Automatic Dog Feeder Buyer’s Guide: Keep Working Dogs Fed and Dry
Working dogs, yard dogs and farm dogs burn a lot of energy, and a gravity-fed automatic dog feeder lets them access food on their schedule while keeping it clean and dry. The Chow Hound Dog Feeder – 11kg – built by Pet Lodge in the USA from galvanised steel – is one of the most popular self-feeders for Australian rural dogs. Here’s what to know before you buy.
How a gravity dog feeder works
Kibble sits in a hopper and tops up the feeding trough below as the dog eats. There’s no timer or electronics to fail – gravity does the work. The Chow Hound adds a magnetic-closing front door: the dog pushes it inwards to reach the food, and it snaps shut behind them, keeping out dust, rain, birds and vermin.
Why galvanised steel?
Plastic feeders get chewed, cracked and tipped over by enthusiastic dogs. Galvanised steel is tough, chew-resistant, weatherproof and easy to keep clean – exactly what you want for a feeder that lives outside the kennel or on a verandah.
Key features of the Chow Hound feeder
- Tough galvanised steel construction (Pet Lodge, USA)
- Magnetic front door keeps food clean and dry until the dog pushes in
- Gravity-topped trough – feed as the dog wants, or restrict access as you choose
- Floor or wall mount – install wherever suits your setup
- Dimensions 30 cm x 26 cm x 57 cm H; 11 kg capacity
Choosing the right size
The 11 kg capacity suits medium to large working dogs and means fewer refills – handy when you’re busy mustering or off-farm. For a single active dog, 11 kg is several days of food; for multi-dog yards, position one feeder per area to avoid competition.
Mounting and training tips
Mount at roughly the dog’s chest height for comfortable access. Most dogs work out the push-door within a day; you can prop it open briefly at first, then let the magnet do its job. Keep the feeder under cover if possible – while galvanised, a dry spot means cleaner kibble for longer.
Frequently asked questions
Is it weatherproof?
The galvanised steel body and magnetic door keep food dry and clean, but a sheltered mounting spot extends the life of both feeder and food.
Can I control how much my dog eats?
It’s a self-feeder, so access is on demand. For dogs that overeat, manage portion size by how you fill the hopper, or pair with a feeding routine.
Floor or wall mount – which is better?
Wall mounting keeps the feeder stable and off the dirt; floor mounting is fine on a clean hard surface. The Chow Hound does both.
Buy the Chow Hound dog feeder
Keep your working dog fuelled and your kibble dry. See the Chow Hound Dog Feeder – 11kg – tough, galvanised and built to last.