Homemade Dog Food for Small and Large Dog Breeds

If you're thinking about home-cooking for your dog, look no further! The variety of ingredients used in homemade food will provide delicious meals that are also an excellent source of nutrition for your little cutie of any breed, shape or size.

How do I introduce my dog to a homemade diet?

Before changing your dog's diet, always consult with your veterinarian to ensure the diet is meeting your dog's individual needs. Once you decide to make a change, always transition to their new food gradually over the course of 5-10 days. During the transition mix 2/3 of their old food with 1/3 of the new food and gradually increase the amount of the new food over time. Depending on how sensitive your pup is, they will be on either the shorter or longer end of the that spectrum. If your dog has an "iron stomach," they can usually transition quickly to a new food. If you've noticed dog tends to be sensitive to certain foods or ingredients, they make take longer to transition to the new food. While changing your dog's food, keep an eye out for any unusual signs and contact your vet if you notice any new behaviors, like vomiting or diarrhea. 

How much homemade dog food does my dog need? 

Maintaining your dog's daily nutrition is important for their overall health. The amount of food you feed your pup depends on their weight as well as the recipe you choose. Each recipe will have feeding guidelines with amounts properly portioned for your dog's weight. When deciding which recipes to use for your small dog, make sure to choose recipes formulated by experts that include feeding guidelines. 

How many times per day should I feed my dog? 

The feeding guidelines for your homemade dog food recipe should include a daily total amount to feed your dog. Based on your dog's preferences, you can feed them one meal daily, or split the total amount into a morning and evening meal for two meal times. 

What are the best proteins for my dog?

Choosing quality protein is as a part of your dog's diet it vital to their well-being. At Opal, we opt for nutrient-dense, allergy-friendly plant proteins in our veterinarian-formulated recipes, including lentils, black beans, tempeh and tofu. Not only are these ingredients rich in protein, but they are cholesterol free and great for dogs with allergies to animal products, senior dogs, or dogs with sensitive tummies.  

What are the best fruits and veggies for dogs?

Choosing to add fresh, colorful ingredients like fruits and vegetables to your dog's diet can really benefit their nutrient intake and lead to a healthier overall diet. Make sure vegetables are steamed and cooled before serving, and ensure fruit is chopped into small, bite-sized pieces with all seeds and pits removed. Some safe and healthy fruits and vegetables for small dogs include: 

• Broccoli 
• Peas
• Spinach
• Strawberries
• Apples
• Cantaloupe 

Do I need to use a supplement in homemade dog food? 

When choosing any diet for your dog, it's important that it is complete and balanced. To ensure each homemade meal you provide to your pup is nutritionally adequate for their daily nutritional needs, make sure to add a supplement powder along with appropriately formulated recipes. 

Ready to get cookin' for your little pupper, but not sure where to start? Grab a copy of our "Guide to Homemade Dog Food!"