A dog eats from a bowl on the floor, with its neck bent right over. For small dogs, this is natural. For large dogs and some dogs with spinal or digestive problems, this position puts unnecessary strain on the body at every meal. This is where a raised feeding bowl comes in.
What is a raised feeding bowl?
It is a stand that raises the bowls to a suitable height (usually at the level of the animal’s chest, without the need to bend the neck). The bowl is at a level where the dog can eat with its head naturally aligned, just as it would when eating from a flat surface.
Who benefits most
- Large and giant breeds (Labradors, German Shepherds, Huskies) — they have to bend over more, and this strain is repeated at every meal.
- Dogs with hip dysplasia or spinal problems — less bending means less strain.
- Dogs with reflux or slow digestion — the more upright position helps food pass through the oesophagus more easily.
- Older dogs and those with reduced mobility — they avoid having to crouch down, which reduces the strain.
An important note
There is some debate amongst vets regarding raised feeders and deep-chested breeds (such as Dalmatians or Great Danes) due to the risk of gastric torsion. The sensible rule: for deep-chested dogs, speak to your vet first. For most other dogs, especially large, elderly or those with spinal problems, the right height is clearly a comfort.
How to choose the right height
The bowl should be roughly level with the dog’s chest when it is standing. Measure from the floor to the chest when sitting or to the shoulder — the bowl should be at that height or slightly below. There are double, angled and adjustable stands available to find the right fit for your pet.
And what about cats?
For cats, most are happy with bowls at floor level or slightly raised. Triple, raised feeding stations are useful in multi-cat households, to keep the bowls separate and ergonomically positioned.
For large dogs, older dogs or those with back problems, the correct bowl height isn’t a luxury — it’s everyday comfort that makes a difference at every meal. 🐾