Ever since we published our first Easy Homemade Dog Food Recipe, we have been amazed by the number of people who have embraced the idea of preparing fresh meals for their beloved pets at home. Ditching processed kibble in favor of homemade dog food can make a world of difference for your furry friend's health and well-being. Just ask our 11-year-old dog, who experienced a remarkable improvement in his health after transitioning to a healthy and nutritious diet.
Today, I want to share with you my latest creation: a 100% human-grade homemade dog food recipe featuring the best fall produce, such as sweet potatoes, cranberries, rosemary, and sage. Our dogs absolutely love it, and I'm confident that your pup will too. So, let's explore the benefits of homemade dog food and learn how to make this delicious and nutritious recipe.
Taking Control of Your Dog's Health
At the end of 2019, during our yearly vet check, we received the devastating news that our dog was in stage 4 kidney failure. It was a shock to us, as he had been showing only mild symptoms that we attributed to old age. The prescription diet recommended by our vet came with a hefty price tag. We were also told that our time with him might be limited to a few months.
Determined to help our furry friend, we delved into extensive research on canine kidney disease. We discovered that there were simple lifestyle changes we could make at home to support his kidneys and improve his overall well-being.
Filtered or Distilled Water
The kidneys' primary function is to filter out toxins from the body. Tap water often contains chemicals and contaminants that can be harmful to dogs, especially those with kidney disease. Switching to clean, filtered water can make a significant difference in their health.
Filtered Water - Photo by Anna M
Smaller Meals, More Often
Dogs with kidney problems often benefit from having several small meals throughout the day instead of one or two large meals. This helps maintain their comfort and energy levels. Adjusting your dog's feeding schedule to accommodate smaller meals can make a big difference.
Increase Exercise
Physical activity is essential for dogs, just like it is for humans. Regular exercise helps their bodies function better and supports their kidneys in doing their job effectively. We found that adopting a puppy and taking regular walks helped keep our older dog more active and engaged.
Essential Vitamins and Nutrients
Like humans, dogs require a balanced diet to thrive. Whether your dog eats kibble or homemade food, it's crucial to ensure they receive all the necessary vitamins and minerals. We highly recommend using a plant-based vitamin and mineral powder, like Dog Greens, to meet your dog's nutritional needs.
Dog Greens - Photo by Anna M
The Recipe: Fall-Inspired Homemade Dog Food
Now, let's dive into the recipe for our fall-inspired homemade dog food. Before we start, please remember that dogs can have food allergies too. If you notice any adverse reactions to the ingredients, consult your veterinarian.
Ground White Meat Turkey
Turkey is a fantastic ingredient for dog treats and food. However, it's essential to use plain, thoroughly cooked, and drained ground white meat turkey without any additives or salt. Avoid feeding your dog turkey bones and skin, as they can cause serious health issues.
Brown Rice
Brown rice, with its intact fiber content, is easily digestible and an excellent addition to homemade dog food. If you need to limit phosphorus levels due to kidney disease, you can replace white rice in this recipe with brown rice on a cup-for-cup basis.
Eggs
Eggs are high-quality protein sources that dogs love. Although they can be allergenic and high in phosphorus, with your vet's approval, you can include hard-boiled eggs in your dog's food. Our pup absolutely adores them!
Sweet Potato
Cooked sweet potatoes are a nutritious way to bulk up your dog's meals. However, never feed your dog raw sweet potatoes, as they can cause blockages. Cooked sweet potatoes provide dietary fiber and aid in effective digestion. If your dog has diabetes, obesity, or is less active, use sweet potatoes in moderation due to their high glycemic index.
Fresh Herbs
This fall-inspired dog food recipe features a fragrant blend of rosemary, sage, and curly parsley. Curly parsley, in particular, is excellent for promoting kidney health. If you don't have fresh herbs on hand, dried herbs from your spice cabinet can be a great alternative.
Omega-Rich Oil
Including an oil high in Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids in your dog's food is crucial. Olive oil and safflower oil are affordable options that work well. Alternatively, you can opt for specialized Omega oil blends that contain Omega-3, Omega-6, and Omega-9 fatty acids.
Hemp Hearts
Superfoods aren't just for humans; they're also beneficial for our furry friends! Hemp seeds are rich in healthy fats and have a perfect balance of Omega-6 to Omega-3 fatty acids. They offer various benefits, ranging from cancer prevention to reduced joint pain and improved organ function.
Hemp Hearts - Photo by Anna M
Portion Control and Snack Ideas
Determining the right amount of homemade dog food for your pet may vary depending on their weight. As a general guideline, you can feed your dog approximately 1 cup of prepared food for every 10 pounds of body weight. Consult your vet for personalized advice.
Snacks play a significant role in our dogs' lives, but they need to be chosen carefully, especially for dogs with kidney disease. Avoid meat-based chews that are high in phosphorus and explore alternative options. Probiotic-rich treats like Pumpkin & Yogurt Bowls can be a great choice, along with slices of apple, blueberries, and fresh banana chunks.
The Impact of Our Homemade Dog Food
Our efforts and dedication to making homemade dog food paid off tremendously. Just six weeks after implementing the diet and lifestyle changes, our dog's blood test results showed a drastic improvement. His kidney disease moved from stage 4 to mid-range stage 1. He became happier, more mobile, had regular bowel movements, and experienced no gas or bloating.
We never thought we would witness such progress, especially after receiving the initial diagnosis. Instead of his health deteriorating, we are now watching our beloved pet thrive. Just recently, we saw him running at top speed, tongue out, enjoying life to the fullest. These moments bring tears of joy to our eyes.
If you decide to try our Homemade Dog Food recipe, we would love to hear your feedback. Your reviews and comments help others who visit This Mess is Ours and create a vibrant online community. Together, we can provide the best care for our furry companions.
Explore More Homemade Dog Food Recipes
If you're eager to discover more homemade dog food recipes, there are fantastic options available. Check out these two recipes from fellow dog lovers:
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Homemade Dog Food Recipe by College Housewife: Elizabeth's dog, Rascal, had various health issues, including allergies. She created a homemade dog food recipe featuring ground turkey, sweet potatoes, carrots, zucchini squash, and macaroni noodles.
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DIY Homemade Dog Food by Damn Delicious: Chungah's dog, Butter, had stomach problems that inspired her to start making dog food at home. Her recipe combines protein, veggies, and grains, including ground chicken, brown rice, zucchini, spinach, carrots, and peas.
Homemade Dog Food Recipes - Photo by Anna M
Feeding your dog homemade food is not only fulfilling but also rewarding. Witnessing the positive impact it has on their health and happiness is truly priceless. So, why not give it a try and embark on a journey to provide the best for your furry friend?
