Elevating Your Dog s Quality of Life The Benefits of River Run Pet Food
5 Benefits of Elevated Food Bowls for Dogs: Myths or Facts?
Over the years, there have been plenty of contention topics among dog owners are grains good or bad?
Should dogs be spayed or neutered before a certain age?
Can they see color?
However, one topic that has repeatedly been questioned is the benefit or detriment of elevated food bowls for dogsand how these now popular raised dog food bowls affect our pets.
What are elevated dog food bowls?
An elevated dog food bowl is any pet food bowl that does not sit directly on the floor. The actual height of elevation of the bowl may vary based on design. There are elevated dog food bowls (also called raised dog food bowls) that come in set elevations for different-sized dogs.
There are adjustable raised pet food bowls that allow owners to choose a specific bowl height.
With the popularity of raised food bowls, many pet owners have wondered if they should ditch their old regular dog food bowls and start their canines on elevated ones due to the potential benefits they provide.
However, there's more to know about elevated pet food bowls than some sources may lead you to believe.
How to pick a raised dog food bowl?
If there are different heights for elevated bowls, how does one find the correct and perfect height of an elevated food bowl for a pet?
If you decide to switch from regular dog food bowls to using elevated feeders for your dog, height is the main component to consider, and it's essential to select a raised bowl at the correct height.
Measuring is key.
How to measure:
The best way to measure your dog to get the right elevated dog bowl is to get your Fido to stand with his legs directly underneath him.
From here, get a tape measure and measure from the floor up to the point where your dogs front legs meet the chest.
Alternately, you can measure from the floor up to your dogs shoulder and subtract between 3 and 6 depending upon his overall height.
You want to subtract 6 for larger dogs, whereas for smaller dogs, you would subtract 3.
Just remember: if you aim to reduce stress on your dog's spine or neck, you should use a raised dog food bowl tall enough to do this.
However, I recommend first reading this article and doing enough of your own research on using raised bowls, and here's why.
Elevated food bowls for dogs have been advertised as having many benefits for dogs' health.
Unfortunately, not all of those advertised benefits hold.
Lets take a look at some of these widely spread truths and falsehoods from a scientific viewpoint.
READ MORE:Mealtime Battle Regular Dog Bowl vs. Raised Dog Bowl
5 Myths and Facts ofElevated Food Bowls for Dogs
1 Elevated Dog Food Bowls Reduce Bloat in Large Breeds
This is FALSE.
When first promoted, raised dog food bowls were sold as something extremely beneficial for larger breed dogs at a higher risk of bloating.
This view was sold as science because it resulted from a statistical study (the Glickman Study).
However, this was no proper study, and the conclusion was extremely flawed.
All that this study did was look at the information of other available, non-science-based literature and anecdotal evidence that already existed and did no research into the matter at all.
In fact, the largest study on contributing factors to canine bloat in larger breed dogs to date says the exact opposite.
Elevated feeding may induce bloating in canines, especially in those with sensitive stomachs.
True, this study wasn't perfect; however, it's the best research paper we have to date.
From what research the scientific community currently has, the idea that elevated feeders can prevent bloat in large-breed dogs is questionable at best.
So, do elevated feeders for dogs reduce bloating in larger breeds? The correct answer here would be that we don't know for sure, but, likely, they DO NOT.
RELATED:5 Reasons Your Dog Has Canine Bloat and How to Prevent It
2 Elevated Dog Food Bowls Create a Healthier Posture for Dogs
This one is both TRUE and FALSE.
Companies promoted elevated food bowls for dogs to prevent bloating in large dogs because they are supposed to create a healthier eating posture.
The truth is that, most likely, dogs have evolved to eat in a head-down posture (sources: 1, 2, 3), so eating in a different posture may not necessarily be a good thing.
With that being said, in theory, this altered posture can be beneficial in other instances, such as older, arthritic, or injured dogs.
When a dog has a case of canine arthritis, joint pain, or immobility issues, eating with a head-down posture can cause excess strain and pain.
By raising your dog's food bowl, your pet no longer has to experience those pains and strains because they do not have to lean down as far to eat.
This has not been researched, though, and is mostly guesswork.
So, is elevated feeding good or bad for older or injured large-breed dogs? There is still controversy here, as I've indicated in my theory.
Since the evidence is scarce to support each side's benefits and detriments, it is a matter of the owner's preference.
RELATED:5 Best Collapsible Dog Bowls for Easy Travel
3 Elevated Dog Food Bowls Promote Cleaner Eating
This is FALSE.
