Brenda Khan
Dogs are omnivores, meaning they can eat meat and plant-based foods. However, it is important to ensure that their diet is balanced and complete to keep them healthy and avoid issues such as obesity. While commercial dog food is formulated to meet a dog's nutritional needs, some pet owners may want to supplement their dog's diet with fresh foods. It is recommended to consult a veterinarian or veterinary nutritionist to ensure that all meals are balanced and formulated for your dog's lifestyle and needs. Some popular additions to a dog's diet include cooked or raw eggs, meat, fish, dairy, and vegetables such as pumpkin, green beans, and broccoli.
What to Add to Your Dog's Diet
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Carbohydrates | No specific required amount of carbohydrates for dogs. Commercial dog food contains enough to meet the daily amount of glucose needed to maintain the nervous system. |
| Protein | AAFCO recommends a maximum of 30% DM for any life stage. Excess protein is excreted from the body and can be harmful in some conditions. |
| Vitamins | Choline is added to many commercial diets. AAFCO recommends 1,200 mg/kg DM for dogs. |
| Fruits and Vegetables | Dogs don't need fruits or vegetables, but they can be given in small amounts as an occasional treat. Options include broccoli, Brussels sprouts, carrots, celery, green beans, peas, and potatoes (cooked). |
| Meat | Animal-source foods such as meat are recommended. Turkey and chicken are good sources of protein. |
| Eggs | A good source of selenium, iron, vitamin A, riboflavin, fatty acids, vitamin B12, and folate. Can be fed raw or cooked. |
| Dairy | Some dogs have difficulty digesting dairy, but plain yogurt can be a healthy treat as probiotics can strengthen the digestive system. |
| Supplements | Salmon oil, glucosamine, turmeric, Cosequin, green lipped mussel, brewer's yeast, and milk thistle are some examples of supplements that can be beneficial for dogs. |
| Raw Food | Raw green tripe from grass-fed cattle is highly recommended. Raw eggs are also a good option, providing a nearly complete source of nutrition for dogs. |
| Commercial Food | Commercially made food is recommended over homemade due to the difficulty in ensuring proper nutrition. Vegetarian or vegan options are available but should be complete, commercially made, and approved by 'UK Pet Foods'. |
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Animal protein
High-quality animal proteins contain all the essential amino acids that dogs need. Common animal-based protein sources include chicken, lamb, fish, and beef. Lamb, for example, is a great source of dietary fats and omega-3 fatty acids, which support your dog's growth and overall health. It is also a good alternative for dogs with allergies to other proteins such as beef or chicken.
It is recommended to gently cook the meat to optimize digestion and retain nutrients. Poaching, slow cooking, and cooking at low temperatures are ideal methods for preparing animal proteins for your dog.
If you are considering a raw food diet for your dog, commercially prepared options are recommended to ensure proper nutrient intake. It is important to consult your veterinarian before making any significant changes to your dog's diet.
While dogs are omnivores and can technically consume plant-based proteins, they are best fed as carnivores. Studies have shown that senior dogs fed a high-protein chicken-based diet had better body composition and muscle health than those fed a diet with lower protein levels. However, it is important to note that excess protein can be excreted and may be harmful in certain conditions.
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Carbohydrates
Good sources of complex carbohydrates for dogs include fresh fruit and vegetables, brown rice, quinoa, oats, and sweet potatoes. These foods provide valuable nutrients, minerals, and natural fibre, in addition to being a digestible source of slow-release energy. Pumpkin, for example, is rich in fibre and vitamin A, and can aid in digestion. It is important to cook or finely ground vegetables before feeding them to your dog to help with digestibility.
It is worth noting that while carbohydrates are not harmful to dogs, they should not be the main source of energy in their diet. Fats and proteins are more important for a dog's daily energy requirements. Additionally, some sources of carbohydrates, such as white rice and white potatoes, are high on the glycemic index and can cause spikes in blood sugar, especially in diabetic dogs. It is always a good idea to consult your veterinarian if you have any questions or concerns about your dog's diet.
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Vitamins and supplements
Dogs that eat commercial dog food generally do not need vitamin supplements, as these foods are regulated and contain the necessary vitamins and minerals. However, dogs on a homemade diet may need supplements to ensure they are getting enough vitamins. It is important to consult a veterinarian to determine if supplements are necessary and, if so, which ones to give and in what dosage. Human vitamins should be avoided, as they may contain additives harmful to dogs and have different concentrations of vitamins.
If your dog has specific health concerns, supplements can help address these issues. For example, supplements containing glucosamine and chondroitin can support joint health and mobility, especially in breeds predisposed to joint issues or dogs with osteoarthritis. Fish oil supplements, rich in omega-3 fatty acids, can also help with joint health and improve the shine of your dog's coat. Antioxidants like vitamins C and E can reduce inflammation and cognitive aging in older dogs.
