Written by: Rachel Holly
Vet-reviewed by: Kevin Smith, DVM, Richmond Road Vet Clinic
As pet owner you may have heard of the “homemade” diets that have become increasingly popular over the last decade among pet parents. These homemade diets have gained favor as a potential alternative to conventional commercial dog foods. With frequent food recalls and headlines about dangerous ingredients in both pet and human food, the appeal of homemade dog food lies in the idea that it can provide higher-quality, fresher, and safer ingredients, However, before deciding to switch your dog’s diet, it is important to understand both the advantages and challenges of homemade diets, as well as how they compare to conventional commercial diets.
The Pros of Homemade Diets for Dogs
Quality Control– One of the primary benefits of homemade diets is the control you have over the ingredients. Commercial dog food, although often nutritious, can sometimes contain lower-quality meat, by-products, preservatives, or fillers like corn, wheat, and soy. By preparing your dog’s meals at home, you can ensure that they are consuming high-quality protein sources, fresh vegetables, and wholesome grains, without the unnecessary additives. In addition, you know the source of the ingredients you are using.
Customization To Individual Needs– Every dog is unique, and their dietary needs may differ based on factors such as age, breed, size, activity level, and health condition. Homemade diets offer the ability to tailor food to meet your dog’s specific nutritional requirements. For instance, dogs with allergies or sensitivities can benefit from a customized diet that avoids trigger ingredients, while older dogs may require food that supports joint health or improved digestion.
Freshness and Taste– Homemade dog food can be fresher and more appetizing than commercially produced food. Dogs tend to be more enthusiastic about meals made with real whole foods like chicken, beef, carrots, and sweet potatoes. This can be especially helpful if you have a picky eater or a dog with a reduced appetite.
Avoiding Fillers & Artificial Ingredients– Many commercial dog foods contain fillers such as corn and soy, which may not provide much nutritional value for your dog. Homemade diets can avoid these fillers, offering more digestible and nutrient-rich ingredients. Additionally, homemade meals don’t typically contain artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives.
The Cons of Homemade Diets For Dogs
Nutritional Imbalance
The most important factor in a diet is its nutritional value and a significant challenge of homemade diets is ensuring that they meet all of your dog’s nutritional requirements. Without proper knowledge of canine nutrition, there is a risk of creating a diet that is deficient in one or more essential nutrients, which could lead to long-term health problems. It’s crucial to consult with a veterinarian or canine nutritionist to ensure the diet is balanced and appropriate for your dog’s life stage and health status.
Time Consuming
Preparing homemade meals for your dog requires time, effort, and planning. Unlike commercial dog food, which is ready to serve with minimal preparation, homemade meals need to be cooked, portioned, and sometimes supplemented with additional vitamins and minerals. If you have a busy lifestyle, this commitment might not be for you.
Expense
Homemade diets are usually more expensive than commercial dog foods. High-quality ingredients such as lean meats, organic vegetables, and supplements can add up quickly and make only a small quantity of food. While homemade food might be cost-effective in the long run if you can buy in bulk, it’s important to factor in the price of prepping custom meals.
Storage and Spoilage
Since homemade dog food does not contain preservatives, it has a shorter shelf life than commercial foods. Proper storage is essential to prevent spoilage, and leftovers need to be refrigerated or frozen. Preparing meals in advance and ensuring proper storage can be challenging, and if not done right, could make your pet sick.
Nutritional Requirements for Dogs
Dogs are omnivores, meaning they require a combination of animal protein, fats, carbohydrates, and certain vitamins and minerals. A balanced homemade diet should include
Protein: Lean meats (chicken, beef, turkey), fish, and eggs provide essential amino acids.
Carbohydrates: Whole grains (brown rice, oats), sweet potatoes, and other vegetables help provide energy.
Fats: Animal fats, fish oil, and flax-seed oil are essential for skin health and coat shine.
Vitamins and Minerals: Dogs require a range of vitamins and minerals, including calcium, phosphorus, vitamins A, D, and E. Supplements may be necessary to ensure the diet is complete.
Don’t just run off a copy of the first homemade diet you find on the internet. Consulting with a veterinarian or pet nutritionist is vital when preparing a homemade diet, as they can guide you in formulating a balanced recipe.
Homemade Diets vs Conventional Commercial Diets
Commercial dog foods are formulated to meet the nutritional standards set by organizations like the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO). These diets are designed to be nutritionally complete and balanced, with less risk of deficiencies if followed properly. They are also convenient, shelf-stable, and typically less expensive than homemade diets. Yes, there are varying levels of quality among the brands on the market and plenty of websites out there can provide you with comparisons of the ingredients and rate the value each brand offers.
In contrast, homemade diets offer more flexibility and control over ingredients but require more effort to ensure nutritional balance. Additionally, homemade diets lack the preservatives that keep commercial food fresh for long periods, which means they have a shorter shelf life and require more careful handling.
Conclusion
Homemade diets for dogs can be an excellent choice for the right owner in the right situation. If you’re looking to provide high-quality, fresh food that meets their pet’s individual needs, it may be worth considering. However, it requires research, careful planning, and consulting with a vet or nutritionist to ensure the necessary nutritional balance. While homemade diets offer several benefits, it can be time-consuming and costly for the busy pet parent. By consulting with a professional and gathering the proper information you can can decide if a homemade diet is the right choice for your dog.
