Healthy Dog Food - Organic, Gourmet and Home Made dog food recipes, reviews and ratings

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BEST DOG FOODS – WHAT TO LOOK FOR IN COMMERCIAL FOOD.

Posted by janed54 on 22 January 2010, 3:20 pm

WHAT TO LOOK FOR IN COMMERCIAL DOG FOOD

The best start is to check out the website of your preferred dog food first and foremost.

Most manufacturers making a high quality, premium dog food will have easily accessible ingredient lists on their websites. I found some web sites almost impossible to find an ingredient or nutritional analysis on, and I would suggest this as a warning that they have something perhaps to hide.

Organic ingredients are of course an excellent extra if that is offered.

Also look for locally grown food in their manufacturing processes and their sites proudly advertise what is not in the food such as : produced without the use of herbicides, pesticides or artificial fertilizers, are not irradiated and do not contain chemical additives or preservatives along with no chemicals, colors or dyes. This is an indication of a manufacturer that is responsible and really does put your pet’s health and nutrition first.

CHECK OUT BAD DOG FOOD INGREDIENTS IN COMMERCIAL DOG FOOD TO AVOID HERE.

SPECIFIED MEAT or FISH SOURCES:

Chicken as opposed to poultry by-products. Any named meat or fish is desirable such as chicken, turkey, venison, lamb, beef, herring etc.

Chicken meal as opposed to meat meal. Meal is the dry rendered (cooked down) product which will be more concentrated with the good qualities of the meat. This applies to any protein source such as chicken meal, turkey meal, venison meal, buffalo meal, herring meal, salmon meal, etc.

Having two different meat sources is the best product to look for. An example of an excellent protein based food has deboned turkey, turkey meal and chicken meal as the first 3 ingredients (Wellness Core).

The meat will be human grade which means it is clean and free of bones, blood, feathers, heads, feet, hooves, entrails etc., and also fresh and edible as opposed to rotten or spoiled.

CARBOHYDRATES:

Whole grains as opposed to the highly over processed mill run and flours.

Grains such as brown rice, barley, oatmeal, or if the product is grain free, then potatoes, or sweet potatoes would be choices of excellent carbohydrates.

Avoid corn and wheat and any of their derivatives in any dog foods. They are not nutritious, cause allergies and illnesses and are usually used as cheap fillers.

FRUITS/VEGETABLES:

Whole fruits and vegetables as opposed to none in some dog foods.

Look for any of the fresh fruits and veggies that we eat such as carrots, peas, spinach, greens, apples, berries etc.

FAT SOURCES:

Named fats from quality sources such as chicken fat, sunflower oil, canola oil, salmon oil, or lamb fat, etc.

NATURAL PRESERVATIVES:

Mixed Tocopherols (a natural source of Vitamin E), is the most common natural preservative. A dry dog food with natural preservation will have an expiry date, which is what you want to look for.

A kibble that will last indefinitely is over processed and way to synthetically preserved with harmful chemicals.

HEALTHY VITAMINS/MINERALS/SUPPLEMENTS:

Premium Vitamins such as Mixed tocopherols (source of vitamin E), choline chloride, vitamin A, vitamin D3, thiamine mononitrate, vitamin B12, folic acid, biotin, Vitamin B6,
Chelated Minerals such as Iron Amino Acid Chelate, Zinc Amino Acid Chelate, Manganese Amino Acid Chelate, And Copper Amino Acid Chelate.
Probiotic Microorganisms such as Dried Lactobacillus acidophilus fermentation product, dried Enterococcus faecium fermentation product for digestive health.
Omega 3 & 6 fatty acids sourced naturally from ingredients such as flax seed, a specified fish oil and canola oil. – Supports healthy skin and coat.
Glucosamine and Chondroitin to help support long term bone and joint health.
Salt is also a necessary mineral and should be iodized or sea salt.

EXAMPLES OF THE BEST DOG FOOD COMPANIES:

All of these products are highly recommended. They also have many different products for a variety of different needs. (high energy, seniors, puppies, weight control, etc.) All the different products are also highly recommended. I am just showing one product from each of my top best companies for your to see how to evaluate a high quality dog food.

Orijen Adult Grain-Free Dog Food - CLICK HERE TO ORDER

ORIJEN ADULT GRAIN FREE (This is my number one pick)

INGREDIENTS:

Fresh deboned chicken, chicken meal, turkey meal, russet potato, fresh deboned pacific salmon (a natural source of DHA and EPA), herring meal, sweet potato, peas, fresh deboned lake whitefish, fresh deboned northern walleye, chicken fat (naturally preserved with vitamin E and citric acid), chicken liver, salmon meal, fresh deboned turkey, fresh whole eggs, fresh deboned herring, sun-cured alfalfa, salmon oil (Natural source of Omega 3), chicory root, dehydrated organic kelp, pumpkin, carrots, spinach, turnip greens, apples, cranberries, saskatoon berries, black currants, Vitamins, Minerals, Amino Acids, Botanicals and Guaranteed analysis here.

WELLNESS CORE

INGREDIENTS:

Deboned Turkey, Deboned Chicken, Turkey Meal, Chicken Meal, Potatoes, Dried Ground Potato, Tomato Pomace, Natural Chicken Flavor, Canola Oil, Chicken Liver, Salmon Oil, Flaxseed, Carrots, Sweet Potatoes, Kale, Broccoli, Spinach, Parsley, Apples, Blueberries, Vitamins and Minerals, and Guaranteed Analysis.

Natural Balance Organic Formulas Dry Dog Food CLICK HERE TO ORDER

NATURAL BALANCE ORGANICS

INGREDIENTS:

Natural Chicken, Organic Brown Rice, Chicken Meal, Organic Oats, Organic Millet, Organic Barley, Organic Sorghum, Organic Potato, Organic Peas, Organic Canola Oil, Organic Flaxseed, Chicken Fat (Naturally stabilized with Mixed Tocopherols), Dicalcium Phosphate, Organic Carrots, Natural Flavor, Calcium Carbonate, Potassium Phosphate, Sea Salt, Mixed Tocopherols, Organic Spinach, Organic Cranberries, Organic Tomato, Yucca Schidigera Extract, Dried Kelp, Organic Parsley, Organic Rosemary, and Vitamins, Minerals with complete guaranteed analysis here.

