What are the cons of slow feeders

Slow Feeders: Why Dogs Need Them And What Happens If They Eat Fast

I have a yorkie who makes his food disappear faster than a magician can if I dont give him a slow feed bowl. Theres still a burp after every meal, but at least theres more time now between me putting the food down and him actually finishing it.

Dogs need slow feeders to make them eat slower, which is healthier. Eating fast can make dogs vomit, burp, get flatulence, bloat, or even end up in hospital. Slow feeders force a dog to work around a puzzle or obstacle to reach their food.

There are many reasons to give a dog a slow feed bowl, but did you know that not every dog needs one? Its important to understand the pros and cons of this puzzling mealtime feeder before getting one.

Why dogs should eat slowly

Dogs should eat their food slowly. When dogs eat too fast, they take in air with their food. This air can cause many health issues and discomfort, from bloating and tummy sensitivity, to a twisted stomach and an emergency visit to an animal hospital.

In mild cases, swallowed air travels through the gut and simply causes flatulence, or it comes out as burps.

Dogs that eat too fast often vomit or gag after meals from swallowed air. This gagging and vomiting brings stomach acids and food into the throat and esophagus, which can damage these organs over time.

But did you know that bloat is dangerous and can kill a dog?

Swallowed air can make a dogs stomach bloat, which makes the dog very uncomfortable.

If they play or run around too soon before or after a meal with all this air in their stomach, they risk the chance of their stomach flipping or turning over. When this happens, the pipes to and from the stomach are closed, stopping the blood supply and natural movement through the digestive system.

The dogs stomach becomes swollen, he/she struggles to breathe, and the stomach could burst.

A turned stomach is a medical emergency and needs a vets attention. Unfortunately, dogs can die from this condition.

Why dogs need slow feeders

Many dogs eat too fast. They may do this because they are hungry, love food (are food driven), are anxious, bored, have parasites that make them hungry all the time, or they are trying to get all their food down before another animal steals it from them.

Slow feeders are good for dogs because they slow down the rate at which dogs can eat their food. Slow feeders make it impossible for dogs to gulp down food, which lessens the amount of air they take in with their food. This reduces the risk of the dog choking, vomiting, or getting bloat.

Not every dog needs a slow feeder, but every dog can benefit from using one. The following breeds and traits in dogs make them more likely to get bloat than other dogs:

• Dogs that eat very quickly, like theyre in a fast-eating competition
• Dogs that eat from a raised food bowl
• Large breeds that are older than 5, such as Labradors and Golden Retrievers
• Giant breeds older than 3, such as Irish Wolfhounds, St Bernards, Great Danes
• Dogs that like to run around and play immediately after eating
• Deep-chested dogs, with chests that reach or fall below their elbows, such as Dobermans, sighthounds, Standard Poodles, St Bernards, and Boxers

If your dog is any of the breeds or has any of the traits above, it might be a good idea to switch over to a slow feed bowl.

Why puppies need slow feeders

Eating fast is just as risky for puppies as it is for older dogs. Puppies tend to be greedy little guys or gals and often love to run around and play, even if theyve just had their breakfast.

Puppies should be given a slow feeder bowl to stop them from eating fast. The puzzle in the slow feeder makes it impossible for a puppy to quickly swallow all the food in the bowl, which minimizes the amount of air they take in when eating. This lessens the chance of the puppy getting bloat and becoming sick after eating.

How slow feed bowls work

Slow feed bowls are bowls with raised pieces or a puzzle inside. Kibble is placed along the pathways in the puzzle or around the raised pieces. The dog needs to lick and scoop out the kibble in these paths. Because it takes time and accuracy to do this, the dog automatically eats slower than when he/she has access to all the food in a regular bowl.

How often to use a slow feeder

A slow feeder should be used whenever a dog is fed. It is better to divide a dogs daily food allowance into two smaller meals. Use the slow feeder to feed your dog breakfast in the morning and dinner at night.

The pros and cons of a slow feeder dog bowl

The pros and advantages of using a slow feeder

A slow feeder dog bowl has many advantages when used correctly. Slow feeder bowls

slow down dogs that eat fast, which prevents burping, flatulence, vomiting, gagging, and bloat

give dogs mental stimulation and curb boredom

fulfil dogs natural instinct to work for food (like dogs do in the wild)

give dogs time to feel full, so they are less inclined to eat as much as when they eat quickly

make eating more fun for dogs, because of the game of hunting kibble in a puzzle

The cons and disadvantages of a slow feed dog bowl

By now you might be wondering if there are any disadvantages to giving your dog a slow feed bowl. Lets take a look at the list of cons.