Probiotics can be given to dogs with gastrointestinal problems, and fatty acids are beneficial for dogs with heart disease or puppies at risk of developing heart issues. Additionally, eye-care supplements containing Vitamin A can benefit your dog's vision. B vitamins are another important group of vitamins that play a role in your dog's health, including thiamine, riboflavin, B12, niacin, and folic acid.
It is worth noting that excess supplementation can lead to vitamin toxicity, so it is crucial to provide supplements in the appropriate dosage and only when necessary. Always consult your veterinarian before starting any new supplements for your dog to ensure their safety and well-being.
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Fruits and vegetables
Dogs do not need fruits or vegetables as part of their diet, but they can be given in small amounts as an occasional treat. They are a good source of vitamins, minerals, and fibre. Before giving your dog any fruits or vegetables, make sure they are safe for dog consumption, as some fruits and vegetables can be toxic to dogs.
Some dog-friendly fruits include apples, bananas, cranberries, pineapple, and strawberries. Fruits should be plain, cut into bite-sized pieces, and free from pips, stones, or seeds to avoid choking. Apples, for example, should be given without the core and seeds, as the seeds contain a low amount of cyanide, which is released when chewed. Bananas are a great low-calorie treat, but they should be given in moderation due to their high sugar content. Pineapple is a great source of vitamins, minerals, and fibre, but the prickly outside peel and crown must be removed first. Cranberries should be given in small quantities, as too many can cause an upset stomach.
Some dog-friendly vegetables include broccoli, Brussels sprouts, carrots, celery, green beans, peas, and cucumbers. Similar to fruits, vegetables should be cut into bite-sized pieces to avoid choking. Broccoli and Brussels sprouts should be steamed or boiled and consumed in very small quantities, as large amounts can cause illness. Carrots can be given raw or cooked, and celery can be a crunchy raw snack. Green beans are safe to feed to dogs, but they can cause flatulence due to their high fibre content. Cucumbers are a great option for overweight dogs, as they are low in carbohydrates and fat, and high in hydration and various vitamins and minerals.
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Raw food
There are a few things to consider and keep in mind if you're thinking of switching your dog to a raw food diet:
Commercially Prepared Raw Food
It is recommended to opt for commercially prepared and complete raw food options available in stores or from reputable brands. These options are designed to ensure your dog receives proper nutrition. An example of a brand that offers raw food is Viva, which offers complete and balanced meals with single protein recipes, including chicken, turkey, beef, duck, and rabbit.
Homemade Raw Food
Some people choose to prepare raw food for their dogs at home. However, it is important to consult your veterinarian before doing so, as it can be challenging to ensure your dog receives all the necessary nutrients. There are websites and resources, such as BalanceIt, that can help you create homemade raw diets in conjunction with veterinary advice.
Gradual Transition
When introducing any new food to your dog's diet, it is important to do so gradually. Start by adding a small amount of the new raw food to their regular meal on a separate plate or bowl. Over several days, gradually increase the amount of new food while decreasing the old food. This gradual transition helps prevent digestive issues and allows your dog to adjust to the new diet.
Safe and Unsafe Foods
It is important to be mindful of which raw foods are safe for your dog to consume. For example, raw meaty bones can provide beneficial nutrients and help keep your dog's teeth clean, but you should avoid feeding them cooked bones, as these can splinter and cause internal damage. Some vegetables, such as broccoli, Brussels sprouts, carrots, celery, green beans, and peas, can be fed raw in small quantities. However, avoid feeding raw potatoes, as they contain solanine, which is toxic to dogs. Fruits can be given as an occasional treat, but avoid grapes, raisins, and avocado due to potential health risks.
Individualized Approach
Every dog is unique, and their dietary needs may vary based on their age, size, activity level, and overall health. Consult with a veterinarian or a veterinary nutritionist to determine the best raw food options and portions for your dog's specific needs.
While a raw food diet may offer potential benefits, it is important to approach it with caution and always prioritize your dog's health and well-being.
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Frequently asked questions
Dogs are omnivores, so they can eat meat and plant-based foods. Safe foods to add to their diet include:
- Eggs
- Meat
- Dairy
- Vegetables (e.g. broccoli, carrots, celery, green beans, peas)
- Fruits (e.g. watermelon)
- Pumpkin
- Yogurt
- Cauliflower
- Rice
- Fish
Always ensure that any new food is introduced in small amounts and gradually phased in.
Avocados, grapes, raisins, and fruit seeds and pits are potentially hazardous to dogs. Potatoes should also only be given in small amounts as they contain solanine, which is toxic to dogs.
Yes, it is possible to feed your dog a commercial vegetarian or vegan diet, but it is important to ensure that it is complete, commercially made, and approved by a veterinary organisation. Always consult your vet before making any significant changes to your dog's diet.
It is important to feed your dog an appropriate amount of food to maintain a healthy weight. Consult your veterinarian to determine how many calories your dog needs each day based on their lifestyle and body condition.
Supplements such as turmeric, Cosequin, green-lipped mussel, brewer's yeast, and salmon or pollock oil can be beneficial. If your dog has specific health issues, your vet may recommend additional supplements such as omega 3s and vitamin E.
