can i mix raw meat with dry dog food

Raw dog food the big questions

Raw dog food diets have been around as long as dogs and their ancestors have been around. Until the creation of dry dog food and canned dog food, dogs lived off raw meat, scraps and anything they could scavenge.

You may have heard of the old English expression as fit as a butchers dog, which implies that a dog living off meat, bones and offal is likely to be in fine fettle.

However, after the creation and growth of mass-market dog food, domestic dogs diets changed and the feeding of raw dog food became less common. That is until recent years

Raw food for dogs has increased in popularity in recent years; some of it homemade, some produced by cottage industries, but increasingly provided by medium to large companies for a national market.

What are the best raw dog foods?

Some work on the prey model, which is an 80% meat, 10% ground bone, 10% organ meat (offal) blend. Others use the recipes akin to the Biologically Appropriate Raw Food (BARF) model, which includes a small percentage of vegetables.

Both kinds profess an authenticity based on dogs evolutionary diets.

It being something new (but also very old) it has generated a lot of doubt, cynicism and questions alongside its popularity.

We put some of the questions we most frequently get asked by readers to Amy Zalneraitis, the CBO at 5-star-rated We Feed Raw.

Is raw dog food safe for dogs?

AZ: Raw dog food is not only safe for dogs, its what is most biologically appropriate for them. Dogs have thrived on a raw, meat-based diet since the dawn of their existence. While weve domesticated dogs and bred them for their appearance, behavior, and temperament, in form and function, their digestive system is identical to their ancestors. With highly acidic stomachs, sharp, pointy teeth, and short, simple digestive tracts, a dogs biology tells us what they should be eating.

So any raw food will do?

Not all raw pet foods are created equal. We use only high-quality, USDA, human-grade meats. We produce our recipes in a USDA-certified facility and all ingredients must comply with rigid incoming quality assurance specifications. Most importantly, to ensure safe raw feeding in the home, we use HPP (high-pressure processing) a non-thermal pasteurization technology that uses extreme cold water pressure (up to 87,000 psi) to ensure our food is free of pathogens such as Listeria, E. coli, and Salmonella.

While not all raw companies in the U.S. do this, we incur the extra cost because it ensures a safe product. Because the process uses pressure rather than heat, there is no change in product taste, texture, or nutritional value.

Is raw dog food safe for humans?

It depends if you mean to eat or handle. While our food is sourced from USDA, human-grade meats, our recipes are not intended for human consumption. Our formulas contain the correct ratio of muscle meat, organ meat, finely ground bone and a high-quality vitamin and mineral mix for full and proper canine nutrition, not full and proper human nutrition.

As for handling, dogs can cope with bacteria in ways that humans cant, but HPP offers extra peace of mind while feeding raw in the home. HPP is used by many reputable raw pet food companies because its a natural way to reduce harmful bacteria while preserving nutrients.

When youre purchasing raw pet food from a reputable company, its easy to feed raw food safely you use the same basic hygiene practices you use when preparing your own raw meats to cook, like washing hands, surfaces, and bowls.

Its more expensive than kibble why should I spend extra?

Because the quality of the food our dogs eat has a direct impact on how well they live. Eighty percent of immune capability is in the gut and low-carb raw diets help to promote healthy gut microflora. Raw food will always be more expensive because quality costs more. Hands down, raw costs more to source and make and its not packed with cheap fillers. While youll pay more upfront with raw, youll save money down the line because youll have a healthier, happier dog and far fewer vet visits.

Why wouldnt I just make raw food at home?

If youre a DIY raw feeder, amazing! Great job! But weve found that many pet parents dont have the time, energy, interest, or resources to make properly balanced raw food at home. Thats where we come in. We plan, portion, package, and deliver. All you have to do is thaw and feed. No concern that your dog is missing important nutrients, no trips to the pet food store, no guesswork.

Do dogs need vegetables?

Our recipes are based on the Prey Model Raw diet: approximately 80% muscle meat (with connective tissue and fat), 10% organ meat (all of which is secreting organ), 10% finely ground raw meaty bones plus a small amount of a high-quality vitamin and mineral mix.

Some of our customers will choose to add veggies to the meals, and thats great, as long as they dont overdo it. If your dog does well with a bit of extra fiber, our Ph.D. nutritionist suggests around a 5-8% veggie inclusion. With dogs, plant matter usually passes out as part of the stool, undigested because their bodies have to work much harder to break it down.

We usually recommend pureeing veggies: dogs do not have natural cellulase, an enzyme that helps to break down fiber, so pureeing them will help aid in digestion.

Do I need to add supplements?

Not with our food. Our food is complete and balanced as is. No need to add supplements. That said, its totally fine to add a small amount of your preferred probiotic, prebiotic, fish oil or omega-3 oil, etc. We just advise that pet parents dont add a multivitamin, as we already include a high-quality vitamin and mineral mix to our recipes.

