Dogs Love Home Cooking!

Photo Courtesy of Brian E. Ford

“Ever consider what they must think of us? I mean, here we come back from a grocery store with the most amazing haul- chicken, pork, half cow. They must think we’re the greatest hunters on earth!” - Anne Tyler

Do you think cooking a balanced nutritionally sound diet for your dog is something you could never manage to do? Some days it is difficult enough trying to find time to get the family's meal on the table or to feed yourself something other than a "healthy" frozen dinner.

You might also think you might not get it "right" as far as providing the correct balance and amounts that your dog needs to thrive.

I also had doubts, plus a little anxiety, when I decided to cook for our five dogs. What if I didn't give them the right nutritents. I thought of the extra trips to the grocery store, the pots and pans that would need cleaning, and the research, gathering,  preparation and cooking time. Would I even get it right?

But after a frightening visit with one of my dogs to the vet and all of the tainted dog food headlines, I decided I would be in charge of what goes in their mouths. My veterinarian gave me a basic diet to work from and some other information to get started.

We were already feeding a high quality dog food so the transition went smoothly.

Now I'm feeding a mixture of 60 percent protein (turkey, beef, chicken or fish) grains (brown rice, barley or oatmeal) and vegetables and fruits (carrots, kale, brocolli, blueberries and apples) and plain yogurt. We also provide a calcium supplement (no vitamin D) and probiotics. Canned pumpkin with no sugar is a good filler and digestive aid without lots of calories, and most dogs love it.

It did take time to get into a routine I'm comfortable with but it is worth the peace of mind knowing what my dogs are eating.

My dogs love it too. Besides eating their delicious meals, they especially enjoy watching me cook for them. They are serious, polite and intensely focused on what I'm doing.

If you are interested in going with a home made dog food diet, please consult with your veterinarian first. Some dogs may have special dietary requirements. At first it might seem overwhelming but stick it out. Try one day, two days and work up to a week. It does becomes easier.

There are so many sites online with recipes  designed specifically for dogs. I found a treat recipe that is easy and quick to prepare.  My dogs love these.  It is a healthy mixture of oatmeal, cottage cheese, egg, a little water, and a little flax seed, with olive oil, and a handful of blueberries. Bake at 350 degrees for 30 minutes. My guys love these.

For one of my favorite sites on figuring out what to feed my dogs, is DogAware.com.

Share your favorite recipes or ask questions by signing up for a free membership now.

Preparing and cooking your dogs meals will make your dog happier and healthier, and it will also strengthen your relationship with each other.