Outward Hound Slow Feed Dog Bowl
PAW5 Feeding Mat for Dogs
JW Pet SkidStop Slow Feed Bowl
A slow feeder dog bowl may sound like a gimmick, but they’re an incredibly good idea for owners of dogs that eat far too quickly. In fact, dog bowls for fast eaters are a great concept as they can benefit your dog in all manner of ways that we will investigate in this article and guide to the best slow feeder dog bowl available. We also look at our top 10 selection that are available to purchase now, which are all good quality dog bowls from reputable manufacturers – ensuring that you never buy a slow dog bowl that is chewed to pieces by your furry friend in 5 minutes flat.
The Best Slow Feeder Dog Bowl
1
Outward Hound Slow Feed Dog Bowl
Made by Outward Hound, this is our top pick as the best slow feeder dog bowl out there. Looking like a dog food bowl maze, it is well designed to stop dogs eating too quickly so that they eat their food at a far slower and healthier rate. In addition to the clever design, this dog slow feeder is also fantastic owing to Outward Hound’s usage of pet safe materials. This means that the company guarantees never to use phthalates, PVC or even BPA. Plus, while the design slows your dog’s eating right down, the ridges that are used are placed so that feeding time is not too traumatic or frustrating for your dog. Especially once they have learnt how to use their tongue in the best way to access their food.
The designers have also thought of adding a non slip base to all their dog bowls for fast eaters so that food won’t be easily split onto the floor, thus undermining the use of a dog bowl in the first place. It is one of the design features that helps owners record eating times from this slow dog bowl that is up to 10 times slower than usual.
Finally, it comes in a variety of designs and colors to choose from. In fact there are four different dog food bowl maze patterns and four different colors.
Made from pet safe materials
Non slip base
Comes in a variety of designs and colors
- BrandOutward Hound
- Model51002
- Weight1.15 pounds
2
The Company of Animals Slow Feed Bowl
What we like most about this dog slow feeder is that it does not actually look like a dog bowl at all. Instead, the manufacturers have made every attempt to make it look like a piece of modern art that would not look out of place in a stylish home that loves to use bright colors. This slow feeder comes in either green or a pink/lilac shade, but regardless of which one you choose, you will be able to slow down even the fastest eaters. This is great news for those dogs that then suffer from bloating or indigestion.
One thing to note is that it is dishwasher safe which makes it incredibly easy to clean, which is key. This type of puzzle dog bowl can collect dirt, grime and harmful bacteria more quickly than the standard design dog bowl, so it is imperative for your dog’s health to clean it regularly. This is especially the case if you put wet dog food in this slow dog bowl for your pooch’s supper.
Originally designed for a cat, but good for small dogs
Attractive design
Can be used for dry or wet food
- BrandThe Company of Animals
- ModelNGG
- Weight1.65 pounds
3
Siensync Slow Feeder Dog Bowl
Up there with one of the best slow feeder dog bowls for fast eaters, the Siensync Slow Feeder dog bowl is a great addition to your arsenal as a dog owner. The puzzle dog bowl style means that even the fastest of eaters are somewhat stopped in their tracks, but not by frustrating them so much that exhibit destructive behavior elsewhere out of annoyance.
Siensync have taken the time to use only the best more ecologically friendly material so that you can be sure your dog is safe, as well as knowing that your being kind to the environment. So often, accessories for dogs, like a slow feeder or a maze dog bowl, are made out of cheap plastic that is bad for them and can be dangerous to the environment as it is so quickly thrown away.
This design however will last a long time and can hold up to two cups of dog kibble, so it is good for many size of dog if you adapt the amount of kibble given. However, given this is the only size available, if your dog needs more, or a lot less, it may be best to look elsewhere.
Attractive design
Can hold up to two cups of kibble
Easy to clean
Made from quality ABS
- BrandSiensync
- Weight9.6 ounces
4
PAW5 Feeding Mat for Dogs
This easy to use slow feeder has a rug style design that owners can hide their dog’s kibble in to make them eat more slowly and completely prevent their ability to inhale their food by using their tongue and jaw as a shovel. While not everyone will like the idea of feeding their dog off a mat, or snuffle mat as called here, it certainly is a novel idea that really works. It is great too for stimulating them and tiring them out as it engages their sense of smell. Plus, it is machine washable so incredibly easy to maintain.