Slow feeder bowls

can be a bit more expensive than normal dog food bowls

can make eating more difficult for dogs with flat faces because the shape of their face may make it difficult to reach the food inside the puzzle (lick mats are a better option for flat-faced dogs, which well talk about later)

can be difficult for some dogs to understand: Start with simple puzzle bowls and move on to more challenging slow feeders as your dog learns whats expected from them to get to the food

need to be matched to the size and eagerness of your dog: Dogs that chew their bowls or larger dogs may need a stronger and pricier slow feeder than smaller or calmer dogs

Slow dog feeders can help with vomiting

Slow dog feeders can help with vomiting if a dog vomits from eating too fast. The air that a fast-eating dog sucks in when eating may cause vomiting and gagging. Slow dog feeders will stop the dog from eating so fast and reduce the amount of air swallowed with meals, which might stop vomiting altogether.

The best slow feeder dog bowls

I did some research to find the best slow feed dog bowls on the market today and there are a lot of wonderful options, with all materials, and to suit all kinds of budgets. Lets take a look:

The best stainless steel slow feeder dog bowl

Recommended bowl: Neater Pet Brands Slow Feed Bowl from Amazon

This stainless steel pet bowl is Amazons choice and comes with very high customer ratings.

There are two sizes to choose from, medium and large, and what I like is that it is designed to make it difficult for your dog to tip over the bowl, with a larger base and a rubber ring around the bottom.

You can read my article on how to stop your dog from tipping over their bowl HERE.

I personally dont use stainless steel bowls for food as my dogs dont like the sound these bowls make or the feeling when they hit the bowl with their teeth. But many dogs love stainless steel bowls and theyre the most hygienic of all dog bowls out there.

The best ceramic slow feeder dog bowl

Recommended bowl: BestVida Sparks Premium Stoneware Bowl from Amazon

This is the worlds first ceramic slow feeder, with a patent pending.

There are many pros to getting a ceramic slow feeder: Theyre hygienic as long as there arent any chips in the ceramic, theyre dishwasher safe, microwaveable, and even freezer safe.

This bowl is heavier than metal and plastic bowls, but the weight will also stop your dog from flipping the bowl.

And it comes in a range of colors, from orange or green, to white or blue.

Best plastic slow feeder brand

Recommended bowl: Outward Hound Fun Feeder Slo Bowl from Amazon

This is an extremely popular slow feed bowl that forces dogs to eat 10 times slower than regular bowls. These slow feeders come in a range of sizes and colors.

The non-slip base prevents dogs from tipping over the food bowl. Plus, its made with food-safe, lightweight plastic thats BPA, PVC, and phalate-free.

The best slow feeder dog bowl for flat-faced dogs

Recommended bowls:

Hyper Pet SloDog Lick Mat from Amazon

Lickimat Tuff, Heavy-Duty Dog Slow Feeder from Amazon

A lick mat is a great option for dogs with flat faces. Lick mats have a much flatter/lower surface than traditional slow feeders, so flat-faced dogs find it easier to reach the kibble, dry or soaked, and lick it straight out of the shallow holes.

This still slows down their eating speed.

If you have a French Bulldog, or want to try another slow feed bowl for your flat-faced dog, then theres also the four-leaf clover slow feeding dog bowl (Amazon link). This bowl has four larger holes to accommodate a flatter dog face.

Its made of resin thats food safe and easy to clean.

More tips to stop a dog from eating too fast

Here are some other things you can do to slow down a dog that eats too fast:

• Try different slow feeders so your dog doesnt learn how to use one quickly. Every time your dog tries a new puzzle, he/she will have to spend time figuring it out, which will slow down eating.
• If youre at home during the day, take your dogs daily food allowance and break it up into several smaller portions. Feed small portions throughout the day in a slow feed bowl or use these portions as treats for calm behavior during the day.
• Hide kibble in small bowls around the garden or house, then let your dog go hunting for food.
• Get a qualified animal behaviorist to help you train your dog to trust the people and animals around him/her. Sometimes dogs eat fast as a way to protect their food, so no one else can get it before theyve finished eating it. If this is the case, you may be able to break the habit by teaching your dog that the food is safe, and no one will try to take it.
• Take your dog to the vet for a checkup and de-worm your dog monthly, to make sure there arent parasites making him/her hungry all the time.