Somewhere along the line (probably with new companies trying to sell the revolutionary raised dog food bowls and making stuff up) came the myth that elevated dog feeders promoted cleaner eating spaces for canines.
We arent sure where this idea came from, but this one is absolutely false and has no scientific or even logical basis.
Because of how dogs evolved to drink water and consume food, regardless of the height of your dog's food bowl, your pet can still spill kibble, drop kibble, or even move kibble outside of his bowl.
When dogs consume food, they have their mouths in the same proximity to the source regardless of height.
There is no science on how elevated dog food bowls promote cleaner eating, nor do we need it; watch your pooch eat.
4 Elevated Dog Food Bowls Don'tSlide Across the Floor
This is TRUE.
One concern that some dog owners have is the fact that their dog moves his bowl across the floor as he eats.
Elevated feeders can certainly prevent this from happening, and there's no doubt about that.
However, it is worth noting that a raised dog food bowl is not the only solution to the problem.
Just off the top of my head, two other things that can solve this issue are bowls with rubber on the bottom that prevents sliding or rubbery dog food mats where you can place your Fido's bowl to prevent sliding (which also helps to keep the area cleaner).
Therefore, because we have reasons to believe that elevated food bowls for dogs pose a potential hazard for some breeds to develop bloating, it may be better to choose alternative solutions to the sliding bowl problem rather than opt for an elevated feeder.
READ THIS:Dog Food Bowls That Slow Down Eating When Do You Need One?
5 Elevated Bowls SolveOne SpecificProblematic Behavior in Dogs
This is TRUE.
One particular behavioral issue in dogs that isn't common but can be seen often enough for owners to start looking for solutions attempting to swim or dig into the water bowls, even if the bowl is small.
Some dogs, particularly those with a high predilection for water, spend a great deal of time trying to paddle in their water bowls as if it's the pool.
There's no explanation for this other than they like to be in the water.
The issue is most common with puppies.
Elevated feeders definitely discourage dogs from turning their water source into a pool.
VIDEO GUIDE:How to Choose the Right Dog Bowl (step by step)
The Final Verdict
Frustratingly, when I try to summarize my conclusions on the benefits of elevated food bowls for dogs, I must admit that there are both benefits and detriments to their use. Overall, I would say that the potential cons of using elevated dog food bowls outweigh the possible pros (unless you have a particular reason to use them).
So if you are considering using a raised dog food bowl for your Fido, my advice is that you weigh these pros and cons against your specific case and your specific dog before making your final decision.
Remember to consider the added cost of raised dog food bowls, especially if you're currently on a budget dog food diet.
Say you have a Great Dane and want to use an elevated feeder to reduce the strain on his neck and spine while eating.
Science indicates that an elevated feeder in larger dogs prone to bloating more easily is contradictory.
So, while your Great Dane may not experience strain in his neck from eating at an elevated feeder, the risk of bloating trumps this benefit.
Say you have a 14-year-old Basenji (a breed not particularly prone to bloat) with a severe case of canine arthritis in the neck, spine, and legs.
You want to use an elevated feeder to assist with posture-related pain and strain.
Common sense indicates that using an elevated feeder in this instance would be beneficial.
Potentially alleviating pain and strain and would not pose concerns of increased risk of canine bloat.
Whatever your decision, definitely speak with your veterinarian before making a switch to a new dog feeder.
Explain the concerns that you have and ask for advice on the best methods to fix them.
Maybe the answer is elevated food bowls for dogs, and maybe it's not.
Common Questions About Elevated Food Bowls for Dogs
If you still have any lingering questions about elevated food bowls for dogs, the following information should help.
Should a Dogs Food Bowl Be Elevated?
You should consider elevating your dogs food bowl if he is elderly or has issues with his joints or bones. Stick to other options if your dog is a larger breed.
Why Are Elevated Dog Bowls Bad?
Elevated dog bowls are only bad for certain dogs. Specific breeds are at a higher risk of bloat if they eat from an elevated bowl.
Do Elevated Dog Bowls Help?
Yes, elevated dog bowls can help your dog, especially if he has bad joints or bones. It can reduce the strain on his joints, including his hips and neck.
Do Raised Dog Food Bowls Cause Bloat?
Depending on the breed, elevated food bowls for dogs can cause bloat. Luckily, there are some things you can do to reduce the risk.
Let your pup take advantage of an elevated bowl.
Are our Raised Dog Bowls Dangerous?
As long as you know the risk of bloat and take proper precautions, raised dog bowls are not dangerous. To be safe, consult your dogs vet before switching him to an elevated bowl.
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This Nutro formula derives most of its meat protein from chicken and chicken meal. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 24% protein, 15% fat and 53% estimated carbs which creates a fat-to-protein ratio of about 63%.
