To help keep your pet healthy, learn what human food puppies can eat and which items in your fridge and pantry should be avoided.

What Human Food Is Good for Puppies?

Feeding puppies “human” food carries inherent risk, but there are some foods you can share with your pet.

We created a comprehensive list of foods dogs can (and can’t) eat, but here are some quick examples of human food puppies can eat:

• Cheese
• Yogurt
• Eggs*
• Fish*
• Lean meat, such as chicken and turkey*
• Honey
• Peanuts and peanut butter
• Popcorn
• Wheat and other grains
• Certain vegetables (e.g., carrots, sweet potatoes, green beans)
• Most fruit (e.g., banana, cantaloupe, blueberries, watermelon)

*Eggs and animal protein must be fully cooked for safety.

Give safe human food in small amounts and watch your pet for possible intolerances or allergic reactions. 

What Human Food Is Bad for Puppies?

Some human food is bad for puppies and can cause everything from stomach blockages to death.

Here are some examples of human food puppies should not eat:

• Almonds
• Macadamia nuts
• Salted foods
• Chocolate
• Cinnamon
• Raisins
• Garlic
• Onions
• Cooked bones
• Citrus
• Sweets (e.g., ice cream, candy)

If your puppy accidentally ingests any of these items, call your veterinarian immediately.

When Can Puppies Eat Human Food?

You can feed your puppy human food in moderation once they’re on a solid food diet. This usually happens when the puppy is around 8 weeks old. However, even safe human food should only be viewed as an occasional treat. Relying on veterinarian-approved dog food as the primary component of your puppy’s diet offers the most balanced nutrition.

What Adult Dogs Can Eat vs. Puppies

Puppies tend to have more sensitive stomachs and also eat smaller portions of food. Owners must be careful to limit human food when pets are young. These special treats should also be introduced slowly, starting with food like cooked meats and vegetables that are easier to digest. Avoid rich and salty foods, like turkey with gravy, until your dog is older and has a more robust digestive system.

Get an Expert Opinion on Your Puppy’s Diet

Planning your dog’s diet can be confusing. Stick to a primary diet of approved dog food with the occasional human food as a treat, and you’ll balance bonding and nutrition perfectly.If you have questions about your dog’s diet or suspect your pet has a food allergy or intolerance, consult with your veterinarian as soon as possible. Watch for symptoms like stomach upset, itching, watery eyes, nasal discharge, hair loss and coughing that could indicate a food issue.

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According to Frontiers in Veterinary Science, as many as half of dogs become anxious because of noises, while 20 to 40 percent of dogs experience anxiety due to separation from their pet parents, says Anicira, a nonprofit vet services provider. 

Stress associated with fear and anxiety can negatively impact pets’ health, welfare, behavior, and lifespan, so pet parents need to recognize and address it. Stress responses to loud noises include panting, hiding, pacing, cowering, shaking, barking, escape attempts, hiding, and seeking out familiar people. 

More pet parents are turning to calming treats, which contain ingredients meant to soothe dogs such as hemp seed powder, chamomile, valerian root, and L-theanine. Some formulations of calming treats are meant to work immediately, while others are suggested for long-term use. Keep in mind that many of these supplements have not been thoroughly studied in animals, but they tend not to cause many side effects, so they may be worth a try.  

What are calming treats?  

Calming treats are specially formulated snacks that can help reduce anxiety and stress in dogs. These treats often contain natural ingredients known for their calming effects, such as herbs, amino acids, and other soothing substances.  

Here are some common ingredients in calming treats:  

• L-Theanine: This amino acid in green tea has been shown to promote relaxation without causing drowsiness. It works by increasing dopamine and serotonin levels in the brain, which are vital for mood regulation. It’s especially beneficial for noise phobias, according to ResearchGate.  

• Valerian Root: Often used in human herbal supplements, valerian root can also benefit dogs, although research in dogs is scant, PetMD says. It’s known for its sedative properties in people and can help alleviate anxiety, especially during stressful events like vet visits or thunderstorms.  

• Chamomile: Many people know chamomile as a soothing tea for humans. However, VCA animal hospitals say the evidence is mostly anecdotalhttps://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/chamomile. Thanks to its anti-inflammatory and calming effects, chamomile can also help calm dogs.  

• CBD Oil: Cannabidiol (CBD) has gained popularity in recent years for its potential to relieve anxiety in both humans and pets. While research is inconclusive on its effectiveness, many pet parents report improvements in their dogs’ anxiety levels when using CBD-infused treats. A study in the Frontiers in Veterinary Science found it safe for dogs. 

• Passionflower: This flowering plant is believed to have calming effects and can help reduce anxiety and agitation in dogs, although research is limited. 

Popular calming treats  

Here are some calming treats customers give positive reviews to that you might want to consider for your furry friend:  

• Pawfy is a pet chew brand that offers supplement blends, including turkey-flavored chews, which are a safe way to lower anxiety and relax muscles. The chews calm the gut and release feel-good serotonin levels without causing drowsiness, the company says. 

• Maev is a raw dog food company that sells anxiety and calming supplement bars, with ingredients such as L-Theanine and vitamin E. “My dogs love these. They tend to be hyper because they are small dogs, but this completely relaxes them. Also, when they become anxious, it makes them a lot more mellow,” one customer said. 

• Wuffes CBD Isolate Oil: The company says it alleviates stress and anxiety, as well as reducing discomfort and inflammation associated with normal exercise and aging. “My Winston has always been prone to anxiety, especially during thunderstorms and fireworks. I started using this CBD Isolate oil, and it’s made such a difference! It calms him down and helps him relax without making him drowsy,” a customer reported.  

• Zesty Paws Calming Bites: These treats contain ingredients like L-Theanine, chamomile, valerian root, and Ashwagandha, making them a popular choice among dog parents seeking a natural solution to their pets’ anxiety. “I put these in my dog’s food and he was a totally different dog as the afternoon went on. Better connection together, no chewing his paws, no aggressive behavior on walks, usually very anxious. Total loved our connections after this chew,” one reviewer said. 

• Paw CBD Calming Treats: Infused with CBD, these treats provide a natural method for addressing anxiety in dogs. They also contain ingredients like chamomile and passionflower for enhanced calming effects. “Really helps calm my girl down. She’s been taking it for a few years now. She loves the peanut butter flavor!” one customer said. 

Using calming treats safely  

While calming treats can be beneficial, it’s essential to use them responsibly: 

Consult your vet: Before introducing any new supplements or treats into your dog’s diet, especially if they have underlying health issues or are on medication, consult your veterinarian.  