Unique rug design
Machine washable
Easy to use
- BrandPAW5
5
Outward Hound Fun Mat Feeder Bowl
Don’t let the petite nature of this slow dog feeder bowl deceive you. It is incredibly efficient at what it does and can slow down the hungriest of dogs with the strongest of jaws and tongue. The secret is in the design of the folds and ridges that can hold a fair amount of kibble that will stop a dog from eating his or her food too quickly, thus leading to uncomfortable bloating. We love as well that it is small enough to easily fit in any dishwasher – even on the top rack. It means as owners we are far more likely to wash our dog’s bowl – which is imperative for their continued good health.
Small and easily portable
Strong folds will slow down the most voracious of eaters
BPA, PVC and Phthalate free
- BrandOutward Hound
- Model51017
6
JASGOOD Slow Eating Pet Bowl
One thing that has been overlooked too long when making dog bowls or even some dog toys is that using cheap plastic is incredibly bad for the environment, as well as potentially endangering your dog. This slow dog bowl, however, is made from eco friendly materials. In fact, the ABS used is a good purchase as it is long lasting as well as dishwasher safe which is great news for dog owners who need a little more encouragement washing their dog’s bowl regularly.
As a slow feeder, it works well too. Some may be a little wary of the design, given how wide the tray is. However, the JASGOOD design for this puzzle dog bowl is well researched and it can really support an owner who is trying to slow down their dog’s feeding habits. What further helps is that has rubber feet which ensures that the bowl stays in one place while your pooch tries to ferret their kibble out of the slow feeder. It actually makes it harder for them as they cannot push the bowl to spill kibble everywhere, while also making your bowl last longer as your dog cannot gnaw away on it.
Available in a range of pastel shades
Free of nasty plastics and toxic ingredients
Comes with anti skid feet
Various patterns available
- BrandJASGOOD
- ModelJG191-B-Blue
- Weight6.6 ounces
7
PAW5 Rock ‘N Bowl Puzzle Feeder Bowl
This dog bowl may not be for every dog out there as it is also an interactive game that hides food that little bit more than many of the puzzle dog bowls on this list, however it is worth a try to stop your dog from eating so quickly. While some dogs may not get along with it, some may actually love how exciting their meal times become with this game that also works to stop them from bloating.
Comes in two shades, blue and orange
Interactive design that makes dogs work for their food
Can hold up to four cups of food
- BrandPAW5
- Weight1.35 pounds
8
AmazonBasics Dog Slow Feeder Bowl
AmazonBasics have literally put their money where their dog’s mouth is with this slow feeder bowl that can prevent a dog from inhaling his or her food causing them indigestion. While its design is perhaps better suited to larger dogs, or dogs that have larger sized kibble, it’s unique tic tac toe design is very effective. Plus, as it is made from food safe plastic, it is not only not toxic to your pooch, it can be thrown in the dishwasher for a regular wash to keep your dog’s bowl clean.
Simple effective design
Can be used with wet or dry kibble
Excellent value for money
- BrandAmazonBasics
- Model11075
- Weight15.2 ounces
9
JW Pet SkidStop Slow Feed Bowl
We love the robust nature of this petite little slow feed dog bowl. The simple design of breaking up a dog bowl into quarters, with a well in the middle, is simple yet very efficient at what it does. Dogs find that they are incapable of eating their food as quickly as they do naturally and have to stop and chew in between bites – which is the ultimate aim. Plus, it comes with a clever anti skid base due to the rubber feet that lines the bottom of the slow feeder. It’s an inexpensive purchase that really works.
