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DIY Elevated Dog Feeder: A Stylish and Functional Project

DIY Modern Raised Dog Bowls: A Step-by-Step Guide

Spoil your furry friend with a custom-made, modern raised dog bowl station. This DIY project is perfect for improving your dog’s posture during meal times and adding a touch of style to your home. Follow our comprehensive step-by-step guide to create a feeding solution that’s both functional and aesthetically pleasing.

DIY Modern Raised Dog Bowls

Having a dog, or knowing someone who does, presents the perfect opportunity for a thoughtful, handmade gift. Instead of the usual store-bought items, why not craft a beautiful and functional raised dog bowl station? This project is a fantastic way to showcase your woodworking skills and provide a comfortable and stylish dining experience for your canine companion. This project was born out of a desire to create something special for a friend’s beloved dogs.

Small dog standing over a tray of food.

This elevated dog bowl project offers several advantages. Raised bowls can improve a dog’s posture while eating, reducing strain on their neck and joints. This is especially beneficial for larger breeds or dogs with arthritis. Plus, a well-designed dog bowl station can enhance your home decor, turning a functional necessity into a stylish accessory.

In this tutorial, we’ll guide you through each step of creating your own modern raised dog bowls, from gathering materials to applying the final touches. Whether you’re an experienced woodworker or a beginner, you’ll find this project rewarding and achievable.

Materials for making raised dog bowls.

Materials and Tools You’ll Need

Before you begin, gather all the necessary materials and tools. Having everything on hand will streamline the process and ensure a smooth and enjoyable DIY experience. Here’s a comprehensive list:

  • Plywood: 1/2″ thick, cut to your desired size. A good starting point is 17 x 7″, but adjust based on your dog’s size and the bowls you choose.
  • Lumber for Trim: 1×2″ lumber, at least 48″ long. Maple provides a beautiful finish, but any hardwood will work.
  • Metal Dog Bowl Inserts: Choose bowls that are the right size for your dog. You can find suitable options at most pet stores, such as these from Petco.
  • Table Legs and Brackets: 4 pre-turned table legs and corresponding brackets. Consider a mid-century modern style for a sleek look. TableLegs.com is a great resource.
  • Wood Finish: Minwax Wood Finish to enhance the natural beauty of the wood.
  • Urethane: Minwax Helmsman Spar Urethane for a durable, water-resistant finish.
  • Wood Glue: A strong wood glue for secure bonding.
  • Small Nails: For holding pieces in place while the glue dries.
  • Painting and Staining Tools: Brushes, rollers, and applicators suitable for your chosen finishes.
  • Sandpaper: 220 grit sandpaper for smoothing surfaces.
  • Miter Saw or Miter Box: For precise angle cuts on the trim.
  • Jigsaw or Hole Saw and Drill: For cutting the bowl recesses in the platform.
  • Measuring Tools: Compass, ruler, tape measure, and pencil for accurate measurements.
  • Non-Toxic Paint (Optional): For adding a pop of color to the platform.
  • Safety Glasses and Dust Mask: To protect yourself from dust and debris.
Cutting circles in wood for dog bowls.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Now that you have all your materials and tools, let’s get started!

1. Determine the Platform Size

The first step is to determine the appropriate size for your dog bowl platform. Consider your dog’s size and the dimensions of the bowls you’ve chosen. The height of the platform should allow your dog to eat comfortably without straining. This guide on DocaPet provides helpful information for determining the correct height. Lay out your bowls on the plywood, ensuring there’s enough space for the leg brackets, and cut the platform to size.

2. Measure and Mark the Bowl Recesses

Measure the width of your dog bowls, excluding the lip. Use a compass to transfer the circle onto the plywood, marking the locations for the bowl recesses. Precision is key here to ensure a snug fit for the bowls.

3. Cut Out the Bowl Recesses

Using a jigsaw or a drill with a hole saw attachment, carefully cut out the circular recesses you marked on the platform. Take your time and follow the lines closely. Once the holes are cut, sand the edges smooth to prevent any splinters or rough spots.

Measuring wooden logs to make dog bowl.

4. Cut the Trim Pieces

Measure the sides of the plywood platform to determine the length of the trim pieces. We recommend using miter joints for a clean, professional look. Cut the trim pieces at a 45° angle, ensuring the internal dimension of each cut matches the sides of the platform: 7 and 17 inches (or the dimensions you chose). Test the fit to ensure the pieces align perfectly.

5. Attach the Trim

Apply wood glue to the edges of the plywood platform and the trim pieces. Attach the trim pieces to the platform, using small nails to hold everything in place while the glue dries. Ensure the trim is flush with the top surface of the platform for a seamless finish. Clamps can also be used to provide additional pressure while the glue sets.

Finishing options with Minwax Wood Finish.

6. Choose and Apply Your Finish

Once the glue has dried, it’s time to add the finish. Consider testing different stains on a scrap piece of wood to find the perfect look. Minwax Wood Finish offers a variety of colors to choose from. Apply the stain according to the manufacturer’s instructions, wiping away any excess after the recommended time. For a contrasting look, consider staining the trim and legs while painting the platform with non-toxic milk paint. Let the finish dry completely before moving on to the next step.

Applying finish to the table legs.

7. Finish the Legs

Apply the chosen finish to the table legs, following the same procedure as with the trim. Use a piece of scrap cardboard or foam to hold the legs upright while finishing. Protect the metal brackets with painter’s tape if necessary. Apply a second coat of stain for a deeper, richer color if desired. Allow the legs to dry completely.

Sanding and sealing the wood.

8. Seal the Wood

To protect the wood from water and wear, apply several coats of Minwax Helmsman Spar Urethane. Sand the surface lightly with 220-grit sandpaper after the first coat to create a smooth, even finish. Apply additional coats as needed, allowing each coat to dry for at least 24 hours.

9. Attach the Legs

Attach the table legs to the platform using the provided brackets. Ensure the legs are evenly spaced and securely fastened. Double-check the stability of the platform before proceeding.

10. Insert the Bowls and Enjoy!

Finally, insert the dog bowls into the recesses. Your DIY modern raised dog bowl station is now complete! Call your pup for dinner and watch them enjoy their new feeding experience.

Dog eating from his new raised bowl.
Bowls placed on a Wooden Table
Finish repels water.

The urethane finish ensures that the wood repels water, keeping the project looking sharp for years to come.

Dog eating from wooden stand.

A special thank you to all the dogs that helped make this project happen, and for expert munching services!

Metallic dog bowls in raised holder.

Creating a modern raised dog bowl is a rewarding project that combines functionality with style. By following these steps, you can provide your beloved pet with a comfortable and elegant feeding solution. Share your creation with friends and family, and inspire them to create their own DIY pet projects!

If you liked this project, why not help us share by pinning the image below (or any of the ones you liked)? Thanks!

Two bowls sit inside a feeder made out of wood.
Wood stain options.

This project was made possible by our partnership with Minwax. Their high-quality products and support allow us to create valuable and informative content for our readers. All opinions expressed are our own.