We all love our dogs, but spending every moment with them isn’t always feasible. You may have to work late, or your pet sitter might bail. Being away from your furry companion can be tough, especially if their bowl is empty and they’re hungry.

Fortunately, there’s a solution to enhance their life: Create a consistent feeding routine by utilizing an automatic feeder.

An automatic feeder can provide meals at designated times, allowing you to uphold a feeding routine and nutritious diet even when you’re absent. But which feeder is the best fit for you and your dog? Here’s a brief guide along with a selection of the finest automatic dog feeders on the market today.

What is an automatic dog feeder?

In simple terms, an automatic dog feeder is a device that you fill with dog food and program to dispense food at predetermined times.

There are four primary types of dog feeders: Gravity feeders, programmable models that release a specific amount of food at scheduled times, plate feeders, and smart feeders that are managed via your smartphone. Gravity feeders are not included in this category as they’re not genuinely automatic. They keep the bowl replenished, filling it up whenever your dog eats, which may lead to overfeeding.

Programmable models with timers allow you to determine the food quantity and dispensing times. Plate feeders require you to distribute food into sections, giving you control over the portions, and they rotate to expose one section at a time. Smart feeders provide complete remote management, enabling you to set feeding schedules, portion sizes, and more through a mobile app.

Are automatic feeders beneficial for dogs?

Feeding your dog at the same times each day is advantageous. Regular schedules aid in preventing obesity by managing caloric and nutritional consumption. Consistent feeding also allows you to identify health concerns, as diminished appetite often signals illness.

Automatic dog feeders are effective for maintaining a schedule, whether you’re home or away. Some feeders enable portion control, allowing you to determine how much food is dispensed. If your dog tends to eat too fast, a smart auto feeder can dispense food in small amounts to avoid rapid consumption.

Do automatic dog feeders accommodate wet or dry food?

This varies by feeder type. Most are well-suited for dispensing dry food and small treats effortlessly. Programmable plate feeders can also handle wet food, as they feature lids that seal the food until feeding time. You’ll need to refill these feeders each morning before heading out.

If your dog prefers wet food, a plate feeder is perfect as it keeps the food fresh. For kibble enthusiasts, a programmable feeder may be the better option.

Can an automatic feeder assist my dog in losing weight?

Yes, when used alongside a healthy, disciplined diet. Select the appropriate model. An automatic feeder that dispenses food itself may not be ideal, as many release more than the intended amount, contributing to overeating. Choose a feeder that allows you to pre-portion your dog’s meals.

What is the top automatic dog feeder?

Whether you require assistance in keeping your dog fed regularly or are looking for something unique, there are numerous options available. We’ve handpicked the best models for you to consider.

These are the finest automatic dog feeders of 2025.