Innova EVO Large Bites Dry Dog Food CLICK HERE TO ORDER

INNOVA EVO TURKEY AND CHICKEN by NATURA PET PRODUCTS.

INGREDIENTS:

Turkey, Chicken, Turkey Meal, Chicken Meal, Potatoes, Herring Meal, Chicken Fat, Natural Flavors, Egg, Garlic, Apples, Carrots, Tomatoes, Cottage Cheese, Alfalfa Sprouts, Dried Chicory Root, Taurine, Lecithin, Rosemary Extract, Vitamins/Minerals, and Viable Naturally Occurring Microorganisms.

Karma Organic Dog Food CLICK HERE TO ORDER

KARMA ORGANICS by NATAURA PET PRODUCTS.

INGREDIENTS:

Organic Chicken, Organic Brown Rice, Organic Oats, Organic Barley, Organic Rye, Organic Pea Protein, Organic Flax Seed, Yeast Extract, Organic Carrots, Organic Beets, Organic Sunflower Oil, (naturally preserved with mixed Tocopherols), Calcium Carbonate, Organic Broccoli, Organic Cranberries, Dicalcium Phosphate, Potassium Chloride, Herring Oil and Vitamins/Minerals

TASTE OF THE WILD

INGREDIENTS:

Duck, duck meal, chicken meal, egg product, sweet potatoes, peas, chicken fat (preserved with mixed tocopherols), potatoes, roasted quail, roasted duck, smoked turkey, natural flavor, tomato pomace, ocean fish meal, salt, choline chloride, dried chicory root, tomatoes, blueberries, raspberries, yucca schidigera extract, vitamins and minerals here.

BLUE BUFFALO ORGANICS

INGREDIENTS:

Organic Deboned Chicken, Organic Brown Rice, Organic Oatmeal, Chicken Meal, Organic Ground Barley, Organic Ground Millet, Salmon Meal, Chicken Fat (preserved with Natural Mixed Tocopherols), Organic Canola Oil, Natural Chicken Flavor, Organic Blueberries, Organic Dried Egg, Potatoes, Organic Peas, Calcium Carbonate, Alfalfa Meal, Caramel, Potassium Chloride, Salmon Oil (source of Natural Omega 3 Fatty Acids), Choline Chloride, Salt, Organic Sunflower Oil (source of Natural Omega 6 Fatty Acids), Organic Kelp Meal, Yucca Schidigera Extract, Taurine, Vitamins and Minerals.

Filed under Best Dog Foods, DOG HEALTH. Tagged best dog foods, Blue Buffalo, Commercial Dog Food ingredients, Healthy Dog Food, Innova EVO, Karma, natural, Natural Balance Organics, ORGANIC, Orijen, Taste of the Wild, Wellness

4 Comments

Healthy Natural Dog Food – Homemade Recipes

Posted by janed54 on 17 June 2009, 5:55 pm

CLICK HERE FOR 245 HEALTHY NATURAL DOG FOOD RECIPES .

This is my Golden Labrador Retreiver, Lola. There is nothing more gratifying than having my vet ask me what I am doing to make her so healthy. He noticed her skin, coat, teeth and overall health was superior. I felt like a proud parent, and told him I fed her a homemade natural dog diet that I found here.

Here are some of the tips and recipes that are included:

Healthy dog food recipes for young and old dogs,
Natural recipe to keep fleas away,
Gourmet Biscuit recipes,
Dozens of dog food recipes for every day – delicious, economical, healthful and natural.
Treats (Your pet will love you even more).

Read here about the author, John Miller, professional dog-fancier, and his homemade, healthy, natural dog food recipes here, and why he refused to sell them to Multinational Companies, (although copies have been sent to major veterinary schools).

You won’t believe how fast your dog’s health and behaviour will improve, and you will reduce your dog food costs by up to 50%.

There is not a single better way to return your dog’s unconditional love than by giving him the best natural food, homemade by you.

Just imagine improved health, which in turn will increase your dog’s life. This will ultimately give you many more years to spend with your faithful companion.

If you are one of those pet parents who give their dog’s the best of everything, then this is really something you should look into trying. By eliminating preservatives, chemicals and additives you will soon see a different dog.

This is a proven fact – the same as with us.

Eliminating junk food from our diets will increase our health. The same is true for our dogs. There are so many unnecessary and harmful ingredients in commercial dog food, escpecially the cheaper brands. The only way to know for sure what your dog is eating is to prepare the dog food for yourself.

It will ultimately be cheaper in the long run, and by making batches once or twice weekly and storing the food in serving size portions it soon becomes an easy way to feed your pet.

The recipes found HERE have been carefully put together with each meal giving your dog the perfect amount of every essential need for his daily diet.

This is my old girl Lady, who had many problems when she was eating commercial dog food. She had horrible dog food allergies, which completely disappeared –

See Lady’s story here, and also more about Lady here – she is oh so sweet and trusting and I give her the best that I can.

Filed under NATURAL DOG FOOD. Tagged dog food recipes, Healthy Dog Food, homemade dog food, NATURAL DOG FOOD

4 Comments

Recommended Premium Natural Dog Food

Posted by janed54 on 9 March 2009, 2:19 pm

FOR WORST DOG FOODS OF ALL TIME CLICK HERE.

Imagine if you ate the same cheap chemical filled food daily for your whole life how you would feel. Along with missing out on the enjoyment from eating, your body would slowly start to rebel and you would become sick with various illnesses and diseases. This is true for our animals.

FIND ALL OF MY TOP RECOMMENDATIONS OF HEALTHIEST DOG FOODS HERE:
ORGANIC DOG FOOD HERE.	MORE ORGANIC HERE.
HEALTHY NATURAL DOG FOOD HERE.	THE REST OF THE BEST HERE.

WELLNESS SUPER5MIX DRY DOG FOOD

WELLNESS SUPER5MIX DRY FOOD IN CHICKEN OR LAMB
SIZE	PRICE	ORDER NOW
Chicken 6 lb.	$15.49	ORDER HERE
Chicken 15 lb.	$29.49	ORDER HERE
Chicken 30 lb.	$50.99	ORDER HERE
Lamb 15 lb.	$29.49	ORDER HERE
Lamb 30 lb.	$50.99	ORDER HERE

WELLNESS SUPER5MIX SMALL BREED ADULT FORMULA

Wellness Super5Mix Small Breed Adult Dry Dog Food
SIZE	PRICE	ORDER NOW
4 lb.	$12.99	ORDER HERE
12 lb.	$29.99	ORDER HERE

Made with human grade ingredients & holistically formulated to effectively manage the special nutritional needs of small breed dogs.

