Natural dog food: a healthy and safe diet

Natural foods are a great way to supplement your dog's diet, helping him stay healthy, strong, and full of energy. Here's a list of safe and nutritious options you can offer him, from high-quality proteins to fruits and vegetables. Each food provides unique benefits that improve your pet's overall health and well-being.

1. Fresh meats

Meats such as chicken, turkey, rabbit, lamb or beef are a rich source of protein and essential amino acids that strengthen your dog's muscles. Make sure the meat is cooked or raw (we recommend freezing it beforehand) and free of seasoning. If it's chicken meat, make sure it doesn't have bones if you're going to cook it, as chicken bones splinter easily.

Remember that dogs are carnivores, protein must be present in their daily diet to keep their body and mind healthy.

2. Clean chicken feet and chicken necks

Raw bones, such as chicken necks, are an excellent source of protein and collagen. They are excellent chondroprotectors, help strengthen the jaws and clean teeth naturally. They should always be given raw (at La Casa de Turrón we recommend giving them previously frozen) and under supervision.

3. Egg

Eggs are a superfood, very complete and rich in high-quality proteins, essential fatty acids and minerals such as iron and selenium. You can give them raw, cooked or soft-boiled. It is a supplement that benefits your dog's muscles and coat health. It is recommended to give one egg per week for every 10 kg of your dog's weight. That is, if your dog weighs 20 kg, you can give him up to 2 eggs per week.

At La Casa de Turrón we recommend using the egg on our licking mat, which you will find in the Food section. Crack the egg onto the mat, spread it out so that it is distributed over the entire mat, microwave it for 20 seconds (you can also give it raw) and it's ready for a good time of fun!

You can also offer the shell in small pieces as a supplement and natural source of calcium.

4. Kefir

Kefir is a fermented food rich in probiotics, ideal for improving your dog's intestinal health. It helps maintain a healthy balance in the intestinal flora, which translates into better digestion and a strengthened immune system. We recommend that you always have one nearby (they are sold in almost all supermarkets) and include it in your dog's diet as a natural probiotic. Like the egg, we recommend spreading it on the mat so that your pet spends a good amount of time eating it whole.

5. Sardines in olive oil without salt

Canned sardines are an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, which support the health of your dog's coat, skin, and joints. If they're sautéed in olive oil, they get an extra dose of healthy fats that benefit their cardiovascular system. Just be sure to choose canned sardines with low or no-salt added content.

6. Carrots

You can use carrots both raw and cooked. At La Casa de Turrón we recommend cooking them because they are easier to digest. You can give them cooked until they are soft – this is known as “moor soup” – perfect for digestive problems such as diarrhoea. Use the cooking water to give them to them as well to take advantage of all the properties.

At La Casa de Turrón we recommend cooking and then freezing the carrots in pieces. It is a snack that they love, low in calories and perfect for dental care.

7. Pumpkin

Pumpkin is a food rich in fibre and useful for digestive problems, especially if your dog suffers from diarrhoea. Cook it for about 20 minutes until it is soft and can be easily crushed. You can also add zucchini to this recipe.

8. Fruits such as blueberries, bananas or apples

Blueberries are a natural, low-calorie snack rich in antioxidants that help strengthen your dog's immune system and protect its cells from oxidative damage. They are an excellent alternative to commercial treats and provide fiber for better digestion. You can also opt for other red fruits such as raspberries and strawberries (well washed).

You can give them apples but it is very important that they do not have seeds, which are toxic to them.

All furry friends usually like bananas, you can also give them frozen bananas.

9. Bone Broth

This broth is a true source of essential nutrients such as collagen and glucosamine, which benefit dogs' joints, especially in their puppy stage when they are growing and at older ages. It is also gentle on the stomach, making it ideal if your dog has mild digestive discomfort.

10. Healthy oils

Coconut oil is a choice rich in healthy fats that contribute to a shiny coat and more hydrated skin. It also has antibacterial and antiviral properties that can benefit your pet's health. You can add a small amount to your pet's regular food. You can use salmon oil or virgin olive oil.

Tips

Introduce foods slowly: observe how your dog reacts to each food to avoid digestive problems.

Consult your veterinarian: Before making any changes to your dog's diet, confirm that the food is appropriate for your dog's age, size and health.

Offering natural foods in your dog's diet not only improves his health, but also enriches his daily life. Your furry companion will thank you!