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A slow-feeder dog bowl will prevent your pup from eating their meals too fast, which can lead to digestive discomfort.
There are few things in life that pets love more than mealtime — and oftentimes, you'll put the bowl of food down and your dog will enthusiastically gulp it down in mere seconds. However, eating food too fast can result in problems like vomiting, choking, and bloat. Why? Because dogs are gulping down air along with their food, which results in all sorts of immediate and long term digestion troubles (which can also include burping and gas). If this sounds like your dog, there's an option out there that solves the problem: a slow feeder dog bowl.
Most slow feeder dog bowls have ridges inside of them, often in swirled patterns, to help slow down consumption. Dogs will have to eat carefully around the ridges to get all of the food, which will set them at a slower and steadier pace. This will eliminate the digestion problems, and still allow dogs to enjoy their food, and it will work with both kibble and wet food. There are other types of bowls, too: like puzzle options for mind stimulation as well as bowls with elevated centers — and all of them accomplish the same thing, so it's just a matter of preference. Whichever one you think is best for your dog, all of them will make a noticeable difference and lead to better digestion and overall health for your dog. Check out our picks below:
1. The Best Option Overall
Amazon
Outward Hound Fun Feeder Slo Bowl - Amazon, $8.00+
This slow feeder with a non-stick base is both PVC- and BPA-free and can slow food consumption up to 10 times. We like that it comes in lots of different styles and patterns, as well as options for small and large dogs. They're also top-rack dishwasher-safe, and one reviewer writes: "My (almost) 1 yr old Pitt mix generally finishes her food in 30-45 seconds. I'm pretty sure there was no chewing or swallowing, just inhaling. Then she'd burp a few times. I have been afraid of potential stomach issues or risk of choking from how quickly she eats...[with this bowl], my girl took an entire 8 minutes to eat this time. 8 MINUTES! And she even seemed to enjoy it way more."
2. The Best Stainless Steel Option
OurPets DuraPet Slow Feeder Bowl - Amazon, $9.95+
Dog owners who prefer stainless steel will like this option for a slow feeder bowl dog bowl. As you can see, there's no open center: That means he can't gobble at high speeds, so your pooch is going to have to work around the rim with this one. It's available in three sizes depending on how much food your dog eats, and it's dishwasher-safe.
3. The Best Puzzle Option
Amazon
FASOON Interactive Dog Food Puzzle Toy - Amazon, $12.90
If your dog eats quickly and also has a lot of energy in general, they could benefit from a puzzle feeder dog bowl. Your dog will have to move the 12 different panels with their nose in different directions to get the food underneath. There are non-slip pads underneath, and this could be a great option for occasional use (like whenever your dog has a lot of pent-up energy). Reviewers note that most dogs know that this puzzle contains food and will begin to try and solve it immediately.
4. The Best Slow Feeder With Attached Mat
Amazon
BurgeonNest Slow Feeder Bowl - Amazon, $25.69
If your dog is a messy eater no matter what you do, we love that this stainless steel set has a mat on the bottom for easy clean-up. The mat also has a raised lip to collect any spilled water as well. Another reason why it's great? It comes with a water bowl, too, so you can just buy this and have everything you need.
5. The Best Insert
Amazon
Keegud Slow Feeder Insert - Amazon, $10.99
This insert is for those who want to try this out but don't want to buy a new bowl. The silicone insert has 22 suction cups on the bottom to easily and securely fit into any dog bowl. Another great perk? It's easy to pack in your travel bag. It's dishwasher-safe, too.
This piece was originally published in March 2022 and has since been updated by the WOP Commerce Team.
READ MORE: Challenge Your Dog With Interactive Puzzle Toys