CASTOR AND POLLUX ULTRAMIX DRY FORMULA

CASTOR AND POLLUX ULTRAMIX DRY FOOD
SIZE	PRICE	ORDER NOW
30 lb. bag	$50.99	BUY HERE

Holistic pet food for the discriminating pet owner.

Superior Protein Sources: Natural chicken is #1 on the ingredient list with five additional highly bioavailable proteins for optimal digestibility and great taste. Provides essential amino acids and the nutrients needed to help promote your dog’s wellness by supporting a healthy skin and coat, strong, lean muscle mass and vitality.
Natural Fruits & Veggies: Pure, wholesome fruits and vegetables provide valuable nutrients, vitamins, minerals, enzymes and antioxidants for your dog. We simply dry the carrots, bananas, papaya, apples and blueberries and then blend with the Ultramix kibble. Don’t be fooled by other diets that feature fruits and veggies in the ingredients list – you can’t even see them in the kibble! And because they’re usually processed under high heat they retain only minimal nutritional value…not so with NATURAL ULTRAMIX!
Rich Sources of Carbohydrates: Potatoes, ground whole barley and grains provide essential vitamins and minerals as well as a balanced source of sustainable energy.
Essential Vitamins & Minerals: Fortified with essential vitamins and minerals and balanced to meet the needs of your adult dog
Additional Benefits: Flaxseed, Glucosamine and Chondroitin (naturally sourced from chicken cartilage), and Omega Fatty Acids. Combined to promote wellness and help maximize the time you’ll spend with your best friend.

MERRICK GOURMET DRY DOG FOOD by MERRICK PET CARE.

Merrick’s gourmet dry dog food entrees read like a menu at a five star gourmet restaurant and are unique to say the least.

These meals combine the fine quality of human grade ingredients from the protein sources as the number one ingredient with the fresh vegetables and fruits that are added to all of these special dishes.

As you read the flavor descriptions you will notice that Merrick did not forget any of the details and that these meals are loaded with healthy nutrition.

They are all natural dog foods, with no artificial colors, preservatives, or flavorings. Add water for homestyle gravy or serve dry

Merrick Gourmet Dry Dog Food
SIZE	PRICE	ORDER NOW
15 lb. bag – Cowboy Cookout	$30.99	ORDER
15 lb. bag – Grammy’s Pot Pie	$30.99	ORDER
Grammy’s Pot Pie – 30 lb. bag	$52.99	ORDER
Wilderness Blend 30 lb. bag	$60.99	ORDER
Trout Feast 30 lb. bag	$58.49	ORDER

Merrick Gourmet Dry Dog Food

INGREDIENTS:

COWBOY COOKOUT-
Beef, Oatmeal, Barley, Beef Meal, Whole Brown Rice, Canola Oil (preserved with mixed tocopherols – a source of Natural Vitamin E and Ascorbic Acid, a source of Vitamin C), Flaxseed, Freeze Dried Sweet Potatoes, Freeze Dried Carrots, Freeze Dried Peas, Dried Chicken Liver, Freeze Dried Apples, vitamins and minerals.

GRAMMY’S POT PIE -
Organic Chicken, Oatmeal, Barley, Chicken Meal, Whole Brown Rice, Canola Oil (preserved with mixed tocopherols – a source of Natural Vitamin E and Ascorbic Acid, a source of Vitamin C), Flaxseed, Freeze Dried Potatoes, Freeze Dried Carrots, Freeze Dried Peas, Dried Chicken Liver, Freeze Dried Apples , vitamins and minerals.

WILDERNESS BLEND -
Buffalo, Oatmeal, Barley, Salmon Meal, Venison,Whole Brown Rice, Canola Oil (preserved with mixed tocopherols a source of Natural Vitamin E and Ascorbic Acid, a source of Vitamin C), Potatoes, Carrots, Peas, Dried Chicken Liver, Whole Apples, vitamins and minerals.

CAMPFIRE TROUT -
Trout, Oatmeal, Barley, Salmon Meal, Whole Brown Rice, Canola Oil (preserved with mixed tocopherols – a source of Natural Vitamin E and Ascorbic Acid, a source of Natural Vitamin C), Freeze Dried Potatoes, Freeze Dried Carrots, Freeze Dried Peas, Freeze Dried Apples, vitamins and minerals.

TASTE OF THE WILD

Taste of the Wild Grain-Free Dry Dog Food
SIZE	PRICE	ORDER NOW
15 lbs. Wetlands Wild	$26.99	BUY HERE
30 lbs. Wetlands Wild	$48.99	BUY HERE
15 lbs. Pacific Stream	$26.99	BUY HERE
30 lbs. Pacific Stream	$48.99	BUY HERE
5 lbs. High Prairie	$10.99	BUY HERE
15 lbs. High Prairie	$26.99	BUY HERE
30 lbs. High Prairie	$48.99	BUY HERE

TASTE OF THE WILD – 3 Formulas – Wetlands Wildfowl, Pacific Stream and High Prairie. (GRAIN FREE)

INGREDIENTS:

WETLANDS WILDFOWL – Duck, duck meal, chicken meal, egg product, sweet potatoes, peas, chicken fat (preserved with mixed tocopherols, potatoes, roasted quail, roasted duck, smoked turkey, natural flavor, tomato pomace, ocean fish meal, choline chloride, dried chicory root, tomatoes, blueberries, raspberries, vitamins, minerals and supplements.

PACIFIC STREAM – Salmon, ocean fish meal, sweet potatoes, potatoes, canola oil, salmon meal, smoked salmon, potato fiber, natural flavor, choline chloride, dried chicory root, tomatoes, blueberries, raspberries, vitamins, minerals and supplements.

HIGH PRAIRIE – Bison, venison, lamb meal, chicken meal, egg product, sweet potatoes, peas, potatoes, canola oil, roasted bison, roasted venison, natural flavor, tomato pomace, ocean fish meal, choline chloride, dried chicory root, tomatoes, blueberries, raspberries, vitamins, minerals and supplements.

