Food is an extremely important part of being a pet parent. And no, a dog didn’t write this. But what’s even more important, is the type of bowl your dog is using.
At YuMOVE, we know that dogs are an integral – and furry – part of the family. They sleep on your bed, come with you on your holidays and can even throw temper tantrums. The one thing they probably don’t do? Eat straight from your plate at the dinner table.
Luckily for you, there are lots of dog bowl options out there that are stylish, functional and tailored to different dog needs. And as your probably already know, your senior dog has very different needs than a puppy. Read on to find out why a decent dog bowl is so important, and discover our top picks for your elderly pup…
What to look for in a dog bowl
The right food and water bowls can really help your ageing dog at mealtimes. Here are a few tips to keep your senior canine comfy when eating and drinking:
- Try out a raised bowl. They help to prevent unnecessary strain to senior joints when bending.
- Keep it shallow for small dogs. Shallow dishes are the most appropriate for smaller dogs, as it allows them to reach the bottom without putting pressure on their joints or throat.
- Make sure it’s non-slip. This helps to stop the dish from slipping and sliding. You could also try adding a mat or non-slip tape under bowls to stop them moving around.
The best bowls for senior dogs
Looking for a no-spill dog bowl? Look no further. This one is perfectly angled, allowing food to gather at the base – making it easier to eat. Plus, it comes in a range of different sizes for small, medium and large dogs. The best part? Its wide, sturdy base makes it a stable option, and it’s completely dishwasher safe.
This small, family-run business based in South Yorkshire specialises in pet feeding stations. And their raised dog bowl is machine-cut and assembled in the UK, and perfectly fits two 6-inch stainless steel dog bowls.
Most importantly though, it’s great for your senior dog. It comes in different sizes for different breeds, and the top is completely waterproof in case of spillages. And its raised base means your ageing pup doesn’t have to bend down to eat – relieving pressure on the neck and joints.
Handmade to order based on your pet’s height, this dog bowl is easy to clean and comes in any colour you want. What’s more, thanks to non-slip rubber feet and anti-rattle rubber strips, your dog’s food won’t move or slide away as they try to eat. And the raised height is great for senior dogs with stiffness – especially if they find dinner time challenging.
Does your senior dog still love an adventure? Ideal for camping trips, days out to the park, or just general outdoor explorations, this elevated feeder has silicone bowls and collapsible legs. Meaning it’s a breeze to move around or stash in your bag during your next adventure. Plus, it’s dishwasher safe for easy cleaning.
Please note: This option is more suitable for small to medium breeds.
This elevated dog feeder is adjustable in height and includes two removable bowls – perfect for senior dogs who struggle to eat from floor-level bowls. It helps your dog to maintain perfect posture, and puts less strain on their back and neck.
The absolute best part? It comes with a slow feeder bowl with a bunch of obstacles built into it. This way, your dog has to use their brain to figure out how to get the food. This slows down their eating speed to boost digestion and reduce the risk of bloating.
What else can you do in your home?
At YuMOVE, we understand that there are certain things you can do around the home to keep your dog safe and comfortable as they get older:
- Put non-slip mats on slippery floors – like hardwood, tiles and laminate – to prevent your pup from stumbling around
- Buy a comfortable bed specific for your senior dog
- Add a stairgate, ramp or sling stair to reduce your dog’s use of the stairs and to make them easier to use
At YuMOVE, we’re on a mission to keep all dogs happy and active for as long as possible. Shop the full YuMOVE dog range here to add a scientifically proven supplement* to their diet. And don’t forget to share some pics with us on Instagram and Facebook!
