The PetSafe Healthy Pet Simply Feed Automatic Dog Feeder is a reliable and programmable solution for dog owners who want to ensure their pets are fed on schedule, even when they’re not home. This feeder allows you to set up to 12 meals per day with adjustable portion sizes, making it ideal for weight management or busy lifestyles. Based on customer feedback and product details, it is a solid choice for most dogs, though it has some limitations that may not suit every owner.
About This Product
The PetSafe Healthy Pet Simply Feed is an automatic dog feeder designed to dispense dry kibble at preset times. It features a digital control panel with an LCD screen, allowing you to program meal times and portions easily. The hopper holds up to 24 cups of food, which can last several days depending on your dog’s needs. The feeder operates on AC power with a battery backup option to preserve settings during outages.
This product is suitable for dogs of all sizes, but it works best for adult dogs that eat dry food. It is not recommended for puppies or dogs that require wet food. For a comprehensive overview of automatic feeders, check out our full Dogs automatic dog feeder guide.
Quick Verdict
- Best for: Owners who need flexible scheduling and portion control for dry kibble.
- Not ideal for: Wet food users or dogs that need less than 1/8 cup per meal.
- Main benefit: Customizable meal plans up to 12 times per day.
- Main concern: Plastic hopper may retain odors and is not dishwasher safe.
Product Overview
The PetSafe Simply Feed is a programmable automatic feeder with a 24-cup capacity. It measures approximately 15.5 x 10.5 x 10 inches and weighs around 5 pounds. Key features include a digital timer, portion control (1/8 cup to 4 cups), and a stainless steel bowl. The feeder is made of plastic and stainless steel, with a transparent hopper that lets you see food levels.
It is designed for adult dogs that eat dry food. The feeder does not have a microphone or camera, so it’s a basic model focused on reliable dispensing.
Who This Product Is Best For
This feeder is best for dog owners who work long hours or have irregular schedules. It helps maintain a consistent feeding routine, which is beneficial for digestion and weight management. It’s also great for dogs that need multiple small meals per day, such as those with medical conditions requiring frequent feeding.
Based on breed suitability, it works well for medium to large breeds like Labrador Retrievers, as the portion range covers their typical meal sizes. For a breed-specific guide, see our Labrador Retriever guide.
Who Should Avoid It
Avoid this feeder if your dog eats wet or raw food, as it will not dispense properly and can spoil. Also, if your dog is a very small breed requiring less than 1/8 cup per meal, the portion accuracy may not be sufficient. Dogs that are prone to knocking over feeders may also find the base a bit lightweight.
Key Features
Programmable Meal Scheduling
You can set up to 12 meals per day, each with a specific time and portion. This flexibility is ideal for dogs that need multiple feedings or for owners who want to gradually reduce portions for weight loss.
Portion Control
Portions range from 1/8 cup to 4 cups in 1/8 cup increments. This allows precise control over daily intake, helping prevent overfeeding.
Stainless Steel Bowl
The included bowl is stainless steel, which is more hygienic than plastic and dishwasher safe for easy cleaning.
Battery Backup
In case of power outage, the feeder can run on 4 D-cell batteries (not included) to maintain the schedule and time settings.
Performance and Use Case
In real-life use, the PetSafe Simply Feed performs reliably for dry kibble. Users report that the dispensing mechanism works accurately, and the LCD screen is easy to read. The feeder is relatively quiet during operation. However, some users note that the plastic hopper can absorb odors from fish-based foods over time. The base is stable on flat surfaces but can be tipped by large, determined dogs.
For durability, the feeder holds up well with normal use. The stainless steel bowl is a plus for hygiene. Safety-wise, there are no exposed wires or sharp edges.
How It Compares
Compared to the WOPET Automatic Pet Feeder (rating 4.1), the PetSafe offers more meal programming (12 vs 4 meals) and a larger portion range. However, the WOPET includes a camera and treat dispenser, which the PetSafe lacks. The SureFeed Microchip Pet Feeder (rating 4.5) is a premium option that uses microchip recognition to feed individual pets, but it has a smaller capacity and higher price. The PetSafe strikes a balance between functionality and cost.
Buying Advice
Before purchasing, consider your dog’s age, size, and dietary needs. For puppies, frequent small meals may require a feeder with smaller increments; the PetSafe’s minimum 1/8 cup may be too much for very young puppies. Check that the feeder fits your home layout and is placed on a stable surface. If your dog is a chewer, the plastic parts may be vulnerable. Always consult your vet for feeding recommendations, especially if your dog has health issues.
Final Verdict
The PetSafe Healthy Pet Simply Feed Automatic Dog Feeder is a solid choice for owners who need a reliable, programmable feeder for dry kibble. Its flexible scheduling and portion control make it suitable for many dogs, especially those on weight management plans. While it lacks advanced features like cameras or wet food compatibility, it delivers on its core promise. Based on customer feedback and product details, it earns a rating of 4.3 out of 5 and is recommended for most dog owners.