No Grain, No By-Products – Natural grain-free formula with vitamins and minerals offers your pet nutrition for health and vitality.
Protein Blend For Optimal Amino Acid Profile – Amino acids are the building blocks for a healthy body. Multiple protein sources ensure that adequate building blocks are available to meet your pet’s needs. Ocean fish meal provides the added benefit of marine source omega-3 fatty acids, important for a healthy immune system, healthy skin and a shiny coat.
Digestive Support System – Dried chicory root, Enterococcus faecium, Lactobacillus casei, Lactobacillus acidophilus, fermentation solubles and extracts all work together to help support a healthy digestive system.
Antioxidants – Antioxidants protect your pet’s body from damaging free radicals. Fruits and vegetables provide natural antioxidants and guaranteed levels of zinc, vitamin E and selenium help support optimal cellular health.
Omega Fatty Acid Blend – Omega-6 and Omega-3 fatty acids work to together to help maintain healthy skin and a shiny coat as well as overall good health.
Sweet Potatoes – A power packed vegetable! Rich in dietary fiber, vitamins A and C, iron, calcium and beta carotene, this is one ideal complex carbohydrate source that provides all day energy
Blueberries & Raspberries – Berries are packed with powerful antioxidants to help keep the body healthy as the days go by.
Tomatoes & Tomato Pomace – Natural sources of antioxidants and vegetable fiber to help support overall good health.
Chelated Minerals – During the digestion process, minerals are attached to proteins for absorption from the digestive tract. This formula includes proteinates in the recipe to help promote easy absorption for optimal mineral nutrition.

BLUE BUFFALO WILDERNESS DRY DOG FOOD

High-protein, low-carb BLUE Wilderness is a great food for active dogs. A balanced approach to high-energy nutrition.

BLUE BUFFALO WILDERNESS DRY DOG FOOD
SIZE	PRICE	ORDER NOW
12 lb. bag	$28.49	BUY HERE
26 lb. bag	$52.99	BUY HERE

A balanced approach to high-energy nutrition. A highly digestible dog food formulated by animal nutritionists, BLUE Wilderness provides your dog with the optimal balance of protein, fats and healthy complex carbohydrates.

Filed under Best dog food - 3, RECOMMENDED NATURAL DOG FOOD. Tagged best dog food, Healthy Dog Food, Merrick Gourmet Foods, Natural Balance Premium, NATURAL DOG FOOD, Orijen, Wellness

1 Comment

Dog Food Feeding Chart

Posted by janed54 on 2 March 2009, 4:03 pm

CLICK HERE FOR HOMEMADE DOG FOOD RECIPES! The following chart is an example of amounts you should make for different sized dogs when you are feeding a homemade dog food diet.

Each recipe is to be divided into 4 servings.

Feed 2 servings per day. Each recipe in the chart below makes a two day supply for one dog, but you can double the recipe, which is what I do.

This can be kept refrigerated for the four days, until finished.

Dog’s Weight

Meat

Chicken/Lamb/

Beef/ Turkey/Venison

Carbohydrates

Rice/Barley/

Macaroni or

Other noodle

Vegetable/

Fruit Mix

Salt –(iodized)

20 pounds

2 ½ cups chicken or turkey

2 cups

1 ¼ cups pureed

¼ teaspoon

40 pounds

4 cups chicken or turkey

3 cups

2 ¼ cups pureed

½ teaspoon

60 pounds

5 ½ cups chicken or turkey

4 cups

3 ¼ cups

½ teaspoon

80 pounds

7 cups chicken or turkey

5 cups

4 cups

¾ teaspoon

100 pounds

8 ¼ cups chicken or turkey

5 ¾ cups

5 ¼ cups

1 teaspoon

PROTEIN

The protein choices are any meat, poultry, fish, and eggs (occasionally), organ meats and for a treat sometimes add cottage cheese or yoghurt, which are good protein sources. I’ve used chicken/turkey in the chart, but you can use any of the choices.

Remove fat and drippings from the meat after cooking. Chop the meat into small bite sized cubes for serving, or use ground meat.

CARBOHYDRATES

You can use brown rice, barley, whole-grain pasta, potatoes or oatmeal as choices for the carbohydrate portion. Brown rice is the best choice for dogs with digestive issues (gas or diarrhea). Slightly overcook grains, to make them easier to digest.

VEGETABLE AND FRUITS

Vegetables must always be cooked. Puree vegetables and fruits together so they will be easily digested by your dog. You can use a combination of fresh, frozen or canned veggies and fruits.

I usually use more veggies in the mix, but always add some fruit for sweetness.

An example of one of my girls favorite veggie/fruit puree is this: (makes one cup) ½ cup cooked and pureed carrots; 1/4 cup cooked green beans and ¼ cup canned pears. Make your own variations.

Be aware of foods that are known to be toxic to dogs before making your own dog food. Check out the short list of foods to avoid I have here.

Mix all the ingredients well and serve at room temperature or slightly warm. Never serve hot food to your dog.

Always introduce new foods one at a time. If it isn’t tolerated well, then discontinue. My dogs can eat most human grade foods I prepare, but I have learned which ones upset their tummies. Dogs with special medical needs or illnesses are not candidates for home prepared dog food unless specifically ordered by your veterinarian.

Also puppies under the age of 12 months should receive special premium chemical free and additive free organic puppy food. Easy order here from Only Natural Pet Store – Puppy food such as The Honest Kitchen, Wellness just for Puppy, Solid Gold Wolfcub large breed puppy, Castor and Pollux Organix for puppies, and several others.
.

ABOUT THE SALT:

Dogs need sodium just as we do. Homemade dog food will not contain enough natural salt, so a little needs to be added. Too much is harmful, so make sure you don’t overdo it, and follow recipes correctly.

CALCIUM:

In addition, dogs absolutely need calcium in their diets. More than we do. A calcium supplement is essential when feeding homemade dog food. Find a good calcium supplement at pet supply stores. Here is a good example: Only Natural Pet Store – Everything Natural for Dogs & Cats

MULTIVITAMIN AND MINERAL SUPPLEMENTS:

A good multivitamin is essential when feeding homemade dog food.

Always check with your vet, or purchase an excellent dog food recipe book that is focused on canine nutrition. You will find so many excellent books, with choices for variation of recipes that sometimes you will think you are reading a human cookbook.

Amazon.ca Widgets

These specialty dog food cookbooks should be written by specialist in nutrition for animals and/or veterinarians (D.V.M).

