A DIY dog bowl stand is the perfect pet project when you’re feeling crafty. They’re easy and fun to make, plus they can improve your pet’s digestion and posture. Make mealtimes better for your precious pet – we’ll tell you how below.
DIY Dog Bowl Stand: Materials
To make a dog bowl stand, you’ll first need a few “ingredients:”
- Dog dish(es)
- 1×12 board
- Pencil
- Measuring tape
- Miter saw
- Circular saw
- Jigsaw
- Corner brackets (optional)
- Small L brackets (optional)
- Wood screws
- Wood glue
- Clamps
- Sander or sandpaper
- Cutting board oil
- Waterproof wood sealer
- Paint & paint tools (optional)
Note: Keep in mind there are many ways you can make a DIY bowl stand. Feel free to alter the dimensions or techniques we share. Adapt these instructions to your skills and available materials.
How to Make a Dog Bowl Stand in 7 Steps
Once you’ve gathered your materials, follow these 7 steps to create a raised dog dish stand your pet will enjoy for years.
1. Cut the Boards
Cut your 1×12 board into five pieces using the following dimensions:
- Top: 20” length
- Legs: 9” length (you’ll need two of these)
- Front/Back Panel: 18” length x 3” width (you’ll need two of these)
You should be able to cut all the pieces you need from a single board, with some wood left over for other projects.
2. Trim Your Cuts
Next, you’ll want to use a miter saw to cut the two 12″ ends of the top piece at a 45-degree angle. Do the same for one of the 12” sides of each leg. This creates a polished look and allows the edges to join seamlessly.
3. Make Your Bowl Holders
Measure your dog bowls and use a jigsaw to cut two holes in the top board accordingly. (Note: If you are only using one dog bowl for this project, you will only need to cut one hole.)
Note: Make sure to measure the from the inside edge of the top of the bowl and not the total diameter; otherwise, the bowl will fall through the hole.
It’s helpful to trace the circle onto the board before you cut. This will help you space the holes evenly for a professional-looking product.
4. Attach the Legs to the Board
Align the mitered edges accordingly. Apply wood glue along the edges, and use clamps to keep the boards in place.
Allow the glue to dry before proceeding to the next step!
Use wood screws to firmly attach the legs to the top board. You can drill into the dog bowl stand from the top or sides. We suggest adding a screw to each of the four top corners for a secure connection.
Alternatively, you can use small L brackets to attach the legs and top. Attach an L bracket to the underside of the top board and the inside of each leg.
5. Add the Front and Back Panels
Place the front panel along the top of the panel meets the underside of the top board, and the inside of each leg. You can use wood screws and corner brackets to attach the panel, or just use wood screws by drilling into the side. Do the same for the back panel.
6. Finishing
Sand the dog bowl with an electric sander or sandpaper to smooth out the wood. Next, polish the wood by adding a thin layer of cutting board oil (Walrus Oil is a great option!) to create a smooth, shiny appearance.
Let the oil dry.
Finally, seal the wood by applying a thin layer of wood wax or sealer to the dog food bowl stand. Make sure to choose a non-toxic, no VOC formula to protect your pet’s health.
Allow the dog food stand to dry completely before allowing your pet to use it.
7. Give Your Dog the New Dog Bowl Stand
Insert the bowls and enjoy a new level of luxury at mealtimes!
Alternatives to Handmade Dog Bowl Stands
No tools? No problem! There are lots of great alternatives to DIY dog bowl stands that are just as affordable as making your own.
