DIY Dog Feeding Station - PatchPuppy.com (2024)

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How to Make a Wooden Dog Feeder

This project is super cute and has a place under the raised bowls for dog food storage, which is quite nice.

How to Make a Wooden Dog Feeder

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Materials

  • 1×12 Sides – 2 @ 13½ inches
  • 1×12 Top – 1 @ 23 inches
  • 1×12 Bottom – 1 @ 23 inches
  • 1×12 Back – 1 @ 24 ½ inches
  • 1×12 Door – 1 @ 24 ½ inches
  • 1×3 Top Supports – 2 @ 23 inches
  • 1×2 Base Supports – 2 @ 23 inches
  • 1×12 Tray Bottom – 1 @ 23 inches
  • 1×3 Tray Sides – 2 @ 24½ inches
  • 1×4 Tray Sides – 2 @ 12 inches
  • 1×2 Cleats – 2 @ 10 ½-inches

Instructions

  1. Cut the Parts.Using a jigsaw guided by a straightedge, cut the parts of the box and the removable tray according to the measurements on thecut list. Using a combination square, check that all the cuts are perfectly squared.
  2. Mark the Holes for theBowls( like these from Amazon).Measure the diameter of one bowl inside its lip. Using a compass, draw two equally spaced circles at the size of the bowl’s diameter onto the tray bottom.
  3. Cut the Bowl Holes.Using a drill driver fitted with a 3/8-inch drill bit, create an entry hole for a jigsaw blade inside each marked circle. Using a jigsaw and starting at the entry hole, cut out each circle.
  4. Ease the Hole Edges.Using a rasp tilted at a 45-degree angle, remove the sharp edges around each hole on the top and bottom side of the tray bottom.
  5. Cover the Tray Bottom.Cut a piece ofadhesive contact paper (you can find it on Amazon)to the size of the tray deck. Cut a circle, centered over each dish hole, that’s smaller than the hole. Peel one end of the adhesive backing and apply it to the tray deck. Use a scrap block to smooth out any air bubbles. Pull the adhesive backing away from the applied area as you adhere the rest of the paper. Cut pie-shaped slices from the center circle to the perimeter of the dish holes and fold the paper around the inner edge of the dish holes to secure it on the underside of the tray.
  6. Mark the Tray Handles.Make a line at the center of each 12-inch 1×4 tray side. Using the lip of the dog bowl as a template, make two intersecting arcs centered on the line. Position one arc 1 inch away from the edge and the other arc 2½ inches away from the edge.
  7. Cut the Handles and Assemble the Tray.Using a 3/8-inch bit, create an entry hole for the jigsaw blade inside each handle mark. Cut out each handle and ease the edges of the holes with a rasp. Using a 1 5/8-inch trim head screws and wood glue, glue and screw the 1×4 sides with the handles to the outside edges of the tray bottom. Glue and screw the 23-inch 1x3s onto the outside edges of the tray bottom and 1×4 sides. Install two 10½-inch cleats to the bottom of the tray 1 inch from each end. These will keep the tray from sliding off the box.
  8. Assemble the Box.Using 1 5/8-inch trim head screws, glue and screw a 1×2 base support between the two 13½-inch-tall sides, flush with the back and bottom edges. Screw another 1×2 base support flush with the bottom edge and ¾-inch back from the front edges. Screw a 1×3 top support flush with the top and front edges and another flush with the back and top edges. Set the bottom of the box onto the base 1x2s. Draw a line across each side 2 inches from the bottom to act as a fastening guide. Screw through the line and into the edge of the bottom piece to secure it through the sides. Attach the back of the box flush with the top edge of the sides and over their back edges, leaving the bottom 1×2 base support exposed. Attach the top of the box below the 1x3s by marking a second line on each side as a fastening guide.
  9. Paint the Box.Fill all the faster holes and seams with wood filler. Sand everything smooth using medium-grit sandpaper. Applypainter’s tape (you can find it on Amazon)to the inside edge of the box. Coat the front edges, door, tray, and outside of the box and the door piece with primer. Once the primer is dry, sand the finish smooth using fine-grit sandpaper and paint with a semi-gloss paint.
  10. Install the Door.Turn the box over. Align the door so that its top edge sits flush with the top edge of the box, and the bottom sits flush with the underside of the bottom piece. Attach the door to the box using a 22-inch piano hinge positioned knuckle side out.
  11. Mount the Door Hardware.Install the door slide to the inside wall of the box and inside of the door. Attach a magnetic door catch to the underside of the top of the box and the inside of the door to hold the door closed. Install a door handle on the front of the door near the top. Place the tray on the box and set the bowls in place.