I started making my girls homemade dog food using Dr. Pitcairns recipes in the book shown here. It is still my favorite guide to refer back to and it has extensive information on dog’s nutritional needs, and is easy to understand.

If you are just starting out making homemade dog food, this is the book I would always recommend first.

Your dog can quickly become deficient in certain areas if not given the proper balance of food, nutrients, vitamins, minerals and supplements.

Research, read and follow the advice of someone who is a professional.

My guideline above is just that. I am not a specialist or expert, although I have spent a lot of time reading, reviewing and looking into what is needed to feed homemade dog food.

I feed my two Labs homemade dog food, interspersed with premium organic dog food and lately have been using the dehydrated pre-mix shown below.

The above formula in the chart is what I have used for many years and my “girls” are healthy, happy, bright eyed and bushy tailed. My vet and staff, and even strangers are always commenting on how healthy and shiny coated my Labs are.

Just eliminating chemical, preservatives, processed foods, mystery meat, unhealthy additives and whatever else is in cheap commercial dog food will make an extremely noticeable difference in your dog.

The other choices which are also good for your dog are organic dog food ,HERE AND HERE.

There are also many exellent natural dog foods available which are chemical free HERE.

There are so many healthy nutritious choices now available for feeding your dog that it can be overwhelming, but having a choice is much better than what we had years ago.

Here is the excellent alternative to serving organic kibble or canned food or home made dog food made fresh for your pets.

I started using dehydrated dog food recently and am thrilled and highly recommend this for someone who wants both the best premium manufactured organic dog food and freshly made natural dog food. Check these out – All you need to do is rehydrate the food and add your own protein source. Fresh cooked meat from your own kitchen, with all the proper and well balanced nutrients. Couldn’t be easier.

DR. HARVEY’S CANINE HEALTH

DR. HARVEY’S Canine Health Dehydrated Dog Food 10 lb. Bag

Dr. Harvey’s Canine Health is a revolutionary holistic dog food pre-mix. Dr. Harvey uses only the finest organic and human consumption ingredients, with no dyes, no preservatives, and no chemicals. When this meal is combined with fresh protein and oils, the result is the healthiest meal available for your companion dog.

What does it mean for Canine Health to contain the absolute best ingredients? It means three things. One, your companion dog is getting only human consumption ingredients. Two, Dr. Harvey uses no preservatives, no coloring agents, and no artificial flavors. And three, soon your dog will probably be eating healthier than you are! Canine Health includes 6 certified organic grains, 9 vegetables and 13 herbs in a whole food multi-vitamin and mineral supplement which are vital to optimal canine health.

Canine Health is a food that requires some preparation, but don’t worry, it’s not preparing Thanksgiving dinner for your dog every night! In fact, Canine Health only takes 8 minutes, and it only requires boiling water and a little commitment. But what a difference it will make in your dog’s life!

The 20 oz. bag will make 8 1 lb. servings, the 5 lb. bag will make 33 1 lb. servings, and the 10 lb. bag will make 66 1 lb. servings

DR. HARVEY’S philosophy is to provide the finest all natural products for animals available anywhere. We are dedicated to educating guardians of companion animals and our customers about the benefits of holistic ways to keep their companion animals healthy. Our utmost desire is to keep our customers and their companion animals happy and healthy. Their company is also dedicated to the rescue of animals and help to support organizations that make the rescue and shelter of animals possible.

Order here: Free Shipping on Orders Starting at $49 – Only Natural Pet Store

HONEST KITCHEN

HONEST KITCHEN Dehydrated Dog Food Verve 10 lb. Box

THE HONEST KITCHEN makes wholesome, natural food for dogs using gentle dehydration, a unique new approach to canine nutrition. These foods help you create delicious and nutritious meals made with real, recognizable, and human-grade ingredients that are ready to prepare and serve at home. Simply add warm water to rehydrate, and you have a complete meal with USDA meat, fresh fruits and vegetables, organic flaxseed, herbs, vitamins, minerals, and organic grains (in Verve).

THE HONEST KITCHEN’S dehydrated food offers many of the benefits of a biologically appropriate raw pet food diet, combined with the convenience and peace of mind of a nutritionally balanced, ready-blended product. Dehydration simply removes the moisture, which prevents decomposition. As an ancient form of preserving food, virtually all of the nutrients are left intact. This is a much “fresher”, and therefore healthier, approach than the extrusion process that dry kibble undergoes. See below for a description of each formula. All of HONEST KITCHEN’S dog food and dehydrated raw dog food products are formulated to meet the AAFCO nutrient profiles for dogs and you don’t have to add anything to make them ‘complete’. However, the original idea behind these diets was as a base for a raw or other fresh homemade diet and to facilitate that, they are somewhat ‘lite’ in terms of fat and protein, so that your own choice of raw, or cooked, meat can be added, if desired.

It is entirely a matter of personal choice (and your dog’s taste!) whether you add in extra meat and other ingredients, or not. Most people with younger and more active dogs like to mix in the additional meat, and those with senior or overweight animals usually prefer to feed the organic dog food alone. The Honest Kitchen supplies pet owners with the best in fresh dehydrated raw dog food and other organic dog food products.

THE HONEST KITCHEN also has a grain free dehydrated food, and many other choices available, including food that is good for puppies and overweight dogs. Check them all out here at: Only Natural Pet Store – Everything Natural for Dogs & Cats

Order Here: Free Shipping on Orders Starting at $49 – Only Natural Pet Store

SOJO’S
(Sojourner’s Farms)

Sojos Europa Grain-Free Dog Food Mix 8 lb.

SOJOS Europa Grain-Free Dog Food Mix is a healthy pre-mix that you combine with meat for easy and nutritious home made meals for your dog. Dogs, by nature, are healthiest on fresh whole foods. Europa is made with no preservatives, and nothing artificial. Because Europa is grain-free, it’s great for sensitive dogs. Simply soak it in water and add the meat of your choice. You can cook the meat, or leave it raw for the superior nutrition of a raw diet, with the ease and convenience of a pre-made food. It’s a great way to give your dog a fresh, home-prepared meal in minutes. Europa is also a great fruit & veggie supplement to SOJO’S other diets.

