Are you looking for a way to give your dog more variety in their diet?
Sick of paying an arm and a leg for expensive kibble or trying to decipher which brands are best?
Answering yourself “What can I feed my dog instead of dog food”?
Don’t worry!
Believe it or not, there are plenty of other items that can be safely used as meal replacements or treats.
You might be surprised by how many delicious meals you can make for your pup with some human food basics – without compromising their nutritional needs.
In this article, we’ll explore the various alternatives available and why they could be suitable options for when the boring kibble just won’t do anymore.
Read on if you’re interested in learning more about what else is out there so you can start spoiling your furry companion today!
What You Can Feed Your Dog
Cooked Meat
Cooking healthy meals for your furry family members is an excellent way to make sure they are getting the right nutrition.
Instead of purchasing dog food, you can provide your dog with cooked meat at mealtimes.
Most meats, such as chicken and beef, as well as fatty fish like salmon, can be boiled or steamed and added to their diet for added nutrient support.
It is important that owners making sure any bones are removed from the cooked meats since this type of bone can break and choke a dog if ingested.
Other important dietary considerations include adding vegetables, transitioning away from commercial kibbles, monitoring protein levels and supplying certain supplements depending on the individual pet’s needs.
Feeding your pup fresh cooked meals is just one way to show them how much you care!
Cooked Vegetables
If you’re looking for an alternative to traditional dog food, consider cooked vegetables.
Fruits and vegetables like sweet potatoes, carrots, apples (chopped or pureed), and green beans are packed with essential vitamins and minerals that are beneficial to your pet’s health and wellness.
Providing your pup with these nutritional foods can help improve their digestive tract, boost the immune system and even increase energy levels due to all of the natural sources of carbohydrates.
Plus, as a bonus for you as the pet parent, cooked veggies are generally much cheaper than pre-packaged dog food!
Fruits
Instead of the traditional bag of kibble, why not try something different for your dog’s meals?
Fruits are a great way to give them the vitamins and minerals they need, plus it’s a yummy snack that is sure to make tails wag!
Many fruits contain beneficial nutrients such as antioxidants.
Apples, blueberries, and bananas are especially beneficial and provide an assortment of essential vitamins and minerals.
Feed certain fruits in moderation, as some contain high amounts of sugar.
Avoid giving any citrus fruits to dogs, as these can be toxic to their systems.
Adding fresh fruit to your dog’s diet is an easy way to ensure they receive the necessary nutrition while having a special treat at the same time.
Yogurt
If you’re looking for an alternate to the traditional dog food, yogurt can be a great option.
Not only is it full of nutritional ingredients, like probiotics and protein, but it can also help your pup’s digestive health.
Plus, many pooches crave the taste of yogurt!
Just be sure to pick plain yogurt so that it doesn’t contain any added sugar or artificial sweeteners.
Limit how much of the treat your canine has per day as well – for large dogs, no more than 1/4 cup and for small dogs, no more than 2 tablespoons should do the trick.
While yogurt may not replace traditional dog food altogether, its potential benefits make it worth considering as an occasional snack.
Salmon
There are many benefits to switching from traditional dog food to salmon-based meals.
Salmon is a nutrient-rich and easily digestible fish, providing your pet with more than just necessary vitamins and minerals.
Studies show that it can promote healthy skin and coat, lower inflammation, decrease allergies, improve joint health, regulate blood sugar levels, support healthy digestion and boost immunity.
Not only does your pup benefit from the high levels of Omega-3 fatty acids found in wild-caught salmon but you can also rest assured knowing you are providing them with sustainable nutrition.
Overall, feeding your dog Salmon as part of their regular diet is a great idea for both their health and the environment.
Eggs
Have you ever considered feeding your beloved pup eggs instead of their regular dog food?
This can be a great dietary switch for many dogs, as eggs provide them with protein and other vital nutrients they need to stay healthy.
Eggs are also an easily digestible snack that contain few allergens and are unlikely to cause an upset stomach in your pup.
It is important to note that the egg should always be cooked, as raw eggs can contain salmonella.
Feeding free range, organic eggs are preferable since they contain more Omega-3 fatty acids than store-bought eggs.
So if you’re interested in giving your pup a change from their regular grub, try out this delicious and nutrient-packed alternative!
Peanut Butter
If you’re looking for an alternative to traditional dog food, why not try feeding your pup some peanut butter?
Peanut butter is a fan favourite amongst canines due to its delicious taste and high protein content.
Peanut butter contains healthy fats, vitamins B and E, as well as niacin, which helps maintain good health in your furry friend.
It’s also a great source of fibre to keep them feeling full and happy!
As with any meal, make sure to only serve your pet a limited amount of peanut butter – too much could lead to an upset tummy or even obesity.
All in all, with proper moderation, peanut butter can add some variation and flavour to your dog’s diet!
Cooked Grains
Did you know that cooked grains can be a great nutritious alternative to dog food?
Grains such as lentils, oats, quinoa and brown rice are packed with essential vitamins and minerals that play an important role in your dog’s overall health.
These grains provide your pup with dietary fiber which helps regulate digestion and can even help reduce the risk of some chronic diseases.
Not only do these ingredients offer amazing health benefits for your canine, but the taste will make them beg for more!
Keeping a regular diet of cooked grains for your pup is easy and inexpensive.
Start cooking up some healthy meals today to keep your pal happy and healthy!
What to think about when you feed your dog something else than dog food
Avoid too much sodium and fat, which can make you thirsty all the time and upset your stomach.
Strive for a balance of complex carbohydrates and lean protein.
Consider any allergies or special dietary needs your dog may have
Before You Go…
Now you know the answer to the question, “What can I feed my dog instead of dog food?”.
If you want to learn more, read the following article too!
