Elevated dog bowls can help slow a pup who’s eating too fast, alleviate joint pain for older dogs, and reduce messes during meal time. But choosing the ideal option isn’t as simple as running to your local pet store and grabbing the first bowl you see.
To help you with the decision, we researched dozens of options, and thousands of verified reviews, to find the 7 best elevated dog bowls available right now. Here’s our list:
A quick note: We’re reader supported! This post contains affiliate links, and we may be compensated if you make a purchase after clicking on a link. All prices will be the same as normal.
Our Picks for the Best Elevated Dog Bowls
1. Neater Feeder Deluxe Elevated Dog Bowl
If you’re tired of cleaning up after your dog’s meals, the Neater Feeder is a best bet. This elevated option is a highly-rated bowl, complete with walls that keep messes contained and off your floors. It’s available in three sizes that fit the height of most dogs.
Key Features:
- Elevated dog bowl with high walls and a water collection bin
- The best feeder for messy eaters
- Available in three sizes and six colors
- Stand is between 6” to 14” in height, depending on the size you choose
Pros:
- Sizes to fit small breeds (chihuahuas, yorkies) all the way up to large breeds (golden retrievers, labs)
- Rubber on base for extra grip
- Bowls are removable and dishwasher safe
- Stand is made in the USA
Cons:
- Stand is well made, however bowls will likely need to be replaced over time.
2. Platinum Pets Double Diner Elevated Pet Bowl
Looking for a bowl to fit your home decor? The Platinum Pets Double Diner is a stylish elevated bowl made of hand wrought iron and stainless steel. It’s available in 16 different colors and five different sizes, and includes silicone around each bowl for a quieter, rattle-free meal.
Key Features:
- Elevated feeder suitable for any dog size
- Bowls are powder-coated stainless steel
- Stand is made of hand forged wrought iron
- Available in five heights, ranging from 3.5 inches to 18 inches
Pros:
- Made in the USA
- “Rattle Free Rim” keeps bowls sturdy during meal time
- Bowls are dishwasher safe
- Chip, fade, and rust resistant
- 16 different color combinations allow you to match your home decor
Cons:
- May not be strong enough for hardcore eaters. We suggest taking a look at some of the sturdier options on our list.
3. OurPets Comfort Elevated Dog Bowl
The OurPets Comfort Elevated Bowl is one of the highest rated bowls on the market for small to medium sized dogs. The highlight of this feeder is an easy watering hole; simply insert a two liter water bottle into the stand, and it will automatically refill your dog’s bowl throughout the day.
Key Features:
- Elevated dog bowl suitable for small to medium sized dogs
- Made of durable plastic and stainless steel
- Dimensions: 27” L x 12.5” H x 13.75” W, bowls are 8” in diameter
Pros:
- Includes a “self watering notch” for automatic water refills
- Bowls are rust resistant and dishwasher safe
- Spill ridge helps keep messes off your floor
Cons:
- This feeder lacks a rubber base, so can slide on hard floors
4. PetRageous “Set The Table” Dog Bowl Stand
The PetRageous Elevated Wire Stand is the most versatile option on our list. This heavy-duty steel frame elevates any dog bowl, allowing you to easily swap out feeders of any size or shape. It’s available in three options ranging from 4 to 12 inches high.
Key Features:
- Elevated wire stand for dog bowls
- Made of durable, powder-coated steel
- Available in three sizes, with heights between 4.25 inches and 12 inches
Pros:
- Versatile design; can hold multiple bowls of varying shapes
- No-skid rubber feet for extra grip on floors
- Easy to assemble
Cons:
- Given its design, some rattling can happen during meal time. Keep this in mind for vigorous eaters.
5. Dexas Popware Collapsable Elevated Dog Feeder
Dexas Popware is a best bet for those on the move with their pup. This elevated stand comes with two dishwasher safe silicone bowls, and collapses down to just 1.5 inches for easy storage. It’s available in two sizes and four color combinations.
