Pet Digest

Slow It Down: Easy & Cheap Hacks to Stop Your Dog From Scarfing Their Food Fast eating isn’t just gross—it can be dangerous. Fortunately, slowing your dog down at mealtime doesn’t have to cost a fortune. With a little creativity and a few household items, you can help your dog eat safely and calmly. --- 🛠️ DIY Slow Feeder Ideas These at-home hacks can help your dog work with their food instead of against it: 🥫 1. Soup Can Slow Feeder Place a clean, label-free soup can or upside-down mason jar in the center of your dog’s bowl. This forces your dog to eat around the object, making big gulps impossible. 🧁 2. Muffin Tin Method Divide their meal between the cups of a muffin tin. For extra challenge, add clean rocks or toys to slow things down more. (Ensure nothing is small enough to swallow.) 🍽️ 3. Feed on a Plate or Tray Spread food across a cookie sheet or large plate. Your dog will have to lick and pick up bits, rather than gulping a mouthful. 🧻 4. Rolled Towel Feeding Sprinkle ...

Why Is My Dog Inhaling Their Food? Understanding Fast Eating in Dogs Does your dog gobble down their food like it’s their last meal on Earth? Do they sometimes throw it up shortly after? This behavior, often called “scarf and barf,” is more common than you might think—and it’s not just quirky, it can be risky. Let’s dive into why dogs eat so fast, which breeds are most prone to it, and how stress or anxiety may be driving the behavior. --- 🐾 What Is “Scarf and Barf”? “Scarf and barf” describes dogs who eat their meals at lightning speed—only to regurgitate or vomit it soon after. It’s messy, alarming, and over time, it can cause real health concerns. Fast eaters are at higher risk for: Choking or gagging Gastrointestinal discomfort Gas and bloating Potentially life-threatening bloat (GDV), especially in large breeds --- 🧬 Breeds More Prone to Scarfing Some dogs are simply wired to eat fast. These breeds tend to be more food-driven or genetically incline...