Homemade diet for the dog, for a natural and personalised nutrition
Homemade diet for the dog, for a natural and personalised nutrition
Written by Silvia Capelli
March 13, 2024
When discussing a homemade diet for dogs, it's important to clarify that we are not referring to feeding our four-legged friend with kitchen leftovers or food intended for humans.
Instead, we are talking about cooking specifically for them, preparing balanced and high-quality meals that include all the necessary nutrients to keep our dog healthy.
And these must be served in the correct portions, as weight gain and related diseases must be strictly avoided.
But how do we navigate the many recommended and not recommended foods if we choose a homemade diet for dogs?
Obviously, we need to consider various factors, including primarily the dog's needs and dietary requirements, the palatability of the food, and its properties.
In this article, we will try to answer some of the most common questions about the homemade diet for dogs.
What type of diet is best for a dog?
The diet of a dog can vary depending on the breed, age, and lifestyle. Some owners prefer to take advantage of the many benefits of dry food, such as ease of dosing and not having to spend time cooking.
Others prefer to ensure that their dog is only fed high-quality foods, made from ingredients they choose themselves to ensure many years of well-being for their dog.
The ideal diet may also depend on the health status (for example, in the case of dogs suffering from pancreatitis or diabetes), or whether they are pregnant.
The nutritional needs of dogs that exercise a lot will be different from those of sedentary dogs.
Is kibble or homemade food better?
The truth is that there isn't one ideal recipe for all dogs, and it also depends on the time one has available and the needs of one's pet.
The choice between a homemade diet for dogs and kibble should probably be made together with a veterinarian, if one is knowledgeable about canine nutrition.
Or with a specialized nutritionist, but as it's hard to find one, you'll probably have to decide based on your personal taste and the time you have.
The important thing is that, whichever of the two options is chosen, the choice should fall on high-quality products that meet the nutritional needs of the dog.
If you choose a homemade diet for dogs, meals should contain a good variety of proteins, the right amount of vegetables, and necessary supplements.
Homemade diet for a puppy dog
For weaning puppies, in fact, a different homemade diet is required than that for adult dogs, and the food should be served in small portions several times a day, and in greater quantities than that derived from the weight ratio of an adult dog.
Even the foods, in addition to the portions, will be different, and the homemade diet will be designed to keep your puppy healthy.
The foods are the same as those recommended in the adult dog's diet, but the calculation index and ratio of ideal meal quantities must be changed because the puppy will need a higher percentage of food than an adult dog.
A small breed puppy weighing 2 kg should be fed an amount corresponding to about 6-7% of its weight.
But let's give some practical examples.
What can a 2-month-old puppy weighing 2 kg eat?
This 2-month-old puppy should eat from 120 to 140 grams of fresh food, divided into 4 meals a day.
What can a 3-month-old puppy weighing 5 kg eat?
This 3-month-old puppy should eat from 300 to 350 grams of fresh food, divided into 3/4 meals a day
In the very first months of weaning, the food should be minced to help the dog during the teething period.
When administered, the meat should always be ground. Be careful to remove all bones and possibly fish bones.
Homemade Diet for Adult Dogs
For an adult dog, at least two meals a day should be provided, and the quantity may vary based on weight, as well as the activity level of the animal.
An older dog, on the other hand, should eat less to avoid gaining weight and developing unpleasant pathologies such as cholesterol and diabetes.
It's important to choose a diet and stick to it, so if you opt for a homemade diet, it's better to start when the dog is a puppy.
Portions for Homemade Dog Diet
An adult dog should eat much less than a puppy. The percentage of food is smaller in the case of large breed dogs and elderly subjects.
A small breed dog should be fed a percentage equivalent to about 3% of its total weight if its exercise level is limited to two simple daily walks.
An adult dog that is not active and has a normal exercise level should eat about 2.5% of its total weight.
An elderly dog, whose metabolism has slowed down, should eat lightly, and the meal should correspond to about 2 - 2.5% of the weight.
An active dog, which hunts or participates in high-energy competitions, should be fed about 5% of its weight.
