Slow Feeders and Fast-Eating Dogs

There are many possible reasons. Some dogs have learned to eat quickly because they once competed with littermates or other pets for food. Others are naturally enthusiastic. Some are anxious about food, or have had periods of hunger. Dogs fed once a day may be very hungry at mealtime. Boredom and habit also play a part.

Occasionally, there is a medical reason. Parasites, diabetes, thyroid problems, and malabsorption can all increase appetite. If your dog has suddenly started eating faster, or seems constantly hungry despite eating well, a veterinary check is a sensible step.

Fast eating is not always harmful, but it can cause a number of problems. Dogs who swallow food and air together may vomit, regurgitate, burp, or pass gas. They may choke on large pieces of kibble. Eating very fast has also been linked to a higher risk of gastric dilatation-volvulus, or bloat, in large, deep-chested breeds. Bloat is a life-threatening emergency in which the stomach fills with gas and may twist.

Note: Signs of bloat include a swollen belly, unproductive retching, restlessness, drooling, and collapse. Go to a veterinarian immediately if you see them.

The simplest solution is to change how food is served. There are many options, and you can also make your own.

• Slow-feeder bowls, with ridges, mazes, or obstacles that force dogs to eat around them.
• Puzzle feeders and treat balls, which dispense food slowly.
• Snuffle mats and lick mats, which turn feeding into foraging.
• A muffin tin, with food in each cup and tennis balls on top.
• A large, flat plate, which spreads the food out.
• A tennis ball in the bowl, for large dogs, as long as it cannot be swallowed.

Several routines can help. Feed two or three smaller meals a day, rather than one large one, and measure portions accurately. Scatter feeding, spreading kibble over the grass or floor, makes dogs search. Hand-feeding part of the meal, as a training exercise, slows eating and builds focus. Frozen stuffed toys, with food mixed with water or broth, take longer to finish.

1. Divide the daily ration into smaller meals.
2. Use a slow feeder, or a puzzle toy, for at least one meal.
3. Try scatter feeding in the yard or on a mat.
4. Use some of the meal for training, rewarding calm behavior.
5. Feed in a quiet place, away from other pets.
6. Avoid vigorous exercise right before and after meals.

When dogs eat together, the competition can speed things up. Feed pets in separate rooms, or use barriers and crates, so that each can eat in peace. Pick up bowls when meals are finished, to avoid conflict. If your dog guards food, ask a professional for help, rather than forcing the issue.

Speak to your vet if your dog is always ravenous, loses weight, has frequent vomiting or diarrhea, drinks and urinates more than usual, or shows other signs of illness. Also ask if your dog is a breed at risk of bloat, and what steps you can take. Your vet can check for medical causes, and recommend a feeding plan.

Slow feeders come in many shapes, and a poor match can frustrate a dog or be ignored. Consider your dog's size and muzzle shape.

• Short-nosed breeds: choose shallow, wide designs, with low ridges.
• Long-nosed breeds: choose deeper mazes and larger spaces.
• Small dogs: lightweight bowls with gentle obstacles.
• Large dogs: heavy, non-slip bowls that cannot be flipped.
• Chewers: durable materials, with no loose parts.
• Dogs who get frustrated: start with an easy design.

Puppies need a design that is not too hard, since they need to eat enough to grow. Start with a basic slow bowl, and watch that they are finishing meals. Divide food into more meals. Seniors may have dental problems or arthritis, so choose shallow bowls and softer food. If an older dog suddenly eats faster or more slowly than usual, mention it to your vet, because pain in the mouth or illness may be the cause.

A good routine makes slow feeders work better. Feed at consistent times, in a quiet place, and measure the right amount. Wash the bowl daily, since food residue can grow bacteria. If the food comes out too quickly, or too slowly, adjust the toy or the kibble size. Watch your dog's weight, and change portions if they are gaining or losing. If your dog continues to gulp, vomit, or seem ravenous, ask your vet for a check.