9 april 2024

Healthy eating habits with the right feeder

Learn all about special food bowls such as raised feeding stands, slowfeeders and lick mats, and get advice for preventing obesity in dogs. Order easily online from Warmako for a range that your customers and their faithful four-legged friends are sure to love!

Healthy eating habits are crucial for the overall health and well-being of dogs. Besides selecting the right material for their food bowl, there are other aspects to consider, such as elevated food bowls and anti-gulp food bowls. These contribute to better digestion, prevent obesity, and encourage natural behavior.

In the pet store you can expect various questions from dog owners seeking advice on the different food bowls available in your inventory. Below are some questions you may receive:

1. What material is best for a food bowl?
Stainless steel food bowls are generally the best choice due to their durability, easy cleaning, non-porous surface (prevents bacterial growth), and safety for most dogs. Avoid plastic bowls due to the risk of scratching and bacterial buildup unless they are made of durable, BPA-free material.

2. What is the difference between an elevated food bowl and a regular food bowl?
An elevated food bowl is convenient for dogs with joint or neck issues as it reduces bending during meals. A regular food bowl is suitable for healthy dogs without specific health problems.

3. How can I prevent my dog from eating too quickly?
Use an anti-gulp bowl or slow feeder to prevent gulping. These food bowls force the dog to eat and chew slowly, promoting digestion and preventing overeating.

4. Are there special food bowls for dogs with specific health issues?
Yes, there are elevated food bowls for dogs with joint or neck problems, anti-gulp bowls for dogs that eat too quickly, and slanted food bowls for dogs with esophageal issues. Consult a veterinarian for specific advice based on the dog's health.

5. How do I choose the right size food bowl for my dog?
Choose a food bowl that is large enough to hold the amount of food your dog needs for a meal. Additionally, consider the size or shape of the food bowl, especially for short-nosed or dogs with long ears.

6. Which food bowls are suitable for dogs that eat outdoors?
Choose food bowls made of durable materials such as stainless steel or ceramic that are resistant to weather conditions and easy to clean. Avoid materials that are easily damaged by sunlight, rain, or frost.

7. Are there food bowls that are easy to transport for travel?
Yes, there are food bowls specifically designed for travel and on-the-go use. Choose foldable, lightweight food bowls that fit easily in a bag or car and are easy to clean.

It's important for pet store employees to be well-informed about different types of food bowls, their pros and cons, and how they can meet the specific needs of different dogs. This way, you can effectively advise customers and help them choose the right food bowl for their loyal companion. Further explanations are provided below.

Material Choice for Food Bowls

The choice of material for the food bowl can have a significant impact on the dog's health. Various options are available, each with their own advantages and disadvantages.

Plastic food bowls: Although popular due to their lightweight and variety of colors, plastic food bowls can harbor scratches that trap bacteria. Also, watch out for harmful substances like BPA and opt for durable, BPA-free options combined with bamboo fibers, such as the sustainable food bowls from Beco and District 70.
Ceramic food bowls: These are easy to clean and have a classic appearance. The Scruffs food bowls are suitable for dogs that don't eat too quickly and don't have a tendency to gulp.
Silicone food bowls: Safe, durable, and easy to clean. Silicone food bowls like the Beco Travel bowl or Kurgo Collaps-a-Bowl are flexible, convenient for travel, and even collapsible.
Stainless steel food bowls: Stainless steel food bowls do not rust, are non-porous, and easy to clean, often dishwasher-safe. They are available in various colors and are generally a good choice for most dogs.

Special Food Bowls for Health Issues

In addition to material choice, there are special food bowls that can help promote healthy eating habits and prevent issues like gulping and obesity.

Elevated food bowls: For some dogs, an elevated food bowl stand can help promote healthy digestion. This is because the dog can eat in a more comfortable position, making it easier for food to be swallowed and digested. Especially ideal for dogs with joint, neck, or back problems. Placing the food bowl on an elevated stand like the District 70 Butler or in the Piedmont diner can also reduce food and water spillage. This is handy for dogs that tend to dig their paws into food or are clumsy eaters.
Anti-gulp food bowls: Designed to prevent gulping by slowing down eating and chewing. This benefits digestion and prevents overeating. Examples include the Outward Hound Fun Feeder Slo Bowl, District 70 Slowfeeder, and West Paw Feast Mat or West Paw Toppl XL.
Lick mats: These encourage the dog to eat in a slower and more interactive manner. They reduce gulping behavior and promote healthy digestion. Consider the West Paw Feast Mat and the District 70 Quest.

Preventing Obesity with Anti-gulp Food Bowls

Obesity in dogs is a common problem that poses serious health risks. Similar to humans, obesity can lead to conditions such as diabetes, joint problems, cardiovascular diseases, and a shorter lifespan. Therefore, it's essential to manage the dog's diet properly and ensure a healthy eating experience.

One of the solutions to prevent or reduce obesity in dogs is anti-gulp food bowls. These special food bowls are designed to make dogs eat slower. This reduces gulping behavior, which in turn improves digestion and prevents overeating.

Anti-gulp food bowls usually work by increasing the food surface area or adding obstacles that require the dog to make more effort to reach the food. This encourages a calmer eating pace and helps the dog eat more consciously, leading to an earlier sense of satiety.

Using anti-gulp food bowls is particularly beneficial for dogs prone to eating quickly, which can cause digestive problems, obesity, and other health issues. It also provides a mental challenge for the dog during meals, reducing boredom and stimulating their natural hunting instinct.

It's important to choose the right size and shape of the anti-gulp food bowl based on your dog's size and eating habits. Some anti-gulp food bowls, for example, have different compartments or elevations to further divide the food and reduce gulping even more.

In conclusion, anti-gulp food bowls are an effective tool to prevent obesity and promote a healthy eating experience for dogs. By eating slower and chewing better, dogs stay fitter, healthier, and happier.

Order Easily Online

Warmako helps you choose the right assortment to promote healthy eating habits in dogs. Order easily online or contact us at [email protected] or 010 311 8400. Prefer direct contact with your representative? Use the contact details below.