Homemade Dry Dog Food Alternatives

As you’ve probably heard from your fellow puppy parents, many dog owners have made the switch over to homemade dog food instead of the store-bought stuff. But why are dog owners making the switch, and should you do the same?

Why Use Alternatives to Store Bought Food?

Way back in 2007, there was a massive recall of pet foods that were contaminated with melamine and cyanuric acid. Many dogs experienced kidney failures, sickness, and death as a result of the contaminated foods, and dog owners were warned to be more cautious when purchasing dog foods. Although it happened over ten years ago now, many pet owners still have the recall in the back of their minds. It serves as a reminder that while commercial dog foods must meet government standards to be sold, they can still contain chemical preservatives that might not be the best for our dogs. Therefore, many dog owners have turned to alternative options for their furry friends.

Raw vs. Cooked Dog Food

Homemade dog food should be safer to feed dogs than commercial dog food, but there are some options within homemade dog food for you to choose from. Some owners believe that serving dogs bones and raw meat is the best, most natural form of feeding for dogs. However, raw meats can contain salmonella and other bacteria that can harm your dog. Bones can also be hazardous for dogs to eat, since they can block the throat or puncture skin. Bones become more brittle and dangerous when cooked. At the end of the day, it’s up to you whether you include bones in your dog’s food and whether you feed them raw or cooked food.

Nutritional Balance

One of the most important factors for you to consider when making homemade pet food is to ensure that whatever you feed your dog is nutritionally balanced. You should try to balance protein, vitamins, minerals, and fatty acids to ensure that your dog is well-fed and nourished. A good mix of meat, leafy greens, rice or barley, and select vegetables and fruits will ensure that your dog has all of the nutrients that they need to live happy and healthy. You should avoid chocolate, onions, avocados, grapes, and other foods that are hazardous to dogs. Balancing your dog’s diet is one crucial way to make sure that they’re getting all of the nutrients they need, minus the potentially harmful preservatives that store-bought options contain.

Dry dog food, though easy and convenient, can be harmful for your dog. Consider switching over to homemade dog food options to keep your dog happy, healthy, and well-nourished. If you have questions on dog food or are simply a dog owner in the Denver area in need to help, give us a call!