Order here: Free Shipping on Orders Starting at $49 – Only Natural Pet Store

Filed under Homemade Dog Food Feeding Chart, RECIPES. Tagged dog food feeding chart, Dr. Harvey's, Healthy Dog Food, homemade dog food, homemade dog food recipes, Sojos, The Honest Kitchen

4 Comments

Recommended Natural, Healthy and Organic Dog Food Guide

Posted by janed54 on 3 January 2009, 3:38 pm

Some foods are downright deadly to our four legged family members, and I still can’t believe they are still promoted and sold as good for your dog’s health.

FOR WORST DOG FOODS OF ALL TIME CLICK HERE.

We speak for our pets, so always give them the best that you are able to provide to give a longer, healthier more energetic life.

FIND ALL OF MY TOP RECOMMENDATIONS OF HEALTHIEST DOG FOODS HERE:
ORGANIC DOG FOOD HERE.	MORE ORGANIC HERE.
PREMIUM NATURAL DOG FOOD HERE.	THE REST OF THE BEST HERE.

WELLNESS CORE GRAIN FREE CANINE DIET

WELLNESS CORE
SIZE	PRICE	ORDER NOW
4s lb.	$11.49	CLICK HERE TO ORDER
12 lbs.	$28.99	CLICK HERE TO ORDER
26 lbs.	$55.99	CLICK HERE TO ORDER

A grain-free diet containing the animal protein you want without the excess fat, calories or minerals your dog doesn’t need.

No Meat By-products, No Wheat or Wheat Gluten, No Soy, No Dairy, No Corn, No Artificial Colors, Flavors or Preservatives.

Meat from Only the Highest Quality, Human-Grade Sources.

80% more meat than traditional dog foods that are formulated with grains, while still controlling mineral and fat levels!
5 Different Animal Protein Sources – USDA grade, Ethoxyquin-free, Deboned Turkey & Chicken and with high quality (low Ash) Turkey & Chicken Meals and Chicken Liver.

ZIWIPEAK DAILY DOG CUISINE DRY FOOD

ZiwiPeak products are formulated with the same balance of meat ingredients that dogs would find by hunting in the wild. It’s the diet that nature intended.

Energize your pets with the nutritional value of a raw meat diet, with the convenience of air-dried jerky style portions.

ZiwiPeak ingredients are sourced from livestock ranch-raised (free of antibiotics and hormones) on New Zealand’s green fields and fish from its clear blue waters.

Only ingredients ‘passed fit for human consumption’ make the grade – no artificial colors, preservatives, fillers or grains.

ZiwiPeak Cuisine is available in air-dried pouches. The gentle air-drying process delivers a high quality diet while maintaining the nutritional integrity of the natural raw materials. Air-drying is a sterile and safe food processing method, carried out under controlled conditions.

Food is best used within 30 days after opening and can be stored in the freezer.

ZIWI PEAK DAILY DOG CUISINE DRY FOOD
SIZE	PRICE	ORDER NOW
VENISON 2.2 lb. bag	$24.99	ORDER NOW!
VENISON 11 lb. bag	$107.99	ORDER NOW!
VENISON AND FISH 2.2 lb. bag	$24.99	ORDER NOW!
VENISON AND FISH 11 lb. bag	$107.99	ORDER NOW!
LAMB 2.2 lb. bag	$24.99	ORDER NOW!
LAMB 11 lb. bag	$107.99	ORDER NOW!

HONEST KITCHEN DEHYDRATED DOG FOOD

The Honest Kitchen makes wholesome, natural food for dogs using gentle dehydration, a unique new approach to canine nutrition. These foods help you create delicious and nutritious meals made with real, recognizable, and human-grade ingredients that are ready to prepare and serve at home. Simply add warm water to rehydrate for a complete meal.

The Honest Kitchen’s dehydrated food offers many of the benefits of a biologically appropriate raw pet food diet, combined with the convenience and peace of mind of a nutritionally balanced, ready-blended product.

Dehydration simply removes the moisture, which prevents decomposition. As an ancient form of preserving food, virtually all of the nutrients are left intact.

This is a much “fresher”, and therefore healthier, approach than the extrusion process that dry kibble undergoes.

However, the original idea behind these diets was as a base for a raw or other fresh homemade diet and to facilitate that, they are somewhat ‘lite’ in terms of fat and protein, so that your own choice of raw, or cooked, meat can be added, if desired.

It is entirely a matter of personal choice (and your dog’s taste!) whether you add in extra meat and other ingredients, or not.

HONEST KITCHEN EMBARK DEHYDRATED DOG FOOD
SIZE	PRICE	ORDER NOW
4 lb. box	$43.99	ORDER HERE!
10 lb. box	$83.99	ORDER HERE!

4 lb. Box contains approximately 16 cups of food
10 lb. Box contains approximately 40-43 cups of food

HONEST KITCHEN THRIVE DEHYDRATED DOG FOOD
SIZE	PRICE	ORDER NOW
4 lb. box	$36.49	ORDER HERE
10 lb. box	$66.99	ORDER HERE

4 lb. Box contains approximately 16 cups of food
10 lb. Box contains approximately 40-43 cups of food

Good for all ages of dogs, Thrive is flax-free and lower in carbohydrates.

HONEST KITCHEN – KEEN
SIZE	PRICE	ORDER NOW
4 lb. box	$28.99	ORDER KEEN HERE.
10 lb. box	$54.99	ORDER KEEN HERE.

Lower in cost without compromising your values, Keen is made with a “down to earth” ingredients list that provides great low-gluten nutrition at an affordable price.

Like all of Honest Kitchen’s recipes, Keen is guaranteed human grade, wholesome, balanced and free of artificial additives, by-products or fillers of any kind. It is suitable for adult maintenance and for gluten-sensitive pets.

HALO SPOT’S STEW DRY DOG FOOD

All of Halo’s products are made with the highest quality ingredients designed to support and improve your dog’s immune system. Since they don’t use chemicals, artificial flavors, preservatives, by-products or fillers, you will be able to pronounce every item on the label!

HALO SPOT’S STEW DRY DOG FOOD
SIZE	PRICE	ORDER NOW
CHICKEN 4 lb bag.	$12.49	CLICK HERE
CHICKEN 10 lb. bag.	$25.49	CLICK HERE
CHICKEN 18 lb. bag	$39.99	CLICK HERE
CHICKEN 30 lb. bag.	$72.99	CLICK HERE
SALMON 4 lb. bag.	$12.49	CLICK HERE
SALMON 10 lb. bag.	$25.49	CLICK HERE
SALMON 18 lb. bag.	$39.99	CLICK HERE

HALO SPOT’S STEW DRY DOG FOOD

AVAILABLE IN CHICKEN OR SALMON FORMULAS.

