When Meal Time Starts Rockin' - Review of the PAW5 Rock 'N Bowl
The folks that make the PAW5 Rock ‘N Bowl were kind enough to provide us with this product to test. Even so, our opinions regarding this product are an honest representation of our views. Since we already own a slow feeder, this product will be donated to our local animal shelter for pups to use while they wait for their forever homes.
Our two pups are the polar opposites in so many ways. Bean is a food “grazer,” she always has been. Before we had two dogs, we would leave Bean’s food bowl out and sometimes it would take a day or more for it to be refilled. Now that we’ve added Super Gravy, from Clear Conscious Pet, she is much more likely to finish a meal when she’s served. She may also be more prone to eating now that we have the biggest gobbler on the face of the planet.
Yoda scarfs his food! I timed him once. It took him less than a minute to finish his entire serving of kibble (in case you’re curious, we feed Precise Holistic Grain Free). We have since started using a slow feeder from Outward Hound, which has reduced the speed he takes to finish his food. Just like humans though, dogs get bored with the same routine. This is the main reason why we were excited to have a chance to try the PAW5 Rock ‘N Bowl!
This fun item is the marriage of a dog bowl and interactive food/treat dispenser. It helps to enrich pup’s minds through problem solving and rewards them with their food (or treats) as a result. As you can see in the photos and video provided, the bowl has a rounded bottom and a clever paw shape with holes on the top. When food or treats are placed on the bowl’s top, they immediately start to make their way through the holes, forcing the dog to sniff and nudge the bowl to “release” the pieces from the holes at located at the bottom.
First, let’s talk about presentation. While packaging shouldn’t be the deal breaker when deciding upon a product to purchase, it is most certainly appreciated when a company clearly shows their attention to detail. Upon opening the box that contains the PAW5 Rock ‘N Bowl, you will notice that it’s nestled in a nest of shredded brown paper. Resting on top, is a simplistic and informational card that includes a product photo, steps for use, and washing instructions. Everything is simple, aesthetically pleasing and environmentally friendly, as every part of the packaging can be recycled.
Once you open the package, it’s time to put the bowl to the test. Grab your dog’s food of choice, or small treats and place them on the bowl’s top. You may notice I use my hand in the video to make the kibble move down the hole, but I later learned that you really don’t have to. It will fall on its own once your dog starts moving the bowl.
Yoda is in love with this bowl! His nubby tailed bum waggles when he sees us take it out! He has learned the best way to use his nose and paws to release his kibbles and it does take him longer to finish his meal. Fair warning, make sure to place the bowl in a spot with plenty of clearance, as the kibbles can travel pretty far, especially if you have an excited pup. Additionally, we don’t use this bowl while Bean is nearby, as she’s tempted to join in on the fun, and it gets difficult to manage.
As with any bowl, it is important to keep this item clean. You’ll be happy to know that this product is dishwasher safe (top shelf) and can be disassembled to be sure all the nooks and crannies are clean. We don’t have a dishwasher (the husband kindly jokes, “We DO have a dishwasher, it’s my wife!” To which he receives a swift jab to the gut with my elbow, accompanied by a solid eye roll), so I disassemble and wash by hand, which takes a jiff.
If you're the proud owner of a pup who gobbles their food quickly, or if you simply want to offer a new way to enrich your dog and aid in their problem-solving skills, this is a great product for you! We can't wait to donate this bowl to the local shelter for pups to enjoy while they wait for their forever homes. Enrichment and fun will help to engage them as they prepare for their next journey with a family that will love them immensely.