DIY Dog Feeding Station - PatchPuppy.com (3)

Thank you to This Old House for these instructions.

Learn how to make an Easy DIY Puppy Feeding Station. Click here to learn more.

How to Make a Dog Bowl Stand Out of Pallets

This isn’t as pretty as the last raised dog feeder station, but it is about as inexpensive as you can get. Using pallets is a great way to recycle and they can be finished if you want it to be prettier.

How to Make a Dog Bowl Stand Out of Pallets

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Materials

  • Wood pallet
  • Wood screws
  • Wood staples
  • Wood glue

Tools

Instructions

    1. Pull apart your pallet and salvage the good wood. It’s normal to have unusable wood in a pallet – cracks and imperfections are fine
    2. Select two of the best looking pieces and cut in half to 20 inches each. You’ll need three 20″ pieces for the top of the dog bowl
    3. Trim off the edge of the boards using a table saw
    4. Rip the extra 20″ piece in half lengthwise
    5. Cut another piece of pallet down to 10 and 3/4 to make the border for the two sides
    6. Cut two more pieces 9″ long for support pieces for the bottom.
    7. Put the 9″ supports on the backside of the top piece – make sure you have room for your bowls. Glue them on and then screw them down.
    8. Attach side pieces and clamp and glue them in place. Staple them together.
    9. Cut a 5 and 3/4 inch circle on each side of the top of the dog bowl holder. Drill a hole and cut it out with a jigsaw.
    10. Cut four more pieces of pallet that are 6 inches long.
    11. Rip each 6 inch long piece in half at an angle to make the feet.
    12. Make a 90 leg in each corner and glue in the legs then staple into place.
    13. Add your bowls and your done!

Are raised feeding stations good for dogs? Click here to find out.

Farmhouse Dog Bowl Stand – DIY

This is an incredibly attractive farmhouse style project that is easy to make and fun for your dogs to use.

Farmhouse Dog Bowl Stand – DIY

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Materials

  • Laminated pine project panel
  • 2 – 1x2s
  • 1 – 1×4
  • Hardware
  • Dog Bowls
  • Drill
  • Jigsaw
  • Nailer
  • Cool Whip lid

Instructions

  1. Mark the laminated pine project board by finding center on both sides and then drawing a circle around the Cool Whip lid.
  2. Drill a hole large enough to fit the saw blade into – pick a side inside of the circle
  3. Cut out circles
  4. Test to make sure dog bowls fit correctly.
  5. Assemble the apron by attaching the two short pieces on the ends and the long pieces between it. Use wood glue and nails to attach.
  6. Assemble the runner that goes across the bottom of the table. Attach to pieces together by nailing them.
  7. Attach legs to the apron.
  8. Add the runners to the legs.
  9. Attach the top to the table base by running a line of wood glue and nails.
  10. Stain your farmhouse dog bowl stand.

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DIY Dog Feeding Station - PatchPuppy.com (2024)

FAQs

How do you make a raised dog feeding station? ›

Read on for step-by-step instructions:
  1. Cut all pieces of wood to size. ...
  2. Measure and cut the half-circle arches at the bottom half of the side piece. ...
  3. Make dowel holes using a drill + a spade bit. ...
  4. Use the dog bowls to trace circles directly on top of the middle wood piece. ...
  5. Sand all pieces of wood using your orbital sander.
Nov 16, 2021

How tall should a dog feeding station be? ›

Measure from the floor to your dog's chest (even with the top of their back). Next subtract 6” from this measurement. The result is typically the maximum height you should consider.

