Slow-feeder dog bowls are your answer to mealtime mayhem. Unless you have a calm and composed dog trained to restrain their happiness when they’re served food, you probably see them wolf it down in seconds. But just like us, dogs of all breeds can benefit from savoring their meals slowly. That’s where these smartly designed bowls come in.
They let your dog enjoy every nibble and encourage slow eating for increased pleasure, and an improved mouth feel during meals. They also foster good eating practices while protecting against various gut troubles.
Moreover, slow-feeder bowls keep your pooch sharp and healthy by mentally engaging them in the process of accessing their food. But does your dog really need one? We’ll get to this along with our top picks below.
How Do I Know If My Dog Needs a Slow Feeder Bowl?
Slow-feeder dog bowls benefit all dogs, from fast eaters prone to bloat to dogs needing mental stimulation to those on weight management programs. Here are some of the many benefits of using a slow-feeder bowl instead of a regular one:
Promotes Healthy Eating Habits
The bowls slow down the eating pace as dogs try to access their food, reducing the risk of bloating, vomiting, and other digestive issues commonly associated with fast eating. The bowls also allow for better digestion since the food is broken down more effectively in the stomach.
Prevents Overeating
They encourage portion control and prevent rapid consumption, helping to regulate your dog’s food intake, prevent obesity, and aid in healthy weight management.
Encourages Mental Stimulation
Slow-feeder bowls add an element of mental stimulation to mealtime, as dogs engage with the maze-like patterns or obstacles in the bowl, making them enjoy their meal more and reducing the likelihood of regurgitation or other digestive discomforts.
Reduces Choking Hazards
They minimize the risk of choking by preventing your pooch from gulping down large chunks of food.
The Best Slow-feeder Dog Bowls to Buy in 2024
At DogTime, we’ve curated a selection of robust, intricately designed slow-feeder dog bows that are guaranteed to enrich your furry pal’s mealtime. With these feeders, you can say goodbye to gulping and hello to a more mindful dining experience for your beloved canine companion.
BEST OVERALL
Outward Hound Fun Feeder Slo Bowl
PHOTO CREDIT: Outward Hound
Why We Love
Ridged design effectively slows down eating
Non-skid base
Top rack dishwasher-safe
Available in different sizes, colors, and designs
Vet recommended
Lightweight
But…
Not chew proof
Designed by Outward Hound, this Fun Feeder Slo Bowl is our top pick for dogs who finish their food as soon as it is put in front of them. Its ridged design slows down eating by up to 10 times, promoting proper digestion and reducing common issues like bloating and obesity. Falling in the mid-range of dog bowl designs from the brand that spans slow, slower, and slowest, this bowl offers your dog a medium level of mental stimulation.
The non-slip base ensures stability during mealtime, so the bowl won’t shift around as your pooch tries to access their food from between the ridges. This bowl can hold up to two cups of wet or dry food, which is suitable for a medium-sized dog. It comes in other popular sizes and different colors. Plus, it is easy to clean by putting it on the top rack of the dishwasher, and its food-safe materials guarantee your furry friend’s well-being.
BEST ANTI-CHOKING BOWL
MateeyLife Slow Feeder Dog Bowl
PHOTO CREDIT: MateeyLife
Why We Love
Made from non-toxic, recyclable material
Smooth raised design
Anti-choking
Non-slip base
Dishwasher safe
Available in a wide range of colors and two sizes
But…
Not a very mentally stimulating design
Suitable for medium and large breeds, this slow-feeder bowl from MateeyLife is the perfect solution to prevent your pooch from gulping down their food. The bowl’s smooth, raised design makes it safe for your dog to put their snout and tongue in to pry out their food without the risk of choking on a food particle. It encourages slower chewing, which is great for digestion and keeps them engaged for a longer duration of mealtime.
The bowl is made from non-toxic and recyclable, food-grade PP polypropylene material, making it safe not just for your precious pooch but also for the environment. Its non-slip rubber pads ensure stability during eating, preventing spillages and damage to floors. Additionally, cleaning it is a breeze — either by hand or by putting it in a dishwasher — making it a convenient choice for you.
