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Last Updated on October 29, 2023
Technology and automation have been pushing innovation to new levels. In recent years, there has been an increase in demand for automatic dog feeders from pet owners who are keeping up with times. These automatic dog feeders are targeted at owners who are frequently not at home for long periods of time, hence the irregular meals that their pets are having. Also, pet owners who wish to ensure that the dog gets fed on time will find automatic dog feeders useful for them. In this article, we will be narrowing down a few choices for the best automatic dog feeder for large dogs.
Best Automatic Dog Feeder For Large Dogs
You may be wondering why do we specifically choose the Best Automatic Dog Feeder For Large Dogs and not for smaller dogs. The reason is pretty simple. According to data gathered online, larger dogs are more susceptible to obesity than smaller breeds. There are many reasons pertaining to this, one of which is overfeeding. Owners who simply do not have the time to feed their dogs tend to overfeed them to “compensate” for lost time, hence perhaps having an automated dog feeder might solve the obesity issue!
Let us now look into our top recommendation for the Best Automatic Dog Feeder For Large Dogs.
PetSafe Healthy Pet Simply Feed 12-Meal Automatic Feeder
PetSafe Healthy Pet Simply Feed 12-Meal Automatic Feeder is a no-frills, convenient automatic feeder that ensures that your dog gets the correct amount of food at the pre-determined time. What makes it more amazing that it allows you to portion the food and dispense it at the scheduled time. It works for both dry kibbles and semi-moist pet foods. It allows flexible portions from 1/8 cups to 4 cups and up to 12 meals per day, which makes it one of the Best Automatic Dog Feeder For Large Dogs.
One of its best function is the slow feed option which dispenses the food slowly over a 15-min period to help prevent bloating. (To read more about bloat, click here) The feeder is made of BPA-free plastic and the whole system is easy to clean too.
Pros: Can customize feeding portion and time. Able to dispense food in 15min intervals to prevent bloat.
Cons: Bowl might topple over.
Our Rating: [usr 4.9]
PetSafe 5-Meal Automatic Pet Feeder
This automatic dog feeder is made of sanitary, rugged and polypropylene. It has 5 chambers that is capable of a capacity of 1 cup each, which makes it ideals for pets who are diabetic or overweight. Do note that this dog feeder is strictly for dry food only.
It has a secure latching lid and a digital timer. The timer can be adjusted in one-hour increments. The only drawback about this automatic dog feeder is that it has only 5 chambers, so it is only ideal if you will be away for a maximum of 2 days or so. For a longer period of absence, then perhaps this will not be suitable for you.
Pros: Secure latch with a digital timer.
Cons: Maximum of 5 meals or the equivalent of 2 days.
Our Rating: [usr 4.6]
Aspen Pet LeBistro Portion Control Automatic Pet Feeder
Aspen Pet Lebistro Programmable Food Dispenser is a product that is specially made for pet owners who are simply too busy in their own to feed their pets. Very similar to PetSafe Healthy Pet Automatic Feeder, the only difference is that the Aspen Pet Feeder is strictly for dry kibbles only.
Owners can program up to 3 meals a day, and the chamber allows the pet owner to monitor the level of kibbles left. Microban protection also helps in the prevention of stain and odor-causing bacteria. It is easy to clean, and the portioning can be controlled from 1/4 cups to 3 cups per meal, which make it one of the Best Automatic Dog Feeder For Large Dogs.
Pros: Micrroban protection. Can be used for large breeds.
Cons: Maximum of 3 meals a day.
Our Rating: [usr 4.5]
PetSafe 2-Meal Automatic Pet Feeder
PetSafe 2-Meal Automatic Pet Feeder allows pet owners to pack 2 meals for up to 48 hours. Each compartment holds up to 1.5 cups of dry food, hence it is good for large breeds who are still in the infant stages.
The food trays are dishwasher safe, and the materials for the entire system is pet-safe too. If you are looking into something simple for your pet, then you can consider getting this.
We have done an extensive review for this automatic pet feeder, and you can read them here.
Pros: Good for puppies.
Cons: Maximum of 2 meals a day for 2 days. !.5 cups of food per storage compartment.