Slow Feeder Dog Bowl Pros and Cons

Slow Feeder Dog Bowl Pros and Cons

If you are considering purchasing a slow feeder dog bowl, it is important to understand the pros and cons associated with this type of feeding dish. Here are some of the benefits and drawbacks to consider:

Pros

• Prevents Overeating: Slow feeder dog bowls can help prevent your dog from overeating by forcing them to eat at a slower pace. This can be especially helpful for dogs who are prone to obesity or who have a tendency to scarf down their food too quickly.
• Reduces Risk of Choking: When dogs eat too quickly, they are at a higher risk of choking on their food. Slow feeder dog bowls can help reduce this risk by encouraging them to take smaller bites and chew their food more thoroughly.
• Promotes Healthy Digestion: Eating too quickly can also lead to digestive issues such as bloating, gas, and stomach upset. Slow feeder dog bowls can help promote healthy digestion by allowing your dog to eat at a slower, more natural pace.
• Mental Stimulation: Some slow feeder dog bowls are designed with puzzles or mazes that require your dog to work for their food. This can provide mental stimulation and help prevent boredom.

Cons

• Not Suitable for All Dogs: While slow feeder dog bowls can be beneficial for many dogs, they are not suitable for all. Dogs with brachycephalic (flat-faced) breeds, for example, may struggle to use these types of bowls. Additionally, dogs who are already slow eaters may not benefit from a slow feeder bowl.
• Can be Difficult to Clean: Some slow feeder dog bowls have intricate designs or are made from materials that are difficult to clean. This can be frustrating for pet owners who want to keep their dogs feeding dish clean and hygienic.
• May Require Training: Some dogs may need to be trained to use a slow feeder dog bowl. This can be time-consuming and may require patience and persistence on the part of the pet owner.
• May Not be Effective for all Dogs: While slow feeder dog bowls can be effective for many dogs, they may not work for all. Some dogs may still eat too quickly, even with a slow feeder bowl. In these cases, it may be necessary to try other feeding methods or consult with a veterinarian.

Pros of Slow Feeder Dog Bowls

If youre considering a slow feeder dog bowl for your furry friend, youre on the right track. Here are some of the benefits of using a slow feeder dog bowl:

Prevents Bloating and Gassiness

Fast eating can lead to bloating and gassiness in dogs, especially in certain breeds. Slow feeder dog bowls can help prevent this by slowing down your dogs eating pace and reducing the amount of air they swallow while eating. This can decrease the risk of gastric dilatation and volvulus (GDV), a potentially life-threatening condition in dogs.

Promotes Healthy Eating Habits

Slow feeder dog bowls encourage your dog to eat more slowly and mindfully, promoting healthy eating habits. By taking the time to chew their food properly, your dog can improve their digestion and reduce the risk of choking or vomiting. It can also help prevent overeating and weight gain, which is especially important for overweight or obese dogs.

Provides Mental Stimulation

Slow feeder dog bowls can provide mental stimulation for your dog, especially if they tend to get bored easily. By making mealtime more challenging and engaging, slow feeder dog bowls can help keep your dog mentally stimulated and entertained. This is especially important for puppies and senior dogs who may need extra mental stimulation to stay sharp and healthy.

Overall, slow feeder dog bowls are a great investment for any dog owner looking to improve their dogs eating habits, digestion, and overall health. By promoting healthy eating habits, preventing bloating and gassiness, and providing mental stimulation, slow feeder dog bowls can help keep your dog happy and healthy for years to come.

Cons of Slow Feeder Dog Bowls

When it comes to slow feeder dog bowls, there are some cons that you should be aware of before making a purchase. Below are some of the potential downsides of using slow feeder dog bowls.

Possible Frustration and Competition

Slow feeder dog bowls may cause frustration or competition among dogs if you have more than one pet. Some dogs may feel anxious or stressed when they have to work harder to get their food. This can lead to competition between dogs, which can result in aggressive behavior. If you have multiple dogs, its important to supervise them during meal times to ensure that they are not becoming aggressive or territorial.