BEST CERAMIC
LE TAUCI Slow Feeder Ceramic Dog Bowl
PHOTO CREDIT: LE TAUCI
Why We Love
A safer alternative to plastic
Chew-resistant
Microwave-safe
Dishwasher-safe
Made from food-grade material
Non-slip base
But…
Not lightweight
A plastic food bowl and an aggressive chewer are a chaotic combination! Enter this ceramic slow-feeder dog bowl from LE TAUCI — made from a premium ceramic material that’s recommended by veterinarians, it prevents issues associated with plastic bowls, such as black jaws and accidental ingestion. The ridges and maze pattern slow down eating, ensuring your fast eater does not fill his tummy with excessive amounts of fluid, food, and air — leading to many digestive issues.
The heavy bowl is practically indestructible by your pooch, and its microwave-safe feature helps you heat their food easily if you have to. It comes with anti-slip stickers that you can attach to the bottom of the bowl to ensure it doesn’t slide around when your furry friend is busy eating. Moreover, cleaning it is as easy as cleaning your cereal bowl, rinse it under the faucet, or put it in the dishwasher — more free time means more time to cuddle or play with your favorite four-legged buddy!
BEST FOR LARGE DOGS
Freefa Slow Feeder Dog Bowl
PHOTO CREDIT: Freefa
Why We Love
Intricate maze design
Ideal for large dogs
Made from non-toxic, BPA-free materials
Anti-slip rubber mat
Available in different sizes and colors
Comes with a bonus travel bowl
But…
Not dishwasher safe
The intricate design of the Freefa Slow Feeder Dog Bowl makes it look like a decor item! It’s sure to intrigue your dog during mealtime, and you’ll enjoy their expressions! The largest size of the bowl can contain up to 6 cups of food, making it ideal for larger dog breeds. The bowl’s non-toxic, eco-friendly, and BPA-free material makes it safe for your furry friend to eat out of, and its anti-slip rubber mat will ensure it stays put when they are trying to figure out how to navigate this maze and get to their food.
Available in different colors and sizes, you can choose one that suits your pooch the best, but the same maze in all of them will keep them mentally stimulated for a long time, enriching the overall mealtime experience. While not meant to be put in the dishwasher, cleaning it by hand should be easy for you.
BEST FOR SHORT-SNOUTED DOGS
IRIS Slow Feeder Dog Bowl
PHOTO CREDIT: IRIS
Why We Love
Made from durable materials
Different versions for long and short-snouted dogs
Anti-slip base
Non-complex maze design
Effective in slowing down eating
Resists stains and odors
But…
Not dishwasher safe
If slowing down the pace at which your dog wolfs down his meals is your primary concern, then this IRIS Slow Feeder Dog Bowl is right for you. Featuring a non-complex raised-bump design, it effectively slows down eating, aiding digestion and preventing common issues like nausea, regurgitation, and vomiting.
We love that it comes in two styles — long-snouted and short-snouted, an often-overlooked feature in slow-feeder bowls. Made from BPA-free polypropylene material that resists stains and odors, the bowl is easy to clean by hand, and its non-slip base prevents the bowl from moving around or getting knocked over.
BEST ANTI-SKID
WHIPPY Slow Feeder Dog Bowl
PHOTO CREDIT: WHIPPY
Why We Love
Vortex maze design
Suitable for medium and large-sized dogs
Anti-choking
Non-skid pads
Can hold up to four cups of dry food
Top rack dishwasher-safe
But…
Not chew proof
This slow-feeder dog bowl from WHIPPY offers both fun and health benefits for your furry friend. Made from food-grade safe materials, its spiral pattern design helps prolong meal time, which in turn prevents a number of digestive issues. Additionally, your pup will love to engage with the mentally enriching vortex maze design.