Let's give some examples in this case as well:
Homemade diet for 5 kg dog, normal activity: 150 grams
Homemade diet for 10 kg dog, normal activity: 300 grams
Homemade diet for 15 kg dog, elderly: 300 grams
Homemade diet for 25 kg dog, normal activity: 650 grams
Homemade diet for 25 kg dog, high activity: 1250 grams
Homemade diet for 40 kg dog, normal activity: 1000 grams
Homemade diet for 40 kg dog, high activity: 2000 grams
Recommended Foods
Generally, a proper homemade diet for dogs made from raw ingredients should provide the following intake:
A minimum of 50% animal protein (predominantly mixed meats, offal, fish, some eggs, and occasionally fresh cheese).
25% carbohydrates (well-cooked pasta and rice).
25% vegetables (carrots, zucchini, pumpkin, etc.). For a detailed list of foods, see the following list.
Carbohydrates are not essential, as dogs can synthesize glucose from proteins and fats. Dogs are carnivorous animals and can survive by eating exclusively meat.
However, it is true that carbohydrates provide energy and help to alleviate the cost of meals made solely from meat. And dogs can digest both gluten and starch, if administered with the right cooking and in the right quantities.
Vegetables and fruits, on the other hand, are good sources of vitamins and minerals and can be given in their food, or as snacks.
Are vitamins and minerals necessary for a correct homemade diet for dogs?
The reason why many owners choose dry or wet food for their pets is the difficulty in providing the right amount of vitamins and minerals.
But what are vitamins and minerals, and why is it important that they are present in your pets' homemade diet?
Vitamins for Dogs
Vitamins are organic compounds present in food and are essential for good metabolic function.
Water-soluble vitamins: Some vitamins, such as B and C, are water-soluble and are not stored in adipose tissues. They are eliminated after consumption through sweat or urine.
Fat-soluble vitamins: Vitamins A, D, E, and K are not expelled from the body after consumption but are stored in adipose tissues, where they remain for a certain period.
Minerals for Dogs
Minerals are inorganic compounds that the body cannot synthesize and therefore must be taken through the diet.
They are essential for the proper functioning of the body and for strengthening the immune system, for the quick healing of wounds, for building and strengthening bones, and for many other functions.
Among the most important minerals are:
Calcium
Phosphorus
Iron
Copper
Zinc
Sodium
Potassium
Magnesium
Iodine
Selenium
Manganese
Chloride
What type of meat can I give to my dog?
Generally, all types, with some frequency and quantity limits and some precautions.
Offal
Meats like organs and offal are rich in vitamin A, C, and B12, potassium, phosphorus, sodium, calcium, and iron. The organs recommended for your dog are:
Beef heart
Beef liver
Tripe
Lung
Spleen
Kidney
Tongue
Sweetbread
Products like liver and kidney should be consumed alternately with other meats and not exclusively or in large quantities, as excessive consumption could cause hypervitaminosis A (an overdose of vitamin A), while spleen has a laxative effect. Offal should be given once a week.
Turkey
It has a high content of vitamin B3 (niacin), iron, zinc, potassium, and phosphorus. It is rich in protein and low in fat.
Fish
In addition to being rich in omega-3, fish is an excellent source of iodine, phosphorus, iron, zinc, and vitamin D. Fish is a complete food that helps prevent and reduce cholesterol, strengthens the cardiovascular system, improves joint health, promotes brain function, supports the health of hair and bones, and is useful in low-calorie diets or red meat allergies.
The types of fish recommended for dogs are:
Sardine
Tuna
Cod
Mackerel
Haddock
Herring
Salmon
Tilapia
Choosing white and blue fish is safe, but be careful: it must be good quality fish to avoid excessive mercury content. It should always be boiled (not over 70 degrees) or grilled, and it's better to leave it slightly raw inside. All bones, which can be very dangerous for dogs, must also be removed.
Beef
Beef can include both meat and by-products such as offal: it can have a high fat content. Therefore, it's better to serve breast, boiled cuts, brisket, and of course all the offal.
Ground beef often contains a lot of fat but is liked by dogs and ideal for puppies, so always choose a lean one.
Rabbit
It's a low-fat meat, rich in proteins and minerals. It's a white meat and is particularly suitable for animals with sensitive stomachs or food allergies.
