Does your dog turn every mealtime into a mini disaster? You’re not alone. Whether you have a hyper pup who dashes to their bowl like it’s a game, a long-eared companion who dips their ears in everything, or a dog who drinks water like they’re part dolphin, messy feeding is a common struggle.
The good news? Keeping your dog’s feeding (food and drink) area clean and under control is absolutely possible, with a few smart strategies and the right setup.
Why Some Dogs Make a Mess When Eating or Drinking
Here are some of the most common reasons dogs leave chaos behind at mealtimes:
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Overexcitement – Some dogs get so enthusiastic about food they knock over bowls or send kibble flying across the floor.
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Long ears – Breeds like Cocker Spaniels, Basset Hounds or Cavapoos often end up with soggy, food-covered ears.
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Splashy drinking – Big gulps and sloppy slurps are normal, but puddles on the floor don’t have to be.
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Poor bowl setup – Bowls that slide around, tip over, or don’t suit your dog’s size can make mess worse.
So what can you do to fix it?
5 Ways to Reduce Mess at Dog Mealtimes
1. Use a Non-Slip Feeding Station
If your dog’s bowls slide around, they’re more likely to tip or spill. A feeding station with non-slip feet keeps everything in place, even when your dog eats with enthusiasm.
2. Raise the Bowls (Great for Long-Eared Dogs)
Elevating your dog’s bowls helps keep long ears out of the food and water, while also promoting better posture and digestion.
3. Choose the Right Bowl Size
Bowls that are too small tend to overflow, while bowls that are too large encourage splashing. Select a bowl size suited to your dog’s breed, snout shape and appetite.
4. Contain the Area
Place bowls in a tray or use a feeding station with raised edges to catch splashes and stray kibble. It makes cleaning up quicker and keeps your floor protected.
5. Slow Things Down
If your dog bolts their food, try a slow feeder bowl. It encourages slower eating, reducing mess and helping prevent bloating or upset tummies.
The Simple Way to Keep Mealtimes Clean
We created the Wags n Wiggles Feeding Station for dogs who love food but aren’t the neatest eaters. It’s designed to handle real-life mess, with:
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Non-slip rubber feet
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Elevated bowl position
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Raised tray edges to catch spills
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Two stainless steel, dishwasher-safe bowls
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A clean, modern look that suits any home
Whether your dog is a wild eater or a sloppy drinker, this feeding station helps you keep their space clean and your floors dry.
Final Thoughts
Feeding time doesn’t have to mean constant cleanup. A few simple changes can make a big difference. And if you're ready for an easier, tidier solution, our Wags n Wiggles Feeding Station is a great place to start.