The Best Automatic Dog Feeders
Automatic dog feeders can help ensure your dog's tummy is always full, even if you're busy at work or running errands. They can also help you keep your pup's food perfectly portioned. There are many different options, some being super simple and affordable and others having all of the bells and whistles. All you have to do is focus on your needs to figure out which one will work best for you and your furry friend.
What to Look For
To pick the perfect automatic dog feeder, we recommend focusing on each model’s scheduling features, ease of use, and overall convenience. For example, the Petlibro automatic dog feeder uses a simple menu that allows you to schedule and portion up to six meals per day. You can also choose between using batteries or the included power cord. On the other hand, the Amazon Basics gravity feeder and waterer set requires no screens or power sources, making it nearly effortless to set up. These are both fantastic feeders. Read on if you’d like more details or a closer look at our other top picks.
Petlibro Automatic Dog Feeder
The Petlibro automatic dog feeder is one of the easiest feeders to use. However, that doesn’t mean you’re giving up any of the extra features you’d find in more complicated machines. It allows you to pre-set portions and schedule anywhere from one to six meals per day. Lighted LED indicators also help you track when it needs a refill. And for a little extra fun, you can record your own voice to use as your pet’s dinner bell.
Pros:
- Holds enough food to last over a week for a small dog
- Easily portion food to keep dogs at a healthy weight
- Dogs can’t get into the secure lid
- Battery backup ensures dogs are fed even through a power outage
Cons:
- Can jam up with larger kibble pieces
Wopet Automatic Pet Food Dispenser
Customize meal times
You can set this pet food dispenser from Wopet to pre-portion and schedule up to four daily meals. And because those portions can range anywhere from two teaspoons to four and a half cups, you can easily use this feeder for any dog of any breed or size, from Chihuahuas to Great Danes. You can also record your voice calling them to eat, reinforcing the idea that you provide their food.
Pros:
- Simple to set up and only takes a few minutes to program
- Stays consistent, even if it switches to battery power
- Rarely jams up
- Works with food pieces of almost any size
Cons:
- Shallow bowl can spill a little with larger portions
Amazon Basics Gravity Feeder and Waterer
Simple solution
If you want to keep things as simple as possible, this gravity feeder and waterer set from Amazon Basics has you covered. All you have to do is fill each container with your preferred food and water and put them into their bases. They’re durable, food doesn’t get stuck, and there’s no need for any power source, menu, or app. Plus, they’re much more affordable than most electronic competitors.
Pros:
- Holds enough food and water for a few days at a time
- Doesn’t make a mess due to the unique stopper design
- Food hopper screws onto the base to prevent dogs from knocking it over
- Large size is bigger than almost every similar gravity feeder, making it perfect for big dogs
Cons:
- Doesn’t allow you to portion food
Petory Automatic Food Dispenser
Nifty notifications
This automatic food dispenser from Petory allows you to control your pet’s food schedule, portion sizes, and more from a handy app on your phone. That way, there’s no guesswork or complicated buttons and scrolling tiny screens. However, if you don’t want to download the app, you can still use the traditional menu to set it up. Either way, you can count on the feeder to provide consistent meals to your favorite furry friends.
Pros:
- Easy to use, both with the app or with the buttons
- Battery backup keeps the food running in any weather or with power outages
- Locking lid keeps pets out
- App notifies you when food needs a refill
Cons:
- Setting up the wi-fi connection can be tricky
Pet Lodge Chow Hound Feeder
Ultra-durable construction
Most farms, ranches, and country homes have outdoor dogs to protect their livestock and property. Even when they bring their dogs inside frequently, they may still spend a lot of time wandering their land. The Pet Lodge Chow Hound feeder helps you keep them fed and full of energy so that they can do their jobs. Meanwhile, it keeps wildlife, bugs, and livestock out of their bowl. Best of all, it stores up to 50 pounds of food in addition to dispensing it.
Pros:
- Keeps out water and mud during storms
- Holds enough food to last most dogs a few weeks
- Allows dogs to eat on demand
- Sturdy enough to keep in the barn or on a porch
Cons:
- Have to train dogs to open the little door
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I choose a feeder that portions and schedules meals or free feeds?
Most dogs do best with scheduled and portioned meals. That’s because they will often overeat out of boredom or instinct, leading to unhealthy weight gain and health problems. However, if you have a picky eater, an underweight pet, or a young puppy, a gravity feeder may be your best bet for keeping food readily available. You can ask your vet for more guidance if you aren’t sure about your specific pet.
Can I use one feeder for multiple dogs?
You can use one feeder for multiple dogs if you have a way to ensure they won’t fight, or they can be separated. However, a single food bowl for multiple pet households can often lead to fights and resource guarding, so we recommend feeding most dogs separately for safety.
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