How do you make an interactive dog feeder? ›

MYSTERY BOX. Tape a box completely closed and make a few holes in it. Make sure the holes are large enough for your dog to fit their paws through them. Put some kibble in the box and let your dog have fun fishing the food out!

How do you make a slow feeder for dogs? ›

Think of this solution as a DIY slow feeder. All you'll need is an old muffin tin—just flip it upside down and place it on the floor. Next, spread the dog food in between the cups, which will create small obstacles for your dog to maneuver around while he or she eats.

Are raised feeders good or bad for dogs? ›

It actually depends on the dog. While some dogs, particularly large breeds and older dogs with joint issues, may benefit from elevated feeders, they might not be suitable for all dogs. For instance, certain breeds or fast eaters could potentially be at a higher risk of developing bloat.

Are elevated feeders better for dogs? ›

Prevents joint pain and discomfort

For large and medium dogs, straining down to floor level can be uncomfortable and even harmful. Serving food in a raised dog bowl for large dogs means your pooch won't have to bend down excessively to eat and drink. As a result, raised dishes may be the best dog bowls for large dogs.

What is the 10% rule for feeding dogs? ›

The 10% rule means your dog's treats per day allowance should take up no more than 10% of their daily calorie intake. To work this out, it's useful to know the number of calories you should be feeding your dog per day. These can be provided by your pet food's manufacturer or found on the back of all dog food packaging.

Do raised feeders cause bloat? ›

At one time, elevated dog bowls were thought to help prevent bloat in dogs. Recent research has found that this is not true—in fact, an elevated bowl could increase the risk of bloat. Unless your veterinarian specifically recommends an elevated feeding bowl, it's best not to use one.

Do vets recommend elevated dog bowls? ›

Pets with neck or shoulder pain, herniated cervical discs, arthritis of the spine, or other diseases of the head or neck may benefit from elevated dishes. The elevated platform keeps the pet's head and neck up, eliminating strain on the neck that would be caused by reaching down to a bowl on the floor.

How do you make homemade dog feeding games? ›

All you need is a plastic kiddie pool and tons of balls. Fill the kiddie pool with the balls, then sprinkle kibble or treats on top. As your dog walks through the balls to retrieve the food, the balls, and therefore the treats, will keep shifting positions, keeping your dog occupied for a long time.

How do you make a dog puzzle feeder? ›

To make this dog toy, simply cut open a hallow ball, tennis ball or a used plastic water bottle and place treats inside. Place several small dog treats or kibble inside the hole of the toy and watch your pup embrace the challenge.

What can I use for dog food containers? ›

Glass, ceramic, or plastic containers are popular choices for dog food storage containers because they can be both affordable and durable.

Do vets recommend slow feeder? ›

If you suspect your pup may be gulping down their food, a slow feeder might be a good way to stop that behavior, although we recommend consulting with your veterinarian before making any significant changes to your dog's meals. Another reason a pup might need a slow feeder dog bowl is to encourage mental stimulation.

Do dogs get frustrated with slow feeders? ›

The Drawbacks of Using Slow-Feeder Bowls

Not all dogs adapt well to eating slower. Fast eaters may become frustrated with the maze-like design of the slow feeder bowl, leading to potential stress during mealtime.

What is an alternative to a dog bowl? ›

You can use a snuffle mat indoors, or just literally scatter food on the floor. Outside you can scatter food in short grass to begin with, then once you have a pro sniffer dog try it in longer grass too. Vary the difficulty and always make sure some of the food is easier to find.

Why use a raised dog feeder? ›

Raised dog bowls were designed to simplify the process of eating and drinking by bringing the food and water closer to your dog, reducing the amount of bending, stretching and leaning they have to do. Although raised dog bowls are effective in doing this, some may be concerned about the likelihood of bloat.

Why do dogs need an elevated feeder? ›

Elevated dog feeders reduce orthopedic pain

Dogs with arthritis, elbow dysplasia, or hip dysplasia cannot comfortably bend or kneel down to eat and drink. Elevated bowls that reach your dog at a comfortable height can help.

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