Homemade Dog Food for Chihuahuas

It's natural to want to control your dog's diet, especially if you've recently adopted a new pet. Some dog owners may assume that homemade Chihuahua food recipes must be better than dry kibble that comes from a big-box store. However, the truth is that there's no evidence that a home-cooked bowl of dog food is nutritionally better than one you open from a can. So, while your dog may be bored to tears eating the same salmon and green beans meals week in and week out, these formulations are designed for optimal canine health.

Before you dive into making a Chihuahua dog recipe, check the facts. Online sources may not be trustworthy, so your best bet is to speak with your dog's veterinarian. Run the recipes you plan to make by your dog's vet so you're sure they contain the proper nutrients. You can also put together your own menu with help from Balance IT, a site that's staffed by a specialist in canine nutrition. As you create your dog's chow, focus on fresh, whole foods and even organic versions for the healthiest recipes.

As you consider raw food for Chihuahuas, know that raw meat and poultry often contain bacteria that could harm your animal. Cooking these ingredients can help but may not destroy toxins within the product. Another mistake pet owners may commit when preparing a Chihuahua food recipe is to serve human leftovers. However, doing so means not following a well-balanced recipe that ensures your animal receives the proper amount of protein, carbs, and healthy fats plus important minerals.

It's also critical to vary your pet's homemade diet to be certain you include a wide range of nutrients. For example, don't rely on lamb or chicken plus sweet potatoes for long stretches. Instead, mix different meats, grains, and vegetables into your Chihuahua food recipe. The bottom line is to always follow recipes that are created by a dog dietary specialist. This way, your pet will benefit from excellent nutrition.

If you're keen to offer your pet a homemade diet, make sure you're very familiar with the list of human foods and table scraps that should never be fed to your dog. Some of these include nuts, which can choke an animal and may contain unhealthy levels of salt, and garlic, as it's quite toxic to dogs and may lead to anemia. You should also avoid giving your pup ice cream because it's too sugary, and some canines are lactose intolerant.

As for human foods you can feed your dog, look for moderate amounts of cheese, like low-fat varieties of mozzarella and cottage cheese; corn (cut off the cob); eggs that are fully cooked; peanut butter; and popcorn. As for meat options for dogs, pork is a good pick, though ham is fine in small amounts since it's rather high in fat and sodium. Turkey is allowed if the skin and fat have been removed. Don't forget fish, like sardines and salmon, which are super sources of protein; good fats; and calcium. Just be certain any fish meals you make are cooked through and bone-free.