Key Features:
- Collapsable elevated dog feeder
- Available in both small and large sizes
- Ultra portable: just 1.5 inches thick when collapsed
- Dimensions: 13” L x 7” H x 4” W for the small version, 16.25” L x 8.5” H x 5” W for the large version
Pros:
- Available in four colors: blue, pink, lime green, purple
- Silicone bowls are removable and dishwasher safe
Cons:
- Collapsable design means it’s not as sturdy as other options on our list
6. PetFusion Aluminum Elevated Dog Bowl
The PetFusion Elevated Dog Bowl is a sleek, all-metal feeder made of heavy duty aluminum and stainless steel. It’s rust and fade resistant, and comes in two sizes that fit small to medium sized dogs.
Key Features:
- Aluminum elevated dog bowl
- Stand is made of anodized aluminum, and bowls are made of stainless steel
- Suitable for small to medium breeds
- Dimensions: 17” L x 4” H x 10” W for small size, 22” L x 8” H x 14” W for large size
Pros:
- Anodized aluminum is extremely durable, corrosion resistant, and long lasting compared to other metals
- Base is made with rubber for extra grip on flooring
Cons:
- Quality comes at a price; the PetFusion is more expensive than other bowls
7. Petmate Easy Reach Raised Dog Feeder
The Petmate Easy Reach Diner is another highly-rated option — perfect for large dogs that need a taller stand. These bowls are deep, and can hold a large volume of food and water. The stand is made in the USA from BPA-free plastic, while the bowls are made of rust resistant stainless steel.
Key Features:
- Elevated dog bowl for medium and large breed dogs
- Made of stainless steel and BPA-free plastic
- Available in two sizes: 8 inches and 15 inches high
Pros:
- Bowls are easy to remove and dishwasher safe
- Raised rims around the feeder prevent spills and messes
- Made in the USA
Cons:
- Not made in sizes for small dogs
Elevated Dog Bowl Buying Guide
What to Look for In an Elevated Bowl
You’ve decided to buy an elevated bowl for your dog — great! Here’s a quick checklist of things to consider when making your purchase:
Height: To reap the benefits of a raised feeder, you’ll need to determine the correct height for your dog. While guidelines can be helpful in determining size measurements, remember that not all dogs are identical, even those of the same breed. We recommend following our sizing instructions below, or purchasing an adjustable height bowl that can be tailored to your dog.
Bowl Type: As you would with any bowl, find one that works with your lifestyle and home decor. We recommend those that are easily removable from its stand for easy cleaning.
Material: The material of your bowl is also important, as some are dishwasher friendly, while others need to be hand washed. Common materials for elevated dog bowls and stands include metal, ceramic, bamboo, and various hardwoods.
Reasons to Use an Elevated Feeder
Not sure whether to invest in an elevated dog bowl? Here are five reasons why your pooch can benefit from the change.
1. Improves Posture
When your dog eats from a bowl low to the ground, they might be straining their neck. For older dogs, this can lead to back, neck, or joint discomfort — which may even cause them to skip meals! A raised bowl can help your dog can eat from a natural position without needing to bend over.
2. Encourages Slow Eating
Does your dog gobble their food in the blink of an eye? Elevated bowls naturally slow eating, allowing them to digest meals more easily.
3. Prevents Lying Down While Eating
Certain activities can cause dogs to eat while lying down, such as a long day of running. Poor posture can make it harder for digestion, so fixing this is key.
4. Easier to Swallow Food
Raising your dog’s food can make it easier for them to swallow and also reduces the risk of choking.
Dog Bloat: Is There a Connection?
If you’re a dog owner, you should familiarize yourself with a condition called “canine bloat”. This life-threatening condition, also known as Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus (GDV), happens when your dog’s stomach becomes full of air, fluid, foods, and digestive gases. When this occurs, a dog’s stomach grows larger, with the pressure causing it to twist. If it twists completely, the motion cuts off blood flow to essential organs, leading to a potential deadly situation.
If your dog is exhibiting any of these warning signs, call your vet immediately. With GDV, early detection is key. Here’s a list of symptoms:
- Labored or rapid breathing
- Pale gums
- Excessive drooling
- Dry heaving
- Bloated stomach
- Vomiting without success
- Pacing
- Unable to settle
Do Elevated Bowls Contribute to Dog Bloat?
Certain large breeds are more prone to bloat, so if you own one of these dogs, you’ll need to determine if an elevated bowl is right for you.
