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Why is my 7-month puppy grazing with her new slow feeder bowl?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Medium (23 - 60lb) | Female | spayed | 7 months and 6 days old | 30 lbs

Our 7 month old puppy used to scarf her meals so fast, so we got a slow-feeder bowl. The last week or so, she has turned into a grazer and only eats a bite, then comes to find us in the house, hangs out a bit, goes for another bite, comes to find us, etc. We've tried standing in the kitchen while she eats, but it doesn't seem to help. Is this just growing up and her eating style has changed, is it the teenage years and she's testing us, or is she just bored of her food? Thank you in advance!

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Ricardo Fernandez, DVM

Veterinarian, Veterinary Oncology Resident

Published on April 2nd, 2018

Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! It is probably that her eating habits have changed. This is actually not uncommon and to correct it, this behavior has to be discouraged as much as possible. What I recommend is to give them their food and give them a certain amount of time (about 1 hour) to eat it. If she does not eat it then you can remove it and feed her again whenever she is due to eat again. This usually will get this resolved as she will eat it at more controlled times giving her less time to graze. Good luck and have a great day!

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    Answered By Christie Long, DVM

    Veterinarian, Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist

    Published on

    Thanks for contacting PetCoach! As you are located near San Diego, you may be interested to know that we now offer housecall services to pets in the greater San Diego area. Visit https://www.petcoach.co/house-call-veterinarians/ or email us at housecalls@petcoach.co for more information!

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