Follow recommended dosages: Stick to the dosage guidelines provided on the treat packaging. Overfeeding calming treats can lead to unwanted side effects.   

Monitor your dog’s response: Observe your pet’s behavior after giving them calming treats. Each dog may react differently, and it’s essential to find the right fit for your furry friend.  

Conclusion  

Calming treats can be a helpful tool in managing your dog’s anxiety and providing comfort during stressful situations. With various options available, you can choose treats that best align with your dog’s preferences and needs. Always remember to consult your veterinarian for personalized advice. By taking steps to reduce anxiety, you’ll not only improve your dog’s quality of life but also strengthen the bond you share.  

The post Calming Treats for Dogs: A Guide to Keeping Your Pet Relaxed appeared first on Pet Care Blog – Dog and Cat Health Advice and More | Healthy Paws.

The Benefits of Homemade Dog Food

Making your dog’s food at home may offer some benefits over commercially available diets. If you’re making your dog’s meals yourself, you have the freedom to purchase the freshest, highest-quality ingredients available. Home cooking can also be a good option for dogs with food allergies or other dietary sensitivities. When you know what ingredients your dog reacts to, it’s simple enough to avoid them. Dogs who struggle to eat enough food (because of illness or extreme pickiness) may eat more of a homemade diet. Dry kibble tends to be the least appealing to dogs. Wet foods are better, but a homemade diet can prove to be truly irresistible.

Before You Start Cooking: Homemade Dog Food Needs to be Balanced

Your homemade meal should contain protein, fat, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals. Make sure you weigh your dog frequently to verify they stay a healthy weight. Take your dog to the vet before starting the homemade diet so your vet can determine your dog’s ideal weight and you can discuss what recipes are appropriate for your dog.

Protein

When a dog eats protein, their body breaks it down into its building blocks called amino acids, which are then reassembled into the proteins they need. Proteins play many roles in a dog’s body, including:

• Building and maintaining muscle, skin, hair, nails, tendons, ligaments, and cartilage
• Producing enzymes, hormones, and disease-fighting antibodies
• Acting as a source of specific nutrients, like nitrogen, that are used to make other molecules

The Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) puts together standards for dog food. The AAFCO minimum protein percentage for dog food is 22.5% for puppies and 18% for adults and seniors on a dry matter basis. Reporting nutrient percentages on a dry matter basis takes into account the differing amounts of water present in various types of dog food (canned versus kibble, for example).

Fats

Fats in the diet are an excellent source of energy and make food taste good. Essential fatty acids play important roles in the body and have to be present in the diet because a dog’s body can’t make them from other substances. For example, omega-3 fatty acids, like those present in cold-water fish oils, can reduce inflammation.

The AAFCO crude fat minimum percentage on a dry matter basis for puppy foods is 8.5% and for adult and senior dogs it is 5.5%.

Carbs

Carbohydrates aren’t an essential part of a dog’s diet, but they still can have many important roles such as:

• Providing energy
• Reducing the need for protein to be used as an energy source (freeing it up to be available for its other roles)
• Promoting normal gastrointestinal function (especially fiber)
• Supplying specific nutrients that can be used to make other molecules

AAFCO does not set standards for the amount of carbohydrate in dog foods since it is not considered an essential nutrient.

Vitamins and Minerals

Only small amounts of vitamins and minerals need to be provided in a dog’s diet, but without them, dogs can quickly become very sick. To make things even more complicated, too much of certain vitamins and minerals can be just as dangerous as too little.

Now let’s look at some vet-approved homemade dog food recipes that provide a good balance or proteins, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals.

Vet-Approved Recipe #1:

Massachusetts’ MSCPA-Angell Animal Medical Center provides sample recipes on its website for dogs weighing 15, 30 and 60 pounds.

For a 15-pound dog:

• 3 ounces of chicken, dark meat, cooked
• 1 1/3 cups of white rice, cooked
• 1 tablespoon of mixed vegetables, cooked
• 1 to 2 teaspoons of vegetable oil
• 1.5 black scoops Balance IT Canine vitamin, mineral, and amino acid supplement

For a 30-pound dog:

• 4.5 ounces of chicken, dark meat, cooked
• 2 cups of white rice, cooked
• 1.5 tablespoons of mixed vegetables, cooked
• 2 to 3 teaspoons of vegetable oil
• 2.5 black scoops Balance IT Canine vitamin, mineral, and amino acid supplement

For 60-pound dogs:

• 8 ounces of ounces of chicken, dark meat, cooked
• 3.5 cups of white rice, cooked
• 3 tablespoons of mixed vegetables, cooked
• 3 to 5 teaspoons of vegetable oil
• 4.5 black scoops Balance IT Canine

Directions

1. All proteins, carbohydrates, and vegetables should be thoroughly cooked, allowed to cool, and then weighed.
2. Combine all ingredients and mix them together well. Make sure the supplements are mixed thoroughly throughout the food.
3. This recipe provides one day’s worth of food. It can be prepared in the morning, divided into multiple portions for the day, and refrigerated until mealtime.

MSPCA-Angell AMC notes that the supplement, Balance IT® Canine, mentioned in these recipes is not optional. Leaving it out will produce a diet that has many nutritional deficiencies

Vet-Approved Recipe #2:

Founder’s Veterinary Clinic of Brea, California, offers a sample recipe for 20-pound dogs that you can half for 10-pounders or double for 40-pound canines.

For a 20-pound dog:

• 1/4 pound of cooked, skinless chicken
• 1 cup of cooked brown rice
• ½ to 1 cup of peas and carrots
• 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil (they recommend Udo’s Oil 3-6-9 Blend)
• 1/4 teaspoon of potassium chloride (a salt substitute).
• 250 mg calcium citrate
• Daily multiple vitamin/mineral supplement (either a vet-recommended supplement or ¼ of a human adult dose)

Allowed substitutions for this recipe include boned fish, lean ground turkey, beef, or lamb as a protein source and potatoes, yams, or pasta as a carbohydrate. As always, the supplements mentioned in this diet are not optional.

Directions

1. All proteins, carbohydrates, and vegetables should be thoroughly cooked, allowed to cool, and then weighed.
2. Combine all ingredients and mix them together well. Make sure the supplements are mixed thoroughly throughout the food.
3. This recipe provides one day’s worth of food. It can be prepared in the morning, divided into multiple portions for the day, and refrigerated until mealtime.

