Out of dog food, and your canine seems hangry? We have a solution! There are some homemade meals for dogs that you can make quickly. All of the meals need a few common staples that are probably in your kitchen already.
Here is a helpful guide on what to feed dogs when out of dog food.
A Dog's Nutritional Needs
Dogs need a good notorious meal to stay active and healthy. A balanced meal for dogs includes carbs, protein, fat, vitamins, and minerals. Do remember that this is a temporary fix since it can be hard to get the right nutritional balance that your dog needs. For homemade meals, your dog will at least need some combination of these nutrients to satisfy their hunger.
Yes, commercial food is important since it is designed to give them everything they need. But you can probably combine different ingredients to feed them temporarily.
Safe Protein Sources for Dogs
If you have run out of dog food, the first ingredient you need to grab is some kind of protein. It is an important part of a dog's diet as it repairs tissues and makes energy.
Here are some safe, easy-to-find protein options.
Cooked Chicken or Turkey
Unseasoned lean meats are safe and nutritious for dogs. Remove the skin and bones before serving it, though!
Cooked Beef or Pork
Dogs love a little meaty snack, so you can use lean cuts of pork or beef. But do make sure there are no fats, oils, or seasonings. They can cause digestive issues for dogs.
Eggs
Crack an egg! Yes, you can give your dog some boiled or scrambled eggs to eat. They are easy to eat and are packed with protein.
Canned Fish
Tuna or salmon (packed in water, not oil) is another fantastic option, especially if you don't have fresh meat on hand. Avoid any added salt or flavoring.
Carbohydrate Options to Keep Your Dog Full
Carbs may not have been the first thing you think of when making a homemade meal for your dog. But they need carbs for all those zoomies and play.
Combining the protein options above with the carb options below can mean a good meal for your dog.
Cooked Rice (Brown or White)
Plain, boiled rice is a great option for dogs. It actually helps them digest their food better. We recommend using brown rice since it offers more fiber but white rice will work in a pinch.
Oatmeal
Cooked plain oatmeal (without sugar or seasoning) is another great option for dogs. It provides fiber and a filling meal.
Plain Pasta or Potatoes
Dogs can easily digest some plain, boiled pasta or potatoes. Make sure there is no seasoning on them.
Vegetables Your Dog Can Eat
Some common vegetables give dogs the vitamins and fiber they need for the day.
But make sure to remember that dogs do need plenty of protein to stay healthy.
They cannot survive on just veggies!
You can boil or steam the veggies below to soften them up for your pet but make sure not to add any salt or seasoning.
● Chopped carrots
● Chopped celery
● Slices of cucumber
● Cooked unsweetened pumpkin
● Cooked butternut squash
● Raw or cooked green beans
● Fresh or frozen Peas (not canned)
● Broccoli (if they’ll have it)
Fruits Dogs Can Safely Eat
Fruits should be given in moderation but they can give them a boost of nutrients. Plus, a small sweet treat can be good too.
Do make sure to keep it simple, though, and stick to fruits that are known to be dog-friendly.
Here are a few safe fruit options:
● Apples (no seeds or core)
● Blueberries
● Watermelon (no seeds)
● Bananas
● Strawberries
● Pears
● Sliced melon
Always introduce new fruits slowly. Do remember not to give them too many sugary fruits though. They can cause digestive issues if overdone.
Healthy Fats to Include in Homemade Dog Meals
Healthy fats are essential for dogs. They help with brain function and keep their coats healthy. Some household oils and natural fats can be used in small amounts for your dog's meals.
While a little bit of fat in a dog’s diet is important, too much will lead to an upset stomach.
Here are some healthy fat options:
● A teaspoon of olive oil or coconut oil
● Unsweetened peanut butter
● Flaxseed or fish oil
Foods to Avoid Feeding Your Dog
Not everything in your kitchen is safe for dogs to eat. Some can be toxic and dangerous for dogs.
Here are some foods that you should never give your dog.
● Chocolate
● Grapes and raisins
● Onions and garlic
● Avocados
● Macadamia nuts
● Xylitol
● Artificial sweeteners
● Corn on the cob
● Mushrooms
● Chives
● Blue cheese
Simple Homemade Dog Meal Recipes
Here are a few homemade meals for dogs that you can make:
- Boiled chicken mixed with plain rice and a side of boiled carrots.
- Scrambled eggs with plain cooked oatmeal.
- Cooked ground beef with mashed sweet potatoes and green beans.
- Canned tuna (in water) served with plain pasta and a few peas.
How Long Can You Feed Dogs Homemade Meals?
Giving your dogs homemade meals is not a long-term solution. It will help your dog get through the day, but vets advise against feeding your dog homemade food for longer than a week. You might end up endangering your dog’s life.
Commercial dog food is made to fulfill your dog's specific nutritional requirements. Even with careful planning, it can be challenging to achieve the same nutritional balance at home. Determining portion quantities that best suit your dogs' requirements can sometimes be difficult too.
If you still want to switch to homemade food for your dog, consult your vet to come up with a plan.
Conclusion
So, when you are looking up what to feed dogs when out of dog food, don’t panic. Just give them some rice and chicken for now and get dog food when you have time.
