We’ve talked about Nibbler, Gobbler, Grazer, Chomper, Scarfer, Inhaler, Wolfer, Gulper before. Remember when you thought they were Santa’s new reindeer but were actually nicknames you’ve given your speed-eating puppy?
Puppies eating too quickly can lead to several issues. It increases the risk of choking, bloating, and gastrointestinal discomfort. Rapid eating can also result in poor digestion, nutrient absorption, and potential weight gain. Slow feeding in your puppy promotes healthier eating habits, reduces these risks, and enhances the overall well-being of your furry friend.
Before you rename your puppy that eats too quickly, we’ll introduce puppy feeding solutions designed to enhance your pup's mealtime experience while slowing down their bad gobbling habits.
If you’re thinking of ways to slow down your puppy’s eating habits, we have some product recommendations that may help you achieve your goal and keep your puppy happy and healthy during mealtimes.
What is a Slow Feeder Product For My Puppy?
You may be used to plopping some kibble in a regular dog bowl and presenting it at mealtimes. So what is a slow feeder? A slow feeding product is a product that through its very design creates obstacles that effectively slow down your dog's eating pace. May offer ridged or raised surfaces or require your puppy to solve a puzzle or overcome a barrier to receive food. From the most basic to high-tech options, let’s explore the best slow feeder products for dogs.
Why Purchase a Slow Feeder Product For Dogs?
A slow feeder product can be more than just a cool product – it can also have immense health benefits and even help prevent serious medical issues. Here are some advantages to using slow feeder devices for your fast-eating puppy.
Promotes healthy eating habits
A slow feeding design helps to promote better digestion by reducing the risk of gulping large amounts of food and air. Some large, deep-chested dog breeds such as Great Danes, Boxers, and German Shepherds may experience a dangerous medical condition called bloat (GVD, or gastric dilation volvulus).
Bloat is when a dog’s stomach will twist or rotate, trapping gas and blocking other organs from functioning. Bloat can be deadly if not treated right away, so that’s a huge reason to do what you can to reduce the speed at which a puppy eats food.
Stimulates natural foraging instincts
Dogs love mentally stimulating activities, and it’s even better and more fun for them when food is involved. Dogs love using their noses, which are highly sensitive to smells thanks to the amazing number of olfactory receptors far superior to a human’s. When they get to smell and “hunt” for their food, you’re tapping into their natural doggy instincts.
Helps prevent obesity
Many dogs can suffer from obesity, especially those who eat quickly. In fact, according to a 2021 report from The Association for Pet Obesity Prevention, more than 50% of dogs and cats are overweight, so don’t let your puppy become a statistic. They may seek out snacks or extra food because they gobbled up their portion with hardy any time to address hunger cues. Obesity is a health issue that you as a responsible owner can prevent, so do what you can to keep your puppy trim and healthy.
What to Consider in a Puppy Slow Feeder Product
While all products are designed to help slow down your puppy’s eating, there are a few features that may stand out to you when trying to find a good fit for your puppy.
Easy to clean
Some people don’t mind spending a bit of extra time to make sure a product is clean. But if you’re looking for a product that provides quick washing-up time, choose smooth, sturdy surfaces with larger nooks and crannies rather than mats made of longer, softer material. Regardless of how long it takes to clean, all food items should be easy to clean in the sink or washing machine since puppies are using them.
Safe materials
Speaking of puppies eating, the material used in slow feeder products for puppies needs to be food-grade and non-toxic. Not all items on the market you see geared toward puppies are actually safe, so be sure to find out which materials are used.
Fits your budget
From DIY options to pricey high-tech products, choose the best puppy slow feeder you can afford in your budget. We know that owning a puppy is a financial responsibility as well, but we don’t want you to go broke on a device that may work just as well as a less expensive option.
Best Slow Feeder Products For Your Fast-Eating Puppy
Have fun choosing a slow feeder product from among our many suggestions. Bone appetite!
Neater Pets Non-Skid Non-Tip Stainless Steel Slow Feeder Dog Bowl
The Neater Pets Non-Skid Non-Tip Stainless Steel Dog Bowl is the perfect feeding solution starter product for your furry friend. The design is simple and basic and will do the trick. Made with high-quality stainless steel and a non-skid base, this bowl stays securely in place while your pet eats. Its design prevents tipping, spills, and messes, is ideal for all dog breeds, and is easy to clean.
