Top Slow-Feeder Dog Bowls for 2024

If your dog is consistently done with their food before you can even put away the scoop, then you might want to consider placing their meals in a slow-feeder dog bowl. Scarfing down food doesn’t just put a quick end to mealtimes—it can actually be hazardous to your pet’s health. “Some dogs eat so fast it will cause them to vomit shortly after eating,” explains veterinarian Dr. Gary Richter, a California-based veterinarian. “Slowing them down can help with this issue.” Eating too quickly can also cause bloat in dogs, which can be life-threatening if not properly treated.

Slow-feeder bowls, mats, and puzzles are designed to help dogs eat at a more leisurely pace. “Dogs have to eat around ridges or contours, so they take smaller and slower bites,” Richter explains. For overeaters especially, eating more slowly can make dogs feel fuller on less food. Working a little bit harder also helps keep their minds sharp, which is beneficial to all dogs, but particularly useful for older ones who may not get as much mental stimulation as their younger, more active friends.

Our top pick for the best slow-feeder dog bowl overall is Outward Hound’s Fun Feeder Interactive Dog Bowl, “a tried-and-true feeder bowl that helps dogs eat up to 10 times slower,” according to Dr. Sara Bledsoe, manager of veterinary services at Chewy. Other favorites include the Pet Parents Forager Snuffle Mat for pets prone to digging, the Hyper Pet IQ Treat Lick Mat for anxious pups, and Keegud’s Slow-Feeder Dog Bowl Insert.

Outward Hound Fun Feeder Interactive Dog Bowl is a maze-type bowl available in multiple designs and levels of difficulty. It has a nonslip base and is easy to clean, making it a popular choice among dog owners. The large size is suitable for bigger dogs and flat-faced breeds, providing a fun and effective way to slow down mealtime.

For puppies, the Frisco Slow-Feeder Dog Bowl is a basic design that separates food with a bone ridge pattern, making it great for young dogs still learning how to eat at a slower pace. As they grow older, you may want to upgrade to a more challenging bowl.

Large dogs can benefit from the durability and functionality of the highly rated slow-feeder bowl with a 3-cup capacity. Customers report that their dogs take longer to eat and enjoy the mental stimulation provided by the bowl. It is easy to clean and available in various colors.

For senior dogs, a puzzle feeder like the one mentioned in the article can provide additional enrichment and mental stimulation without adding stress to their bodies. The 14 holes and eight sliders offer intense mental stimulation, keeping dogs occupied for longer periods of time.

If you’re looking for an affordable option, consider a slow-feeder dog bowl insert that can be attached to your dog’s existing bowl. This budget-friendly choice is easy to use and works well with both wet and dry food.

The Pecute Slow Feeder Dog Bowl With No-Spill Non-Skid Silicone Mat is a versatile three-in-one option that includes a slow-feeder bowl, water bowl, and eating mat. It folds for easy storage and portability, making it ideal for travel or on-the-go feeding.

A snuffle mat can provide dogs with a natural foraging experience while slowing down mealtime. The soft material prevents injuries, and the durable design keeps dogs engaged and stimulated. It’s a great option for active dogs or those in need of additional enrichment.

Lastly, a lick mat can help dogs ease anxiety and improve their breath. The textured surface provides mental stimulation and can be used during stressful situations like baths or grooming sessions. Customers appreciate the calming effect it has on their dogs and the improvement in their behavior.

In conclusion, slow-feeder dog bowls, mats, and puzzles offer a variety of benefits for dogs of all ages and sizes. By slowing down mealtime and providing mental stimulation, these products can improve digestion, prevent health issues, and keep dogs entertained. Consider the specific needs of your dog when choosing the best slow-feeder option for them.