Our Rating: [usr 4.6]
Qpets 6-Meal Automatic Pet Feeder
Qpets 6-Meal Automatic Pet Feeder has 6 separate food trays that can store both dry and wet food. It can be programmable for up to 6 different feeding schedules. It has a built-in-clock and an LCD screen. To entice your dog over, it has a built-in microphone too. This will be a nice feature to have so that when it is meal time, the system will playback your pre-recorded voice so as to alert your dog that it is time for a meal!
Pros: Built in microphone system to alert your dog for meal times.
Cons: Maximum of 6 meals.
Our Rating: [usr 4.6]
Feed and Go Smart Pet Feeder with Webcam & Wi-Fi Built-In Wet & Dry Food Friendly, Control from Anywhere with Any Computer/Tablet/Smartphone
Feed and Go Pet Feeder is the 1st Smart Pet Feeder in the world. It is designed by pet owners who were frustrated that they couldn’t monitor the feeding of their pets by other automatic pet feeders in real time. This Smart pet feeder allows you to check on your pet, and you will receive real-time notifications on your Smartphone every time the pet has been fed. It can be used for both dry and wet food. Wet food can last up till 48 hours because the compartments are air-tight.
There are 6 compartments, and each compartment holds up to an 8oz cup size. As per all pet feeders, it allows you to schedule the feeding times for your pet. This whole setup is perfect for pets who need medication but the owner cannot be around all the time to administer it to the pets. It supports both iOS and Android systems.
The functionality of this pet feed makes it one of the Best Automatic Dog Feeder For Large Dogs.
Pros: Built in webcam and WiFi. Can be used for moist food. Can use Smart Phone to dispense food.
Cons: Maximum of 6 meals.
Our Rating: [usr 4.9]
Petnet SmartFeeder – Automatic Pet Feeding with your iPhone
Another Smart Pet Feeder, this automatic Pet Feeder by SmartFeeder allows the owner to manage the pet’s feeding time, the portioning sizes all through the iPhone itself! Imagine managing your pet’s schedule remotely. You can be at work, hiking, out for a movie date with your wife, and your dog will never go hungry at all. It also notifies you when your dog has finished its meal. The food tray can be washed, and the steel tray is safe for your dog.
The portioning of the food ranges from 1/16 cups to 1 1/2 cups. Note that this is only suitable for dry food, and only iOS users are supported here.
We have done an extensive review of the Petnet SmartFeeder. Click here to find out more!
Pros: Can use iOS phone to customize meal times and portions.
Cons: Can only administer a maximum of 1 1/2 cups each time.
Our Rating: [usr 4.8]
Automatic Pet Feeder – Wireless Whiskers AutoDiet Pet Feeder – Put Your Pet on a Diet
This automatic pet feeder works differently as compared to the previous 2 models that we have reviewed. This system is ideal if you have 2 different pets that require separate diets. Let us explain why
Wireless Whiskers AutoDiet Feeder is a technologically advanced feeder that allows you to customized separate diets for up to 8 pets. It identifies the pet based on an RFID chip that is tagged to each pet The pet would have to have an RFID tag on its collar.
This system automatically sets and adjust the pet’s food intake based on its weight. You can also manually set the diet for the pet, and the system will dispense the food accordingly throughout the day. It too prevents the pet from eating too fast or over consuming its intake for the day. It is one of the Best Automatic Dog Feeder For Large Dogs for Smart pet feeders!
Pros: Can customize food for up to 8 pets. Can adjust amount of food based on pet’s weight. Prevents bloat.
Cons: Small storage space.
Our Rating: [usr 4.9]
How To Choose The Best Automatic Dog Feeder For Large Dogs
Let us 1st identify the factors that we need to consider before we decide to choose the Best Automatic Dog Feeder For Large Dogs.
Portioning And Capacity
There are many types of automatic dog feeders out there, and you have to choose one that allows your dog to have a proper amount of cups of kibbles per meal. Also, check on the total amount of kibbles that you will need for the entire duration that you will be away, and see if your choice of the dog feeder suits your needs.
