Fresh Food Guide for Your Dog's Bowl
Everything you need to know about feeding fresh, wholesome foods to your canine companion
These are general guides based on commonly used and sourced ingredients.
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Every dog is unique! Contact Christie for personalized feeding recommendations based on your dog's specific needs, weight, activity level, and health goals.
Garden Goodies: Fresh Produce for Dogs
These fruits and veggies are nutrient-rich and safe to add to your dog's meals.
Note: Never use canned products with sodium preservatives.
| Ingredient | Key Nutrients | Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Spinach | Vitamins A, K, Iron | Eye health, digestion, red blood cells |
| Carrots | Beta-carotene, Vitamin C | Vision, immunity, heart health |
| Green Beans | Fiber, Vitamin K | Weight control, heart support |
| Apples (no seeds) | Vitamin C, Fiber | Digestion, heart health |
| Blueberries / Cranberries | Antioxidants | Urinary tract, anti-aging |
| Sweet Potatoes | Fiber, Vitamins A, C | Energy, gut regularity |
| Pumpkin | Beta-carotene, Potassium | Bowel health, immunity |
| Zucchini | Vitamin C, Potassium | Hydration, digestion |
| Bananas (moderate) | Potassium, B6 | Muscle and energy support |
| Mango (peeled/pitted) | Vitamins A, C | Immunity, vision |
| Cucumber | Vitamin K, Potassium | Cooling, vascular health |
| Strawberries | Vitamin C, Fiber | Immunity, anti-aging |
| Kale (small amounts) | Vitamins A, C, Calcium | Anti-inflammatory, detox |
| Red Potatoes (cooked) | B6, Fiber | Energy, digestion |
| Pears (no seeds) | Vitamin C, Fiber | Gut and immune health |
| Parsley (flat leaf) | Vitamins C, A | Kidney support, fresh breath |
Safe Peppers for Dogs: Bell Peppers Only
Dogs can safely eat bell peppers in moderation. These include:
- 🫑Red Bell Peppers – Most nutritious; highest in vitamins A and C, beta-carotene, and antioxidants like lycopene.
- 🫑Orange Bell Peppers – Rich in vitamin A and beta-carotene; supports skin and eye health.
- 🫑Yellow Bell Peppers – Good source of vitamin C and lutein; supports immune and eye health.
- 🫑Green Bell Peppers – Least sweet but still beneficial; high in fiber and vitamin C.
Avoid spicy peppers like jalapeños, chili peppers, and habaneros. These contain capsaicin, which can cause digestive upset and even toxicity in dogs.
Pantry Power-Ups: Functional Additions
Add these in small amounts for extra health benefits
Whole Grains
Energy and gut health
Flaxseed
Omega-3s, anti-inflammatory
Turmeric
Joint and heart support
Thyme / Oregano
Antimicrobial, immune boost
Ginger
Nausea relief, joint health
Coconut / Olive Oil
Skin, coat, brain health
Apple Cider Vinegar (diluted)
Digestion, immunity
Calcium Phosphate
Bone health (vet-approved dosage)
Vitamin E (sunflower oil)
Heart and cancer protection
Eggs (cooked)
Muscle and coat support
Safe Cheeses for Dogs
In moderation, small amounts
| Cheese Type | Benefits |
|---|---|
| Cottage Cheese | Low in fat and sodium; contains probiotics for gut health. |
| Mozzarella (plain) | Lower in fat; good source of calcium and protein. |
| Soft Goat Cheese | Easier to digest; rich in essential fatty acids. |
| Cream Cheese (plain) | Good for hiding medication; soft and palatable. |
| Ricotta | Mild and lower in salt; contains calcium and protein. |
| Cheddar (small amounts) | High-value training treat; rich in calcium and vitamin A. |
Cheeses to Avoid
- • Blue cheese – Contains mold and roquefortine, which can be toxic
- • Cheeses with garlic, onion, or chives – These ingredients are toxic to dogs
- • High-fat or salty cheeses – Can lead to obesity, pancreatitis, or kidney issues
- • Processed cheese slices or spreads – Often contain additives and preservatives
Benefits of Cheese for Dogs
- • Protein & Calcium – Supports muscle and bone health
- • Vitamin A & B12 – Boosts immunity, skin, and nerve function
- • Training Tool – High-value reward for obedience training
- • Medication Helper – Great for hiding pills
Tip: Always feed cheese in small amounts and watch for signs of lactose intolerance (gas, diarrhea, bloating).
Animal-Based Proteins
Most recommended protein sources for your dog
| Protein | Benefits |
|---|---|
| Chicken | Lean, digestible, muscle support |
| Beef | Iron-rich, energy boost |
| Turkey | Low-fat, gentle on stomach |
| Lamb | Great for poultry allergies |
| Fish (Salmon, Sardines, Mackerel) | Omega-3s, skin and joints |
| Eggs | Complete protein, coat health |
| Duck | Novel protein for sensitivities |
| Venison | Hypoallergenic, lean |
| Rabbit | Easy to digest |
| Pork | Not recommended |
Safe Carbohydrates for Dogs
Starchy Veggies
- • Sweet potatoes
- • Pumpkin
- • Butternut squash
- • Carrots
Grains (if tolerated)
- • Brown rice
- • White rice
- • Oatmeal
- • Quinoa
- • Barley
Other Options
- • Whole wheat pasta (small amounts)
- • Cooked lentils or chickpeas (watch for gas)
Carbs & Veggies to Avoid
These may cause gas or are unsafe:
- • Corn
- • Bread
- • Sugary/Processed Carbs
- • Broccoli
- • Cauliflower
- • Cabbage
- • Brussels Sprouts
- • Black Beans
Tips to Reduce Gas:
- ✓ Cook veggies (steam or boil)
- ✓ Serve small portions
- ✓ Introduce gradually
⚠️ Toxic Foods to Avoid
These are dangerous and should NEVER be fed to your dog
| Food | Toxin | Risk |
|---|---|---|
| Chocolate | Theobromine | Seizures, death |
| Grapes/Raisins | Unknown | Kidney failure |
| Onions/Garlic | Thiosulfates | Anemia |
| Avocado | Persin | GI upset |
| Macadamia Nuts | Unknown | Vomiting, tremors |
| Xylitol | Sugar alcohol | Liver failure |
| Alcohol | Ethanol | Coma |
| Cooked Bones | Physical hazard | GI perforation |
| Caffeine | Methylxanthines | Seizures |
| Yeast Dough | Ethanol, gas | Gastric rupture |
| Moldy Foods | Mycotoxins | Organ damage |
Important Safety Disclaimer
Feeding a homemade raw diet may carry risks, including foodborne illness and bacterial contamination. Raw meats can contain harmful pathogens such as Salmonella, E. coli, and Listeria, which pose health risks to both pets and humans. To ensure safety and nutritional balance, always consult a qualified nutritionist before preparing or feeding raw meals at home.
Pet owners are increasingly drawn to making their own dog food, but doing so without expert guidance can be risky. If you're committed to feeding a homemade diet for your dog(s):
- ✓Work with a nutritionist
- ✓Use recipes that have been professionally formulated and tested
- ✓Include proper supplements to meet all nutrient needs
- ✓Practice safe food handling to avoid contamination
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