Which Kibble Is Better For Your Canine?
With all of the uncertainty about food safety today, many dog owners have started making their own dog food. Holistic Dog Food is actually quite easy to make. In fact, dog owners who make their dog’s food usually discover that the process saves them money, while also ensuring their dog is fed a healthy and safe diet.
The breakdown of a healthy dog diet includes 70% carbohydrates, 25% meat, and 5% vegetables and other additions. Dogs being omnivores need a combination of meat and vegetables and some additions that can be added to their food include bonemeal, garlic, and certain flours
The carbohydrates in holistic dog food can come from various sources. Whole wheat flour, cornmeal, oats, soy flour and barley are all good choices for your dog’s diet. White rice and brown rice are also popular with many dog owners. These carbohydrates should be the base of the dog’s diet.
The meat in the diet is the next important part of the holistic dog food. By choosing quality proteins such as lean chicken, fish, beef, or egg whites you ensure the dog has a healthy diet. Grinding the meat can also make the production of the dog food easier.
To ensure your dog receives all the nutrients he needs, many other foods can be added to dog food. Vegetables like carrots, potatoes, celery, corn, and spinach are all healthy additions. Dog owners who want to make organic dog food should check to see what organic options for produce are available. It is always a good idea to grind the vegetables to aid in your dog’s digestion process. Small amounts of garlic are also a good option because it can help keep fleas away. Bonemeal or dehydrated milk can be added as a calcium boost.
When you are ready to make your dog’s food, simply combine the components together with a bit of water and cook until the meat or protein is cooked throughout. A simple homemade dog food recipe would be to combine one cup of cornmeal, about one-fourth of a cup of ground chicken, a tablespoon full of ground carrots, and a sprinkling of bonemeal. Place in a saucepan with a half cup of water, and simmer until the chicken is cooked. Most dog food recipes can be kept in the refrigerator for two days
Certain foods must be avoided when making dog food such as chocolate or caffeine bearing products since it is known to cause seizures in dogs. Grapes, raisins, avocados, and onions should not be included in the food either. Avoid spices since some dogs can be sensitive to them as well.
Making your own dog food is the best way to monitor what foods are part of your dog’s diet. A balanced, nutritional diet can definitely have an impact on a dog’s energy level, weight, and lifespan. Of course, you should ask your veterinarian if any special considerations are necessary when making the dog food. Overall, this is a great way to save money and, more importantly, keep your dog healthy for years to come.
