an elevated bowl could work for your dog is to check in with your vet. They can evaluate your dog and help you determine if a raised dish might be beneficial.
What Makes a Good Elevated Food Bowl for Dogs?
Of course, not all elevated food bowls are created equal. If you’re in the market for a raised dog dish, here are some things to consider:
- Size: By far the most important feature you’ll be looking at is size. Before purchasing an elevated dog dish, double-check the dimensions to ensure the height will be comfortable for your pet. For optimal comfort, a raised food bowl should reach your dog’s lower chest, right where the front legs meet the torso. Adjustable bowls make it easier to get the right fit. (And they’re perfect for growing puppies!)
- Washability: Keeping your pet’s food bowls clean is an important part of good hygiene. And a dog bowl that’s easy to wash means you’ll be more likely to put in the effort. To make your life easier, look for dishwasher-safe bowls and mess-proof design features like raised sides and water-collecting reservoirs.
- Integrated food storage: If you could use a place to stash your dog’s food, there are raised feeders with airtight storage that keep food fresh and pest-free.
- Attractive design: Part of the appeal of elevated bowls is their aesthetically pleasing designs. Raised food bowls come in various shapes, materials, and colors, making it easy to find something that complements your home’s decor.
The 6 Best Elevated Food Bowls for Dogs
Now that you have a better idea of what you’re looking for, let’s check out six elevated feeders that we think are worth giving a try.
1. Best for Tidy Feeding: Neater Feeder Mess-Proof Bowls
This feeder’s name says it all: If your dog’s table manners are lacking, the Neater Feeder can lend a hand. A raised splashguard encloses the back and sides of this feeder, preventing kibble overflow. There’s also a reservoir underneath the stainless steel bowls to catch spilled water. And the top insert is removable, simplifying cleanup.
Key Features:
- Drainage holes collect spilled water in a lower reservoir
- Available in three sizes (plus a cat size)
- Removable insert
- Includes two bowls: one slightly smaller bowl for water and one for food
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2. Best with Storage: Iris Elevated Feeder With Airtight Food Storage
Here’s a feeder for pet owners looking for a solution to their food storage problems. The Iris Elevated Feeder features an airtight container beneath a pair of stainless steel food bowls. The sealed compartment keeps food fresh longer and also offers a convenient way to transport kibble on road trips or camping excursions.
Key Features:
- Three sizes available
- Airtight sealed storage underneath
- Stainless steel bowls are removable
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3. Best Single Bowl: Frisco Stainless Steel Bowl with Stand
If all you need is one raised dish, this Frisco bowl should do the trick. A non-skid rubber bottom keeps the melamine stand from sliding around, and slightly raised sides prevent spilling. For easy cleanup after meals, the removable bowl can be placed in the dishwasher.
Key Features:
- Available in two colors: black and cream
- Bowl holds up to 3 cups
- BPA-free materials
- Dishwasher-safe bowl
4. Best Adjustable: Frisco Adjustable Elevated Dish Holder
Nailing the right height is easier with an adjustable feeder. This Frisco model can be modified to reach three different levels: 8.7 inches, 12.2 inches, and 13.4 inches (approximately). It’s a great pick for growing puppies: just extend the legs to the next level as your young pup gets taller. Each bowl can hold up to 7 cups of food or water.
Key Features:
- Clips hold bowls in place
- Dishwasher-safe bowls
- Non-skid feet
- Best for medium to large-sized breeds
5. Best Elevated Slow-Feeder: Fluff Trough Binge Blocker
For dogs who gulp down their food in a flash, the Fluff Trough Binge Blocker can be a lifesaver. The silicone insert is comprised of tiny compartments that promote slower eating. The wider surface area and shallow bowl make the Fluff Trough a good choice for flat-faced breeds like Bulldogs and Pugs. This one is best for small to medium-sized dogs, but larger options are available.
Key Features:
- Four color options: gray, black, purple, and blue
- Removable tray for easy cleaning
- Non-slip feet
- BPA-free and non-toxic materials
6. Most Stylish Design: Ozarks Fehr Trade Originals Elevated Bowls
Here’s a raised feeder that looks chic in any setting. Wood stains vary in color, ranging from natural wood to a darker “espresso” shade with hints of green. The exact look of your feeder will vary in tone and wood knots, but all stains are 100% natural, non-toxic, and allergen-free.
This feeder has a steeper price tag than most, but many happy pet parents insist it’s well worth the cost.
Key Features:
- Three wood grain options
- Four sizes available
- Comes fully assembled
- Made in the U.S.