I don't think they would mind you asking,they loves their dogs just like you do.Go for it and i bet you'll be happy with their reply Oh and when i'm bored i search for long haired chi's. pmsl
my old dog was super difficult to feed too! (and my 2 yr old!!!)
i only asked cos i bought a dog bowl to put dry food in yesterday but am now a bit worried it's too small. it holds about 4 oz of water if that makes sense?