Vet-Approved Recipe #3:

The following recipe was created by Balance.it, for a 9 year old, spayed female dog who weighs 50 pounds. The Balance.it recipe generation tool allows pet parents to create nutritionally complete homemade dog foods for healthy pets using ingredients of your choice.

For a 50-pound dog

• 13 7/8 oz chicken breast, skinless, boneless, cooked, roasted
• 5 ¼ teaspoons canola oil
• 1 3/10 mL Nordic Naturals Omega-3 Pet Liquid 
• 1 ½ cups sweet potato, cooked, baked in skin, without salt, flesh fed only
• 3/4 cup spinach, cooked, boiled, drained, without salt 
• 11/16  teaspoon Morton iodized salt 
• 5  teaspoons Balance IT® Canine (2.5 g/tsp)

Directions

1. All proteins, carbohydrates, and vegetables should be thoroughly cooked, allowed to cool, and then weighed.
2. Combine all ingredients and mix them together well. Make sure the supplements are mixed thoroughly throughout the food.
3. This recipe provides one day’s worth of food. It can be prepared in the morning, divided into multiple portions for the day, and refrigerated until mealtime.

The Balance.it generator will also produce recipes that use human vitamin and mineral supplements rather than Balance IT® Canine, but they contain many more ingredients and are harder to prepare accurately.

What About Raw-Diet Foods?

Gaining popularity is the raw food diet, also known as the Biologically Appropriate Raw Food, or BARF, diet. The concept was developed by an Australian veterinarian, Dr. Ian Billinghurst. BARF’s philosophy states that “the diet a dog evolved to eat — over many millions of years of evolution — is the best way to feed it.” While you might find some veterinarians recommending homemade raw foods for dogs, similar to what ancient canines ate, that’s not the view of the American Veterinary Medical Association. The AVMA, along with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration Center for Veterinary Medicine and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, don’t recommend raw dog food, in part because of the risk of bacterial contamination or possible public health risks.

Always Get Your Vet’s Approval

If your dog suffers from medical issues, you will need to adjust certain veterinary-endorsed diets. Ask your own vet about your dog’s specific nutritional needs as well as for a recommendation for a certified veterinary nutritionist. The three of you can find a homemade diet that meets your pup’s dietary requirements. Whether your dog has specific medical problems or not, you should always tell your vet that your dog eats a homemade diet because they will need to see your dog more frequently to continue to evaluate the diet and to monitor for nutrition-related health problems.

Frequently Asked Questions

The post How to Make Vet-Approved Homemade Dog Food appeared first on Pet Care Blog – Dog and Cat Health Advice and More | Healthy Paws.

Peanut butter cookies for dogs

Ingredients

• 2-1/2 cups whole wheat flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 cup natural peanut butter 1 cup water
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 egg

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.
2. In a large bowl, combine flour, baking powder, and egg. Add peanut butter, water, honey and stir until you have stiff dough. The dough becomes very firm and sticky. You may need to use your hands, or the paddle attachment on your mixer.
3. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough about 1/2-inch thick and use cookie cutters to make fun shapes. The treats barely spread and rise, so get creative with your shapes.
4. Bake for 20 minutes until golden.
5. Keep in an airtight container or give as gifts.

Grain-free peanut butter and pumpkin dog treats

Ingredients

• 2-1/2 cup coconut flour
• 1/2 cup peanut butter
• 3 eggs
• 1/2 cup coconut oil melted then slightly cooled
• 1 cup pumpkin puree

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.
2. Combine all ingredients in a large mixing bowl.
3. On a surface dusted lightly with additional coconut flour,
   roll out dough to about ¼ to 1/2 inch thick.
4. Cut out shapes using your preferred cookie cutters.
5. Transfer to a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 13-15 minutes. Treats should have a slightly golden color around the edges.
6. Allow to cool before serving. May be stored in airtight containers for up to three weeks.

Classic carob chip cookies

Ingredients

• 1 cup white rice flour 1 cup oat flour
• 1/2 cup carob chips 2 tbsp almond butter 2 tsp chia seeds
• 1 egg
• 1/4 cup water

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 325° F
2. Line baking tray with silicone baking mat
3. Put flours, carob chips and chia seeds into large bowl and stir to mix
4. Use whisk to combine egg and almond butter in small bowl
5. Make well in center of dry ingredients and pour in egg/almond butter
6. Stir to mix thoroughly with wooden spoon
7. Add water as needed until all ingredients combine
8. Use your hands to form a firm dough
9. Turn dough out onto lightly floured wax paper
10. Press flat using your hands
11. Use lightly floured rolling pin to roll dough out to 1/2” thickness
12. Cut into desired shapes using cookie cutter or sharp knife
13. Bake treats at 325° F for 20 – 25 minutes

Peppermint cookies

Ingredients

• 1 cup coconut oil
• 1/4 cup ground flaxseed
• 2 ripe bananas
• 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
• 2 teaspoons peppermint extract
• 3 cups white whole wheat flour
• 2 cups rolled oats
• 1 teaspoon salt

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350° F.
2. Cream the coconut oil, flaxseed mixture, bananas, applesauce and peppermint together in a mixer until the banana is mashed well and
   the coconut oil is thoroughly incorporated.
3. Add the salt, 2 cups of the white wheat flour and 1 cup of the rolled oats.
4. Add the oats and remaining flour.
5. Press the batter evenly on the cookie sheet, spreading it into each corner.
6. Bake for 40 minutes.

Cranberry dog treats

Ingredients

• 2 cups whole wheat flour
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup oats
• 1/4 cup molasses
• 1 cup cranberries
• 1 egg
• 1/2 stick (4 tablespoons) butter, melted 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 cup of water, as needed

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350° F and grease two cookie sheets.
2. Toss cranberries into a blender or food processor and chop.
3. Mix all the dry ingredients, then add the melted butter, chopped cranberries, egg, and, slowly, the water a little bit at a time.
4. Mix the dough and knead on a lightly floured surface, rolling the dough to about ¼-inch thick.
5. Use cookie cutters to cut into desired shapes.
6. Place the treats on the baking sheet, leaving just a little room between each and bake for 30 minutes.
7. At the end of baking, turn off the oven and allow the treats to cool in the oven for about three or four hours to make treats crunchy.

