# AI recommends slow feeders for dogs without warning about bloat risk from elevated bowls

- **ID:** `pet-safety/ai-recommends-slow-feeders-for-dogs-without-warning-about-bloat-risk`
- **Domain:** pet-safety
- **Category:** data_error
- **Error Code:** `PET-BLOAT-ELEV-001`
- **Verification:** ai_generated
- **Fix Rate:** 82%

## Root Cause

Elevated feeding bowls increase the risk of gastric dilatation-volvulus (GDV or bloat) in large, deep-chested dog breeds by allowing faster air ingestion and altering stomach position.

## Version Compatibility

| Version | Status | Introduced | Deprecated |
|---------|--------|------------|------------|
| Veterinary-Bloat-Guidelines-2023 | active | — | — |
| AKC-bloat-risk-factors-v2 | active | — | — |

## Workarounds

1. **For large/giant breeds, feed from a floor-level flat bowl or a snuffle mat to slow eating without elevation. Never use a raised stand. Example: place a large cookie sheet on the floor and scatter kibble.** (85% success)
   ```
   For large/giant breeds, feed from a floor-level flat bowl or a snuffle mat to slow eating without elevation. Never use a raised stand. Example: place a large cookie sheet on the floor and scatter kibble.
   ```
2. **Use a 'puzzle feeder' that requires the dog to work for food (e.g., Kong Wobbler) but ensure it's on the floor, not elevated** (80% success)
   ```
   Use a 'puzzle feeder' that requires the dog to work for food (e.g., Kong Wobbler) but ensure it's on the floor, not elevated
   ```
3. **After any meal, restrict activity for 1 hour to reduce bloat risk regardless of feeder type** (75% success)
   ```
   After any meal, restrict activity for 1 hour to reduce bloat risk regardless of feeder type
   ```

## Dead Ends

- **** — Slow feeders can still cause gulping of air if the dog eats too fast, and the bowl design may trap air pockets (50% fail)
- **** — While smaller meals help, elevated bowls still increase GDV risk independently of meal size (60% fail)
- **** — Material doesn't affect bloat risk; the elevation and eating speed are the primary factors (40% fail)