CHICKEN FORMULA INGREDIENTS:
Chicken, Whole Eggs, Pea Protein, Oats, Pearled Barley, Chicken Fat (preserved with mixed tocopherols and citric acid), Pea Flour, Chicken Liver, Whole Salmon, Flaxseed, Salmon Oil (preserved with mixed tocopherols), Pea Fiber, Sweet Potatoes, Apples, Blueberries, Green Beans, Carrots, Cranberries, Zucchini, Alfalfa, Inulin, Calcium Sulfate, Potassium Chloride, Taurine, Salt – Vitamins and Minerals.

SALMON FORMULA INGREDIENTS:
Salmon, Whole Eggs, Pea Protein, Oats, Pearled Barley, Chicken Fat (preserved with mixed tocopherols and citric acid), Pea Flour, Chicken Liver, Whole Salmon, Flaxseed, Salmon Oil (preserved with mixed tocopherols), Pea Fiber, Sweet Potatoes, Apples, Blueberries, Green Beans, Carrots, Cranberries, Zucchini, Alfalfa, Inulin, Calcium Sulfate, Potassium Chloride, Taurine, Salt, vitamins and minerals.

NATURAL BALANCE ULTRA PREMIUM DRY DOG FOOD

REASONS YOU SHOULD BE FEEDING YOUR DOG NATURAL BALANCE:

Fresh Chicken, Fresh Duck, New Zealand Lamb Meal – Premium quality meats (no by-products) from USDA approved plants and New Zealand Lamb Meal. This unique blend of fresh high quality proteins provides the essential amino acids to help maintain strong muscle tone and a healthy, shiny coat.
Fresh Carrots – An excellent source of vitamin A and beta carotene.
Oatmeal – An exceptional source of: carbohydrates, fiber, thiamin and vitamin E. Not widely used in pet food because of cost, it does not contain the allergy causing glutens found in other grains
Fresh Potatoes – Rich in potassium and an excellent source of highly digestible carbohydrates for energy
Vitamin C – Aids in maintaining the integrity of the cell structure, as well as diminishing the effects of illness.
Taurine Fortified – New studies show that dogs need Taurine for cardiovascluar health
Skin and Coat – Optimum amounts of Omega-3 and Omega-6!!! Lecithin, Linoleic Acid, Whole Ground Flaxseed, Vitamin E, Biotin and Kelp are used in the correct ratios required to result in an excellent skin and coat

NATURAL BALANCE ULTRA PREMIUM DRY DOG FOOD
SIZE	PRICE	ORDER NOW
17 lb. bag	$28.99	ORDER HERE
33 lb. bag	$49.99	ORDER HERE

No Artificial Preservatives, Flavors or Colors.
Does not contain Soy, Wheat, Eggs, or Dairy Products.

Filed under Best dog food - 2, RECOMMENDED NATURAL DOG FOOD. Tagged Halo, Healthy Dog Food, Honest Kitchen, NATURAL DOG FOOD, Premium Dog Food, The Honest Kitchen, Wellness Core, Ziwipeak

8 Comments

EVERY DAY HOMEMADE DOG FOOD RECIPE

Posted by janed54 on 19 December 2008, 4:40 pm

CLICK HERE FOR HOMEMADE DOG FOOD RECIPES!

Here are Lady and Lola with the typical canine “I love you” look.

They are waiting for a home made treat found on this page (CLICK HERE FOR THE RECIPE: All Natural Organic Beef Crunchies)

Can you tell – they completely and utterly own me. So onward with a few recipes for heatlhy homemade organic dog food.

Just use organic food, which has recently become plentiful at the grocery store, such as organic fruits and veggies, and the hormone free meat. That’s what I use for my husband and myself and I really have seen an improvement in his fur also. (just kidding)

This dog food recipe is really great using leftover turkey during the holidays, if you happen to have an overabundance. If not use chicken, lamb or venison (my hubby hunts) or ground beef or stewing beef cubes.

Your dog will love you all the more when you use a variety of flavours.

This is my recipe adapted for feeding my two chunky girls who are both between 75 and 80 pounds. One recipe gives me a full days supply for both of them. I feed them twice a day, rather than one big meal.

LADY AND LOLA’S FAVORITE EVERYDAY MEAL

7 cups of turkey ( or other choice)
5 cups brown rice ( or substitute 4 cups pasta, or try 6 cups of mashed potatoes)
4 cups cooked pureed veggies and fruits mixed together. (Pureed vegetables and fruits make them easier to digest) see below for combination ideas to try.
3 tbsp canola oil
1/2 tsp. salt
daily multivitamin/mineral supplement

I also give my girls a calcium supplement every day.

Remove fat, skin and drippings from the pan after cooking the meat.

Cut the meat into small cubes and mix in the veggie/fruit puree and add the rice

Make sure the meal is not hot – I wait until it’s room temperature as Lady always gets an upset tummy if I give her food that warm.

Cook the starch you are using a little longer than necessary to make it softer.

When the meal is ready add the salt and drizzle with the oil. Yummy!

The veggies and fruits should be cooked and pureed. Use any combination your dog prefers.

He/she will let you know quickly which are the winners.

Don’t introduce several at once.

Start with the basic carrot and apple combo. This adds sweetness to the food that most dogs love.

I usually use approx. 3/4 to 1/4 ration of veggies to fruit. For my recipes above that is 3 cups carrots and 1 cup apples, pureed and mixed together.

My girls like carrots, beans and peas mashed together so I use 3 cups of this and add one cup of mixed fruit consisting of apple and pears. (I use canned pears without sugar).

Sometimes I use blueberries in combo with the apple or pears. I use frozen fruits and veggies a lot in the winter, and cook them till I can whiz them up in the processor.

In the summer I use loads of fresh picked from my own garden and local fruit stands. Either way this is much healthier for your dog than the cheap commercial chemical filled dog kibble you can buy at the store.

A FEEDING CHART BASED ON YOUR DOG’S WEIGHT CAN BE FOUND HERE.

Check with your vet about what he would recommend or buy a book that is written by canine nutritionist or a veteranarian (D.V.M.).

