The Best Slow Feeders for Dogs
Turns out you really can teach an old dog new tricks — you just have to go about it the right way. With a slow feeder, opportunity abounds. By helping to boost endorphins, these specialized feeding mats nix boredom, anxiety, and unwanted behaviors. Almost like a dog puzzle, they'll keep your pup's brain active and engaged, which is helpful for both puppies and aging dogs alike. There a few dog feeders in particular that stand out for us, and they're dog-approved, too. Say goodbye to a bored, unstimulated pup and hello to a more relaxed and happy hound.
Outward Hound Fun Feeder Slo Bowl
Chew before you swallow
Whether your pup chows down a bit too fast or you just want to engage their brain a bit more, these slow feeder bowls are a must-have. Working not just to stifle anxiety and restlessness and the behaviors that go along with them, these feeders are also an excellent option for pups with digestive issues. How, exactly? It’s simple: because slower eating has been shown to reduce bloating, regurgitation, and upset stomach, these slow feeders are a benefit to dogs that need a little help in the digestive area. Made with non-slip, food-safe materials, they’re perfectly safe for Fido, too.
Pros:
- Variety of size options available
- Multiple types of inner puzzle designs
- Won’t slip around as your dog is trying to eat
Cons:
- Not the best design for dogs with longer noses
- The outer rim is short, making it easy for dog food to scatter
Hyper Pet IQ Treat Mat
Boredom busters
Ask any trainer and they’ll tell you: give your dog something to do, and you’ll quickly notice a reduction in poor behaviors that result from boredom and anxiety. One of the best ways in which to do this? A treat mat. Designed to help calm your pet via the soothing action of licking, these mats are ideal for high-stress situations. Plus, they typically promote fresher, healthier breath due to the action caused by scraping their tongue across the surface. This one from Hyper Pet offers all of these benefits, and it’s available in a variety of styles. Grab a few to really keep Fido guessing; at this price point, why not?
Pros:
- Made in the USA of quality materials
- Use with peanut butter, yogurt, and other sticky favorites
- Quadrant design helps in better portion control
Cons:
- They don’t suction down, which is a bit of a bummer
- The mats are flat, which isn’t always ideal for kibble use
Lickimat Tuff Heavy-Duty Slow Feeder
For the bigger breeds, a bigger boredom buster is a must. With that in mind, we’re really loving this larger size mat from Lickimat. Made from heavy-duty materials that work with everything from peanut butter to raw foods, this mat provides ample time to work its wonders. Helping to reduce unfavorable bacteria from your pup’s teeth, gums, and tongue, it also works to stifle naughty behaviors in bored dogs. Be aware, though, that sometimes, this mat is tempting as a chew toy, so these types of trainers are never to be used without supervision.
Pros:
- Large size is ideal for extra anxious — or extra large — dogs
- May help to encourage more positive behaviors
- Durable material for even the stickiest treats
Cons:
- These mats are not chew-proof, so only use them with supervision
- There is no suction on the bottom of the mat, which is a drag for more boisterous lickers
LickiMat Wobble Slow Feeder Bowl
Don't worry about a thing
For dogs who continually struggle with anxiety and boredom, this wobble bowl is the answer. Made to reduce stress, it’s a fantastic option for high-stress situations, such as nail clippings, firework celebrations, or most dogs’ biggest fear: thunderstorms. The wobbling action of the bowl provides an added challenge for a dog who has already mastered the regular mat-style feeders. It’s also possible to use these bowls for feeding time, too, for pups that need a little help in slowing down. Although it’s best for small or medium-sized dogs, they can be used with bigger dogs, too. Just be sure to refill as needed.
Pros:
- Helps to reduce overall anxiety and boredom
- Aids in dental health
- Great for slowing down feeding time and improving digestion
Cons:
- For stickier items such as peanut butter, it can be difficult for dogs to fully clean the bowl
- We do wish there was a bigger size for bigger dogs
Mozart Casa Dog Lick Mat (4-Pack)
The more the merrier
We’re pretty big dog people around these parts, so we’re no strangers to multi-pooch households. While that means way more love, it also means buying in bulk. This four-pack of slow feeder mats is perfect for the multi-dog household. Featuring two silicone dog lick mats, a dog brush, and a spatula, this set is sold at a budget-friendly price, so you can snag a few more if you have more than two dogs. Featuring a surface that provides plenty of feedback, your pup will reap all the benefits of a soothing licker mat and get groomed in the process with a brush that expertly removes shedding hair. Best for sticky substances, these mats are great for smearing peanut butter all over the top.
Pros:
- Two-for-one price point
- Included silicone dog brush removes shedding hair
- Powerful suction stops slipping during licking
Cons:
- Not the best spatula, but we appreciate having it as a designated dog spatula
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the point of a slow feeder?
Slow feeders reduce anxiety, boredom, and overall chew time. They’re an excellent training tool, too.
When should you introduce a slow feeder?
It’s never too early to introduce a slow feeder. Just make sure to supervise, as slow feeders are not chew toys and can be dangerous if they’re broken into swallowable bites.
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