The bowl is suitable for medium and large-sized dogs and can hold up to four cups of dry food. Its non-slip bottom with six anti-skid pads keeps the bowl stable, preventing spills and messes. Plus, it is also available in multiple colors, so choosing one that complements your furry BFF’s other cute accessories should be fun.
BEST STAINLESS STEEL
Neater Pet Brands Stainless Steel Slow Feed Bowl
PHOTO CREDIT: Neater
Why We Love
Made from durable stainless steel
Chew-proof
Simple design
Suitable for small or medium-sized dogs
Dishwasher safe
Non-tip silicon ring to prevent sliding
But…
The silicon ring may come off easily
The Neater Pet Brands bowl is a formidable option for fast eaters. It is made from durable and chew-proof stainless steel. If you were to confuse this bowl with a bundt cake mold, we wouldn’t blame you! The simple yet effective design offers just the right amount of challenge without causing frustration — suitable for dogs who are new to slow feeders.
With a capacity of 1-1/2 cups of dry food, this bowl can easily be used with small and medium dog breeds. The removable, non-tip silicon ring ensures the bowl doesn’t slide along the floors. What’s more? It’s dishwasher safe, so cleaning it is as convenient for you as pressing a few buttons.
How We Chose the Best Slow-feeder Dog Bowls
At DogTime, our experts curated this list of the best slow-feeder dog bowls, assessing factors such as durable material, maze pattern, suitability for different breeds, capacity, and ease of cleaning. They further consulted with industry professionals to gain more insight into the top-selling products, using their guidance and experience to bring our readers the very best. When you choose one of our recommended products, you can rest assured that you’re making an informed purchase from the best brands available on the market.
FAQ
Do vets recommend slow feeders?
Yes, many vets recommend slow feeders for dogs, especially those prone to digestive issues like bloating or vomiting. They are effective in promoting healthier eating habits and aiding digestion.
What is the best slow feeder bowl?
The best slow feeder bowl depends on your dog’s needs and preferences. Look for one with durable construction, an appropriate maze design, and a suitable size for your pooch’s breed and eating habits. Outward Hound slow feeders are a popular choice among pet parents.
Is plastic or silicone better for slow feeders?
Silicone slow feeders are generally better because they are durable, non-toxic, and easier to clean than plastic. Silicone also tends to be more resistant to chewing and damage.
Do dogs get frustrated with slow feeders?
While some dogs may initially feel frustrated with slow feeders due to the challenge of accessing their food, they often adjust over time and benefit from the slower eating pace.
Do slow feeders mentally stimulate dogs?
Yes, slow feeders mentally stimulate dogs by adding an element of challenge to mealtime. The maze-like pattern requires them to use their problem-solving skills, which they love.
How do I know if my dog needs a slow feeder?
If your dog eats too quickly, vomits after eating, shows signs of bloating, or struggles with weight management, using a slow feeder to regulate their eating pace may prove beneficial.
What should I put in my dog’s slow feeder?
You can put your dog’s regular dry kibble or treats in the slow feeder. Avoid using wet food or large treats that may not fit, which could create a choking hazard and be challenging to clean.
How do you choose a slow feeder?
When choosing a slow feeder, think about your pup’s size, how they eat, and any health issues they might have. Go for sturdy materials, a design that suits their eating style, and something easy to clean to make it convenient for you.
What size slow feeder is right for dogs?
Choose a slow feeder size that suits your dog’s breed and eating habits. It should be large enough to hold a meal comfortably but not too big that it becomes challenging to navigate.
What is the best shape for a slow-feeder dog bowl?
The best shape for a slow-feeder dog bowl is one with maze-like patterns or obstacles that encourage dogs to slow down while eating. Consider your dog’s frustration threshold and opt for designs that promote healthy engagement and prevent easy access to food.
Do dogs need to eat slower?
Yes, dogs benefit from eating slower to prevent digestive issues like bloating, vomiting, and choking. It isn’t just good for digestion—it also keeps your pup at a healthy weight and prevents any behavior issues that might come from gobbling down food too quickly.
