Homemade dog food is becoming increasingly popular as pet owners seek to provide their dogs with high-quality, natural, and nutritious meals. However, despite good intentions, many homemade diets lack essential nutrients, leading to deficiencies that can negatively impact a dog’s health. This blog will explore the most common missing nutrients in homemade dog food, why they are crucial, and how to ensure your dog’s diet is complete and balanced. We’ll also provide a well-balanced meatloaf recipe using beef, chicken, and fish to help you create a nutritious meal for your furry friend.

Why Nutritional Balance Matters

Dogs require a range of essential nutrients to maintain optimal health, including proteins, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals. Nutritional deficiencies can lead to a variety of health problems, such as weak bones, poor coat condition, digestive issues, and even organ failure. While commercial pet foods are formulated to meet these requirements for different life stages, homemade diets often lack key nutrients unless carefully planned.

Common Missing Nutrients in Homemade Dog Food

1. Calcium and Phosphorus

Why it’s important: Calcium and phosphorus are essential for strong bones and teeth, muscle function, and nerve signaling. An imbalance, particularly a deficiency in calcium, can lead to skeletal deformities, fractures, and weakness.

Sources: Include crushed eggshells, bone meal, or calcium carbonate supplements to ensure adequate levels.

2. Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Why it’s important: Omega-3 fatty acids play a crucial role in reducing inflammation, supporting skin and coat health, and aiding brain function.

Sources: Fatty fish like salmon and sardines, fish oil supplements, algae oil or even krill.

3. Vitamin D

Why it’s important: Vitamin D regulates calcium and phosphorus levels and is vital for bone health and immune function. Unlike humans, dogs cannot produce sufficient vitamin D from sunlight.

Sources: Liver, fish, and egg yolks are good natural sources.

4. Vitamin E

Why it’s important: This powerful antioxidant protects cells from oxidative damage and supports the immune system.

Sources: Vitamin E can be found in sunflower seeds, almonds and wheat germ oil

5. Iodine

Why it’s important: Iodine is necessary for thyroid function and hormone production. Deficiency can result in hypothyroidism, leading to weight gain, lethargy, and skin issues.

Sources: Seaweed (kelp), fish, and iodized salt are good sources of iodine.

6. Zinc

Why it’s important: Zinc supports immune function, skin health, and wound healing. A deficiency can cause poor coat condition, cracked paw pads, and slow healing of wounds.

Sources: Beef, pumpkin seeds, oysters, and whole grains contain high amounts of zinc. A supplement may be essential if Beef is not being fed in a recipe

7. Taurine

Why it’s important: Taurine is an essential amino acid for heart function, vision, and reproduction. Deficiency has been linked to dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) in dogs.

Sources: Found naturally in meat, particularly heart and organ meats like liver and kidney.

8. Choline

Why it’s important: Choline is essential for brain function, liver health, and nerve signaling.

Sources: Eggs, beef liver, Pork and fish are excellent sources of choline.

9. Iron

Why it’s important: Iron is crucial for red blood cell production and oxygen transport in the body. A deficiency can cause anemia, leading to fatigue and weakness. Puppies need nearly twice the amount of Iron per 1000kcals compared to healthy adult dogs

Sources: Red meat, liver, and green leafy vegetables are good sources of iron.

10. B Vitamins (B12, B6, Folate, Niacin, Thiamine, Riboflavin)

Why it’s important: These vitamins are essential for energy production, nervous system function, and cell metabolism.

Sources: Meat, fish, eggs, dairy, and leafy greens provide an array of B vitamins.

Creating a Balanced Homemade Diet

To ensure your dog receives all essential nutrients, consider working with a canine nutritionist or using a vet-approved supplement. Rotating protein sources and incorporating a variety of organ meats, vegetables, and healthy fats can help achieve a balanced diet. You can join THE CANINE CODE for dozens of balanced recipes

Balanced Homemade Meatloaf Recipe for Dogs

This homemade meatloaf combines beef, chicken, and fish for a balanced and nutrient-rich meal.

Ingredients:

500g lean beef mince
500g chicken mince
200g white fish (e.g., cod or pollock)
100g chicken liver (source of iron, vitamin A, and B12)
100g chicken heart (rich in taurine and CoQ10)
2 eggs (good source of vitamin D and protein)
50g finely ground eggshells (natural calcium source)
100g pumpkin (fiber and vitamin A)
100g spinach (iron, vitamin K, and antioxidants)
2 tsp kelp powder (iodine source)
2 tbsp fish oil (omega-3 fatty acids)
1 tsp turmeric (anti-inflammatory benefits)
50g rolled oats (fiber and B vitamins)
500ml bone broth (collagen and joint support)

Instructions:

Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and lightly grease a baking dish.
Blend or finely chop the chicken liver, chicken heart, spinach, and pumpkin.
Combine all ingredients in a large mixing bowl and mix thoroughly.
Transfer the mixture to the baking dish and press it down evenly.
Bake for 40-50 minutes or until firm and cooked through.
Cool completely before slicing into meal-sized portions.
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for longer storage.

Feeding Instructions:

Portion size depends on your dog’s weight, age, and activity level. To Calculate your dogs calories check out this blog A general guideline is to feed about 2-3% of their body weight daily, divided into two meals.

Tips For Balanced Homemade Diets

Variety is key: Rotate proteins and add different vegetables to ensure a range of nutrients.

Use supplements as needed: A canine multivitamin or targeted supplements may be necessary to fill gaps but consult with a professional before just adding in
Monitor your dog’s health: Look for changes in energy levels, coat quality, stool consistency and weight
Consult a canine nutritionist: Homemade diets should be tailored to individual needs, especially for dogs with health conditions.

Conclusion

Feeding homemade dog food can be highly beneficial, but ensuring proper nutrient balance is essential for long-term health. By addressing common deficiencies and using well-rounded recipes, you can provide your dog with a diet that promotes vitality and longevity. If in doubt, consult a canine nutritionist to tailor the diet to your dog's specific needs.

Want a FREE DIET ASSESSMENT and a plan on how The Canine Dietitian can help you, click for more info.

Common Missing Nutrients in Homemade Dog Food: With a FREE Recipe