When it comes to adding other whole foods, like canned pumpkin, phytoplankton, sardines, green-lipped mussels, etc, these can be wonderful, healthy additions and we totally support those as toppers to our meals.

Are there any proven benefits to a raw diet?

A dogs digestive system is identical to its ancestors. They didnt lose the ability to digest their evolutionary diet just because kibble was invented mere seconds ago in geologic time. Therefore, isnt it prudent to imitate what nature provided as a guideline?

As for specific studies, were excited about the work being done at the University of Helsinki on the benefits of a raw dog food diet. Led by veterinary scientist Dr. Anna-Hielm Bjrkman (DVM and PhD), The Dog Risk Study is a university-led, cruelty-free study using 16,000 dogs of all breeds and ages.

The program has already proven that puppies fed raw (vs kibble) have fewer environmental allergies as adults and a reduced risk of developing IBD later in life. Some of the other specific studies its exploring include hip dysplasia, GI issues, chronic ear infections, cancer and tumors.

How do I transition my dog to raw food?

Our intro plan helps to gradually introduce dogs to raw food over a 10-day period. The detailed directions instruct pet parents on how to mix their pups current food with We Feed Raw and increase the percentage of We Feed Raw over the course of 9 days until theyre feeding 100% raw.

What are the best raw dog foods?

Will there be side effects?

While some dogs transition to raw with no issues, other dogs with sensitive stomachs may require a bit more TLC and time. Its all normal. The long-term effects of a healthy, species-appropriate diet make it all worth it: smaller, less smelly stools, shiny skin and coat, cleaner teeth, improved digestion, stronger immune system, better weight control the list goes on.

Can I mix raw food with cooked food?

Yes, absolutely. We encourage pet parents to feed what works for their budget and lifestyle. Adding even 25% raw food to your dogs diet can have life-changing health benefits. Raw feeding isnt an all-or-nothing approach. Using it as a base, mixer, or topper with cooked food or kibble can still have amazing overall health benefits.

Why are some vets anti-raw food?

Were seeing a real shift with conventional vets becoming more raw-friendly. In fact, we work with many conventional vets who not only recommend raw to their clients but feed it to their own pets.

So while the tide is changing, here are some reasons that conventional vets may not be pro-raw: 1) Theyre not taught about raw diets in vet school; 2) Theyve seen homemade raw diets go wrong (imbalanced, missing important nutrients, incorrect ratios); 3) They think its a danger to the humans feeding it. However, serious and reputable raw brands in the U.S., like our company, use HPP to neutralize pathogens for safe feeding in the home.

Is raw dog food human-grade?

Raw dog food is meant to be fed raw and usually contains bone, and therefore cannot technically be labeled human-grade as a whole. So while our food is sourced from high-quality human-grade meats and produced in a USDA-certified facility, we do not make the human-grade claim on our labels.

Are bones and offal actually good for dogs?

Not only are they good for dogs, theyre essential to a complete and balanced raw diet. Organ meats, particularly liver, are packed with vitamins and minerals. Bones are an excellent source of calcium and phosphorus.

Bonus Ingredients to Mix with Dry Dog Food: 19 Awesome Eats

Want to kick up your canines cuisine but dont know where to start?

Look in your pantry!

Tons of kitchen staples double as dog-friendly eats.

Bonus ingredients not only improve the flavor of your pups food, but they also make for a better texture and a more enriching eating experience. Best of all, some dog-food additions are loaded with nutrients.

Below, well share some of our favorite bonus ingredients to mix with dry dog food and what pantry items to skip.

Always Check with Your Vet First!

As with any dietary change, its best to consult your vet before adding extra ingredients to your dogs meals. Even the most innocuous ingredients can interact with some canine medications and medical conditions.

19 Awesome Bonus Ingredients to Mix with Dry Dog Food

Bonus ingredients can pack a punch of flavor, fun, and nutrition into your dogs bowl. Best of all, chances are, you already have some of these barkin good bonus ingredients in your pantry to share with your pup.

Remember: These are bonus ingredients, not stars of the show, so less is more, especially when your dog is trying out new food.

Stick to a tablespoon or less for a bigger pup and a teaspoon or less for a small fry when youre starting out. After establishing that your pooch can tolerate the new ingredients, you can gradually increase the amount included (assuming your vet gives the green light to do so).

Now lets dig in!

1. Common Proteins

Adding bonus bites of real meat is a win with most dogs, particularly pickier pups that need enticing. The real meaty taste gets tongues wagging (or the drool drippin), while the texture gives your pup a chance to nibble on something more than dry kibble.