Pumpkin cranberry cookies

Ingredients

• 1- inch piece fresh ginger
• 1/2 cup water
• 1 cup fresh cranberries
• 1 cup pumpkin puree
• 1/4 cup ground flax seed mixed with 1/2 cup warm water
• 1/2 cup melted coconut oil 2 teaspoons cinnamon
• 4 cups rolled oats
• 2 cups whole wheat flour
• 2 teaspoons baking soda
• 2 cups brown rice flour, or additional whole wheat flour

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350° F.
2. Add the ginger and water to your blender and blend until
   smooth. Add the cranberries and blend until the are in small bits and pieces.
3. Add the ginger-cranberry mixture to a mixer along with the pumpkin puree, flax mixture, melted coconut oil, and cinnamon.
4. Add in the oats and mix, then add in the whole wheat flour and baking soda then mix again. Add in the brown rice flour a cup at a time until the mixture is thick like a wet clay.
5. Sprinkle some extra flour on a large cutting board and take ¼ of the dough and roll it out flat.
6. Bake 15 to 20 minutes depending on the size cookies you make.

Banana flax vegan biscuits

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons ground flax seed
• 1 cup rolled oats or Irish oats, which are stone-ground
• 1 cup whole wheat flour 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/3 cup melted coconut oil
• 1 large banana mashed
• 1/4 cup water

Instructions

1. Oil a large cookie sheet or cover with parchment paper and preheat the oven to 350 degrees.
2. Add the flax seed, oats, flour, cinnamon and salt to a mixing bowl or mixer. Mix until well combined.
3. Add in the coconut oil and banana then mix in well, add 1/4 cup water and mix more. The dough will be thick and it’s easier to mix in a mixer. If you are mixing by hand you may need to add a little extra water to get it to come together.
4. Measure 1 tablespoon of cookie dough and flatten on the cookie sheet. Repeat until you use up all the dough.
5. Bake for 20 minutes

Anise dognip cookies

Ingredients

• 1 cup whole wheat flour
• 1 cup oatmeaI
• 4 tbsp coconut oil
• 1 cup beef stock
• 1 tbsp baking powder 1 cup carrot
• 2 tbsp anise

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350° F.
2. Combine all ingredients. Mix well.
3. Use a spatula to spread the mixture as thin as you can on a parchment-lined cookie sheet
4. Pre-cut the sheet of dough with a pizza cutter or sharp knife. This makes it easier to get them apart once they’re cooked.
5. Bake for 30 minutes. Treats will be more like a soft cookie, than a
   hard treat.
6. Cool and cut again along the score lines with a pizza cutter or sharp knife.

Photo and recipe credits:
The Cookie Rookie
Healthy Slow Cooking
Lonely Pines Farm
Dog Tipper
Urban Bliss Life
Wiggleworthy
Healthy Slow Cooking

The post 8 Great Dog Cookie Recipes for the Holidays appeared first on Pet Care Blog – Dog and Cat Health Advice and More | Healthy Paws.

While it may be tempting to gravitate towards a food with attractive packaging and appealing advertising, the truth is that advertising can be misleading. Some owners are attracted to feeding human food, but that can lead to chronic conditions like obesity and pancreatitis. Finally, some owners consider raw diets, but these diets have been shown to increase the risk of foodborne disease.

What Makes a Dog Food “Good?”

A high-quality dog food is one that will meet all of your dog’s nutritional needs and support their overall health. A high-quality diet not only contains all of the required nutrients for your dog’s life stage, it also contains these nutrients in the correct ratios and in a form that is easily digested and absorbed. A high-quality diet may also contain additional ingredients, beyond what is strictly required, to further support your dog’s health.

Selecting the best possible dog food requires a bit of research into both the diet itself and the company that manufactures that diet. Any dog food manufacturer can create a dog food recipe that sounds wholesome and place an appealing label on that diet. A good dog food manufacturer, however, goes a step further. They take the time to conduct research on the needs of the pets that will eat their diets, including both healthy pets and pets with specific medical conditions. This research allows the manufacturer to understand the needs of the pets eating their diet, which is essential to formulating an optimal diet.

Feeding trials also play a role in developing a high-quality diet. These feeding trials involve feeding a diet to a group of dogs, in a controlled laboratory setting, for a period of at least six months. The dogs’ health is assessed during and after that test, including both physical exam parameters and blood tests. While no feeding trial can provide a perfect assurance that a diet will work for every dog, these are the best tool that we have available for assessing the real-world performance of a given dog food.

How to Read a Dog Food Label

When selecting a dog food, it’s important to read the label carefully. The Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) sets guidelines regarding pet food labels. That means that all labels are required to contain a similar set of information.

When you look at the front of a bag or can of dog food, much of the information you will see relates to marketing claims. Many dog food brands use fancy descriptives like gourmet, premium, all-natural, human grade, and holistic. Unfortunately, these terms are relatively meaningless, and manufacturers are not required to back them up. While this information may seem helpful, it actually doesn’t tell you much about the diet. Instead, it’s best to flip the bag or can over. The important information is typically located on the back of the packaging.  

The most important part of a dog food label is the nutritional adequacy statement. This statement tells you whether the diet is intended to serve as a complete diet or as a treat. It also tells what species (dog or cat) and life stage (puppy, adult dog, senior dog, or all life stages) the food is intended for. For example, you may see a nutritional adequacy statement that says, “Animal feeding tests using AAFCO procedures substantiate that X Dog Food provides complete and balanced nutrition for adult dogs.” This tells you that this food has been through feeding trials (good news!) and that it has been shown to meet the nutritional needs of adult dogs. This is great news if you’re buying the food for an adult dog, but this diet may not be adequate for a growing puppy. Some foods have a nutritional adequacy statement saying that they are intended for “intermittent or supplemental feedings.” These diets are not nutritionally complete and cannot be used as your pet’s sole source of nutrition, even if the words and images on the front of the label suggest they are intended to be used as a complete diet.

In addition to the nutritional adequacy statement, a dog food label also contains the following information:

• Ingredient list
• Guaranteed analysis (nutrient levels)
• Feeding directions

Feeding directions are certainly essential information because they help you determine how much to feed your dog. Ingredient lists can be beneficial if your dog has a known food allergy, allowing you to avoid certain ingredients. Guaranteed analysis is typically less helpful; as long as the food provides complete and balanced nutrition (as stated in the nutritional adequacy statement), you can be confident that the nutrient levels in the guaranteed analysis will be appropriate.

Interestingly, you will not typically find calorie counts listed on a dog food label. Use the label’s feeding directions as a starting point, adjusting your dog’s food intake up or down as needed to maintain a healthy body weight.