While there isn’t a direct link between GDV and elevated bowls, there have been a few studies that believe to have found a connection between the two. A study by the Purdue University College of Veterinary Medicine reported an increased risk of bloat with older age, having a first-degree relative with the condition, and using a raised food bowl.
Furthermore, they noted that a dog’s chance of developing bloat increases if they eat dry food containing fat within the first four ingredients. If this concerns you, try incorporating food with rendered meat meal and bone product to help the situation.
In summary: if you have a large breed dog, it doesn’t necessarily mean you can’t use an elevated feeder. You’ll need to make a judgement call, and be mindful of what your dog eats and how they eat it. When in doubt, always consult your veterinarian for their opinion.
What Is the Proper Height of an Elevated Dog Bowl?
The easiest way to determine the correct height of a raised bowl is to measure your dog from the floor to the top of their shoulders, and subtract six inches. For smaller breed dogs, subtract four inches instead of six.
While guidelines are a useful starting point, nothing is better than actually measuring your dog’s shoulder height to ensure you’re buying the correct feeder. In general, the bowl should be positioned at chest height, enabling them to keep a straight neck and better posture.
For those looking for general height information, here are some measurements:
Small Dogs
Smaller dogs (such as Westies, Yorkies, Dachshunds, and Jack Russell Terriers) should eat from an elevated dog bowl that ranges from 2 to 6 inches high.
Medium Dogs
The ideal bowl height for medium dogs is between 7 and 14 inches high. Examples of medium sized breeds include: Shelties, Australian Shepherds, Siberian Huskies, and Beagles.
Large Dogs
Owners of a large dog, such as a Golden Retriever, Dalmatian, Boxer, or American Bulldog, should purchase a feeder between 15 and 20 inches in height.
Extra Large Dogs
Great Pyrenees, Great Danes, Saint Bernards, and Mastiffs are examples of extra large breeds. For these dogs, look for an elevated dog bowl 21 to 27 inches off of the ground.
DIY Raised Dog Bowls
Rather go the DIY route for your elevated bowl? We came across this helpful video that provides a tutorial for a handful of fun options:
Frequently Asked Questions
Still have questions about elevated dog bowls? We’ve answered the most common questions below.
Does my dog need an elevated dog bowl?
Not necessarily. Raised dog bowls aren’t always required, but in certain situations can make a huge difference. While most dogs can benefit from having their food at a more comfortable height, elevated bowls are particularly helpful for older dogs with neck or joint issues, or for those with poor posture.
Are elevated dog bowls good or bad?
Many opt for an elevated dog bowl to help their dog with issues such as arthritis and posture. If you have an older dog (or a dog dealing with joint pain), raising their feeder to a natural height can help tremendously. It’s also a great option for dogs that tend to rush through eating their meals.
If you have a breed that’s prone to canine bloat, you should be mindful of elevated feeders. While there aren’t any concrete links between bloat and elevated bowls, a few studies have raised some concern.
Also keep in mind that some dogs simply might not like a raised feeder. While most will enjoy their food just fine, you may need to get your dog used to a new bowl if they feel uncomfortable.
How tall should an elevated dog bowl be?
To determine the proper height of a raised bowl, measure from the ground to the top of their shoulders and subtract six inches. Ideally, the dog bowl will be high enough so your dog doesn’t need to lower their neck to eat.
Does an elevated dog bowl cause canine bloat?
It’s difficult to say; some studies have found a connection, while others were inconclusive. If you’re not sure if an elevated dog bowl is the right choice for your dog, speak with your veterinarian for the best advice.
What dog breeds are prone to bloat?
While GDV is a risk for all dogs, specific breeds are more prone to bloat. The condition more commonly impacts deep-chested dog breeds such as Boxers, Labrador Retrievers, Great Danes, Standard Poodles, German Shepherds, and other medium to extra-large dogs. If you have one of these types, you should weigh the pros and cons of a raised bowl to see if it’s right for your dog.
While we strive to provide the most comprehensive research, our site is for informational purposes only. If you have any concerns about your dog’s eating habits, or are concerned about issues such as canine bloat, speak with you veterinarian to determine the best course of action for your pup. They’ll thank you for it!
More Pet Product Reviews:
