Month: January 2013

As dogs age, it is normal for them to lose a bit of their appetite and eat less than they used to.  If your dog also happened to already be a bit of a picky eater, this could really amplify the issue.  If is the case for you, then you may want to consider switching to home made meals for your senior dog.  This could be the perfect opportunity, since they are eating less (meaning less for you to cook) and it is even more important that they get the nutrients they need in every mouthful.

Start with selecting your meats and fish.  You do not have to serve them the same kind all the time; in fact, switching between types of protein can help your dog get the different kinds of fatty acids that your dog needs.

Dogs also need their vegetables just like humans do.  Introduce the veggies in small quantities with other food and then increase the proportions if they like that particular vegetable. The fiber in the veggies will also help with any constipation issues your senior dog may be experiencing.

Feeding Picky Senior Dogs

Tips

Before you embark on a home-cooked dogie diet, check in with your vet to ensure your older dog has no health problems. Diabetes, dental problems and kidney problems can all affect your dog’s appetite.  (Full article here)

Keep your chin up!  You are sure to find a combination that your pooch will love.  It is worth it to try out different ingredients and different combinations as it will benefit your dog and help you in the end, too.  If you have any questions or any suggestions that you would like to share, be sure to put them in the comments section below.

 

 

As your dog ages, their stomach can become a bit more sensitive and it can start to get tricky finding a good dog food that they can take and that is good for them.  How in the world did people feed their dogs before ‘Kibbles N Bits’?  The pioneers were not hitching up the wagon and going into town for a bag of dog food, right? So how did they feed their dogs to keep them healthy?  Answer:  They either fed the dogs scraps or made their own dog food.

Here is a recipe from James Wesley and his blog SurvivalBlog.com where he covers his findings on a home made dog food that is both nutritious and cheap.  It is made up of ingredients that are easy on a dog’s tummy and easy on your wallet as well.  There can be confusion about what you can and should feed your dog on a regular basis and senior dogs sometimes get sensitive stomachs that compound this question.  Try this and let us know what you think.

“Home Made” Dog Food Helps Senior Dog’s Tummy

With a degree in Animal Science, I decided to put my education to a practical use. So after several versions of the following recipe, here is the most balanced one. My German Shepherd dogs love it… This recipe is simple and versatile and far less expensive than canned or dry food.

I call it the “Third Recipe”, because all the portions are in roughly thirds; Rice, Vegetables and Meat. Once you get into the routine, it is very easy and you’ll know what amounts you are regularly using.

Important point to remember is dogs are omnivores, not carnivores, which mean they eat all sorts of stuff, not just meat. A meat protein diet will make a dog hyper and overly aggressive plus damage their kidneys. Feeding dogs is being sold as an “exact” science now. The basics of good nutrition are covered in this formula and inexpensive to feed.

The “Third Recipe” for Dogs

• White rice boiled with an optional chicken bullion cube – carbohydrates for energy, easy digestion and bullion cube for favor. You can substitute potatoes occasionally. No pasta, will ruin a dog’s teeth.

• Vegetables – frozen or canned or fresh – green beans or peas/carrots or mixed vegetables – I prefer frozen over canned – and green beans are best. Easily digested and have fiber.

• Meat – chicken, turkey, tuna or beef or wild game or eggs

• Two half meals – morning and evening- and the cup portions depend on the size of your dog(s).  All ingredients are roughly in thirds, but if you have an active dog, use more rice.   (Full article here)

The rest of the article goes on to give you more information about preparation and the best places to buy your supplies as well.  If your senior pooch has been having a hard time eating regular dog food, this is really a home made option you ought to try.

Give it a go and then report back here and let us know how your sweet friend liked it!