Pet Trend Watch: Homemade Dog Food

Many pet owners around the country are turning to homemade food over canned options or kibble to meet their pets’ nutritional needs. Whether you are looking to go organic, are trying to address a pet’s food allergies or sensitivities, or just want a happier and healthier pet, homemade pet food can be both easy and affordable with a little planning and prep.

Do your homework with all ingredients

Dogs may love people food, but some foods that we consider part of a healthy human diet can make dogs mildly or even dangerously sick. Citrus can upset a dog’s stomach, while grapes, raisins, garlic, and onions can be toxic. Also avoid nuts and large amounts of dairy, which can cause diarrhea. Check with your veterinarian when in doubt.

Balance protein, veggies, and whole grains

Canines need more protein in their diets than humans, but just like their two-legged family members, dogs also need a balanced and varied diet.

Lean meats—such as chicken, ground lamb, ground beef, or fish—and other animal proteins like eggs, should make up about half of your pet’s diet. Dogs love meats that their owners might not find as palatable, such as liver and heart (these protein sources often also have the advantage of being less expensive). Many dog chefs advocate for cooking protein sources to kill any unwanted bacteria.

Veggies and fruit should be the second biggest part of your pet’s homemade meal. Potatoes, sweet potatoes, squash, leafy greens, and beans are both nutritious and cost-effective. These ingredients must be cooked. Raw berries and apples make great additions as well.

Small amounts of whole grains, while not part of pre-domesticated dogs’ diets, can round out your pup’s meal. Cooked brown rice, oatmeal, or barley provide fiber and can supplement more expensive ingredients.

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Introduce new foods gradually

Even perfectly safe and healthy foods can upset an unaccustomed puppy tummy. Gradually wean your pet off of her current food by mixing in homemade ingredients in slowing increasing quantities. Start with simple, plain ingredients and add in new ones one at a time. This will also help you spot any foods that may give not agree with your pet.

Ask your vet about supplements

Good variety will meet most of your pet’s nutritional needs, but if you can’t spend hours hunting for precisely the right balance ingredients, consider adding in vitamin and oil supplements to make up the difference. Run Fido’s meal plan past your vet to get advice on what else he might need.