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Read our review of the full Nutro Ultra Dog Food (Dry) range here
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Read our review of the full Go! Carnivore Dog Food (Dry) range here
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This Eagle Pack recipe derives the bulk of its meat protein from chicken and pork meals. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 33% protein, 21% fat and 38% estimated carbs yielding a fat-to-protein ratio of about 63%.
A superior kibble at an affordable price. Made by the same trusted company that also produces Wellness. Exceptional value. Highly recommended.
Read our review of the full Eagle Pack Dog Food (Dry) range here
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This Wellness Core formula derives the bulk of its animal protein from fresh turkey, as well as turkey and chicken meals. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 38% protein, 18% fat and 36% estimated carbs producing a fat-to-protein ratio of about 47%.
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Read our review of the full Wellness Core Dog Food (Dry) range here
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Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"After recently reading an article on health risks for pea proteins in canine foods we decided (after research) that Core was a very good option. Our Bella LOVES IT and it was an easy transition from her old food with no disruption to her digestive system at all which is so common. We are very happy with this brand. It costs a little more than others but our Bella is worth it !!!"
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An exceptional grain-free dog food offering numerous recipe and flavor options. Highly recommended.
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This Dr. Tims product derives the bulk of its animal protein from chicken meal. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 33% protein, 22% fat and 36% estimated carbs creating a fat-to-protein ratio of about 67%.
One of the best-kept secrets in the dry kibble market. And its one of our top picks, especially for sporting dogs. Highly recommended.
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An affordable, classic design offering multiple recipe options. A top selection popular with veterinarians and professional breeders. Highly recommended.
Read our review of the full Iams Proactive Health Dog Food (Dry) range here
Main Ingredients Lamb, chicken by-product meal, brewers rice, ground whole grain barley, ground whole grain corn Texture Dry Type Grain-inclusive Protein Percentage 28% Sample buyer review...
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Victor Hi-Pro Plus is one of 5 kibble recipes included in our review of the Victor Classic product line.
Victor Hi-Pro Plus derives the bulk of its meat protein from beef meal. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 33% protein, 22% fat and 37% estimated carbs which creates a fat-to-protein ratio of about 67%.
An affordable, all life stages kibble recently added to our budget-friendly dog foods list. Highly recommended.
Read our review of the full Victor Classic Dog Food (Dry) range here
Main Ingredients Beef meal, grain sorghum, chicken fat, pork meal, chicken meal Texture Dry Type Grain-inclusive Protein Percentage 33% Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"I have 5 active dogs of all different ages. It's been a struggle to find a quality, decently priced food that kept a good weight on all of them and didn't mess with their allergies. They've been on this food since April and it's been amazing! No bad reactions when switching to Victor, no allergies, and they are all a good weight. Highly recommend."
Annamaet Ultra is one of 8 kibble recipes included in our review of the Annamaet product line.
This Annamaet kibble derives most of its meat protein from chicken meal. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 36% protein, 22% fat and 34% estimated carbs which produces a fat-to-protein ratio of about 63%.
Especially popular with sporting dog professionals. Enthusiastically recommended.
Read our review of the full Annamaet Dog Food (Dry) range here
Main Ingredients Chicken meal, brown rice, chicken fat, whole dry eggs, herring meal Texture Dry Type Grain-inclusive Protein Percentage 36% Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"I only started feeding this food a few months ago after extensive research and I couldn't be happier with the results. Beautiful long thick coats, firm small bowel movements, and great accessible energy. I run a boarding business and all my clients who have tried Annamaet have all been very happy with it. As kibble goes, this is one of the very best options on the market."
Real Beef and Brown Rice is one of 13 recipes included in our review of the Merrick Classic dry product line.
Merrick Classic Healthy Grains derives the bulk of its animal protein from fresh deboned beef and pork meal. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 29% protein, 17% fat and 46% estimated carbs resulting in a fat-to-protein ratio of about 58%.
This fully balanced formula contains zinc amino acid complex and 4 other chelated minerals, superior nutritional supplements typically found in higher quality dog foods. Reasonably priced. Highly recommended.
Read our review of the full Merrick Classic Healthy Grains Dog Food (Dry) range here
Main Ingredients Deboned beef, pork meal, brown rice, barley, oatmeal Texture Dry Type Grain-inclusive Protein Percentage 29% Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"After adopting animals that had been dropped off at my property I thought it was easy to buy cheap dogfood to keep them all nourished. Bad deal! I was contributing to poor health and obesity. I switched over to Merrick and within weeks noticed a change in weight and energy in all my pets."
