Results may differ because different techniques are used or other medical conditions are present. Conflicting results from research studies is not that uncommon. However, studies on risk factors for bloat associated with elevated feeders are unclear. Glickman's study was confined only to large and giant breed dogs. Glickman's data showed that 'approximately 20% and 50% of cases of GDV among the large and giant breed dogs, respectively, were attributed to having a raised food bowl.' (J Am Vet Med Assoc 2000 217:1492-1499). The Glickman et al study found that use of a raised feeder increases the risk of bloat by 110%. The risk of bloat does appear to increase with age. Breed susceptibility is pretty obvious for many deep chested dogs. They have identified a number of likely factors, including behavioral traits. Scientists at many locations have been studying gastric dilatation and volvulus (GDV), commonly called bloat, for a long time. An elevated feeder may increase your dogs risk for bloat especially if he/she has a relative who has bloated. It's inadvisable to use elevated feeders if you have a dog already susceptible to bloat. This is important for senior, arthritic or dogs with other conditions that make swallowing difficult. An improved posture causes less stress on your dog's back and joints.

Your dog is able to maintain better posture and a more comfortable stance while eating and drinking. With an elevated feeder, they do not have to raise their heads as far. Dogs tend to lift their heads after taking a drink to facilitate swallowing. In addition to the risk factors listed, many veterinarians believe that stress also causes bloat.Įlevated dog feeders offer your dog some real health benefits. Some causes are believed to be rapid eating, elevated food bowls, dry foods that contain citric acid as a preservative, dry foods that contain fat among the first four ingredients, insufficient pancreatic enzymes, dilution of gastric juices necessary for complete digestion by drinking too much water before or after eating, eating gas-producing foods, drinking too much water too quickly, heredity-especially having a first degree relative who has bloated, build & physical characteristics and disposition. Male dogs are much more likely to suffer from bloat than female dogs. Smaller dogs, puppies, and less active dogs, while still susceptible to dog bloat, will not have as great a risk as larger more active dogs. The combined effect can quickly kill a dog.ĭeep-chested dogs, such as German Shepherds, Great Danes, and Dobermans are particularly at risk. The bloated stomach obstructs veins in the abdomen, leading to low blood pressure, shock, and damage to internal organs. Bloat can occur with or without twisting. The stomach swells and twisting occurs between the esophagus and upper intestine. Bloating of the stomach is often related to swallowed air, although food and fluid can also be present. Elevated feeders do have some benefits, however, they may not be the best choice from a health perspective since some breeds are already susceptible to bloat.īloat in dogs, gastric dilatation and volvulus (GDV), occurs most commonly in large breed dogs and is life-threatening. Contact us for more information and custom options.Elevated feeders have been identified as a non-dietary risk factor for dog bloat. Please allow 2-3 weeks for your custom dog feeder to ship. If our products are hand crafted we can work with you on color, graphic, size and style.

If you have any questions about this item or any of our other handmade items please contact us. Our feeders include two 3-quart stainless steel bowls measuring 9 3/4” Dia. If you need a larger or smaller size, please send us your measurements and we will do our best to suit your needs. Our standard elevated feeder measures 26” x 11 ¾” x 14”. Each one is handmade to order so they will feature their own unique look.įeeders are accented with rope and nail head trim. These rustic wood feeders are made with ¾” pine. Our elevated dog feeding stations are available in a variety of colors with phrases, rustic accents and the option of adding your dog’s name. Spoil your pooch with a raised dog feeder and yourself with a color that coordinates with your decor and some bling and rustic elements to blend with rustic, lodge or western themed decor. If an elevated dog feeder is right for your dog, then have one that is right for your decor style that has some meaning to it.

Elevated dog feeder