Bloat - Eating From Raised Dishes

RAISING FOOD BOWL INCREASES BLOAT RISK

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One finding from a study of bloat in dogs indicates that elevated food bowls, a current preventive method, is not helpful. The study of more than 1,900 dogs focused on seven large breeds and four giant breeds. It has been led by Dr. Larry Glickman of Purdue University.

The study began in 1994. "The most significant finding in this study relates to preventive methods used by owners," reported the AKC Canine Health Foundation. "Raising the food bowl actually increased the risk of bloat by approximately 200 percent."

Other preventive methods used by owners were not associated with a decrease in bloat. Such measures include restricting water and exercise before and after meals. The study confirmed that bloat risk increased with age, larger breed size, greater chest depth/width ratio and having an immediate relative with a history of bloat.

The four giant breeds studied were the Great Dane, Irish Setter, Saint Bernard and Standard Poodle. The large breeds included Akita, Collie, Irish Wolfhound, Newfoundland, Rottweiler and Weimaraner.

The study was funded by the AKC Canine Health Foundation, Morris Animal Foundation and contributions from breed clubs.

More information on the same study

Dietary Risk Factors for Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus (Bloat) in 11
Large and Giant Dog Breeds: A Nested Case-Control Study