Choking Hazards

While slow feeder dog bowls can help prevent dogs from eating too quickly, they can also pose a choking hazard. Some dogs may try to eat too quickly and end up choking on their food, especially if they are not used to using a slow feeder bowl. Its important to monitor your dog while they are eating and to choose a slow feeder bowl that is appropriate for their size and eating habits.

Cleaning Challenges

Slow feeder dog bowls can be more difficult to clean than traditional dog bowls. The ridges and crevices in the bowl can trap food particles and bacteria, making it harder to keep the bowl clean and hygienic. Its important to clean your dogs slow feeder bowl regularly to prevent the buildup of bacteria and food particles. Some slow feeder bowls are dishwasher safe, which can make cleaning easier.

In summary, slow feeder dog bowls can have some cons, including possible frustration and competition among dogs, choking hazards, and cleaning challenges. Its important to choose a slow feeder bowl that is appropriate for your dogs size and eating habits, and to supervise them during meal times to ensure that they are not becoming aggressive or territorial. Additionally, its important to clean your dogs slow feeder bowl regularly to prevent the buildup of bacteria and food particles.

Why Dogs Eat Fast

Dogs eat fast for several reasons:

• They fear another pet in the home will take their food.
• Not enough food is provided so hunger takes over.
• The food is so good they cant help but gobble it all down. This is usually the case with wet food or super yummy fresh raw dog food.

While you can try to eliminate the factors that contribute to fast eating, it may not be possible, which is why most dog owners choose dog food bowls for fast eaters.

The Problem with Fast Eating in Dogs

Fast eaters can suffer from a medical issue called gastric dilation and volvulus (GDV). GDV is caused by swallowing too much air while eating and that leads to bloat and stomach dilatation.

Dogs that suffer from GDV have an increased risk of:

• Chocking
• Vomiting
• Gastrointestinal Issues

Pet parents who notice their dog is eating too fast should speak to their veterinarian about GDV and of course, consider ways to slow down the eating process.

Types of Slow Feeder Dog Bowls

Pet parents have many dog bowl options and sizes to choose from for their fast eaters.

Slow Feed Dog Bowl Inserts

Instead of buying new food bowls, slow-feed bowl inserts are perfect. They fit nicely into the bowl and the kibble or wet food fits on top. They come in many different sizes for large dogs, medium dogs, and small dogs.

Puzzle Feeders

Puzzle Feeders are designed to give dogs some fun while they eat because they make it harder to find and grab food. These feeders may not be the best choice for mealtime, but they can be used for it any time.

Slow Feeder Dog Bowls

This is a regular bowl but with grooves in it. You can find them made out of plastic and stainless steel. Again, dog owners should make sure to purchase the right size for their dogs, especially if they have a puppy.

Slow Feeder Dog Bowl Options

The following are some of the slow eating feed bowls we recommend. You can find more here:

Outward Hound Fun Feeder Slo Bowl

The Outward Hound Fun Feeder Slo Bowl is perfect for a small-medium dog with other sizes available. The circular makeup of the bowl can slow down eating up to 10 times compared to a regular bowl. Simply pour kibble on top to fill in the grooves.

Jasgood Slow Feeder Dog Bowl

The Jasgood Slow Feeder Dog Bowl is great for large dogs and comes in many different colors. Its made of high-quality PP material and is VOA, PVC, and phthalate free. The spiral design makes dogs eat slower, which leads to better digestion.

A small/medium size is available for small or medium dogs.

Mighty Paw Slow Feed Dog Bowl Insert

The Mighty Paw Slow Feeder Dog Bowl Insert fits perfectly into a stainless steel regular bowl. The deep dog bowl can hold about 3 cups of food, which makes it great for large dogs.

This insert comes in vibrant orange and green, which can be attractive to dogs. For pet parents without stainless steel bowls, Might Paws sells them as well made for their inserts.

Check out other slow eating dog bowl inserts by clicking below:

Silicone Slow Feed Dog Bowl

Slow Feeder Dog Bowl Insert

Considering the Slow Feeder Dog Bowl Pros and Cons

Now you know the pros and cons of slow feeder dog bowls. Its time to decide if youre going to try it for your pup. Fast eating can cause serious medical issues and a slow feeder bowl is recommended by many veterinarians. Contact your vet to ensure you are making the best choice. For the cons of slow feeder dog bowls, keep the solutions in mind. They can make the process of using the bowls much easier so you can thoroughly take advantage of the bests of your dogs slow feeder dog bowls.