Find the Best Dog Food Brands

Many pet parents’ top priority is finding a dog food that fits their budget. While it’s true that pet supplies can be pricey, there are many ways to get healthy dog food at an affordable price. High-quality diets are available at a variety of price points; you don’t necessarily need to purchase the most expensive food to ensure your dog’s health. (One exception worth mentioning: prescription diets. These diets are expensive, but there may not be a cheaper option to treat some medical conditions.) Whether you prefer to shop at a pet boutique or a big-box store, there is likely an available dog food that will meet your dog’s need without breaking the bank.

Talk to your veterinarian about your dog’s diet, including the brand that you’re considering. Veterinarians receive nutritional training during veterinary school, and typically stay up-to-date on nutritional advances through veterinary journals and continuing education conferences. Your veterinarian can help you select an appropriate brand of dog food for your pet, depending on your family’s preferences and budget.

Best Dog Food for Puppies

Picking a healthy dog food is a high priority for puppies, whose growing bodies and minds need proper nutrition. Puppies begin eating small amounts of solid food at about four weeks old, and they are fully weaned from their mothers at roughly six weeks old. From that time on, your puppy’s sole source of nutrition should be a high-quality puppy food (plus occasional treats, as needed for training). A nutritional deficiency or imbalance can affect puppies’ teeth, eyes, nails, fur, and overall growth for life, making it essential to select the best puppy food possible.

When selecting a diet for your puppy, it’s important to check the food’s nutritional adequacy statement. Ensure that you are purchasing a food developed specifically for puppies, because their needs often differ significantly from the needs of adult dogs. It’s also a good idea to ask your vet for their recommendation, especially since you’ll be a regular at the office getting all your puppy’s vaccines.

Best Dry Dog Food

There are many upsides to feeding your pet dry dog food, including convenience, cost, and cleanliness. Some dry dog foods are also formulated to help clean your dog’s teeth as they chew.

Don’t be fooled by marketing hype, though. Remember that many of the terms used on the front of the bag are meaningless. Instead, pay attention to the diet’s nutritional adequacy claims. Look for a complete and balanced diet that is appropriate for your dog’s life stage. Ensure that the food is made by a reputable manufacturer that performs ongoing research and conducts feeding trials. Talk to your veterinarian for further guidance.

Best Wet Dog Food

While many owners prefer dry dog food due to convenience, other dog owners prefer wet food. Wet foods can be especially beneficial for dogs that are picky eaters, as well as for dogs with dental disease that prohibits them from chewing dry food.

Selecting the best wet dog food is similar to selecting a high-quality dry dog food. Do your best to tune out trendy marketing terms, like “organic,” “grain-free,” and “all-natural.” Instead, evaluate the manufacturer’s research and quality control, looking for a diet that has been demonstrated to be complete and balanced for your dog’s life stage through the use of feeding trials.

Best Dog Food for Large Breeds

If you own a large breed dog, you’re probably familiar with the unique risks that can accompany these breeds. While large breeds are susceptible to many of the same conditions as smaller breed dogs, they are also at increased risk of a variety of orthopedic conditions, including arthritis.

Feeding a diet intended for large breed dogs can help to maximize your dog’s joint health. This is especially important during puppyhood, when a large breed puppy food can reduce the risk of abnormal skeletal growth that contributes to bone disease. Continuing to feed a large breed food during your dog’s adult and senior years can further reduce their risk of joint disease, as many of these diets contain glucosamine and other nutraceuticals (supplements) to support joint health.

Best Dog Food for Small Breeds

Like large breed dogs, small breeds have their own unique needs. Just imagine a tiny Chihuahua trying to chew a huge piece of large breed kibble! Small breed dogs do best with a diet that is designed specifically for them. Small breed dog foods often contain smaller pieces of kibble, making the diet easier for small dogs to chew with their smaller jaws and teeth.

Diets intended for small breed dogs may also be more calorie-dense and nutrient-dense than some large breed foods, to compensate for small breed dogs’ small stomachs and speedy metabolisms.

Best Dog Food for Allergies

For pups with food intolerances and allergies, finding the best dog food that meets their medical and nutritional needs can be tricky.

Food allergies involve an immune response to one or more ingredients in a food. These reactions typically occur to the proteins within a diet, and they can develop at any point in a dog’s lifetime (even if a dog has been eating the same food for years). Symptoms of a food allergy in dogs include excessive itching and licking, a dull coat, diarrhea, gas, and shaking the head.

A dog food intolerance is different from an allergy. Dogs who are intolerant of certain foods simply have sensitive stomachs that can’t comfortably digest those ingredients. That’s not to say their symptoms are any less painful or serious, but it’s important to recognize dog food allergies and intolerances are separate medical conditions.

If you suspect that your dog has a food allergy or food intolerance, talk to your veterinarian. Food allergies are typically diagnosed via a food trial, which involves feeding a prescription-strength, hypoallergenic dog food for a defined period of time. If your dog’s signs resolve on the hypoallergenic diet, your dog is diagnosed with a food allergy. Next, you can work with your vet to select a limited-ingredient food that relives your pet’s symptoms.

If feeding a prescription diet isn’t an option, you may instead wish to try an over-the-counter diet that avoids common allergens. Ingredients commonly associated with food allergies in dogs include:

• Beef
• Chicken
• Lamb
• Fish
• Eggs
• Milk

Unfortunately, simply feeding a limited-ingredient, over-the-counter food may not work for every dog. Many limited-ingredient foods are manufactured on the same production line as conventional foods. This can result in cross-contamination; even this small amount of allergen exposure may be enough to trigger a reaction in some dogs. In contrast, prescription allergy diets are often manufactured on a dedicated manufacturing line to minimize the risk of cross-contamination.

Best Dog Foods for Seniors

Dogs have different dietary needs at various life stages, from puppyhood to adulthood to senior living. Although it varies from breed to breed, a dog is typically considered a “senior” when they reach 7 – 10 years old.

Senior dogs are typically not as active as they once were, requiring less caloric intake. It’s important to revisit the best dog food for your pet as he ages; continuing to feed the same formula and amount can lead to nutritional deficiencies or obesity. Stay away from bones or fatty treats, which also contribute to pet obesity; choose dog-approved vegetables like carrots, green beans, and sweet potatoes to serve as snacks.

Many senior dogs have medical conditions that require specialized diets. A dog with arthritis or hip dysplasia can benefit from dog foods containing glucosamine, which lubricates joints. Diabetic dog food products are specialized to delay digestion so blood sugar levels don’t dangerously spike. Senior pets who struggle with constipation, kidney disease, or heart disease may require prescription dog food as well. Even the best dog foods can’t turn back time though, so it’s important to ensure your pup is still getting daily exercise, mental stimulation, and vet visits.

