If you’re a dog owner—whether it’s a Poodle, Pug, German Shepherd, Alaska, or even a mixed breed—knowing how to prepare nutritious meals can help your furry friend stay healthy and happy. Here are some helpful tips for preparing homemade food for dogs that you can apply across most breeds.
🥣 Add Broth or Water to Dry Food
Dry food can sometimes be too hard or dry, especially for small dogs or picky eaters. To make it easier to chew and digest, simply add a bit of warm broth or water. This also helps avoid choking or stomach discomfort while improving taste and hydration.
🍖 Include Meat—but Not Too Much
Meat is a favorite for dogs—it’s packed with protein, essential fats, and nutrients that promote strong muscles and healthy growth. To cut down on costs, you can supplement meals with cartilage-rich bones like chicken necks or duck wings for adult dogs.
🔔 Note: Avoid giving only meat regularly. Dogs can develop picky eating habits and reject other important food groups like vegetables or grains.
🐾 Add Animal Organs
Organ meats like liver, spleen, and heart are rich in vitamins (especially Vitamin A) and amino acids. Chicken gizzards or duck organs can also be great energy sources for dogs. Blood products like pig’s blood or chicken blood are high in protein—but be sure to boil thoroughly before feeding.
🐟 Can Dogs Eat Fish?
Absolutely! Fish is rich in protein, omega-3s, and essential minerals. However, always remove internal organs, clean it thoroughly, and cook the fish properly to avoid digestive upset. Avoid feeding fish when your dog has loose stools, and do not feed shellfish (shrimp, crab, etc.) if your dog has skin issues or allergies.
🥚 Give Eggs in Moderation
Cooked eggs are excellent for dogs—packed with fats, B-vitamins, and minerals. You can mix them into your dog’s meal a few times a week. Crushed eggshells can also provide natural calcium.
🥕 Don’t Skip the Veggies and Fruits
Vegetables like carrots, pumpkin, sweet potatoes, and leafy greens are great sources of fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants. Make sure to cook and finely chop them for better digestion. Fruits like bananas, apples (without seeds), and papaya also make great snacks!
🦴 Use Dry or Canned Food When Needed
Combining kibble with wet or canned food can enhance taste and variety, especially if your dog is a picky eater or has dental issues. It’s a convenient and balanced option, especially when you’re short on time.
💊 Consider Mineral Supplements
If your dog shows signs like chewing on walls or soil, it might be a sign of mineral deficiency. In such cases, you can add vet-approved supplements like calcium or multivitamin powders—only under veterinary guidance. Do not mix prescription food or supplements without checking with your vet.
✅ Summary: Balanced Diet = Happy Dog
A healthy dog diet should include a mix of:
- Protein (meat, organs, eggs, fish)
- Fiber (vegetables, fruits)
- Carbohydrates (grains or kibble)
- Healthy fats and minerals
By preparing your dog’s food with care and attention, you’re giving them the best chance to thrive—both physically and emotionally. Whether you’re feeding kibble or cooking homemade meals, the goal is always the same: happy, healthy pets for life.
