The Benefits of Using Buddy Bowls for Multi-Dog Households

The Benefits of Buddy Bowls for Dogs

Buddy bowls, also sometimes called double dog bowls or duo dog bowls, allow multiple dogs to eat comfortably next to each other. These dual dog bowls are designed to prevent issues that can arise when dogs share tight eating spaces. Using buddy bowls for your dogs can make mealtimes easier and more enjoyable.

Reducing Tension and Aggression

When dogs eat in close proximity, there is potential for tension, possessiveness, and even aggression around their food bowls. This is especially common if you have two or more dogs competing for limited space. Buddy bowls provide each dog their own eating station so they can focus on their own food rather than worrying about another dog encroaching on their area.

Accommodating Different Sized Dogs

If your dogs are different sizes, buddy bowls allow you to provide each dog a bowl that best suits their needs. For example, a larger bowl for a big dog and a smaller one for your petite pup. With traditional shared bowls, the larger dog often ends up eating most of the food. Buddy bowls solve this issue by separating their portions.

Slowing Speed Eaters

Some dogs tend to eat their food extremely fast, which can lead to digestive issues, bloating, and even vomiting. Buddy bowls for dogs help slow these speed eaters down since they don't feel the need to rush to beat the other dogs. Eating at a reasonable pace is healthier for pups prone to gobbling down their meals.

Choosing the Best Buddy Bowls

When shopping for the ideal buddy bowls for your dogs, there are a few key features to consider:

Non-Skid Design

Look for buddy bowls with rubberized bases or non-skid bottoms. This will prevent the bowls from sliding around on hard floors as your dogs eat. Non-skid bowls stay securely in place for less mess and frustration.

Elevated Stands

Some buddy bowls come with built-in stands that elevate the bowls off the ground. These stands make it more comfortable for taller dogs to eat without having to bend down awkwardly. Stands also help reduce strain on dogs' necks, shoulders, and backs.

Stainless Steel or Ceramic

Stainless steel and ceramic buddy bowls are the most hygienic and easiest to clean. Avoid cheaper plastic models that can harbor bacteria. High-quality materials are more durable for long-term use as well.

Chew Proof

For dogs that tend to chew on bowls, look for heavy-duty stainless steel buddy bowls. The thick durable material holds up well against determined chewers. Check that any stands also use reinforced steel.

Filling Up Buddy Bowls

Figuring out the proper amount of food to put in each side of the buddy bowls depends on if your dogs eat different diets. Here are some scenarios and tips:

Same Diets

If your dogs eat the same kibble or raw food, simply divide up their total daily rations evenly into both sides of the buddy bowls. This allows them to munch away without worrying about portions.

Different Diets

For dogs on different diets, consult with your veterinarian about their unique caloric needs based on weight, age, and activity level. Do the math to figure out appropriate serving sizes to keep them satisfied and healthy.

One Dog Overeats

If one dog tends to overeat while the other self-regulates well, consider dividing their total daily allowance as 60/40 or 70/30. That way the overeater's side contains less food so they don't keep stealing more after gobbling their own.

Training Dogs to Use Buddy Bowls

While most dogs quickly adapt to buddy bowls, here are some training tips for a smooth transition:

Separate at First

When first introducing buddy bowls, completely separate the two bowls at opposite ends of a room or different rooms. Let your dogs eat a few meals alone to avoid any conflicts over the new setup.

Move Closer Slowly

Over two weeks, very gradually move the buddy bowls closer together, keeping a gap between them. This lets the dogs get comfortable eating closer together before touching bowls.

No Sharing

At first, actively discourage dogs from eating out of both sides. Remind them to only eat their designated meal. As they master this behavior, allow occasional sharing once their possession issues resolve.

Keeping Buddy Bowls Clean

Like all dog dishes, it's essential to wash buddy bowls frequently to prevent bacteria growth. Follow these cleaning tips:

Hand Wash Frequently

Use hot soapy water to scrub the buddy bowls clean at least once a day. Be sure to take apart any stands and clean all crevices thoroughly. Let all pieces air dry completely before refilling.

Sanitize Weekly

Once a week, do a deeper sanitize by soaking the disassembled bowls and stands in a diluted bleach solution for 5-10 minutes. Then rinse very thoroughly with clean water to remove all residual bleach before drying.

Check for Damage

Inspect buddy bowls routinely for any cracks, scratches, or other damage that could allow bacteria growth. Throw away and replace any compromised buddy bowl components.

By getting the right buddy bowl setup for your dogs and training them properly on how to use it, you can look forward to mealtimes being relaxing and mess-free in your home.

FAQs

What size buddy bowls should I get?

Choose buddy bowl capacity based on your dogs' sizes. Standard sizes are 32 oz, 64 oz, or 128 oz total capacity split between both sides. Measure out how much food/water your dogs typically consume to determine ideal capacity.

Where should I place the buddy bowls?

Set up buddy bowls in an area with enough space for both dogs to stand side-by-side without touching. Kitchens or laundry rooms near food storage are convenient. Or place them in a corner to use the walls as boundaries.

Are buddy bowls OK for puppies?

Yes, you can introduce buddy bowls to puppies once they transition to solid food. Supervise initial use and be prepared to separate the bowls further if the puppies get possessive. This teaches them polite bowl manners early on.

Should I hand wash or dishwasher buddy bowls?

Always hand wash buddy bowls to ensure all food debris gets cleaned out of small crevices. The high heat of dishwashers can warp stands and lids over time. Opt for regular hot soapy hand washing followed by drying.