I have many books to consult here at home, and I experiment with recipes for Lady and Lola.
CLICK HERE FOR DOG FOOD RECIPE BOOKS.

If you don’t want to cook don’t sweat it. There are of course excellent organic dog food available such as : CLICK HERE FOR SOME OF THE BEST ORGANIC DOG FOODS AVAILABLE TODAY.

I also make the semi-homemade lazy day meal SHOWN HERE – MY NEW FAVORITE WAY TO PREPARE DOG FOOD – DEHYDRATED IN JUST LIKE HOMEMADE, BUT BETTER.

Any of these choices are something to consider if you want to extend your dogs life and increase their health.

Getting them away from the chemical filled cheap commercial foods is my main reason for starting this site.

I had a sweet beagle named Susie, and she had multiple diseases and died of cancer way too young. I really believe had I known about DOG FOOD SECRETS, Susie would have lived a longer and healthier life.

See Susie’s story here.

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Here’s an easy treat that I make for the “girls.”

LIVER AND PEANUT BUTTER TREATS:

1 lb beef liver (cooked and pureed)
3 tbsp. peanut butter
2 cups whole wheat flour
1 cup cooked barley (measure after cooking)

Mix pureed liver and peanut butter together. I just put them together and whiz until combined and the consistency of toothpaste.

Mix the flour and barley together and then add this to the paste mixture and combine well.
Bake at 350 degrees in a 9 x 9 brownie pan for 20 minutes.

Cut into small bite size pieces after cooling and store in the fridge for no more than one week.

PREVENT CANINE CANCER SECRETS!

Filed under Another home made dog food recipe, RECIPES. Tagged Basic Dog Food Recipe, dog food recipe, Healthy Dog Food, healthy homemade dog food, home made dog food recipe, human grade dog food, Nutritious Home Made Dog Food, organic dog food recipes

1 Comment

HOW TO MAKE NUTRITIOUS HOME MADE DOG FOOD: TOP TEN TIPS.

Posted by janed54 on 25 June 2008, 8:32 am

CLICK HERE FOR HOMEMADE DOG FOOD RECIPES!

If you have your dog on a homemade diet it is essential to add bonemeal to their daily diet. Dogs calcium requirements are given according to body weight. The calcium is to replace bones that wild dogs originally ate when feeding in the wild.

This necessary addition can be found in human grade bonemeal, which is available through pet supply stores, health-food stores and of course speciality on line pet stores.

Make sure you NEVER use the garden grade bone meal as this contains toxins, such as lead. You can also find calcium supplements in tablet form which is just a acceptable. Here is an example of what to look for in a calcium supplement: Only Natural Pet Store – CALCIUM OR BONEMEAL CAN BE ORDERED HERE.

I am not a pet nurtritionist, and am doing this through investigating, educating myself, and reading about the horrible commercial pet food industries disgusting manufacturing for profit mentality. I guess I was just naive, but I always believed that I was doing the best for my pets. Boy, have my eyes been opened.

Always check with your vet before starting your pet on homemade dog food. If cooking for a dog does not seem to be something you want to start doing, there are of course many ultra premium, organic dog foods available, that are highly recommended.

TABLE SCRAPS ARE NOT CONSIDERED HOMEMADE DOG FOOD AND ARE NOT NUTRITIOUS OR HEALTHY FOR YOUR DOG.

HOW TO MAKE NUTRITIOUS HOME MADE DOG FOOD: TOP TEN BASIC TIPS.

Although I checked with my vet, and am doing this with his approval, always check with your own professional.
Slowly wean your dog onto the new food. A sudden switch could cause stomach upset. Let him/her get used to the new food by gradually mixing in the new food while slowly decreasing the old food. Once adjusted to one new food try another using this method. You will find that your dog will tolerate many different types of foods, just as we do. A variety diet is much more enjoyable than the same bowl of dry kibble every day!
Ensure a well balanced diet by mixing 40% meat, with the balance consisiting of fruit and vegetables and carbohydrates, in their daily diet. Following this formula will ensure a well balanced, healthy nutritious diet.
CLICK HERE AND SEE LADY AND LOLA’S HOMEMADE DOG FOOD RECIPE THAT I USE REGULARLY.
I always cook the meat before serving, and let it cool off to room temperature. I found that feeding my dogs their food hot or too warm seemed to cause them stomach upset.
Organ meat (liver, kidneys etc.) and occasionally adding eggs are very good for your pet, and as we all know variety in our diets is always nice.
Feed your pet the daily amount as recommended by your vet, according to the animal’s size. – Just like measuring the kibble, only way tastier. It smells delicious too! I separate their daily requirement into two portions – morning and evening.
SEE THE CHART HERE THAT I USE BY CLICKING HERE..
Rotate food for variety. I buy the meat every week that is “last day” sale. At my meat market this is the meat that is still for sale for human consumption, but has to be sold by today. My butcher sells this at 50% off the sticker price. I then bring it home and use it the same day, or freeze it and make the freshly cooked meals in batches later.
This is actually cheaper than the premium preservative, chemically filled commercial dog food that I used to buy. I had a week’s worth of fast fry steaks last week for my two 80 pound Labrador retrievers that cost under $20.00. I made a big batch of yummy steak, rice and veggie stew for them and froze it. Simple as when we grab for a frozen dinner on those nights when we’re too tired to cook.
Use oatmeal, rice, pasta or potatoes as the starch requirement.
Keep the extra cooked home made dog food refrigerated for up to three days, or of course freeze the serving sizes for future easy use.

Dog Vitamins And Supplements: Adding vitamins and supplements to our home made dog food is essential as the food will be deficient of certain necessary vitamins and minerals for optimum health.
I give my two Labs, Lady and Lola a daily multi-vitamin for dogs, according to their weight also when they are on their homemade diet.

FOODS THAT ARE KNOWN TO BE TOXIC TO DOGS!

Onions and onion powder
Chocolate
Coffee and all coffee related products
Chocolate covered espresso beans ( extra toxic !! )
Tea
Alcoholic beverages
Macadamia nuts
Hops (used in home brewing beer)
Grapes and raisins ( including juices or anything with grapes or raisins as the base)
Tomato leaves and stems
Green part of potatoes (peelings, sprouts and foliage)
Rhubarb leaves
Avocados
Pits and seeds from fruits (plum, apricot, peach apple and cherry)
Bitter almonds
Moldy or spoiled foods