Your Furry Friend's Diet: Are You Doing Enough?

How It All Started...

This particular topic has been something I personally have been dealing with for a while now. I have a Beagle named Charlie who was on the hefty side when we rescued him. They chalked it up to the kids giving him more daily treats than actual food, but after getting to know him, he's just a pig. LOL He was always going to the vet for ear infections, itchiness, and hot spots. It was expensive. My hubby decided one day to make homemade bone broth, add some chicken and rice to it, and give it to him. Did he love it? Absolutely, but did I? Not so much because there's a way to implement a new food into your pup's routine, and that did not happen. Explosions are one way to sum it up. Gross. After we got that situation taken care of, I started noticing how he was itching less, not whining so much in between meals, and seemed to have a tad more energy, so I decided to take over the meal preparations. Yes, I went down a deep, deep hole of researching everything you should and shouldn't give your furry loved ones. I'm what you might call an animal lover, and this was something my dogs desperately needed. My hubby says I'm like Snow White...and all the creatures know it and somehow end up at my house.

The Consequences of Poor Nutrition

When pet owners fail to provide adequate and balanced nutrition, the repercussions can be severe and long-lasting—think of it as hitting the reset button on the chaos in your home! Poor nutrition can lead to several health complications, including obesity, diabetes, dental diseases, and various digestive issues that would make anyone cringe. It can significantly affect a pet's quality of life—especially if they can’t leap onto the couch without a five-part series of grunts and groans accompanied by a set of stairs. Talk about humiliating, Mom.

Obesity is one of the most prevalent issues linked to inadequate diets. Pets who eat too many calories while simultaneously perfecting their couch potato routine can gain weight quicker than you can say "treat time!" This could lead to health problems such as osteoarthritis, heart disease, and certain cancers—because who wants their pet to become a medical drama? For example, one case study highlighted a Labrador Retriever who was regularly fed table scraps as if he were royalty. This led to the kind of obesity that forced him to do the "waddle walk"—and let’s just say, the lifespan of a couch potato isn’t very long. In that respect, they are much like we are.

Diabetes is another serious issue linked to poor nutrition choices. Pets on a high-carbohydrate diet could develop insulin resistance as if they were rejecting their breakfast pancakes. A notable example includes a feline who faced chaos after mostly dining on dry kibble high in carbs—because who decided it was a good idea to let cats have their own cooking show anyway?

Dental diseases are also a significant consequence of inadequate nutrition, leading to plaque and tartar buildup like a stubborn family member who refuses to leave after the holidays. A poor diet can make pets susceptible to periodontal diseases that may result in pain, tooth loss, and more vet visits than you’d planned—because nothing hurts quite like a toothache combined with a dog’s guilt trip.

Digestive problems can also pop up from dietary indiscretion or plain old bad food choices. Issues such as vomiting, diarrhea, or chronic gastrointestinal stress can arise. Yes, your dog can get the "toots" just like we can. The severity with which the horrid smell that typically occurs as well is enough to have anyone say, "Today is the day this stops! I can't take that smell anymore". Ensuring proper nutrition is vital for keeping your pet healthy and also maintaining your sanity when they don’t have to go on a surprise potty run. Ain't nobody got time for all the "cleanup on isle 3" messes that I'm talking about here. Gross.

Moderation is key when it comes to treats—too many indulgences can lead to weight gain and a sudden reversal of the "good dog" title. Treats should ideally account for no more than 10% of your pet's daily caloric intake, unless you’re raising a tiny furry dictator. Introducing variety can enhance your pet’s meal experience, but make sure they don't throw a tantrum when trying new foods—like asking a toddler to try broccoli for the first time. I've replaced a lot of store-bought dog treats with carrots, frozen blueberries, sliced apples, frozen bananas, and lots of other fruits and veggies. Just remember to always check to make sure they are not toxic to your furry loved ones BEFORE giving them. Examples of no-no foods are: onions, potatoes, green tomatoes, grapes, just to name some of the most common.

Tips And Ideas To Enhance Their Diet.

Improving your pet's diet is crucial for their health and well-being, so let’s make it fun! One effective approach is transitioning your furry friend to a higher-quality pet food. Look for options with natural ingredients that actually sound edible, high protein content, and vitamins specifically tailored for your pet’s breed, age, and needs to keep you on your toes. There are a lot of much healthier options these days than there used to be, albeit they are more expensive for sure. Begin by mixing a small amount with their current food, slowly increasing the proportion over several days—after all, we don’t want any digestive surprises that result in unfortunate clean-up. Been there, done that, don't recommend it. Again, gross.

