In recent years there have been several cases where commercial dog food has caused severe illness, and even death, in pet dogs. As a result, many pet owners have begun to mistrust the pet food companies. Many would prefer to move away from commercial dog food, but simply aren’t aware of any alternative.
If that describes you, read on because in this article I’ll provide some usefull tips for making your own dog food.
It is pretty much accepted that commercial dog food companies fill their foods with all kinds of junk. Some of these ingredients, like the processed grains used as filler, have little nutritional value and are responsible for a whole range of dog allergies and skin ailments.
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Other ingredients like artificial colors and flavors are chemical based and may be behind more serious canine diseases.Even the meat components contained in these foods are generally extremely low grade and unfit for comsumption.
Of course, not all commercial dog foods should be tarred with the same brush. Some, in particular the premium brands, are of much higher quality than what I’ve described. However, it is doubtful wether they provide the same level of nutrition as a whole food diet, so you may want to consider that for your dog.
Here are 3 quick tips on how to get started;
Feed your dog good quality foods, not scraps. Include unprocessed, fresh meats, veggies, eggs, grains, and brown rice. Stay away from processed foods, junk food, table scraps and white bread.
Remember that your dog is an omnivore, and needs vegetables as well as meat. As a rough rule of thumb try for a three way split between meat, vegetables and fiber. If you’re going to err slightly in any direction, feed more meat because protein is very important in a dog’s diet.
Dogs have a poorly developed sense of taste so don’t bother too much with seasonings. In fact, highly seasoned food may actually cause diarrhea,
Remember also, that there are some human foods that should never be fed to a dog.
Most people know not to feed chocolate to a dog, but there are many other every day foods that we consume, which will make a dog ill, and possibly even cause death.
Things like onions, garlic, grapes, raisins, and macadamia nuts are just some of the common foods that can harm a dog. You should also avoid feeding your dog table scraps and any form of human junk food, like pizza. These foods are generally high in fat and can lead to obesity.
Something else that not many dog owners consider is that giving bones to dogs can be dangerous. A bone that can be crunched up and swallowed may damage the stomach and intestines, while there is a risk of salmonella poisoning from raw bones.
Feeding your dog a whole food diet based on meat, vegetables and fiber is a wise choice, but have a word with your vet before making the change.
If you want to learn more about homemade dog food, dog care, dog walking and other interesting dog advice pay a visit to dogsanddogtraining.com
