An elevated bowl is a food or water bowl on a stand, so your dog does not have to bend down as far when eating and drinking. For some dogs, this is more comfortable, but it is not necessary for every dog.
You may have seen your dog do it: stand with its legs wide apart and bend deep down to the ground to reach the food bowl. For some dogs, this is no problem at all, while for others, an elevated food bowl may be more comfortable. In this blog, we explain what an elevated food bowl is, which dogs may find it beneficial for, and what to look for when choosing one.
What is an elevated food bowl?
With an elevated food bowl, the bowl does not sit on the ground, but on a stand or riser. This allows your dog to eat and drink without bending far down. The bowl itself is often made of ceramic, which is sturdy and easy to clean, and the stand raises the bowl to a height that suits your dog. Sometimes the bowl and stand are sold separately, allowing you to adjust the height to your dog's size.
Which dogs may find elevated feeding more comfortable?
Elevated feeding is not necessary for every dog, but it can be more comfortable in certain situations:
Larger dogs. Dogs with long legs have to bend down relatively far to reach a bowl on the ground. An elevated bowl brings the food closer to their normal head height.
Older dogs and dogs with stiff joints. For a dog that finds bending difficult, eating at an elevated height can reduce strain on the neck and front legs.
Dogs that are recovering or have physical limitations. For dogs that temporarily find bending difficult, an elevated bowl can make eating easier.
If you are unsure whether elevated feeding is right for your dog, discuss it with your veterinarian. For certain dogs, such as large breeds prone to bloat, there are different views on the ideal eating height. A veterinarian can advise you on what is best for your dog.
What to look for when choosing?
The most important factor is the height. A good rule of thumb is that the bowl should be at approximately your dog's chest height, so they can eat upright without stretching their neck or bending down too far. Therefore, measure your dog before choosing a stand. Also look for a stable stand that will not slide away, and a bowl that is easy to clean. Ceramic is an excellent choice for this, as it does not absorb odours and is easy to clean.
An example: the ceramic bowl and stand from William Walker
If you want to combine comfort with a stylish look, consider the Parel ceramic dog bowl from William Walker. This ceramic bowl is available in several sizes, so you can choose the size that suits your dog. Combine the bowl with the inverted dog bowl stand to place the bowl at the desired height. This way, you can create your own elevated feeding area that suits your dog's size and your interior.
Need advice?
View the full collection of food and water bowls or visit Het Vachtje. We will be happy to help you choose a bowl and height that suit your dog.
Frequently asked questions about elevated food bowls
Is an elevated food bowl better for my dog?
That depends on your dog. Elevated feeding can be more comfortable for larger dogs, older dogs, and dogs with stiff joints. For many dogs, a bowl on the ground is perfectly fine. If you are unsure, discuss it with your veterinarian.
At what height should the food bowl be?
A good rule of thumb is that the bowl should be at approximately your dog's chest height, so they can eat upright without bending down too far or stretching their neck. Measure your dog and choose a stand accordingly.
Which dogs is elevated feeding less suitable for?
There are different views on elevated feeding for large breeds prone to bloat. For these dogs, it is advisable to discuss the best eating height with a veterinarian beforehand.
What material is best to choose for a food bowl?
Ceramic is an excellent choice: it is sturdy, does not absorb odours, and is easy to clean. Also look for a stable stand that will not slide away while your dog is eating.
Should I buy the bowl and stand separately or together?
You can do either. By choosing the ceramic bowl and stand separately, you can adjust the height precisely to your dog's size. In the store, we will be happy to help you choose the combination that suits your dog.