How to Slow Down a Dog That Eats Too Fast
A practical guide for owners of speedy eaters. If your dog regularly vomits, seems bloated or uncomfortable after meals, talk to your vet.
Why some dogs eat so fast
Eating fast is often a habit: dogs from multi-pet homes, rescues or very food-motivated breeds tend to gulp their meals before anyone else can get them. The trouble is that gulping means swallowing a lot of air along with the food.
Signs your dog eats too fast
- The bowl is empty in under a minute
- Coughing, gagging or bringing food back up soon after eating
- Lots of gulping sounds and burping
- Still acting hungry right after a full meal
5 ways to slow mealtime down
- Use a slow feeder bowl. Maze-style ridges make your dog work around obstacles for each bite.
- Turn meals into a puzzle. Puzzle feeders and spinning treat games add a brain-game element.
- Spread wet food on a lick mat. Licking is slow and naturally calming.
- Split the daily food into smaller meals.
- Feed pets separately so nobody feels they have to race.
Our picks
Maze bowls, a rotating puzzle feeder (ships from our US warehouse) and suction-cup lick mats.
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