If you’re a dog owner, you’ve likely noticed that many dogs tend to devour their food in mere seconds. This behavior can lead to several health issues such as bloating, indigestion, and in some cases, even vomiting. Enter the Outward Hound Fun Feeder Slo Bowl, a product that promises to slow down your dog’s eating pace while keeping mealtime engaging and fun.
In this review, we’ll break down why this product has become a favorite among dog owners, covering its design, functionality, and the impact it has on your dog’s health and overall eating habits.
What is the Outward Hound Fun Feeder Slo Bowl?
The Outward Hound Fun Feeder Slo Bowl is a specially designed feeding bowl for dogs, made to encourage them to eat more slowly by presenting food in a puzzle-like format. Available in various sizes and designs, this product is suitable for dogs of all breeds and ages. The bowl’s innovative design features maze-like ridges and patterns that force dogs to work a little harder to access their food, slowing down the overall eating process.
Why Dogs Need a Slow Feeder
Dogs are natural fast eaters. In the wild, competition for food can lead to animals developing the habit of eating quickly, but this doesn’t translate well into domestic life. When dogs eat too quickly, they can swallow large amounts of air along with their food, leading to bloat, a serious and sometimes fatal condition in dogs. Fast eating can also cause choking, regurgitation, and obesity.
That’s where the Outward Hound Fun Feeder Slo Bowl steps in, turning a potentially dangerous habit into a healthy, mentally stimulating experience for your furry friend.
Key Features of the Outward Hound Fun Feeder Slo Bowl
1. Durable, Non-Toxic Materials
One of the most important aspects of any pet product is safety. The Outward Hound Fun Feeder is made from BPA-free, phthalate-free plastic, ensuring it’s safe for your dog to eat from daily. The material is highly durable, designed to withstand even the most enthusiastic of eaters. It’s also dishwasher-safe, making it incredibly easy to clean, which is a major plus for pet owners who want to maintain hygiene without hassle.
2. Variety of Sizes and Designs
The Fun Feeder comes in multiple sizes—small, medium, and large—so you can find the perfect fit for your dog, no matter their breed or eating habits. Additionally, it features a wide range of maze patterns, from circular swirls to more intricate flower-like designs. These patterns aren’t just for aesthetics; they are crafted to challenge your dog’s brain, making eating more of a mental exercise.
3. Slows Down Eating by Up to 10x
According to the product’s description and user reviews, the Outward Hound Fun Feeder can slow down your dog’s eating speed by as much as 10 times compared to a traditional bowl. This slow-down effect helps reduce the risk of choking, vomiting, and bloating, and can also promote better digestion. Dogs that eat slowly are more likely to properly chew their food, which aids in nutrient absorption and reduces the risk of stomach upsets.
4. Non-Slip Base
One problem with traditional dog bowls is that they can slide across the floor while your dog is eating, making mealtime messy. Thankfully, the Outward Hound Fun Feeder comes with a non-slip base, keeping it firmly in place no matter how eager your dog is to get to their food. This feature is especially useful for dog owners with hardwood or tiled floors.
Pros of the Outward Hound Fun Feeder Slo Bowl
1. Improves Digestion
The biggest selling point of the Outward Hound Fun Feeder is its ability to slow down your dog’s eating pace, which in turn helps improve their digestion. By eating slowly, your dog is less likely to gulp down food and air, reducing the risk of bloat, gas, and other digestive issues.
2. Encourages Mental Stimulation
Because the bowl’s design forces dogs to work a bit harder to access their food, it provides much-needed mental stimulation, which can help prevent boredom. Dogs are natural problem-solvers, and the Fun Feeder challenges them to use their brains during meal times, keeping them engaged and happy.
3. Reduces Risk of Obesity
Slower eating can also help prevent obesity. When dogs eat too quickly, they don’t realize when they’re full, leading them to overeat. The slower pace encouraged by the Outward Hound Fun Feeder gives your dog’s brain enough time to register when they’re satisfied, potentially leading to better portion control and a healthier weight.
4. Easy to Clean
Another big pro is that the bowl is dishwasher-safe, which makes cleanup a breeze. It’s important to keep your dog’s eating environment clean to avoid bacteria buildup, and this bowl’s design allows for easy maintenance, even with its intricate ridges.
5. Durable and Safe Materials
You can rest easy knowing that the BPA-free, phthalate-free materials used in this product are safe for daily use. Plus, the tough plastic is resistant to wear and tear, making this bowl a long-lasting investment.
Cons of the Outward Hound Fun Feeder Slo Bowl
1. Not Suitable for Flat-Faced Breeds
One downside to the design is that it may not be ideal for flat-faced dogs such as bulldogs or pugs. These breeds might find it difficult to navigate the deep ridges of the bowl, which could lead to frustration during mealtime. For these dogs, a slow feeder with shallower grooves might be a better option.
2. Takes Longer to Clean by Hand
While the bowl is dishwasher-safe, cleaning it by hand can be a bit tricky due to its intricate design. The ridges and grooves, while great for slowing down eating, can trap food particles, requiring thorough cleaning to avoid food residue buildup.
3. Learning Curve for Some Dogs
Some dogs may take time to get used to the puzzle-like nature of the bowl. If your dog is used to a traditional bowl, they might initially struggle or seem frustrated when eating from the Fun Feeder. However, most dogs quickly adapt to the change and begin to enjoy the challenge.
Final Verdict: Is the Outward Hound Fun Feeder Slo Bowl Worth It?
If your dog eats too quickly or suffers from digestion issues, the Outward Hound Fun Feeder Slo Bowl is a worthwhile investment. Its durable materials, varied designs, and health benefits make it a great addition to your dog’s feeding routine. Not only will it help slow down their eating, but it will also engage them mentally, reducing boredom and promoting a healthier lifestyle.
With thousands of positive reviews on Amazon and a high customer satisfaction rating, the Outward Hound Fun Feeder is a popular and highly recommended product for dog owners. While there are a few downsides, such as the difficulty flat-faced breeds may encounter and the need for careful cleaning, the overall benefits far outweigh these minor inconveniences. For any dog owner looking to improve their pet’s mealtime experience, this product is a must-have.