Scheduling
In a recent study, it is identified that the top breeds of dogs that are susceptible to being overweight are large breeds, which includes Labrador Retrievers. And one of the top reasons is because owners are not feeding the dogs regularly. Feeding irregular meals to dogs can promote obesity, which can lead to many other problems. Automatic dog feeder to the rescue! With this technology, owners can be away from home even for a few days, and the correct type of automatic dog feeder will assist you in feeding your pet. Also, some automatic dog feeders allows you to feed up to 6 meals a day, which is excellent for diabetic dogs.
Type Of Food
All automatic dog feeder are suited for dry food. However, if you do intend to include wet food into your dog’s diet, then choose one that allows the inclusion of an ice-pack. Ice-packs are needed to keep moist food fresh when the owner is away for days. If your intention is to be away for just 1 day, then ice-pack compartments are not really necessary
Additional Features
Some automatic dog feeder comes with a voice playback function that plays your pre-recorded voice during meal times. Some other automatic dog feeders also have webcam for you to check on your dog during meal times.
Power Source
There are some automatic dog feeders that are powered by batteries, but most of them still requires the device to be plugged in. It is not entirely a bad thing, but if it were to be plugged in, then the automatic dog feeder will lose its portability. However, this portability comes at a cost, as in you will run the risk of the automatic dog feeder running out of juice when you are not at home, hence ensuring that the entire dog feeder to lose its capabilities. Hence, the choice of the automatic dog feeder’s optimal power source is entirely up to you.
How to keep your automatic dog feeder for large dogs clean
An automatic dog feeder is an excellent investment for ensuring your large dog receives consistent meals while you’re away or busy. However, it’s crucial to keep this device clean to prevent bacteria buildup and ensure your pet stays healthy. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the best practices for maintaining a spotless automatic dog feeder for large dogs.
1. Understanding the Importance of Regular Cleaning
It is essential to recognize the significance of cleaning your automatic dog feeder regularly. A clean feeder ensures that your pet remains healthy by preventing the buildup of harmful bacteria that can cause illness. Additionally, keeping the feeder clean helps maintain its efficiency, as food residue can clog the dispenser and lead to missed meals. Moreover, routine cleaning prolongs the life of your automatic dog feeder, making it a reliable tool for years to come.
2. Gathering the Necessary Supplies
Before embarking on the cleaning process, it is vital to gather all the necessary supplies. These include mild dish soap, warm water, a soft sponge or cloth, an old toothbrush or small brush, and a clean towel. Refrain from using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials, as they may damage the feeder’s components.
3. Disassembling the Automatic Dog Feeder
To effectively clean your automatic dog feeder, you must first disassemble it. Start by unplugging the device and removing any batteries. Next, empty the food reservoir and set aside the remaining kibble. Consult the manufacturer’s instructions for specific disassembly guidelines and carefully remove the lid, food tray, and any other removable parts.
4. Cleaning the Individual Components
With the feeder disassembled, proceed to clean each component. Create a solution of warm water and mild dish soap. Gently scrub the food reservoir, lid, and tray using a soft sponge or cloth. Be sure to focus on corners and crevices where food particles may accumulate. Utilize an old toothbrush or small brush to clean the dispenser mechanism and any hard-to-reach areas. Thoroughly rinse all components with clean water to eliminate soap residue, and dry each part with a clean towel, ensuring no moisture remains.
5. Reassembling and Testing the Feeder
Once all components are cleaned and dried, reassemble the automatic dog feeder. Refer to the manufacturer’s instructions for proper assembly, and replace the food tray, lid, and any other removable parts. Refill the food reservoir with fresh kibble, plug in the device, and reinstall any batteries. Finally, test the feeder to ensure it dispenses food correctly.
6. Scheduling Routine Cleanings
To maintain a spotless automatic dog feeder, it is crucial to establish a regular cleaning schedule. Wipe down the exterior and food tray with a damp cloth weekly, and perform a thorough cleaning of all components monthly, as outlined in this guide. By adhering to these guidelines, you’ll keep your automatic dog feeder for large dogs clean, efficient, and ready to provide consistent meals for your beloved pet. With proper care and maintenance, both you and your furry friend can enjoy the convenience and peace of mind that comes with using an automatic dog feeder.
Conclusion
There are so many models, and it is entirely up to the owner to choose the perfect automatic dog feeder for large dogs. There are some with timer function too. Otherwise, you can also read more information here.
