I would have to agree with Doc E, having an auto-feeder will take away those times that you go n to feed your dogs. We also feed our dogs twice a day and in that feeding its not just going out there dropping them food and leaving it gong out there giving them food and doing a body check to make sure they r okay no new bumps or bites or anything and also giving them attention wen they r finished they get some water and we run around and play with them. This time is important and dogs need this interaction to stay fit and healthy!