How to Stop a Dog From Scattering Food From the Bowl

Most dog owners wouldn't want to pay more than $10 for a dog dish. Yet when your dog scatters food on the floor every time he eats, you might be willing to spend money to fix the problem. The solution is not expensive, although it's often overlooked. While pet owners will deliberate over the material used to make dog dishes -- stainless steel, ceramic, plastic -- they don't usually consider the shape of the dish. However, it's the shape of a dog food dish that can mean the difference between a clean floor and a floor covered with food.

Things You'll Need

  • Straight-sided dog food dish or specialty dog feeder dish
  • Washable, lipped tray; large enough to hold a dog food dish
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Instructions

    • 1

      Obtain a straight-sided bowl or dish, big enough to hold one meal for your pet. Check your cupboards before buying. Many covered, glass storage containers are designed with straight sides. The gradually sloped sides of many dog food dishes and standard soup bowls will not contain food as a dog eats. The sides of the bowl should not slope and the bottom of the bowl should have a defined radius.

    • 2

      Purchase an elevated or raised dog feeder, as another option. There are many types available online and through pet supply catalogs. These feeders are often adjustable, or they may be purchased in different heights. They raise food and water bowls off the ground, making access easier. Elevated feeders help keep food and water off floors. They're often sold as a specialty product for dogs with arthritis, as dogs using them don't have to bend their legs while they're eating.

    • 3

      Place a large, washable, lipped tray underneath your dog's food bowl. Make sure the tray's lip is high enough to contain large bits of kibble or other foods. The tray should prevent any spilled food from scattering on the floor. A plastic tray is easily washable, but make sure your dog is not inclined to chew on it after eating.