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Holistic Dog Food
The term "holistic" implies that all animals (including us humans) should be treated based on every part of their being. Solid nutrition is an integral component to the life energy of our dogs, and also to improving or maintaining their health for many years. This is why preparing holistic dog food has exploded in popularity in recent years.
Various manufacturers have produced food for canines that claim to have positive impact. Yet, they include artificial preservatives and additives, or bulky fillers like corn. This has left many dog owners to seek out homemade alternatives so they know the quality of food their pet receives.
One caution: It's always a good idea to talk to your vet about any dietary change that you're planning to make. Our pets become accustomed to a certain diet. Dramatic transformation may make them sick. Using the wrong ingredients could do more damage than good. So take this change slowly and mindfully.
Dogs and Human History
For a very long time the domesticated dog ate scraps from the dinner table. Now we have commercial producers advocating natural and healthy food, but is the product really good for your dog? Not necessarily. Artificial colors, sugars, by-products... none of that is good for your canine companion. If you're not going to make your pet's holistic dog food, at least become an aware and informed pet owner who buys smart.
There is no pat formula for pet food any more than there is for a perfect, healthy human diet. Varying your dog's food will help them be healthier in the long haul (not to mention happier - would you like eating the same blend daily?). Historically speaking, a good balance of protein along side dry/wet food is the best approach. Dogs do not need grain (this is one of the chief contributors to allergies and skin issues).
Home Prepared Doggie Diet
Let's base our preparations on a 75 pound dog. That dog should be eating 1.5 pounds of food a day. Of this, generally speaking, at least 75% should be protein based elements - cooked beef, fish, turkey, eggs, etc. The remaining 25% is vegetarian in cooked or raw form. Don't be afraid to mix and mingle. Left over carrots, cabbage, celery, greens, peas, squash, and even yams will please your puppy. Remember to properly process the vegetables so they can be digested easily. If you find your budget requires fillers, brown rice, cooked beans, and lentils are good choices.
To this foundation it's good to consider adding a supplement like garlic (to deter fleas) or fish oil for fur and skin health.
By the way, introduce this change into your pet's diet slowly and carefully. Sudden changes in food can cause drastic problems, including diarrhea and stomach pain. Mix a little of your chosen blend with the food you'd been using previously daily. Increase the proportions until the dog is totally off the commercial product and experiencing no digestive trouble.
Storage and Serving
You can pre-prepare your dog's food ahead of time and freeze it in suitably sized containers for serving for up to six months in the freezer. Just remember to let the product defrost properly before you serve it to your canine friend.
Helpful Hint: you can certainly sprinkle your homemade product with other beneficial things like brewer's yeast to deter fleas. Just be sure of your proportions.
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