When your dog eats too fast and then exercises, it can develop life-threatening bloat, also known as gastric dilatation and volvulus (GDV). If you see your dog has difficulty moving, dry heaves, a round, expanded stomach, or if it pants and salivates excessively, take your dog to a vet immediately. [3] X Research source
Slow feeders are great enrichment for dogs since it challenges them to figure out how to reach their food. Your dog will eat faster as it gets used to using a slow feeder, but it will still be slower than feeding it from a regular bowl.
Puzzle toys are great for keeping senior dogs mentally engaged.
If your dog picks the tennis ball out of the bowl, then try putting a large rock in the middle of the bowl instead. Just make sure it’s large enough so that your dog won’t try to eat it. You can also try flipping your dog’s food bowl over and putting the kibble in the ring around the raised center.
You could instead make a trail of food on a yoga mat. Your dog will love sniffing around for the next bit of food.
Taking time to practice commands during mealtime also strengthens your bond with your dog. Take about 15 minutes to feed your dog its full meal so it learns to slow down while it eats.
Putting water in the bowl also softens your dog’s food, which makes it easier to chew and won’t make your pups choke. Softened food is great for puppies that eat too fast.