Pork
Pork is rich in B vitamins, iron, and selenium. It contains 20 grams of protein per 100 grams and more muscle fibers than beef, making it more digestible and tender.
However, it must be well cooked to avoid the transmission of parasites (in particular pseudorabies, which is lethal), but also cooked for the right time to not compromise its nutritional power. But note, pork for dogs does not include sausages.
Chicken
Chicken is a good source of proteins and amino acids (arginine, glycine, and methionine) and contains vitamin B3 and other B vitamins, magnesium, potassium, phosphorus, selenium, and zinc. It also has a low cholesterol content. It should be served in lean cuts and without skin.
Other Permitted Foods in a Homemade Dog Diet
Eggs
They contain potassium, sodium, calcium, iron, magnesium, and vitamins A, K2, B1, B2, B5, B7, B12.
Eggs for dogs should be given in a quantity of 2 or 3 per week. They can be given raw, both yolk and white, and the shell can also be consumed if properly dried and powdered.
Many owners prefer to boil the egg because it could be contaminated with bacteria such as salmonella. Although, in general, a dog's stomach can handle many more bacteria than a human's body, it is still safer to cook the eggs.
Cheese
Cheese for dogs should be administered in small quantities, for example, as an occasional treat. If aged, choose cheeses with low lactose content, such as Parmesan.
Lactose tolerance should be checked by starting with a small amount to ensure there are no adverse reactions. However, as mentioned, it should be an occasional administration. Fresh, low-salt cheeses are more suitable.
Yogurt
It can be served occasionally as a snack, but avoid those with sweeteners.
Vegetables
Recommended vegetables include:
Potatoes (well-boiled)
Bell peppers
Zucchini
Broccoli
Carrots
Pumpkin
Celery
Sweet potatoes
Cauliflower
Potatoes
Potatoes are rich in fiber and contain vitamin C, A, B5, potassium, and zinc. They can replace carbohydrates, not vegetables. They should be well-cooked, and pay attention to the cooking process! To learn more, read here!
Fruit
Fruit can be added to the diet as a snack. Some well-received options include:
Apple
Watermelon
Mango
Banana
Strawberry
Papaya
Oils
Oils for dogs can be given in small quantities, provided that the food itself is quite lean. Suitable oils include:
Olive oil
Fish oil
Hemp seed oil
Coconut oil
Krill oil
Flaxseed oil
Foods Forbidden for Your Dog
There are foods that are forbidden for your dog and that you should therefore exclude from their homemade diet.
Sweets and baked goods: they contain sugars and are very harmful to your dog.
Chocolate, especially dark chocolate: it can cause poisoning and damage to the dog's nervous system.
Coffee: caffeine contains a stimulant called methylated xanthine, which can be lethal for the dog. Therefore, all products containing caffeine are also prohibited.
Nuts and macadamia nuts: they have a high phosphorus content and could cause muscle pain, weakness, joint swelling, and vomiting.
Grapes: they can cause kidney failure and poisoning, or simply vomiting, fatigue, apathy, and loss of appetite.
Avocado: it could cause gastrointestinal problems due to a substance called persin.
Sugar: not only sugar but all sweetened products.
Alcohol: it could poison your dog, and it is much more harmful than for humans.
Onions and garlic: they can cause vomiting and diarrhea up to four days after ingestion.
Cabbages: like garlic and onions, they can cause damage even days after ingestion.
Bones: besides the risk of choking, they could cause stomach injuries or intestinal blockage.
Salty foods: salt is harmful and should be avoided. It is toxic beyond two tablespoons per day for dogs over 15 kg in weight.
Spices: absolutely to be avoided, even the simplest ones like pepper.
Xylitol: it is a commonly used sweetener in candies and chewing gums, and it can cause severe poisoning with symptoms such as lethargy, loss of coordination, vomiting, seizures.
Unripe tomatoes: dogs cannot digest solanine, which causes tremors, shortness of breath, and restlessness.
Yeast: it could release ethanol and cause poisoning.
Seeds and pits: in addition to causing intestinal obstruction, they may contain cyanide.