Fresh foods can also significantly enhance your pet's nutrition. Consider tossing in some vegetables like cut-up red or orange bell peppers ( a favorite at my house) or peas (in moderation—shh, don’t tell your fur baby it’s mandatory), as well as fruits like blueberries or apple slices. These foods provide essential vitamins and minerals while also enhancing your pet’s pastry-chef skills. Again, ensure you know which foods are safe, or you'll end up being the worst chef ever and have a pet whose belly doesn’t agree with you, messes to clean up, and a strong sulfur smell in the house for a bit, if not worse... a trip to the vet because you accidentally poisoned your baby.

Another great option is to prepare homemade recipes that ensure your pet receives a balanced nutritional profile. I personally decided to go this route. For example, cooked chicken mixed with brown rice and steamed vegetables: the kind of meal that would make even the pickiest eater raise an eyebrow. I started with this, but sadly found out that one of my doggies doesn't do well with chicken, so I don't use it myself anymore, but it's a great, cheaper option versus a nice, expensive T-bone. With plenty of recipes available catering to different dietary needs, you can explore options without stumbling into the "what were we thinking?" trap. I'll be posting my own recipe that I've used and been tweaking for almost a year now, which has resulted in 11 pounds off my beagle Charlie in under a year, fewer visits to the vet for ear infections or hot spots, and overall MUCH more energy in both he and Lucy. To say they love meal time is the understatement of the year. You can set a clock by those two when it comes time to eat...seriously.

Dietary supplements can also play a role in improving nutrition. Consult your veterinarian for ideas on incorporating omega fatty acids (for a healthy coat, so your pet will shimmer in the light), probiotics (for a tummy that tends to protest customer service), or vitamin supplements. These can address various health concerns and keep your pet feeling like royalty. Regular veterinary check-ups are also essential as pets age. These visits allow for ongoing monitoring of their health and nutritional needs, ensuring an adjustment to their diet whenever you suddenly realize your best friend has transformed into a grumpy old person after they stop playing fetch. The changes you make today can lead to a happier, healthier, and more entertaining life for your furry companion! My dogs absolutely LOVE these Vet Promise 30 in 1 Multivitamin chews! Seriously, watch your fingers.

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*This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may earn a commission at no extra cost to you".

🐾 Weekly Homemade Dog Food Guide: "Ninja Foodi Edition" By Carissa 🐾

Yield: Approx. 14–15 lbs (7-day supply)
Goal: 45 lb Pitbull - Lucy (Maintenance) & 30 lb Beagle - Charlie (Weight Loss)

🛒 Weekly Grocery List

• Meat: 5 lbs Ground Turkey + 1 can Pink Salmon (14.75 oz) + 0.5 lb Chicken Liver.

• Eggs: 12 Large Eggs (Keep the shells!).

• Grains: 3 cups Dry Long Grain Brown Rice + 1 cup Dry Steel Cut Oats + 1 cup Quinoa

• Produce: 1 can Pure Pumpkin (15 oz) + Frozen Kale, Spinach, Broccoli, Peas & Carrots, Sweet Potato, Green Beans + Fresh Bell Peppers, Apples (seeds removed) + Frozen Bananas, Blueberries or Strawberries. I use 2 fruits and 2 veggies, but I swap them up each time. Even dogs deserve some variety from time to time, right?

• The "Boost" Mix: 2 tbsp of each of the following three combos: -

  1) Antioxidant Booster- Ground Ginger & Turmeric (both have potent anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and digestive-supporting properties)

  2) Nutritional Boosters- Ground Flax-Hemp-Chia Seeds (all 3 together, I buy a heart-healthy mix and they are nutrient-dense superfoods rich in Omega-3/6 fatty acids, fiber, and antioxidants, which boost immune systems, reduce inflammation, and promote healthy skin and coats.)

  3) Super Herbs Booster- Dried Dandelion Leaves, Basil, Dill Seed, & Oregano: Offers antibacterial and antioxidant properties to support overall immune health. They are a natural supplement for dogs, rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as iron, calcium, and potassium. They act as a powerful, natural diuretic and liver toner, helping to remove toxins, improve digestion, and support kidney and liver health.

