How to Make Balanced Homemade Dog Food

With pet food recalls, more and more pet owners are making homemade pet food. However, it is important to feed your dog a balanced meal when making homemade dog food. Each meal should have a protein, a carbohydrate and adequate vitamins and minerals.

• Focus on what elements are needed to provide the right nutrients.


• Choose a protein. Consider meats such as lamb, chicken, beef or fish. Meats also provide fats, which are needed in a dog’s diet. Dogs do not need a large amount of fat, but small amounts are necessary.


• Add a carbohydrate. Foods that provide healthy carbohydrates are pasta, rice and potatoes.


• Include vegetables for vitamins and minerals. Avoid garlic and onions, as these are toxic to dogs.


• Consider giving your dog vitamin and mineral supplements to ensure they are getting the proper nutrition. Tums can add calcium to your dog’s diet.


• Avoid raw meat, chocolate, grapes, raisins, and macadamia nuts when preparing your balanced homemade dog food meal.


• Seek professional advice to ensure you are feeding your dog properly. Have your dog's diet evaluated as often as twice a year. Keep in mind that certain breeds need different nurtrients and aging dogs will have changing dietary needs. Professionals can point you in the right direction to ensure the health of your dog.


• Safely store the food when making large batches. Owners of large dogs can store the food in the refrigerator, as it will be eaten faster. Small dog owners should portion out the food and freeze it to keep it from spoiling.