1. Opt for Elevated Feeders
Elevated feeders help minimize mess by keeping the bowls in one place. Plus, they’re healthier for your dog’s posture, especially for larger breeds. The food stays in the bowl instead of flying around the floor.
2. Use a Spill-Proof Water Bowl
If your dog is a splasher, opt for a spill-proof water bowl. These bowls have lids or rims that minimize sloshing while still allowing your dog to get enough water. Great for preventing those annoying puddles!
3. Get a Slow Feeder for Overeager Eaters
Dogs that scarf down food can scatter kibble everywhere. Slow feeder bowls, with their ridges and obstacles, force dogs to eat more slowly and, as a result, more neatly. Plus, they’re fun to use!
4. Place a Silicone Mat Under the Bowl
This one’s a game-changer! A silicone mat under your dog’s food and water bowls catches spills and drips, and it’s super easy to wipe clean. No more dried food stuck to the floor.
5. Use a Food Mat with a Lip
For extra messy eaters, choose a food mat with a raised edge. The lip will contain food, water, and any other debris that gets flung during mealtime, making cleanup a breeze.
6. Wet Wipes for Quick Spot Cleaning
Keep a pack of pet-safe wet wipes nearby for a quick cleanup after meals. These are perfect for wiping up little splashes or crumbs that missed the mat, and they can also be used on your dog’s face and paws!
7. Go for Non-Slip Bowls
If your dog’s bowl skates across the floor as they eat, non-slip bowls are the way to go. The rubber base keeps the bowl in place, reducing food spillage and making mealtime less chaotic.
8. Vacuum and Sweep Regularly
It might seem obvious, but regularly vacuuming and sweeping around the feeding area will prevent crumbs and kibble bits from accumulating and becoming a bigger, harder-to-clean mess.
9. Install a Feeding Station
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Create a designated feeding station by setting up a small rug, a set of non-slip bowls, and a mat underneath. Having a defined area for your dog’s meals makes it easier to contain the mess and clean up afterward.
10. Consider a Splash Guard
If your dog is a super messy eater, try adding a splash guard around the feeding area. You can DIY one or buy a small, three-sided feeding nook that protects your walls from food and water splatter.
11. Use a Plastic Storage Bin for Food
Store your dog’s kibble in a plastic storage bin with a lid. Not only does this keep food fresher, but it also cuts down on spills when you’re filling up the bowl. Plus, you won’t have bags of food tipping over!
12. Invest in a Washable Food Mat
Look for machine-washable mats that can be thrown in the laundry when they get dirty. These are perfect for high-traffic feeding areas and can handle all the food mess that comes with enthusiastic eaters.
13. Train Your Dog to Stay Still During Meals
If you’ve got a “grab-and-run” dog who likes to eat a mouthful of food in another room, training them to stay at their bowl can work wonders. Positive reinforcement can help your dog understand that eating calmly in one place means fewer messes for both of you!
