Introduction
Meet Rocky. A playful Golden Retriever. But something wasn’t right. He had constant stomach issues, itchy skin, and low energy. His owner tried everything—grain-free, organic, premium kibble. Nothing worked.
Then, they switched to homemade food. Fresh ingredients. No fillers. No artificial junk. Within weeks? Rocky’s coat shined, his tummy settled, and his energy? Unstoppable.
Thinking about making homemade food for your dog? This guide will show you why it’s a great choice, how to ensure balanced nutrition, and provide easy recipes to get started.
Why Choose Homemade Food for Dogs?
1. No Artificial Additives
Many store-bought dog foods contain preservatives, artificial flavors, and fillers like corn and soy. Homemade meals? 100% real food.
2. Customizable for Your Dog’s Needs
🐾 Sensitive stomach? Avoid common allergens.
🐾 Picky eater? Make meals they love.
🐾 Senior dog? Add joint-supporting ingredients.
3. Better Digestion & Healthier Coat
Fresh, natural food is easier to digest and rich in essential nutrients. Your dog gets a shinier coat, healthier skin, and more energy.
4. You Control the Ingredients
With homemade food, you know exactly what goes into your dog’s bowl. No hidden surprises.
🐾 Fact: Many dogs thrive on a homemade diet, but balance is key. Let’s break it down.
Key Nutrients Your Dog Needs
Dogs need protein, healthy fats, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals.
✔ Protein (40-50%) – Chicken, beef, turkey, fish, eggs
✔ Carbohydrates (30-40%) – Brown rice, quinoa, sweet potatoes, oats
✔ Healthy Fats (10-15%) – Fish oil, flaxseed oil, coconut oil
✔ Vitamins & Minerals – Carrots, spinach, peas, pumpkin
✔ Calcium – Crushed eggshells, yogurt, cottage cheese
🚨 Avoid toxic foods: No onions, garlic, chocolate, grapes, or anything dangerous for dogs.
Easy Homemade Dog Food Recipe
Ingredients:
✔ 1 lb ground turkey (or chicken, beef)
✔ 1 cup brown rice (or quinoa)
✔ ½ cup carrots (chopped)
✔ ½ cup green beans (chopped)
✔ 1 tbsp olive oil (or fish oil)
✔ 1 egg (scrambled)
Instructions:
1️⃣ Cook the ground turkey in a pan until browned. Drain excess fat.
2️⃣ Cook brown rice separately.
3️⃣ Steam carrots and green beans until soft.
4️⃣ Mix all ingredients together in a large bowl. Add scrambled egg and olive oil.
5️⃣ Let it cool before serving.
🔹 Storage Tip: Refrigerate for 4 days or freeze for up to a month.
🐾 Pro Tip: Introduce new foods slowly to avoid upset stomachs.
Customizing Meals for Your Dog’s Needs
For Active Dogs (High Energy Breeds)
🐶 More protein & healthy fats. Add salmon or an extra egg.
For Senior Dogs
🐶 Joint support foods. Add turmeric and glucosamine supplements.
For Dogs with Allergies
🐶 Grain-free options. Use sweet potatoes or pumpkin instead of rice.
🐾 Tip: Always check with your vet before making diet changes.
Common Mistakes When Making Homemade Dog Food
🚫 1. Skipping Key Nutrients – Dogs need balanced meals, not just meat or rice.
🚫 2. Not Adding Supplements – Homemade meals may lack essential vitamins like calcium, omega-3s, or taurine. Add vet-approved supplements.
🚫 3. Using Toxic Ingredients – No onions, garlic, chocolate, grapes, raisins, or anything harmful to dogs.
🚫 4. Sudden Diet Changes – Gradually transition to avoid digestive issues.
🐾 Fact: A poorly balanced diet can cause health problems. Make sure every meal meets your dog’s nutritional needs.
How Much Homemade Food Should You Feed Your Dog?
Feeding amounts depend on size, age, and activity level. Here’s a simple guide:
| Dog’s Weight | Daily Serving Size |
|---|---|
| 10-20 lbs | ½ – 1 cup |
| 20-50 lbs | 1 – 2½ cups |
| 50-75 lbs | 2½ – 4 cups |
| 75+ lbs | 4 – 5 cups |
🐾 Tip: Split meals into two feedings per day for better digestion.
Is Homemade Dog Food Safe for Daily Feeding?
Yes! But only if balanced. Dogs need proper nutrition to stay healthy.
✔ Rotate between homemade meals and high-quality kibble if needed.
✔ Consider fresh food brands like The Farmer’s Dog or Ollie for vet-approved meals.
🐾 Fact: Some dogs thrive on homemade food full-time. Others do best with a mix of kibble and fresh food. Find what works for your pup!
Vet-Approved Homemade Dog Food Brands
Not into daily cooking? No problem! Try fresh, human-grade dog food brands:
✔ The Farmer’s Dog – Custom meal plans, fresh ingredients
✔ Ollie – Vet-formulated, no artificial junk
✔ Nom Nom – Balanced, pre-portioned meals
🐾 Tip: Check if these brands fit your dog’s dietary needs.
Conclusion
Rocky’s owner made the switch. No more itching. No more tummy troubles. Just a happy, healthy pup.
Homemade dog food can be life-changing—when done right. Follow balanced recipes, avoid harmful ingredients, and watch your dog thrive.
Your dog deserves real food. Why not start today? 🐶❤️
FAQs
1. Can I feed my dog homemade food every day?
Yes, but it must be nutritionally balanced.
2. Is homemade dog food cheaper?
It depends. It can be cheaper than premium brands but pricier than basic kibble.
3. Can I use raw meat instead of cooked?
Raw diets work for some dogs, but they carry bacterial risks. Research before switching.
4. How do I store homemade dog food?
Refrigerate for 4 days or freeze for up to a month.
5. Should I add supplements to homemade dog food?
Yes! Many homemade diets lack essential nutrients. Consult your vet for the right supplements.