Processed meats: they contain fats and spices, and the casing may be synthetic.
Mushrooms: absolutely prohibited, as they can cause liver and kidney problems.
In general, dogs should not consume processed or ready-made foods as they are rich in sugar, salt, and additives.
Only feed your dog with food prepared by you and exclusively with good quality raw ingredients.
For a complete guide on foods to avoid, read here!
How Much Should a Dog Eat?
If you want to know more about the portions for a homemade dog diet, you can find useful information in our blog post: "How Much Should a Dog Eat."
As for dog kibble, you will find the exact amount to be administered on the package, specifically designed for that type of product.
Dog foods are formulated differently, and accordingly, the quantities may vary from one type to another. It is best to follow the manufacturer's instructions.
How Can I Transition from Kibble to Homemade Food?
Dogs are creatures of habit, and the transition should be gradual. The best approach is to alternate dry food with homemade food during the first week to avoid sudden changes in diet that could have side effects on the digestive system and create gastrointestinal problems.
Your dog may resist the transition from kibble to homemade food due to taste: kibble is often flavored with artificial aromas to make them more appealing to our furry friends, so it may take a few days for them to get used to the new diet.
What to Give to the Dog Instead of Pasta?
As an alternative, you can feed your dog boiled rice (well-rinsed and well-cooked, preferably a variety with low starch) or puffed rice.
How much rice per day for a dog?
The recommended amount is 25% of the daily ration, the same as the amount of vegetables.
Can Dogs Only Eat Meat?
A diet consisting of a single food may not provide the right balance of vitamins and minerals, so it's not recommended to create a DIY diet for your dog. It's best to consult with a veterinarian.
Can I Feed My Dog Only Raw Foods?
Yes, dogs can be fed a raw diet. There is a diet called BARF (Biologically Appropriate Raw Food) that promotes the exclusive use of raw foods, including not only meat but also eggs, vegetables, and everything a dog can eat.
There are veterinarians and websites that endorse this diet, especially for animals with certain health conditions, and it appears that dogs following it tend to be in good health.
However, others point out the challenge of dealing with bacteria that are not destroyed by cooking, so there are differing opinions.
The best advice we can give is to consult with a nutritionist before starting the diet.
Can Dogs Eat Raw Eggs?
You can feed dogs raw eggs, but it's better to cook them, especially if they are not from a supermarket. The egg white should be served cooked.
Can Dogs Eat Eggshells?
Yes, but only if they are properly dried and powdered, as otherwise, they could damage the stomach lining. If you don't know how to dry them properly, it's better to avoid giving them to your dog.
How Many Eggs Can a Dog Eat?
The correct amount is two eggs per week, maximum three if they are small.
Can Dogs Be Allergic to Eggs?
Yes, dogs can be allergic to eggs, and common symptoms of egg allergy in dogs include hives, swelling, sneezing, lethargy, and respiratory issues.
Can Puppies Eat Eggs?
Puppies can eat eggs, but only after they have reached the proper weaning age. The eggs should be boiled, and the quantity should be limited.
Can Dogs Eat Potatoes?
Potatoes can be considered a substitute for pasta and rice since they are tubers and not true vegetables, and they have a much higher calorie content. They should be served well-cooked because they contain solanine, which is toxic to dogs.
Can Dogs Follow a Vegan Diet?
Yes, dogs can follow a vegan diet, and some conducted studies seem to report encouraging data on this matter. However, a diet devoid of animal proteins can certainly have nutritional disadvantages. It's better to consult a nutritionist or a veterinarian who can properly evaluate whether it's appropriate to start this diet and recommend the best dry or cooked foods for your four-legged friend.
How Many Meals Can I Prepare?
You can prepare as many meals as you like. You can freeze them in daily portions and thaw them before serving.
To learn more about dog nutrition and their nutritional needs, don't miss our articles on khani.co.uk.
Disclaimer
The information provided on our website is general in nature and does not in any way replace the advice of a veterinarian. To ensure that your pets receive a healthy and balanced diet, we recommend seeking the advice of a nutrition expert who can assess the health status and needs of the individual animal to create a balanced diet for each specific case.
