A Well-Balanced Meal Packed with Whole Foods to Keep Your Pup Healthy and Happy
Hey there, dog owners! If you’re looking to give your furry friend a healthy and natural meal, look no further. Making homemade meals for your dog can be a rewarding experience, knowing exactly what goes into their bowl. In this recipe, we’ll be combining delicious ingredients like chicken, blueberries, yogurt, and more to create a well-balanced, nutrient-rich dish that will have your dog wagging their tail in delight
The Power of Homemade Meals and Balanced Nutrition
When it comes to our dogs’ health, a balanced diet is crucial. Just like humans, our furry companions thrive on wholesome ingredients that provide the right nutrients. By preparing meals at home, you have full control over the quality and variety of ingredients you use. So, let’s dive into the key ingredients of this recipe and understand how they contribute to your dog’s well-being.
What you need
Key Ingredients and Their Nutritional Benefits
Yogurt, plain: Plain yogurt isn’t just a tasty treat for us humans; it’s also great for our furry friends! Packed with probiotics, plain yogurt supports a healthy digestive system and improves gut health in dogs. It’s also a fantastic source of calcium and protein, promoting strong bones and muscles.
Hard-Boiled Egg: Eggs are a nutritious addition to your dog’s diet. High in protein and essential amino acids, they contribute to muscle development, healthy skin, coat, and overall immune function. Plus, they’re packed with vitamins like vitamin A and vitamin D, essential for your pup’s well-being. My own dog, Charlie, absolutely loves hard-boiled eggs. I often include them in his meals, and I’ve noticed how it adds an extra shine to his coat.
Chicken Breast: Lean and easily digestible, chicken breast is a fantastic protein source for dogs. It’s low in fat, packed with essential amino acids, and provides energy for your pup’s daily adventures. Chicken breast is also rich in B vitamins and selenium, contributing to their overall health.
Brown Rice: As a healthy carbohydrate option, brown rice offers energy and dietary fiber for your dog. It aids in digestion and helps regulate bowel movements. Being gluten-free and gentle on sensitive stomachs, it’s an excellent choice for dogs with dietary restrictions.
Safflower Oil: Did you know that safflower oil can be beneficial for your furry friend? This oil is rich in omega-6 fatty acids, which promote healthy skin and a shiny coat. It also reduces inflammation and supports cardiovascular health when added to their diet in moderation.
Cod Liver Oil: Cod liver oil is a powerhouse of omega-3 fatty acids like EPA and DHA. These fatty acids have anti-inflammatory properties, contribute to brain development, and maintain a healthy coat and skin. Additionally, cod liver oil contains vitamins A and D, which play vital roles in your dog’s overall health.
Carrots: Crunchy and low in calories, carrots are a fantastic treat for your pup. They’re loaded with vitamins, particularly vitamin A and beta-carotene, which support good vision and a strong immune system. Carrots also aid in dental health by naturally cleaning their teeth and freshening their breath.
Peas: Peas are a nutritious vegetable option for dogs, providing fiber, vitamins, and minerals. They are a good source of plant-based protein, aiding in muscle growth and repair. Peas also contain antioxidants that support immune function and promote overall well-being
Cherry Tomatoes: In moderation, cherry tomatoes can be a tasty and healthy treat for dogs. These vibrant gems are low in calories and packed with vitamins A and C, benefiting eye health and boosting the immune system. However, make sure to remove the stems and leaves as they can be toxic to dogs.
Blueberries: Considered a superfood for dogs, blueberries are packed with antioxidants, vitamins, and fiber. They promote brain health, support the immune system, and contribute to healthy digestion. The small size and natural sweetness of blueberries make them a convenient and delicious snack for your furry companion. Charlie won’t eat blueberries on their own so I do blend them into several of his dishes.
Strawberries: Moderation is key when it comes to strawberries, but they can be enjoyed by your dog as well. Rich in vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants, strawberries provide a natural teeth-cleaning effect due to their texture. The antioxidants also help combat cell damage and boost the immune system.
Honey: Honey can be a beneficial ingredient for dogs due to its antimicrobial properties. It soothes coughs and sore throats, aids in digestion, and supports the immune system. However, it’s important to note that honey should only be given in small amounts due to its high sugar content.
Recipe
🕝Prep: 10 mins 🕝Cook: 18 mins 🕝Total: 28 mins
Ingredients
Note: This recipe makes the perfect amount for a medium to large size dog approximately 55 pounds. Adjust serving accordingly to your dogs size.
⬜ 6 oz or 3/4 cup of plain yogurt, no sugar added | Protein
⬜ 1 hard-boiled egg | Protein
⬜ 1 cup of chopped-up chicken breast | Protein
⬜ 1.25 cups cooked brown rice | Carbohydrate
⬜ 1 tsp of safflower oil | Oils
⬜ 1 tsp of cod liver oil | Oils
⬜ 1/2 cup of carrots, shredded | Vegetable
⬜ 1/3 cup of peas, if frozen thaw first | Vegetable
⬜ 1/3 cup of cherry tomatoes | Fruit or Vegetable depending on your perspective
⬜ 1/3 cup of blueberries | Fruit
⬜ 1/3 cup of strawberries | Fruit
⬜ 1/3 cup of honey | Vitamins & Minerals
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 425°F / 220°C. Bake the chicken breast in the preheated oven for about 18 minutes (or 20 minutes for a large breast).
Cook the brown rice as per the instructions on the rice package.
Boil water for the egg. Boil the egg in water for 7 minutes, then run it under cold water to cool it down. Mash it up.
Chop the cooked chicken breast into small chunks and let them cool to room temperature.
If using frozen peas, run them under cold water to bring them to room temperature or let them defrost in the fridge overnight.
In a blender or food processor, pulse or blend the carrots, cherry tomatoes, blueberries, safflower oil, cod liver oil, and honey together.
Once the chicken, rice, and egg have cooled to room temperature, mix all the ingredients together with the plain yogurt.
Serve this nutritious and delicious meal to your dog, and watch their tail wag with joy!
Nutrition Information
Omega-6 to Omega-3 ratio: 8.4:1 | Protein: 69.47g | Fat: 30g | Fiber: 16.27g | Calcium: 2766.94mg | Potassium: 2898mg | Sodium: 476mg | Magnesium: 263mg
The nutrition information provided is an estimate and will vary based on brands of ingredients and cooking methods used.
Congratulations! You’ve created a wholesome and balanced meal for your furry friend. By incorporating ingredients like chicken, blueberries, yogurt, and more, you’re providing them with the essential nutrients they need for a healthy and happy life. Don’t forget to share your dog’s response to this delicious recipe on Instagram by tagging us @snarfindarfin. We’d love to see their happy faces!
The Life Of Charlie
The past is like using your rearview mirror in the car. It’s good to glance back and see how far you have come, but if you stare too long you will miss what’s right in front of you.
