How to Cook for a Soft Coated Wheaten

Many wheaten terriers have special dietary needs. A vet-approved homemade diet can be beneficial.

For a breed susceptible to allergic triggers, like the soft coated wheaten terrier, a home cooked diet can help by eliminating allergens. This medium-sized terrier is an affectionate and gentle breed that is prone to protein-wasting disease. Most wheaten terriers also suffer from dermatological problems that are triggered by fleabites, inhaled environmental allergens and food allergies. These allergic reactions can cause ear infections, stuffy nose and dermatitis. If you observe your wheaten terrier constantly licking and scratching the belly area or paws, homemade meals may alleviate the condition.

Things You'll Need

• 2/3 cup protein (chicken, turkey, beef, lamb or organ meat)
• 1 small sweet potato or yam
• 1 carrot
• 1 cup water
• 1/2 cup brown rice
• 1 tsp. oil (flax seed, sesame, sunflower)

Instructions

1. 

   Brown rice is a good option for pets with a gluten intolerance.

   Cook 1/2 cup brown rice according to the package instructions. Set aside.

2. 

   High-quality protein like chicken, beef, turkey or lamb can serve as the basis of your homemade dog food.

   Measure 2/3 cup of meat and cut into small pieces --- unless you're using ground meat. Finely chop the carrot and yam or run them through a food processor.

3. 

   Simmer the meat and vegetables until cooked.

   Place the meat, carrot and yam in a pot and add the 1 cup of water. Turn the stove on high heat and bring to a boil. Turn down the heat to medium and let simmer for 15 to 20 minutes.

4. 

   When allergens are a concern, commercial dog foods cannot compare to a well-planned homemade meal.

   Stir the cooked rice into the pot with the meat and vegetables and simmer for a few more minutes.

5. 

   Leftover strained liquid can be used in future recipes or served to your pet as a snack.

   Remove the pot from heat and strain, reserving the liquid for later. Allow it to cool.

6. 

   Oil can give your pet energy and can lubricate muscles.

   Once cooled down, but not cold, add 1 tsp. oil and a splash of the reserved liquid and stir. Serve while still warm.

1. 

Tips & Warnings

• Purchase a high-quality protein source like chicken, beef, organ meat or even eggs, if your wheaten is not allergic to them.

• If your wheaten is not allergic to gluten, oatmeal can be used instead of brown rice.

• Zucchini, peas, apples and pears can be good additions in your recipe. You may find your wheaten has a particular favorite combination.

• To save time, double or triple the recipe and store in the refrigerator.

• Wean your wheaten from the previous diet by mixing your homemade recipes with any remaining commercial pet food.

• Monitor your wheaten terrier's allergy symptoms and adjust ingredients accordingly.

• Before preparing any pet recipe, check the latest information regarding foods that can be dangerous to your dog. Never feed your dog chocolate, grapes, onions, garlic or salt.

• For a long-term home cooked diet, discuss nutritional guidelines with a veterinarian nutritionist.

• For dogs that have developed a protein-wasting disease, cutting back on the protein source may be necessary. Consult your vet for information as to how much daily protein your individual dog should be consuming.

References

• Littman, Meryl. Protein-Wasting Disease: What To Look For. Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier Club of America. Retrieved January 3, 2011 from http://www.scwtca.org/health/pwd.htm
• Canine Allergy. The Dog Health Guide. Retrieved January 3, 2011 from http://www.dog-health-guide.org/canineallergy.html
• Martin, Ann N. Homemade Diets for Pets. HOUSEPET: An On-Line Magazine for the Health and Longevity of Our Canines. Retrieved January 3, 2011 from http://www.housepetmagazine.com/03/food.htm
• Foods to Avoid Feeding Your Dog. PetEducation.com. Retrieved January 3, 2011 from http://www.peteducation.com/article.cfm?c=2+1659&aid=1030
• Food Allergies & Food Intolerance. PetEducation.com. Retrieved January 3, 2011 from http://www.peteducation.com/article.cfm?c=2&aid=143
• Protein-Losing Diseases; Larson, Helen. (August, 1995). Protein-Losing Diseases and the Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier. Retrieved January 3, 2011