One cup capacity
Resistant to bacteria
Sturdy base and overal design
- BrandJW Pet
- Model63240
- Weight2.56 ounces
10
Durapet Stainless Steel Dog Bowl
Those that like to keep their interiors sleek and chic, without the added addition of brightly colored plastic courtesy of their dogs needs, will like this slow eating dog bowl from Our Pets. Made from a premium stainless steel, it has a more sedate design than some of the other puzzle dog bowls listed on this feature, which may appeal more. While it may look like a cake tin to a fair few dog owners, the design still manages to work as a great dog bowl for fast eaters as the dome in the center prevents your dog from hoovering up its kibble with its tongue.
Being made from stainless steel means that owners can put it in the dishwasher to clean it, which we should all do far more often than we think. With a slow feeder bowl like this one, it pays to put it in the dishwasher after every meal. If you can’t manage that, once a day is great.
This dog bowl won’t slow down the most determined or dedicated of eaters to anything resembling a snail’s pace, but it still will stop any direct inhalation or choking dangers. It’s definitely worth a go – especially if you like to stay clear of plastic.
Stainless steel
Classic design
Non slip bottom
Dishwasher safe
- BrandDurapet
- Model2040010302
- Weight1.4 pounds
Best Slow Feeder Dog Bowl Buying Guide
What to Look for in a Slow Feeder Dog Bowl
Exactly what you want from a slow feeder dog bowl will depend on your dog, but there are a few things to bear in mind regardless of what breed you have.
- The Design
Remember that you are buying this slow feeder dog bowl with the intention of slowing down how quickly your dog eats. For the slow feeder to be effective, you need a dog slow feeder that will get your dog to finish his or her food in about five to ten minutes, as opposed to two.
To get your dog eating at a much slower pace then the slow feeder bowl has to make it that much more difficult for your dog to extricate his or her food. Depending on how bright your dog is, or simply how strong, will have a big bearing on the complexity of the design of the low feed. Dog bowls for fast eaters need to be difficult enough for food to be attained, but not so hard that your dog gets bored and looks to other forms of food for sustenance.
- The Material
Not all manufacturers of dog bowls for fast eaters have a dog’s best interests at heart. One of the ways that quality slow feeder bowl producers set themselves apart is through the material they use to make a slow dog bowl. Therefore, before you buy, ensure that the material used is totally free from any nasties. These can be PVC, phthalates and BPA.
- The Base
Given that your dog will be sniffing around and knocking this type of slow feeder dog bowl more than usual, try to find a bowl with a base that does not slide around your home’s floor. It will help them out that little bit, but it could also make the slow eating dog bowl work better so that they can’t knock it over and spilling food.
- The Size
The size of your dog bowl will depend upon on how big your dog is, how big their appetite is, and consequently how big a portion you like to give them of their food each time. Obviously, if they have a large portion, they will need a big slow dog bowl - though you could break down their meals throughout the day if they need a little entertaining.
- The Maintenance
The best slow feeder dog bowl is easy to clean. Otherwise, you simply won’t clean it well or clean it regularly enough for it to be safe for your dog to use. Ideally, they will be dishwasher safe so you can throw your chosen maze dog bowl or dog slow feeder into the machine and let it do all the hard work.
Benefits of Slow Feed Dog Bowls
A dog eating too fast is a pretty common occurrence. There are many benefits that can be achieved by getting them to slow down their eating. For one, it stops them from taking into too much air while chowing down their food. When they take in too much air, it can lead to some painful bloating. Using a slow eating dog bowl also helps prevent against them choking as they are not stopping to chew or bit their food, which can lead to them getting food stuck in their oesophagus. In general, slowing down eating will also help them with any uncomfortable indigestion they may have after eating too quickly.
Additionally, a slow feeder bowl can be a great addition to a family with an obese dog. By slowing down their eating it helps them feel full more quickly so they do not ever whinge against portion size. When they feel full, and they should feel full for longer too, they will move towards a healthier weight.
Lastly, a slow feeder dog bowl may be incredibly useful to larger breeds of dog that have huge, expansive chests. It is these breeds that are particularly susceptible to bloating that can cause a great deal of pain. Eating more slowly should help with this.
