Help! I Want to Start Making My Own Dog Food! (Vet Answered)
This question has been answered by a vet
Veterinarian & Animal Behaviorist
With nearly two decades in veterinary medicine, Dr. Paola brings hands-on experience across multiple species. A graduate of the University of Guadalajara, she specializes in preventive care, animal welfare, and positive reinforcement training.
The Question
“ Hey Dr. Paola, I’m wondering what is the best way to go about making homemade dog food for my dog Bowdoin. Where do I begin? ” – Drew
Quick Info about Bowdoin
Hey Drew!
Making homemade dog food for Bowdoin is a fulfilling way to manage his diet and ensure high-quality ingredients, but it’s critical to provide complete and balanced nutrition. Dogs have specific dietary needs that include essential amino acids, vitamins, and minerals like calcium, iron, vitamin E, and vitamin B12. The most important point to understand here is that meeting these requirements can be challenging without careful planning and professional guidance so great efforts can have unfortunate results if not well executed.
To ensure Bowdoin receives a safe and balanced diet, start with recipes approved by a veterinarian or veterinary nutritionist. A professional can assess his dietary needs based on his breed, age, weight, activity level, and any health concerns. In many cases, supplements specifically designed for pets—such as those from BalanceIT or The Farmer’s Dog—will be necessary to meet nutritional standards.
Cooking at home also requires attention to ingredient quality and kitchen safety. Proper hygiene and handling practices are key to minimizing the risk of contamination while preparing, storing, and serving Bowdoin’s meals.
While it takes more effort to cook homemade dog food, it can be a very beautiful thing for both you and your dog. Best wishes on your dog food culinary journey!
Dr. Paola