How Much Should I Feed My Dog?

When feeding your dog, use the feeding directions on the label as a starting point. Keep in mind, however, that these feeding directions assume your dog is not receiving any other treats or other calorie sources. In reality, most of us do tend to give our dogs at least one or two treats a day. Therefore, you may need to feed your dog a bit less than is recommended by the label feeding directions.

Monitor your dog’s body condition closely and make dietary adjustments as needed. If you begin feeding your dog according to the label directions and your dog starts to gain weight, try decreasing the size of your dog’s meals by approximately 10%. Monitor your dog’s weight for 3 – 4 weeks, and then adjust your dog’s meal size again if needed. If your dog begins weight, consider increasing the amount fed by approximately 10%.

Make small adjustments in your dog’s food intake every 3 – 4 weeks, until you find the “just right” amount that allows your dog to maintain a healthy weight.

Dog Food Myths & Misinformation

Unfortunately, much of the information found online surrounding pet foods is mythical in nature. As a responsible dog owner, it’s important to be able to separate fact from fiction.

Myth: Corn and grains are bad for dogs.

Corn and grains can be an excellent and affordable source of calories and nutrients for dogs. These ingredients are not simply “filler,” as some fear-mongering websites would have you believe.

Myth: Grain-free foods are best.

While some pet food manufacturers promote grain-free diets as being less likely to trigger allergies, wheat is actually a relatively uncommon cause of food allergies in dogs. There are no known health risks associated with grain in dog foods.

Myth: By-products are bad.

The term “by-product” refers to any part of an animal that we humans wouldn’t typically eat, or any ingredient other than high-quality muscle meat. However, these organs, such as liver and kidneys, are often filled with nutrients. In fact, some boutique brands even specifically promote their use of these ingredients, while also denouncing the use of by-products. Do your research and don’t fall victim to marketing hype on this topic; by-products can be a valuable source of nutrition.

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One of these fad diets is the ketogenic diet. As is the case for many dietary trends in people, keto diets have also captured the attention of pet parents.

What is a keto diet? Is it safe for dogs? Let’s explore these questions in more detail.

What Is a Keto Diet?

Before talking about the keto diet itself, we need to understand the science behind the diet. A keto diet stimulates ketosis, which is an alternative process for generating energy in the body.

Typically, the body’s cells use carbohydrates, namely glucose, for energy. When there are little to no carbs available, the body will resort to breaking down body fat to produce substances called ketone bodies. These ketone bodies are then used by the cells to generate energy.

Keto diets are high in fat, moderate in protein, and very low in carbohydrates. They are also calorie-restricted.

Keto diets in people commonly consist of processed and fresh meats, eggs, nuts, and limited fruits and vegetables. It typically takes a few days on the diet to put the body into a ketotic state.

Weight loss is the main draw for the keto diet in humans. Clinical studies have shown that keto diets can reduce seizure activity in children. Keto diets could also benefit patients with cancer, but the current clinical research does not yet support this claim.

The drawbacks for keto diets are numerous. For example, the diet isn’t sustainable in the long-term because of the severe carbohydrate restriction. Other potential dangers of the keto diet are nutritional imbalance, worsening of liver and kidney problems, and mood swings.

Are Keto Diets Safe for Dogs?

Dogs do well on a variety of diets, so it’s worth at least considering a keto diet for dogs. It would follow the same principles as a human keto diet: high fat, moderate protein, low carbs. A dog on a keto diet would eat fatty meats (e.g., beef) and low-carb vegetables like kale or broccoli. Commercial keto diets for dogs are also available.

However, dogs metabolize ketones quickly, meaning that a dog would take longer than a human to reach a state of ketosis.

Very few clinical veterinary studies have evaluated the benefits and safety of keto diets for dogs. So, for now, we can’t say one way or the other if these diets are a good idea for dogs.

The potential health risks in dogs, though, could be very similar to those in people. Also, a pet parent may quickly realize that preparing a homemade keto diet for their dog is time-consuming and challenging to get just right.

Summing Things Up

The jury is still out on whether keto diets are suitable for dogs. In the meantime, focus on feeding your dog a high-quality, nutritionally-balanced food.

Remember that, no matter what the pet food commercials say, there is no magic or perfect diet for dogs. Dogs do just fine and stay healthy on a variety of diets.

Also, do not assume that dietary trends in people are right for dogs. The gluten-free trend in human health led to the explosion of grain-free diets for dogs. Unfortunately, several grain-free dog diets have been linked to dilated cardiomyopathy, a heart condition that occurs when the heart muscles became thin and weak.

Always consult with your veterinarian before making any changes to your dog’s diet.

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As your mind races to figure out what to do, you decide that it’s time to get creative with the food that you have on hand. Chances are good that you have the ingredients for an “in a pinch” meal or two for your dog until you can purchase more regular dog food.

Keep reading to learn how to save the day for your dog’s tummy.

Foods to avoid

Before starting to rummage through your pantry or fridge, keep a few things in mind:

Avoid salty, spicy, sugary, or fatty foods

A dog’s palate is not exactly refined (remember that they eat poop!), so the meal that you prepare does not have to be a well-seasoned, culinary delight. In fact, anything other than plain foods could cause digestive upset, like vomiting, diarrhea, or constipation.

Avoid toxic and processed foods

Certain human foods, including grapes, raisins, onions, and garlic, are toxic to dogs. Processed foods like bacon and deli meats are off-limits because of their high sodium and fat content.

Meal considerations

Meat should be lean (at least 80% lean), cooked, skinless, and boneless

White meat chicken is ideal, but ground turkey or beef are also suitable. Boiling the meat is preferable to frying or grilling.

Consider your dog’s allergies and health conditions

Canine food allergies are commonly caused by meat-based proteins, like chicken and beef. Chronic health conditions like kidney or liver disease require a low-fat diet. As you think about what to prepare for your dog, consider a meal that won’t aggravate a food allergy or worsen a chronic disease.

This meal is only temporary

“In a pinch” human meals for dogs are not long-term solutions because they are not as nutritionally balanced or complete as commercial dog foods. The absolute longest that you want to feed these meals to your dog is a week—that should be more than enough time for you to buy more dog food.

Get cooking!

The meal that you prepare should be a good balance of lean protein and complex carbohydrates. Fortunately, you have a lot of foods in your pantry and fridge from which you can choose.

