Dog Automatic Feeders: More Than One Use
An automatic feeder can come in handy when you work long hours every day. 
But did you know that you can also use the product if you have to be away for an extended period of time? While
dogs should never be left completely alone for days on end, a Dog Automatic Feeder can go a long way toward keeping him comfortable between visits from the neighbor.
Types of Dog Automatic Feeders
If you decide to purchase a feeder, you'll quickly find you have a range of choices. Here are some examples of what you might find:
Bowl with rotating lid - This type of feeder looks like a normal food bowl, but it's sectioned into a number of compartments. A lid is placed on the top, and has a cutout section that reveals one compartment only. When it's turned on, the lid will rotate each day to reveal a new compartment filled with food. This is an inexpensive option if you won't be away for very long. The capacity is usually only four or six meals.
Electronic food dispenser - This feeder looks somewhat like a gumball machine, with a jar filled with food and a spout that pours a designated amount of food into a bowl at programmed times. This product type is ideal for larger breeds. 
You can find storage jars that will hold up to 20 pounds of food at a time.
Manual food dispenser - Similar to the electronic model described above, this product features a storage jar and a built-in bowl. As the dog empties the bowl, more food pours into it from above. This product doesn't regulate how much your dog eats, but it does keep his bowl full at all times.
Galvanized metal canister - Designed for larger dogs, this product looks like a metal box with a panel that the dog can push open with his head to reach the food. While this feeder doesn't regulate the amount your dog can eat, it does have the advantage of being able to hold up to 50 pounds of dry dog food.
Getting Used to the Feeder
Both you and your dog will need to get accustomed to the Dog Automatic Feeder. It's a good idea to make sure your dog is familiar and comfortable with the product before leaving for an extended period of time. The automatic parts of the feeder may frighten or confuse your dog, and if he doesn't use the feeder, it's not going to do much good.
