If you’ve ever watched your dog swallow food whole without giving it more than a couple of chomps, you’re not alone! Many pet parents are surprised to see their furry friends gulping down meals and treats, but the truth is dogs are natural swallowers, not chewers.
Dogs’ Teeth Are Built for Tearing, Not Grinding
Unlike humans, who have flat molars designed for grinding food, dogs’ teeth are shaped for gripping, tearing, and shearing meat. In the wild, their ancestors would rip chunks off prey and swallow them quickly before another animal could steal it. Chewing thoroughly just wasn’t part of their survival instinct.
Why Some Dogs Chew Less Than Others
There are a few reasons your dog might gulp more than chew –
• Breed Differences – Brachycephalic breeds (like Bulldogs and Pugs) and dogs with shorter snouts often find chewing more awkward, so they swallow faster.
• Competition Instincts – In multi-pet households, dogs may gulp to avoid missing out if they think another animal is eyeing their food.
• Food Texture – Kibble and soft foods are easy to swallow quickly, while tougher, natural chews encourage more jaw work.
When Dogs Vomit and Eat it Again
As unappealing as it looks, it’s actually normal for dogs to throw up and then eat what they’ve regurgitated, especially if it happens shortly after eating. This behaviour comes from their wild ancestors, who would regurgitate food for their young or re-eat partially digested meals to avoid waste.
If it’s occasional and the dog seems otherwise healthy, it’s usually nothing to worry about. However, if vomiting is frequent, forceful, or your dog shows other symptoms like lethargy or loss of appetite, it’s best to check with your vet or a qualified animal naturopath.
Is Swallowing Instead of Chewing a Problem?
In most cases, swallowing isn’t harmful, but it can sometimes lead to –
• Choking hazards if pieces are too large.
• Digestive upset if food isn’t broken down enough before reaching the stomach.
• Dental health issues, since chewing can help scrape plaque from teeth.
Tips to Encourage Safer Eating
If your dog is a speedy swallower, here are a few safe feeding strategies –
• Use slow feeder bowls or puzzle toys to make them work for their food.
• Feed in separate spaces if you have multiple pets, to reduce competition.
• Offer natural chews (like air-dried treats or raw meaty bones, under supervision) to promote chewing and dental health.
• Support dental care with safe options like brushing, dental sprays, or supplements such as Greenpet Seaweed Dental Powder.
The Bottom Line
Swallowing without chewing or occasionally re-eating regurgitated food is perfectly normal for dogs. These are natural, instinctive behaviours that helped their ancestors survive.
Pet parents can support their dogs by encouraging slower, safer eating habits and providing opportunities for natural chewing to aid digestion and dental health.
