Both our dogs, Ginger and Bear, seam to swallow their food whole. I wonder if they even taste the food!
Yes, just like you, my dog eats too fast. I’m not sure why, because they get fed two meals a day at the same time every day. PLUS they get treats all day long while training. So I know it’s not because they are hungry.
Some theories state that dogs, like wolves, feel the need to eat their food before other animals try to steal it.
Whatever the reason, I want them to slow down so they don’t choke on the kibble. And eating too fast can lead to bloat, which can be deadly.
TIP: Below the list of my favorite slow feed products, I have listed 4 unique tips and tricks for a dog that eats too fast that you can do without anything special.
We’ve personally tried a few different slow feeders with our dogs, some better than others. I also found a few others that the humane society I volunteer for uses that work great.
If you have a dog that likes to chew, you may prefer the stainless steel bowls.
Many of these options are plastic bowls because it’s easier to mold into different shapes than stainless. Just ensure they are dishwasher safe and free of BPA chemicals.
Be aware that some dogs will outsmart the bowl and learn how to flip them over!
IMPORTANT: Most slow feeder bowls are not suitable for short short snoughted dogs (brachycephalic breeds), such as bulldogs, bull mastiffs, boston terriers, boxers, pugs, and shih tzus.
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Here are my favorite 10 best slow feeder dog bowls:
I like the stainless steel options simply for the fact they are not chewable and easier to keep clean.
These are not only great enrichment ideas but great ways to slow your dog down. I learned the first two ideas from our local humane society, it helps the dogs not only be less stressed in a high-stressed environment but gives them mental exercise
Every dog is unique, so what works with one dog may not work with another. The key is to learn your dogs personality and work with that.
I would love it if you would share any ideas that work with your dog by leaving a comment below.
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Debi McKee is a mom of three kids, two dogs and the creator of Rescue Dogs 101... where she guides you in your journey of adopting and raising a rescue dog every step of the way. She also volunteers for a local dog rescue and Humane Society.