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Dog Feeding & Safety

The Mess-Free Dog Feeding Station

How to set up a clean, mess-free dog feeding station: the right bowls, mats, storage and slow feeders.

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Puppy curled up inside a food bowl

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1. Pick the right bowl

Stainless steel is the easiest to keep clean. If your dog inhales dinner in seconds, a slow feeder makes them work for it, which helps with gulping and vomiting.

2. Put a mat under it

A silicone mat with a raised edge catches kibble and water splashes, and wipes clean in seconds.

3. Store food airtight

An airtight bin keeps food fresh and stops dogs from breaking into the bag. Keep the original bag's label (or snap a photo) in case of a recall.

4. Keep water fresh

Wash bowls daily. A fountain can help dogs who don't drink enough.

5. Measure every meal

Scooping by eye is the most common way dogs get overfed. A measuring cup and the feeding guide on your dog food bag (adjusted with your vet) keep portions consistent. See our puppy feeding schedule.

Big dog? Skip the raised bowl for bloat

Raised bowls are sometimes sold as a way to prevent bloat, but one large study linked them to a higher bloat risk in large and giant breeds. Read our guide to exercise, mealtime and bloat, and ask your vet before using one.

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