As a pet parent to small dogs, you want to fuel their playful energy with meals that nourish their tiny tummies. However some commercial foods can overfill pups with calories, fillers, or preservatives that upset digestion. Discover easy and healthy homemade recipes below!
Understanding Your Small Dog’s Nutritional Needs
Tiny breeds have specific dietary requirements. Consult your vet to determine your dog’s ideal calorie intake based on age, size and activity level. In general, aim for high-quality protein and limited carbs/fats.
Look for foods containing at least 18% protein from quality animal sources like chicken, salmon, or turkey. Opt for complex carbs from vegetables over fillers/grains. Fats should make up no more than 10% of calories; choose healthy oils over saturated/trans fats. Provide vitamins and minerals through fresh ingredients.
Daily Meal Plan and Portion Sizes
Instead of free-feeding, divide calories into 2-3 meals for consistency and better digestion. Portion sizes vary but follow these guidelines to prevent bloat or obesity:
– Toy breeds under 5 lbs: 1/8 – 1/4 cup per meal
– Mini breeds 5-10 lbs: 1/4 – 1/3 cup per meal
– Small breeds 10-20 lbs: 1/3 – 1/2 cup per meal
Supplement with training treats no more than 10% of daily intake. Measure topline growth/weight monthly and adjust portions accordingly. Consistency is key!
Five Easy Homemade Recipes for Small Dogs
Chicken and Sweet Potato Bowl
Ingredients:
– 4 oz cooked chicken, diced
– 1/2 small sweet potato, diced
– 1 tbsp canned pumpkin
– 1 tsp olive oil
Nutrients provided: Lean protein, fiber, vitamins A & C, and minerals.
Salmon and Green Bean Medley
Ingredients:
– 2 oz canned salmon
– 1/4 cup green beans, chopped
– 1 tbsp unsweetened plain yogurt
Nutrients provided: Omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin K, calcium.
Turkey and Carrot Mash
Ingredients:
– 3 oz ground turkey
– 1 medium carrot, chopped
– 1 tsp peanut or almond butter
Nutrients provided: Protein, vitamins A & K, heart-healthy fats.
Tuna and Cauliflower Rice Bowl
Ingredients:
– 2 oz canned tuna
– 1/2 cup cauliflower rice
– 1 tbsp shredded cabbage
Nutrients provided: Iodine, vitamins C & K, fiber.
Pumpkin and Blueberry Parfait
Ingredients:
– 2 tbsp canned pumpkin
– 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 5 blueberries, halved
Nutrients provided: Beta-carotene, probiotics, antioxidants.
Vary seasonal ingredients for minerals and antioxidants. Fresh is best but canned also works in a pinch. Always use quality ingredients, limit sodium/sugar.
Tips for Making Homemade Dog Food Easy
Prepping homemade meals doesn’t need to be stressful. Try these time-saving tips:
– Batch cook proteins like chicken or fish. Freeze single portions to grab as needed.
– Roast/pressure cook big batches of veggies to use all week.
– Puree soft foods in a blender for elderly/younger dogs.
– Use ice cube trays to portion/freeze homemade broth or purees ahead of time. Just pop out cubes as needed and store in baggies.
– Involve kids in measuring/mixing for bonding time. Choose kid-safe ingredients.
With some planning, you can lighten your workload in the kitchen and your pup’s workload on their tummy! Even better – involve them in meal prep for entertainment and training.
Transitioning to Homemade Slowly
Abrupt diet changes can upset sensitive tummies. Slowly incorporate homemade food over 7-10 days to allow bacteria adjustment:
Days 1-3: 75% store-bought, 25% homemade
Days 4-6: 50-50 split homemade and store-bought
Days 7-10: 75% homemade, 25% store-bought
Day 10+: 100% homemade as tolerated
Monitor stool/appetite. Slowly increase homemade portions if all is well. Stick to one new recipe per week to identify any intolerances. Consistency is key.
Resources for Additional Support
For recipe ideas tailored to allergies or health issues, consult your vet or a veterinary nutritionist. Join online pet communities to crowdsource recipe tips from experienced raw/homemade feeders.
Books like ‘Home-Prepared Dog & Cat Diets’ provide background on nutritional requirements. Apps like ‘Dog Food Advisor’ review commercial brands. With guidance, you can tailor homemade to keep energy high and bellies happy!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I feed my small breed the same recipes as a large dog?
A: No, adjust portions per breed guidelines. Some ingredients like bones/high fiber veggies should also differ.
Q: Is it okay to substitute people food sometimes?
A: In moderation, simple substitutions can work but provide no nutritional value. Consult your vet first on safe human foods.
Q: Is it less expensive than store-bought food?
A: Cost depends on recipe but homemade using fresh/in-season produce saves versus premium commercial brands long term.
I hope these tips and recipes inspire you to nourish your little furball with easy, lightly-cooked homemade meals matched to their individual needs. Please let me know if you have any other questions!