How to Improve Your Dog’s Mealtime with a Slow Feeder Bowl

If your dog eats like every meal is a race, you’re not alone. While it might seem harmless, gulping down food too quickly can lead to bloating, choking, and stomach discomfort. A slow-feeder bowl can change that. By turning mealtime into a puzzle to solve, it encourages your dog to eat at a healthier pace while keeping their mind engaged and their body happier.

What Are Dog Slow Feeders?

The first and most important thing that can be said is that slow feeders are fun ‘puzzles’ that dogs need to solve to eat. These slow-feeder dog bowls are an innovative solution, making the feeding process a bit of a challenge for dogs, and not to tease them, but to teach them to eat slowly. Considering that some dogs can be greedy eaters, which can later result in problems, these feeders are a true saviour in such situations.

What’s Their Exact Purpose?

Well, the first and main purpose of these engaging dog slow feeders is to help dogs eat at a slower pace, for sure, but if looking down deeper, their use is a real gift from God.

Improved Digestion

Given the fact that these feeding bowls are designed to help dogs eat more slowly, this means that they will reduce the intake of air, which happens when eating fast. Consequently, the chances of bloating will be reduced, but most importantly, their digestive health can improve a lot.

By eating slowly, a great number of problems can be reduced, problems as bloating and indigestion. Given the fact that thanks to these bowls, dogs eat more slowly, this means that they will have more time enjoying and savouring their food, which will make them happier and healthier.

Reduced Chance of Choking

Did you know that dogs can choke when eating just like little children?! And while choking can happen from other things and not just eating, one of the few things one can do to prevent choking is to buy a slow feeding bowl.

The unique design of these bowls makes dogs take smaller bites and chew their food slowly. As a result, the eating process will be slowed down, and dogs will become more cautious when eating. Eating will take longer than usual, and this can aid its digestion and overall health.

Improved Mental Stimulation

If wondering, ‘Are slow feeders mentally stimulating for dogs?’ the answer is certainly positive. Given the fact that these bowls are like puzzles, they are engaging and stimulating, helping dogs engage their brain if they want to eat. Thanks to these bowls, dogs will need to study and explore the bowl to get food. The truth is that eating can become fun for them, keeping them entertained for a longer period of time while keeping their mind sharp.

An important thing you should know about these feeding bowls is that they are available in a selection of types and designs, giving people the chance to choose the most entertaining one for their dogs. The greatest concern dog owners have is whether these bowls are designed for dry food only, and the answer is no. These bowls can be used for both dry and wet food, making them the perfect option.

Are There Any Drawbacks?

Just like with everything else, these bowls have some drawbacks that are individual and don’t apply to all dogs. The truth is that not all dogs find these bowls awesome, and this is the main reason why there are some drawbacks. So, before listing the most obvious drawbacks, keep in mind that trying such a bowl with your dog can be life-changing, especially if your dog eats fast.

• As mentioned, not all dogs adapt to tihs idea of eating, and they may become frustrated and anxious when offered food in such bowls. However, consistency is key, so trying several times before giving up is key to seeing whether the dog will overcome this issue or not. If feeling frustrated after several times, it would be better to take a pause and consult with a veterinarian on how to proceed further.
• Even though the main purpose of these bowls is to help dogs eat more slowly and reduce air swallowing, some dogs still manage to do this. This can happen in those times when frustrated and wanting to eat faster. However, usually, this is common only in the beginning during the adaptation period, so giving dogs the needed space and time is paramount. In case you see no progress at all, switching to a basic bowl is important in order to reduce digestive discomfort from swallowing too much air. Ideally, you should pause its use for some time and try offering the bowl after a few weeks or even months.
• The greatest myth of all is that these bowls aren’t designed for every dog breed. The truth is that dogs of all sizes and breeds can eat from such bowls because they come in different types, designs and sizes. So it’s all up to the dog owner to do research and find a feeder that works best for his dog.
• It’s said that cleaning these bowls by hand is a bit tricky and difficult, but this isn’t true at all. While most of these bowls are dishwasher safe, cleaning them by hand is possible and super easy. All it takes is adding a dishwasher and hot water, leaving it for a bit, cleaning it with a brush and rinsing it. Simple as that!