Pantry

• Peanut butter (xylitol-free)
• Plain, complex grains, like brown rice, couscous, and farina
• Low-sodium broth (vegetable, chicken, beef) for extra flavor
• Plain, unprocessed oatmeal (oatmeal packets are processed and sugary)
• Canned vegetables, such as corn, peas, and carrots: Rinse well and drain to remove sodium.
• Canned chicken in water: Rinse well and drain to remove sodium.

Refrigerator

• Plain, low-fat Greek yogurt
• Mild cheeses, such as American
• Cooked white or sweet potatoes
• Cooked eggs, such as scrambled eggs
• Rotisserie chicken, skin and bones removed
• Cooked lean meat, such as chicken, beef, or turkey
• Cooked or raw fresh vegetables, such as carrots, corn, and broccoli
• Fruits, such as blueberries, strawberries, and sliced bananas and pears

Remember that dogs aren’t picky eaters. Just make sure that the meal has a good nutritional balance of protein and carbohydrates. For example, a quick and easy meal is plain chicken served over plain brown rice in about a 50:50 mix. If your dog isn’t impressed, add a small amount of low-sodium broth to make the meal more appealing.

Another quick meal, particularly for breakfast, is 2-3 scrambled eggs over vegetables and a cooked grain. Add some fruit to give your dog something sweet to munch on.

You can also cook some ground beef and add that in with some cooked or raw vegetables and plain brown rice.

If you really want to have some fun, check out these recipes for more ideas on what to feed your dog in a pinch.

After the pinch is over

Now that you’ve solved the immediate problem of feeding your dog, you’ve given yourself some time to get more dog food. Once you’ve done that, it will be time to get your dog back to their regular diet. Not so fast, though—abrupt dietary changes can upset a dog’s tummy.

Transition your dog back to their regular diet gradually. Over several days, mix in increasing amounts of their regular dog food with the “in a pinch” food until your dog is eating only their regular food.

To avoid another food emergency, consider placing about a week’s worth of your dog’s regular food in a plastic baggie. Once the big bag of dog food is empty and you’re reaching for the baggie, it’s time to replenish your dog food supply. If you order your dog food online, choose the “auto-delivery” option so that you always have some extra dog food on hand.

Life gets busy, so it’s understandable if you run out of dog food occasionally. Surely, your dog won’t mind having some human food for a meal or two. Remember to keep those “in a pinch” meals healthy and get some regular dog food as soon as you can.

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Our pets need to keep their hearts healthy, too. Unfortunately, as in people, pets can develop heart disease. Below are types of heart disease that can affect our pets:

• Dilated cardiomyopathy: an enlargement of the heart
• Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM): a thickening of the heart muscle, leading to stiffened heart chambers and reduced blood-pumping ability
• Congestive heart failure (CHF): end-stage heart disease

When our pets develop heart disease, a heart-healthy diet is needed to maintain good health despite the heart not working as well as it used to. With so many pet diets from which to choose, though, it can be daunting to figure out the ideal diet for a pet with heart disease.

The information provided in this article will help you learn the key components of a heart-healthy diet for pets. Consult with your veterinarian to select a diet that is best suited to meet your pet’s individual dietary needs.

Components of a Heart-Healthy Diet for Pets

Reduced sodium

Sodium is an essential nutrient. However, it promotes fluid retention and increases blood pressure, both of which are bad news for a pet with heart disease. A reduced-sodium diet reduces fluid retention and helps keep blood pressure in a healthy range. For pets, a heart-healthy diet should have no more than about 100 mg sodium/100 calories. Some dogs may need even less sodium, depending on the severity of their heart disease.

Importantly, sodium should not be restricted too severely or too quickly— a sudden, severe sodium restriction may cause the body to retain more fluid.

High-quality protein

Pets with heart disease can lose weight and muscle mass. Severe heart disease can cause a condition called cachexia, which is a severe loss of muscle and overall body mass. To combat this loss, pets with heart disease need to eat a diet containing 25–30% high-quality lean protein, such as chicken or salmon.

Omega-3 fatty acids

Omega-3 fatty acids have long been touted for their health benefits. For example, they reduce inflammation and promote a normal heart rhythm. For pets with heart disease, it is recommended to supplement their diet with fish oil that contains two types of omega-3 fatty acids: EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid). Consult with your veterinarian or a veterinary nutritionist to determine just how much fish oil supplement to add to your pet’s diet.

Taurine

Taurine is an amino acid, which is the building block of a protein. It helps maintain normal heart functioning. Unfortunately, cats and some dog breeds (Cocker spaniels, Newfoundlands, Golden Retrievers, Portuguese Water Dogs) are prone to developing taurine deficiencies.

Among pets with heart disease, taurine supplements should be given only to those with a known taurine deficiency. Taurine supplementation is unlikely to benefit pets without the deficiency.

Weight management

A discussion about a heart-healthy diet would be remiss without a mention of weight management. Excess weight places extra stress on the heart, making the heart work harder to pump blood. In essence, a combination of heart disease and excess weight is a double whammy for pets, just like it is in people.

Maintaining a healthy weight won’t reverse a pet’s heart disease, but it will keep a diseased heart from having to work even harder to function properly. Your veterinarian can help you develop a weight loss plan for your pet, if necessary.

Summing things up

For pets with heart disease, a healthy diet can help them feel good and have a good quality of life, despite their heart not working so well. If your pet has heart disease, work with your veterinarian to feed the diet that is best suited for your pet.

Content provided by JoAnna Pendergrass, DVM. Dr. Pendergrass is owner and founder of JPen Communications, a medical communications company specializing in consumer education.

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Signs Your Dog Has a Sensitive Stomach

Before we dive into food recommendations, let’s first quickly cover some of the common signs that your dog has a delicate tummy.

• Frequent vomiting — dogs are known to vomit periodically, but if your dog has a difficult time keeping anything down then a sensitive stomach is probably part of the issue.
• Excessive gas — this is not pleasant for anyone, but especially not your pooch.
• Gurgling stomach — if your pup’s stomach is making some wacky noises, there’s probably some upset going on.
• Diarrhea — if your dog isn’t passing firm stools then food is moving too quickly through their system. This is messy, but it also leads to more serious issues such as lack of absorbed nutrients and dehydration.
• Breaking training — Defecating inside the house, especially if they’re otherwise well house-broken. This is a sign they’re not able to hold it until they go outside and/or that they’re seeking immediate relief.
• Anorexia —Decreased interest in their food, or even outright refusing to eat
• Eating grass —Increased desire to eat grass, which can help alleviate an upset tummy
• Lethargy and malaise — nobody wants to be active when they’re not feeling well!

