Recipes for natural dog food

CONTROVERSY!! Natural food for dogs is still a topic that divides opinions. Some people are against specialized dog food due to it being an industrial product. On the other hand, some believe that natural food doesn’t provide the necessary nutrients for the animal’s health. Both sides have supporters, including those in the healthcare field. Regardless, if natural food is prepared correctly, it shouldn’t cause harm. If you want to adopt this approach, let me tell you about some foods you can and cannot offer to your pets.

First of all

Consult your veterinarian to thoroughly check if your animal has any health issues or dietary restrictions. For example: my little dog, Sunny, is allergic to animal protein. Yes, my dog is a vegetarian! In this case, we need to know exactly which foods she can eat and how to maintain a balanced diet to replace those nutrients.

Another consideration: if you want to transition your pet’s diet from kibble to natural products, this should be done gradually. Alternate between kibble and the new diet so that the body can adjust.

Let’s start with meats (unfortunately, this part doesn’t apply to my furry daughter Xp):

Raw or cooked?

Another controversy: some argue that raw meat is natural and healthy for animals, as it is the main basis for the diet of canine ancestors. Despite this, raw foods may contain bacteria causing foodborne infections. Brazilian legislation prohibits companies offering natural dog food from using raw meat. Either way, it’s always better to cook thoroughly to avoid any problems.

Bones

Speaking of meat, let’s leave the image of the dog chewing on a bone outside, okay? It’s adorable to see cartoon dogs happily running with a delicious bone in their mouths, burying it for later or happily chewing beside the owners’ table. But this image can be quite dangerous. When chewing the bone (especially if it was cooked with the meat), a piece or even a small chip can be swallowed, causing a severe injury inside the animal. This is very serious, and the dog may die shortly afterward depending on the severity and location of the injury. If we’re going to introduce natural food, let’s give high-quality products that are 100% safe for our friend’s health.

Natural dog food recipes: No seasoning!

Unlike us humans, dogs don’t need a variety of flavors, eating different things every day for all meals. Moreover, their palate is more refined and doesn’t need (nor can handle) lots of seasonings. Garlic, in small amounts, is not so dangerous, but onions contain a very dangerous substance and should not be used in preparation, even in small quantities. Salt should also be excluded! For them, the natural flavor of food is more enjoyable.

Vegetables

These are the champions in pet food. Besides pleasing the palate, they bring various benefits, from nutrients to teeth cleaning. The vast majority of vegetables can be offered to dogs without problems. The important thing is to always remove seeds and leaves, and, just like for our own consumption, wash them to remove any dirt. Some tubers should be cooked, like common potatoes that contain a substance called solanine, which is toxic. Additionally, raw potatoes are more difficult to digest. Give them a little cooking, let it cool, and serve.

Fruits

Dogs also love fruits! Although they may seem harmless, some are quite toxic, especially grapes and avocados! The animal’s body is different from ours, and some substances that are good for human health can have the opposite effect on animals.

Citrus fruits like orange and pineapple should also be avoided, as they can be harsh on the stomach and cause gastritis, for example.

Other fruits should also be washed, and all pits or seeds should be removed! In most cases, this is to prevent choking or intestinal obstruction in the animal, but in the case of apples, their seeds are genuinely poisonous! Even for humans, but even more so for pets. Taking these basic precautions, fruits are delicious snacks and desserts for both us and them.

Keep a distance

Nuts and chestnuts should not be offered to dogs, as they can cause allergies, stomachaches, vomiting, and overall discomfort.

Chocolate is one of the biggest poisons for animals! It should not be offered in any amount!!!

At home, we don’t use natural food for Sunny. Despite her allergies, she eats a special kibble. However, it’s challenging to find treats that don’t have even a little animal protein. So, we use fruits and vegetables as treats! We always buy carrots (especially those baby carrots, you know? Small carrots) and keep them in the fridge to serve as a snack! She loves it, and it helps control her weight. A piece of fruit is a great reward for good behavior.

Today you learned about some natural dog food recipes, so use these tips to take even better care of your pet.