How can I stop my dog from eating so fast?

Our question this week was:

What can we do to slow down our puppy from eating too fast. She doesn’t even chew her food and then when she is done she vomits it back up?

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Trish Huit

Answer

Hi – thanks for your email. You wrote about a common problem with some dogs – they eat too fast and can vomit or regurgitate up their food.

You can help by….

• Feeding smaller amounts more frequently.
• Use a different type of food bowl. There are food dishes created for dogs that eat to fast. Some dishes have small divisions so that it is harder for dogs to get to their food thus slowing them down.
• Use something in the bowl that helps slow he down. Some pet owners place something like a tennis ball in the bowl so that the dogs has to eat around the ball, which takes them more time.

If the problem is persistent – there are medical causes for dogs to regurgitate. You may want to read and talk to your vet about regurgitation and megaesophagus if it persists.

Best of luck!

Dr. Debra

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