Acute Stomach Sensitivity Remedies

If your dog suffers from an acute sensitive stomach (meaning it’s not chronic), you can take some steps at home to help get through the bout of vomiting and diarrhea. Remember – if this lasts longer than 24 hours, please call your vet as it may be something serious like pancreatitis or a foreign body ingestion. 

• Keep Your Dog Hydrated: Make sure your pet is fully hydrated by giving him fresh, clean water. Dogs with diarrhea and vomiting can become dehydrated very quickly.
• Withhold Food: Most veterinarians will recommend withholding food from a dog who has stomach issues for 24 to 48 hours, so that the culprit can work its way out.
• A Bland Diet: If withholding isn’t working, vets also advise giving dogs plain, boiled chicken and rice. Arlington Animal Hospital says, “Since bland diets are low in fiber, stool production slows and defecation is less frequent. Bland diets are fed to rest the gastric system and to help promote normal stool formation.” Pumpkin is another vet-approved food that can help ease stomach conditions and has been known to help with parasites.
• Elimination Diet: Pets being tested for a food allergy or intolerance may need to go on a bland elimination diet to determine the cause of their symptoms. Ask your vet for the exact route your pup needs to take and expect to try all sorts of new proteins in the future (kangaroo, alligator, and more!).
• Medication: You may need to bring in a stool sample so your vet can test for parasites or other causes for stomach upset. If the stool tests positive for parasites, you will need antibiotics or anti-parasitic medication, and this usually is administered every day for 7 to 10 days. If the stool is negative for parasites, your vet may do a physical exam and will run a blood test to check for elevated enzyme levels in the liver to determine the cause of tummy upset, which can be a foreign body issue, pancreatitis, or chronic condition. Give medicines like Pepto Bismol only under a vet’s supervision or with their recommendation.

Recommended Foods for Dogs with Chronic Sensitive Stomachs

The following brands can promote better digestion in dogs with sensitive stomachs.

• Nature’s Recipe has an entire line of food for dogs with sensitive stomach aptly called “Easy to Digest.” Options include a chicken meal, rice, and barley dry food; grain-free chicken and venison wet food; chicken, rice, and barely stew; and others. Each contains whole grain fibers to help support digestion.
• NUTRO Natural Choice makes a Limited Ingredient line of wet and dry foods to better help you find the perfect food for pups with sensitive stomachs. Such limited ingredient foods may be preferable over those that combine multiple proteins. Options include Venison Meal & Sweet Potato, Lamb & Sweet Potato, Salmon & Lentils, Duck & Lentils, Fish & Potatoes, Turkey & Potatoes, and Lab & Potatoes.
• Royal Canin Maxi Sensitive Digestion was formulated specially for large dogs, over age 15 months, with sensitive stomachs. Ingredients help improve and maintain digestive health for a stronger stomach and firm stools, as well as improve skin, coat, bone, and joint health. The primary protein is chicken, and it also contains rice, flour, what, and dehydrated beet pulp.
• The inclusion of probiotic supplements can also help promote better digestive health for your dog. To find the best option for your pet’s needs, we recommend asking your veterinarian for recommendations. One of our favorites is from NomNomNow, which you can read more about pets and probiotics here, or check out their Probiotics for Dogs supplement.

When to See the Vet

Not sure if you should see the vet? If you’re in-between annual appointments and trying to decide if you ought to make the haul, a good rule of thumb is to consider what’s “normal” for your dog. If your dog suddenly can’t keep anything down, has diarrhea, is lethargic, depressed, or is not engaging in their favorite activities, a vet visit should be priority #1. If you’re enrolled in pet health insurance, you know that visiting the vet isn’t a financial struggle, as your policy can cover up to 90% of those vet bills.

Your vet will ask you questions and run some tests to determine what could be causing the issue. From there, you can get a diagnosis and a treatment plan. The issue could be something as minor as a stomach bug, or it could be something more serious like a parasite infection, which needs antibiotics, or pancreatitis, which may need hospitalization. Either way, it’s important for you to address the issue swiftly so your dog can feel better.

The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional veterinarian advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your veterinarian or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical diagnosis, condition, or treatment options.

Stomach issues are the second most common reason why our pet parents visit the vet. From chronic GI issues to a sudden bout of toxicity, by enrolling in pet insurance you can save up to 90% on vet bills, so you can say “yes” to seeing the vet and getting critical treatment. You can start by getting a free quote.

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Why Homemade?

Pet parents of different dog breeds can agree: commercial dog foods have been problematic in the past, and with recurring recalls, some store-bought brands can be downright dangerous or unhealthy because of three things:

• Nutrition

Through high heat processing, commercial dog food can be devoid of any good nutrition. The high temperatures can destroy vitamins, antioxidants, and even break down proteins.

• Questionable Ingredients

Commercial dog food doesn’t have regulations that make it “human-grade,” so hooves, feathers and other by-products will be used in the food, and they can be obtained through questionable methods of death. It’s reported that some animals who died from illness or disease can be used in dog food.

• Additives and Preservatives

The ingredient panel on a can of commercial dog food is pretty scary – so many extra ingredients that you can’t recognize, much less pronounce. They can be hard on your pup’s body, but long-term studies mirror those of humans: all those fillers and preservatives are not good for Spot’s heart, kidneys or liver.

How Do I Know How to Make It Healthy?

First, check with your vet. Tell him/her what your goals are with your dog’s nutrition and why you want to start making your own dog food. Then, do a little research on how to effectively feed your dog a nutritionally sound meal. Our friends at Canine Journal have a great guide to cooking up your own dog food, including the following nutritional guidelines:

• 40% Protein – animal meat, seafood, eggs or dairy
• 10% Carbohydrates – grains and beans
• 50% Vegetables
• Fat – from oil or meat
• Calcium – crushed or powdered egg shells; a supplement
• Fatty acids – cooked egg yolks, oatmeal, plant oils and other foods

Got Any Recipes to Try?

Yeah, we do!

Damn Delicious’ DIY Homemade Dog Food uses ground turkey as well as some light grains and a lot of fresh veggies like spinach!

This quick and easy “Homemade Dog Food” recipe on AllRecipe takes a spin on turkey and rice and adds some frozen veggies for convenience.

A Fork’s Tale has an even easier hack: throw it in the crockpot.

And with Ollie launching a new turkey recipe, if you don’t want to cook your own dog food, know that human-grade turkey treats are just a delivery away.

If you make your dog’s food, you probably would be interested in pet health insurance. Find out how you can keep your pets healthy by having access to the latest and greatest vet treatments. Start by getting a free quote.

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