Mighty Paw Dog Lick Bowl
Mighty Paw’s Dog Lick Bowl is a fun design that can be used as a bowl or flipped over to keep things fun and interesting for your puppy. The raised design on both sides is great for smearing soft foods like yogurt or peanut butter on the sides or wet & dry dog food in the bowl position. You can even hide food under the bowl to encourage your puppy to flip it over to find their dinner. The BPA-free, dishwasher-safe, food-grade silicon gives you reassurance this product is safe for your puppy. Even better – it’s made in the USA!
Loving Pets Gobble Stopper Slow Feeder
The Gobble Stopper is a bone-shaped suction cup device designed for any bown to slow down fast-eating puppies. The canopy shape means puppies have to reach what’s under the bone. Clean up is easy due to the ability to place it in the top rack of the dishwasher when your puppy is done eating for the day. This may be an economical choice if you’re looking for a versatile (and even portable) way to slow down your puppy’s gulping.
Alibuy Dogs Snuffle Mat Pet Feeding Mat
The Alibuy Sniffing Mat is an interactive and stimulating dog toy. With multiple hidden pockets and challenges, it encourages your pet's natural foraging instincts. Made with durable and pet-safe materials, this mat provides mental stimulation and entertainment. It’s perfect for all breeds and sizes, making playtime exciting and engaging. It’s also fun to look at!
Outward Hound Lickin' Layers Interactive Puzzle Game & Slow Feeder
The Lickin’ Layers slow feeder provides over 100 compartments for food in three movable layers. Use one or all three levels to keep things interesting for your pup. Owners can stack each layer, secure the layers with a pin, and swivel the levels out for your puppy to snoot around for the hidden food. The stack is BPA, PVC, and phthalate free for a safe eating experience.
EJoangun 5 Squeaky Carrots Nosework Sniffing Feeding Mat
The Snuffle Nosework Mat by EJoangun takes a regular snuffle mat concept and elevates it to a new standard. Using coral fleece that is safe and durable even for the toughest chewers, a variety of places on the mat serve as great areas to use during dinner time. In addition, the squeaky carrots and hidden pockets provide entertainment beyond mealtimes. Attached straps even make this product great for on-the-go moments when you want your puppy to be occupied.
Hanamya Interactive Food/Treats Dispensing Flying Disc Puzzle Dog Toy
We love a good 2-in-1 product! The food dispenser and flying disc features allow your puppy to chow down in a slow, mentally engaging way. You can choose the amount of food to put inside to make sure your puppy doesn’t inhale all his food in one feeding. This product is made of pet-safe polycarbonate and is easy to clean.
ANYPET Slow Feeding Mat & Tray
This slow feeding mat and tray product from Anypet is actually a few mats in one that can be broken down for various uses, and each mat features a different design. The suction cup base securely attaches to flat surfaces, preventing spills and movement. The maze-like design promotes slower eating, reducing anxiety and aiding digestion. Made with food-grade silicone, it is safe, durable, and easy to clean.
DOGNESS Mini Programmable Automatic Dog & Cat Feeder
Are you a busy pet owner who has to be gone from home during mealtimes? What about someone who needs to feed their puppy several small meals? This mini programmable, compact, and versatile feeder allows you to customize meal portions and feeding schedules for your furry companion. With its easy-to-use interface and LCD screen, you can program up to six meals a day for your puppy. The feeder's built-in voice recorder adds a personal touch, calling your puppy for mealtime. Keep your puppy happy and well-fed with this convenient and reliable automatic feeder.
LIDLOK Treat Dispensing Dog Toy and Training Aid
For puppies that are high-energy scarfers, the LIDLOK treat dispensing dog toy may just be the perfect way to combine sustenance with fun. This interactive dispenser features a secure lid that prevents easy access to food and treats, encouraging puppies to engage and problem-solve. Made with durable materials, it promotes mental stimulation and can be used for training purposes. Puppies will also love chasing the tail strings and will want to play with it in between mealtimes, too.
Our Pawrade Puppies Love to Eat!
If you’re looking at puppies for sale for a canine companion to feed and love on every day, our outstanding team of puppy enthusiasts are ready to help you find your perfect, healthy new best friend. Contact us by clicking the “Reserve” button or calling us at (888) 729-8812 to begin the adoption process.