Tips to Stop Your Dog from Eating Too Fast
There are a few things that owners can do when they have bought a slow feeder dog bowl to reap the maximum rewards from using them. Not all dogs get along with them at first, but unfortunately that is the point. So try these tips when you start out:
- Do you research so that you buy the best dog bowl that suits your dog’s needs. It needs to have the right level of difficulty, especially if you are looking to buy a puzzle dog bowl or a dog food bowl maze game contraption. If your dog is none too bright, they may never be able to get the food out of it.
- Get the sizing correct. Buying a slow dog bowl that is huge when all you have is a small dog is not helpful to you or your dog. The same if the bowl is too small for your dogs needs. It needs to be able to hold the right amount of dog food for your dog, for every meal.
- Clean it regularly. Due to the designs of a puzzle dog bowl or a maze dog bowl, they can become dirty far more easily than a standard feeder. Therefore, it is imperative to wash it after every meal. Plus ensure that you are washing it correctly - many are dishwasher safe, but some do require handwashing.
Best Slow Feeder Dog Bowl FAQ:
Q: What are slow feeder dog bowls?
A: A slow feeder dog bowl is a fantastic answer or solution to those that have dogs that literally inhale their food in seconds. To work and prevent your dog from exhibiting this behavior, they are designed to make food less accessible than it usually is. Many dog bowls for fast eaters therefore feature designs like mazes that are delineated by ridges within the bowl itself. By stopping a dog gobbling up their food by lapping it up with their tongue or taking in far too large a mouthful each time, the ridges or other design features literally stop a dog in its tracks. They have to work around the design to get to their food.
Dog owners like slow feeder dog bowls as they can help prevent against gastrointestinal problems like indigestion. This is important as indigestion and eating too fast can actually be very painful and problematic to a dog and can lead to other problems. Stomachs can actually twist on themselves if dogs eat too quickly, give themselves indigestion and gulp down air that then goes to their insides. It develops into something called gastric dilatation. If a stomach twists on itself, it will need surgery to be fixed - though once it has happened, the stomach has a propensity to do it again. Vets won’t continually perform surgery to fix this problem.
Q: How do slow feeder dog bowls work?
A: While every dog slow feeder is a little different, for example a maze dog bowl versus a puzzle dog bowl, they all invariably work around the same premise. Given that standard dog bowls work by allowing dogs incredibly easy access to their food, the best slow feeder dog bowl will do exactly the opposite.
To make it difficult for dogs to access food and become excellent dog bowls for fast eaters, a slow feeder bowl will often feature a design that stops dog bowls having so much open space. It is this open space that allows for easy access in regular feeders. Dogs then have to work around these design features that become obstacles to their food. The more complex the design, the slower the slow feeder bowl.
Q: How do I keep my dog from chewing up his slow feed bowl?
There is no denying that even the most patient of dogs will find the introduction of a slow feeder into his or her life incredibly frustrating. To stop dogs from physically breaking down their slow feeder bowl with their teeth and jaws to get to the food, try to buy a dog bowl with the most robust of materials possible. Stainless steel is incredibly sturdy, and some plastics are so tough that even the most determined of dogs will eventually give up and try to get to their food in the manner the slow dog bowl was designed.
If your dog is likely to chew up his slow feed bowl, you can also stay near his side throughout his meal to stop him from destroying it.
Our Top Pick
You can’t go wrong with buying the Outward Hound Fun Feeder as a slow eating dog bowl for your furry friend. They really do make the best dog bowls for fast eaters and will slow your dog’s eating time down by up to 10 times their normal eating time.
Plus, it is made from materials that are not toxic to dogs so you can be safe in the knowledge that you won’t be hurting your dog by giving him food in this slow feeder bowl. The company make a point of keeping their products from from phthalates, PVC or even BPA.
Ultimately, however, the design is clever enough to stop your dog from gulping down his or her food which can cause uncomfortable issues like bloating or indigestion. While they may find it frustrating at first, their stomachs and digestive systems will thank you for buying the best slow feeder dog bowl around - in whichever color or design you choose from this manufacturer.
Sources:
- How to Get Dogs to Eat Slower - PetMD
- How to Stop a Dog from Eating Too Fast - wikiHow