  Oregano: The "Natural Antibiotic" - Basil: The "Stress-Relieving" Antioxidant - Dill Seed: The Digestive "Tummy Tamer"

  & Dried Dandelion Leaves: The Kidney & Liver

  🥣 Preparation Steps

1. Ninja Foodi Grains (Pressure Cooker)

• Rinse: Rinse the 3 cups of brown rice and 1 Cup Quiona thoroughly until the water runs clear to prevent foaming.

• Combine: Add the rinsed rice, quinoa, and 1 cup steel-cut oats to the inner Ninja pot.

• Liquid: Add 8.5 cups of water or sodium-free chicken broth. While 34% of dogs have a beef allergy, only 15% have a chicken allergy. Again, you can also just use plain water.

• Settings: Secure the pressure lid and set the valve to the SEAL position.

• Cook: Select PRESSURE (High) and set the timer for 18-20 minutes.

• Release: When the timer ends, allow a Natural Release (NPR) for 15 minutes before opening the valve to release any remaining steam.

2. Protein (Pan/Stove/Ninja Foodi)

• Lightly cook the 5 lbs of ground turkey and liver. (preparing food at low temperatures—typically between 160°F and 180°F—just long enough to kill harmful bacteria while keeping the food's natural nutrients intact)

• To achieve a "lightly cooked" result without over-processing, the following methods are often used:

  • Sous vide: Vacuum-sealing food and simmering it in a temperature-controlled water bath.

  • Steaming: Quickly cooking ingredients over boiling water to maintain texture and nutrients.

  • Slow Simmering: Cooking in a pot at a very low heat for a longer period.

  • Sautéing: A quick 3–5 minute toss in a pan with water or broth until the meat just changes color.

• Hard-boil 12 eggs. Peel them; set whites/yolks aside.

• Shells: Dry shells in a 200°F oven for 10 mins, or the Foodi for 4/5 min on air fry mode, then grind in your Ninja blender or coffee grinder to a fine powder. I have an old coffee grinder I use specifically for egg shells now. I also have a smaller mason jar that I use to store the ground shells, so I just add a few TBS at a time when making my food.

3. The Ninja Nutrient Blast (Blender)

• Place all fruits/veggies, seeds, and "Boost" Mix in the blender.

• Pulse into a smooth "green smoothie" puree to ensure the nutrients are digestible and evenly mixed.

4. Final Assembly

Fold the Turkey/Salmon, chopped Eggs, Ninja Puree with "Boost Mix", Pumpkin, and Eggshell Powder into the warm Ninja Foodi rice/oat base.

🍽 Daily Feeding Guide for Charlie & Lucy

Dog Target Weight Daily Serving

Lucy- Pitbull 45 lbs - 3 Cups Total

Charlie - Beagle 30 lbs - 2 Cups Total

🩺 Troubleshooting & Monitoring

• Yellow/Orange Stool: Normal side effect of Turmeric and Pumpkin.

• Excessive Gas: Reduce broccoli or peas, as they can be harder to digest for some dogs.

• Weight Plateau (Beagle): Swap 1/2 cup of his rice for an extra 1/2 cup of green beans to lower calories while keeping him full.

• Fine Powder Warning: Ensure eggshells are flour-fine; coarse shells can irritate the digestive tract and won't provide the necessary calcium.

❄️ Storage Instructions

• Fridge: 3–4 days in airtight containers.

• Freezer: Portion the remaining into gallon bags. Thaw 24 hours before use.

  ** This is my personal recipe that I use on my dogs. I am not a licensed vet or health provider in any way. Just someone who has done a lot of research to make her own dogs as happy and healthy as possible. I've spent countless hours researching, tweaking my recipe, and this is my most recent version of my dog food. Please do your own due diligence and feel free to look everything up yourself, or discuss with your veterinarian. If you do decide to try this recipe, make sure to incorporate this slowly into their current dog food to make the transition easier and not upset their digestive tract, which will cause you a lot of "clean up" time, and also monitor how your dog reacts. More or less energy? More regular stools? Less itching, or more?

  Before I conclude, I wanted to list some of the most common human ingredients used that are actually bad for your dog's health acording to the ASPCA & Web MD.

  Chocolate, Gum and candy, Xylitol, Grapes, Raisins, Macadamia nuts, Avocados, Onions, Garlic, Salt, Tea leaves, Raw yeast dough, Spoiled foods, Fatty foods, Coffee, Alcohol, Cooked Bones, Avacado, Potato, Fatty Meat Trimmings, Fruit Pits ( cherries, peaches, plums), Dairy Products, Nutmeg, Raw Eggs.

  Much Love,

  Carissa, Charlie, & Lucy