by Is homemade food good for small dogs? Yes, and here’s why!
Small dogs are adorable, energetic, and full of personality. But did you know their tiny bodies need special nutrition? Many store-bought dog foods contain preservatives, fillers, and artificial flavors, which may not be ideal for your pup. That’s why homemade dog food can be a healthier and safer option!
In this guide, we’ll explore vet-approved homemade dog food recipes that are easy to make and packed with nutrients. Let’s dive in!
Why Homemade Dog Food for Small Dogs?
There are 3 major reasons why pet owners love homemade dog food:
✅ Healthier Ingredients – You control what goes into your dog’s food.
✅ No Artificial Preservatives – Store-bought foods often contain chemicals that may not be ideal for long-term health.
✅ Cost-Effective – Buying fresh ingredients and cooking in batches is cheaper than premium dog food brands.
🥩 What Nutrients Do Small Dogs Need?
Your small dog needs a balanced diet to stay energetic and healthy. Here’s a breakdown of essential nutrients:
🥩 Protein – Chicken, turkey, beef, fish (essential for muscle growth)
🥦 Vegetables – Carrots, peas, pumpkin, spinach (rich in vitamins & fiber)
🍚 Carbohydrates – Rice, sweet potatoes, oats (provide energy)
🥑 Healthy Fats – Fish oil, coconut oil, flaxseed (good for skin & coat)
💊 Essential Vitamins & Minerals – Found in eggs, leafy greens, and vet-approved supplements
🍲 3 Easy & Healthy Homemade Dog Food Recipes
1️⃣ Chicken & Rice Delight (Good for digestion)
Ingredients:
✔ 1 cup cooked chicken (boneless, skinless)
✔ ½ cup cooked white rice
✔ ¼ cup steamed carrots
✔ ¼ cup peas
✔ 1 tsp fish oil
Instructions:
1️⃣ Boil chicken until fully cooked, then shred it into small pieces.
2️⃣ Cook rice separately and let it cool.
3️⃣ Steam carrots and peas until soft.
4️⃣ Mix all ingredients in a bowl and drizzle fish oil on top.
5️⃣ Serve in small portions!
🦴 Tip: Store in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for 1 month.
2️⃣ Beef & Sweet Potato Bowl (Great for active dogs)
Ingredients:
✔ 1 cup lean ground beef (cooked)
✔ ½ cup mashed sweet potatoes
✔ ¼ cup green beans
[6:57 AM, 3/21/2025] Chat Gpt: ✔ 1 tbsp coconut oil
Instructions:
1️⃣ Cook beef in a pan until fully browned. Drain excess fat.
2️⃣ Boil or bake sweet potatoes until soft, then mash them.
3️⃣ Steam green beans and chop them into small pieces.
4️⃣ Mix everything together with coconut oil for extra flavor.
5️⃣ Let it cool before serving.
🐶 Bonus: Dogs LOVE the taste of coconut oil, and it’s great for their coat!
3️⃣ Fish & Veggie Mix (Rich in Omega-3)
Ingredients:
✔ 1 cup cooked salmon or white fish (boneless)
✔ ½ cup quinoa (cooked)
✔ ¼ cup steamed broccoli
✔ ¼ cup pumpkin puree
✔ 1 tsp flaxseed oil
Instructions:
1️⃣ Bake or steam fish until cooked, then shred into small pieces.
2️⃣ Cook quinoa separately and let it cool.
3️⃣ Steam broccoli until soft.
4️⃣ Mix everything together and add flaxseed oil for extra Omega-3 benefits.
5️⃣ Serve in moderation.
🐕 Omega-3 fatty acids in fish and flaxseed oil help keep your dog’s skin and coat shiny!
⚠️ What NOT to Include in Homemade Dog Food
🚫 Chocolate – Highly toxic to dogs.
🚫 Onions & Garlic – Can damage red blood cells.
🚫 Grapes & Raisins – May cause kidney failure.
🚫 Salt & Sugar – Can lead to health issues like obesity and diabetes.
Always consult your vet before switching to homemade food!
✅ Conclusion
Making homemade dog food for your small dog is a great way to ensure they get high-quality, nutritious meals without artificial additives. The best part? You can customize meals based on your dog’s taste and health needs.
🐶 Try one of these recipes this week and let us know how your pup likes it! Drop a comment below!
