What Should I Look For in a Raised Dog Feeder?

If your dog is your best friend and companion, this is a very important question.  There are many types of dog feeders on the market (wood, metal, plain, colorful …) but which one best suits your family?

First you should determine the size based upon the height of your dog.  A raised dog feeder should go up to your dogs chest.  It should be something that not only feeds your dog, but that is part of your decor; one that defines who your dog is and the style of your home.  Do you prefer the look of metal?  wood?  or would you rather have one that is colorful with stained glass, dog embellishments and gems?  It’s all personal preference.

What are the benefits for my dog?  Using a raised dog feeder reduces the air your dog ingests while eating and drinking.  This in turn helps avoid stomach bloat which is the second leading cause of death in dogs.

“In bloat (dilatation), due to a number of different and sometimes unknown reasons, the stomach fills up with air and puts pressure on the other organs and diaphragm. The pressure on the diaphragm makes it difficult for the dog to breathe. The air-filled stomach also compresses large veins in the abdomen, thus preventing blood from returning to the heart. Filled with air, the stomach can easily rotate on itself, thus pinching off its blood supply. Once this rotation (volvulus) occurs and the blood supply is cut off, the stomach begins to die and the entire blood supply is disrupted and the animal’s condition begins to deteriorate very rapidly. ” PetEducation.com

Secondly, it allows our dogs to eat at a more natural level which reduces the strain on the neck, back muscles, and joints.  The height from these feeders allows a dog to stand more naturally, eliminating the need for dogs to crouch down.  This is especially beneficial for larger dogs, seniors or dog with arthritis.

When looking for a raised dog feeder you should also take into account the physical build of your dog.  If your dog has long flowing hair or ears such as an afghan you might consider a dog feeder with one bowl to allow their hair to flow over the edges.  If your dog has a short muzzle such as a boston terrior or pug you might consider a dog feeder that has a bowl that isn’t too deep, but instead wider to help them with eating.

Consider the personality of the dog.  If your dog likes to drag his/her bowls around the yard or chew on his bowl you might want to avoid ceramic or stained glass feeders.  A more durable steel feeder would be more practical.  Some pet owners would prefer to have an automatic dog feeder which will dispense food at intervals throughout the day.

Lastly, a raised dog feeder will keep their eating area cleaner.  At Defining Designs you can purchase a custom made feeder in your choice of height, color, dog embellishments, number of bowls, etc.  Each one is handmade with stained glass that has been ground on the sides to prevent sharp edges, gems, etc.  They are not only beautiful and enhance your home, but they are also healthier for your dog.  Whether you have show dogs, are a celebrity that lavishes your pets, or someone who has a rescue dog … these raised dog feeders would be a great addition to your home.

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