Is Fresh Food a Good Addition to Your Dog's Diet?


Thinking about adding some fresh food to your dog's regular kibble? Let's explore the reasons behind it and which fresh foods are best for your furry friend!

Why Fresh Foods Are Beneficial:

When you mix a bit of fresh food with your dog's regular meal, it can do wonders for their well-being. Here's why:

Fill in Nutrient Gaps:

Many commercial dog foods use fillers that may leave nutritional gaps. Even with a balanced diet, adding fresh ingredients like fish for omega-3 fatty acids can benefit your dog, especially if they have joint issues.

Appeal to Picky Eaters:

For dogs with a picky palate, fresh ingredients can make their meals more exciting. Consider using bone broth or goat's milk to add flavor and tempt even the fussiest eaters.

Introduce Variety:

Just like humans, dogs benefit from a varied diet. While a staple diet covers the basics, adding fresh foods not only boosts their vitamin and mineral intake but also keeps mealtime interesting.

Long-Term Health Benefits:

Studies suggest that incorporating fresh vegetables into a dog's diet can significantly reduce the risk of certain health issues. For instance, a Purdue University study found that adding fresh vegetables three times a week reduced the risk of bladder cancer by over 70%.

Also Read: Dog-Friendly Vegetables: Safe Choices and Cautionary Picks

Fresh Foods to Include:

Here are some vet-approved fresh food options that can enhance your dog's meals:

Meats:

Raw, freeze-dried, or dehydrated meats (chicken, turkey, lean beef).

Organ meats (hearts, tripe, gizzards, small amounts of beef liver).

Fresh fish or fish canned in water (sardines, salmon, smelt).

Vegetables:

Leafy greens (spinach, kale, arugula).

Cruciferous vegetables (broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage).

Pumpkin and sweet potato.

Mushrooms (shiitake, lion’s mane, chaga, reishi).

Fruits:

Berries (blueberries, blackberries, raspberries, cranberries).

Apples, Watermelon, grapefruit, mango, and papaya.

Dairy:

Plain yogurt.

Goat milk.

Tips for Easy Feeding:

Adding fresh food doesn't have to be complicated. Try these tips:

Start Small:

Less than 15% of your dog's daily calories should come from added foods. You can feed fresh food a few times a week.

Meal Prep:

Prepare fresh ingredients in advance. Puree vegetables or pre-portion meats, making it convenient for daily use.

Use What You Have:

Utilize dog-safe ingredients from your kitchen. It's a simple way to ensure freshness without starting a new grocery list.

By making these small changes, you're giving your pet a tasty and nutritious boost to their meals. After all, a little effort in the kitchen can contribute to your dog's long and happy life!

Discover safe and harmful foods for your dog swiftly by searching for pet clinic near me for guidance on dog-friendly nutrition.

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