It’s no secret that what we feed our furry friends impacts their health and happiness. If you’re wondering, “How Do You Make Homemade Dog Food?” you’re in the right place. This guide provides an easy, cost-effective, and healthy alternative to processed kibble, using human-grade ingredients to give your dog a vibrant and fulfilling life.
Our Experience with Homemade Dog Food
We’ve seen firsthand the positive impact of switching to homemade dog food. When our dog Hooch was diagnosed with kidney disease, we began researching how to best support his health through diet. This journey led us to create recipes that are not only delicious but also tailored to his specific needs.
Addressing the “Raw Diet” Question
One of the first questions people ask when they learn we make our own dog food is about raw diets. While there are proponents of raw feeding, our vet advised against it due to the risk of food poisoning. Dogs, like humans, are susceptible to bacteria in raw food. Additionally, mixing raw and cooked foods can cause digestive issues, as they digest at different rates.
The Easy Homemade Dog Food Recipe: A Breakdown
Our go-to recipe includes lean ground sirloin, brown rice, carrots, hard-boiled eggs, parsley, and Omega-rich oil. However, we understand the need for flexibility, so we’ve compiled a list of easy substitutes based on your dog’s preferences, dietary needs, and what you have on hand.
Ingredient Substitutions for Homemade Dog Food
- Meat: Lean ground beef, ground chicken, ground turkey (white or dark meat), and ground pork are all excellent choices. Ensure the meat is free of seasonings. For dogs with kidney disease, lean ground beef like sirloin is preferred due to its lower phosphorus content.
- Grains: Brown rice provides fiber and is easily digestible. White rice can be used for dogs needing to limit phosphorus. Other options include oats, quinoa, and even whole-grain pasta. Be mindful of potential gluten sensitivities.
- Eggs: While eggs are a top allergen for dogs and egg yolks are high in phosphorus, they’re also a high-quality protein source. Consult your vet to determine if eggs are suitable for your dog’s diet.
- Vegetables: Carrots and fennel are favorites in our household, but many other dog-friendly veggies exist. Frozen veggie blends with peas, corn, carrots, and green beans are convenient. Cooked sweet potatoes and canned 100% pumpkin (not pie filling) can also boost fiber intake and aid digestion.
- Herbs: Curly parsley (not flat-leaf) is believed to support kidney health, though its use should be limited in dogs with kidney disease. Cilantro, thyme, and basil are also beneficial herbs.
- Oil: Drizzle in a few tablespoons of Omega-3 rich oil like olive or safflower oil. Omega oil blends are also available, though they tend to be more expensive.
Important Note About Dog Food Allergies
Just like humans, dogs can have food allergies. The top 5 allergens for dogs are beef, dairy, wheat, chicken, and egg. If you notice any adverse reactions after your dog ingests these ingredients, contact your veterinarian.
Hydration: Key for Dogs, Especially Those with Kidney Disease
Hydration is crucial, especially for dogs with kidney disease. Feeding moisture-rich food reduces the kidneys’ workload. Incorporate liquids like water or, even better, nutritious liquids like homemade bone broth. Dog-friendly bone broth can support immune function, liver health, digestion, and joint pain. Remember that bone broth recipes for dogs differ from human recipes, as dogs cannot consume onions.
Feeding Guidelines and Snack Ideas
A general guideline is to feed your dog roughly 1 cup of prepared food for every 10 lbs of body weight. Adjust portion sizes based on your dog’s individual needs. Dogs with kidney problems often benefit from several small meals throughout the day rather than one or two large meals.
For snacks, consider apple slices, banana chunks, carrots, whole unsalted peanuts in the husks, and dehydrated sweet potatoes. Limit meat-based chews and treats high in phosphorus.
Easy Homemade Dog Food Recipe
Ingredients:
- 6 cups cooked organic brown rice (from 3 cups uncooked)
- 2 pounds lean ground beef, cooked and drained
- 4 hard-boiled eggs, peeled and diced
- 3 medium carrots, shredded or thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup minced curly parsley
- 3 tablespoons olive or safflower oil
Instructions:
- Combine all ingredients in a large container.
- Stir to combine thoroughly.
- Store tightly sealed in the refrigerator.
Notes:
- Adjust portion sizes based on your dog’s weight and activity level.
- Smaller portions can be frozen for extended storage.
- For Instant Pot hard-boiled eggs, cook on high pressure for 5 minutes with a manual pressure release.
- For Instant Pot rice, use the rice function and allow for natural pressure release.
Embracing Homemade Dog Food
Switching to homemade dog food can significantly improve your dog’s health and well-being. By understanding your dog’s nutritional needs and experimenting with different ingredients, you can create delicious and nutritious meals that they’ll love. Remember to consult with your veterinarian before making significant changes to your dog’s diet.
