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Some dogs really like mealtime… and pugs are one breed that loves their food. Some pugs love their food so much that they don’t really chew it when eating- they just swallow.
I have a pug that does this with certain foods. She swallows it without chewing, then tends to burp and spit up some sometimes.
Risks of eating fast or not chewing food
If you have a pet that eats fast or doesn’t seem to chew up his food, you need to know the risks. Dogs that behave in this manner can put their health at risk. Eating fast or not chewing food can put the dog at risk of choking and it also allows the dog to ingest air into their lungs, which causes burping or flatulence.
Vomiting after eating is a side effect of eating too fast or not chewing the food, which can lead to gastric dilatation.
Another condition to be aware of is called Volvulus (GDV). This condition causes the stomach to expand, then twist onto itself, reducing blood flow to the stomach and back to the heart. This condition can be fatal without rapid stabilization and surgery.
Dogs that eat fast can also be at risk for weight gain. Monitor how much food your dog is eating and how many times a day they are being fed.
How do you slow a dog down that eats fast or doesn’t seem to chew their food?
Here are a few options:
- Slow feed bowls: These bowls are specifically made for dogs who tend to eat fast or have a tendency to swallow without chewing. They simply just slow your dog down when he is eating. The bowls are made with some raised areas that make those areas harder to get too. Your dog will have to work a little to reach the food in those areas, which in turn slows down his eating.
2. Food dispensing toys- You can also use a food dispensing toy to slow your dog’s eating down but some of them may not hold enough food for a whole meal. Also, you probably will not be able to put wet food in them- just dry food. I use these mostly for my pug’s treats, but you can feed with it for a while to slow down how fast your dog eats.
3. Use a Cookie sheet- Using a cookie sheet to feed your dog will slow him down because he has to “chase” the food and pick it up with his tongue and therefore cannot eat large amounts fast. A muffin pan will work too. Put a small amount of your dog’s food in each cup until each muffin cup is filled. It will take your dog more time to reach into each muffin cup to get his food, which slows his eating down.
4. Hand feed your dog- One of the best ways to slow your dog’s eating down is to hand feed him. It does take extra time to do this, but it makes mealtime safe and fun. And, most dogs love to be hand fed. Try it- it’s just extra time and attention you give to your dog… and he will love it. Plus, he will be eating only as fast as you feed him.
Hope these tips help!!
Until next time,
Hugs and Pug Kisses,
Candy