Everyday dog-friendly proteins to add to your barkers bowl include:

• Chicken: Rich in protein, chicken is a tasty meat most doggos enjoy. While its a relatively lean meat, stick to cuts of boneless and skinless breasts to avoid any excess fat that can cause tummy upset in dogs.
• Beef: Beef packs a wallop of flavor and a decent amount of protein but also contains a fair amount of fat if you select the wrong cut. Opt for the leanest cuts like chuck or round steak to prevent stomach upset.
• Pork: Pork is a powerhouse of flavor and has a lot of protein. That said, its one of the fattier proteins, especially if you pick the wrong part of the pig to serve your sniffer. Only use lean loin cuts with your pooch, and never offer bacon or other processed options.

Cook all proteins to the proper temperature to prevent foodborne illness, as raw meat can make pups sick. Only use lean cuts of meat and cook without seasonings or oils to avoid triggering pancreatitis or digestive upset in your dog.

2. Less Common Proteins

Exotic or novel meats are another great addition to your dogs bowl if her tummy can handle them (and if you happen to have them lying around!) They often have a gamier taste that drives pups wild, plus they add texture for a more enjoyable eating experience and extra protein for nourishing your mutts muscles.

Some less common proteins to try with your pup are:

• Duck: Duck offers dynamite flavor that dogs love, but its due to a higher fat content than most proteins. Picky palates usually love duck, but its not a good choice for dogs on a diet. Opt for boneless, skinless breast meat to keep the fat content as low as possible.
• Turkey: Chickens bigger, less attractive friend contains less fat and slightly less protein but packs funky flavor dogs either love or hate. This lean meat is good if your doggo is watching her waistline. Prevent tummy upset by only using boneless, skinless turkey breast.
• Goat: Goat is a bahhhhd-ass addition to your dogs food because it has fewer calories and fat than most other meats and only slightly less protein per serving. Its great if your pup needs to watch her weight while still getting some goodies but stick to loin cuts to avoid any sneaky fat.
• Venison: Deer meat is often used as a leaner alternative to beef. Its a good source of protein and has a flavor fur kiddos enjoy. Serve the leaner cuts like deboned shoulder, foreleg, and neck.
• Lamb: Lamb has a strong taste dogs tend to love. Its a leaner meat with a decent amount of protein, but opt for leanest cuts like tenderloin, bone-removed leg, and boneless loin chops to prevent belly blues.
• Bison: Bison are seen as cows hairier cousins, but their meat is much different than their beefy buddies, as its much leaner and contains a bit more protein per ounce. The best cuts for doggos are lean servings of chuck or round meat.
• Alligator: This swamp dweller isnt a fridge staple for most, but if you have some, its a good addition to your doggos dinner with its decent protein content and relatively lean nature. Tail meat is best for dogs, but alligator meat can have elevated levels of mercury, so it shouldnt be offered to puppies or pregnant females.
• Rabbit: This hoppin good meat is loaded with flavor that dogs adore, and its packed with protein and Vitamin 12, making it a solid bonus ingredient in your barkers bowl. Its a lean protein already, but always choose the leanest cuts for your pup, like boneless thighs and shoulders.

As with any protein, cook exotic meats without seasonings or oils to the proper temperature to avoid foodborne illness and stomach upset, and only serve the leanest cuts.

3. Ground bone

While feeding regular, whole bones is a huge risk for broken teeth, choking, mouth injuries, and more, ground-up bone is usually okay for canines. Ground bone wont add much texture or enrichment, but its an excellent source of calcium and phosphorus.

Because ground bone is so rich in calcium, double-check with your vet before serving to ensure its a good fit for your four-footers diet.

4. Bone Broth

Bone broth is a tasty bomb of essential minerals like calcium, magnesium, and phosphorus. Spooning some over your canines kibble adds a burst of delicious flavor, plus it softens dry dog food that may be too crunchy for dogs with missing teeth to eat.

Another fun option is to freeze bone broth into small broth cubes to hide in your dogs kibble for extra enrichment.

5. Organ Meats

Many humans may be reluctant to dig in, but organ meat is a fantastic source of nutrients like vitamin A, iron, phosphorus, and copper. Organ meat is cheap and can be sourced directly from your butcher. The varying textures are enriching for dogs to chow down on, and most pups like the taste.

Some awesome organ meats for dogs are:

• Liver: Liver is a powerhouse of nutrients like folate, iron, vitamin A, and CoQ10. Beef and chicken liver are most readily available and can be fed in small amounts, but the strong taste of the organ isnt a hit with every dog.
• Heart: Heart is an excellent source of taurine, which promotes, you guessed it, heart health. Its also filled with iron, phosphorus, and CoQ10. Beef, chicken, and lamb hearts are most readily available for pups and can be served in small portions. The flavor is gamey instead of iron-heavy, so dogs like it more than other organ meat.
• Kidney: Kidney packs a good amount of core vitamins like vitamin B12, vitamin C, vitamin A, and niacin, plus it has minerals like iron and selenium. Chicken, beef, and pork kidneys are good options, but not every dog likes the pungent taste of this organ.
• Lung: Lung is loaded with protein, vitamins like vitamin B12, and nutrients like iron. Its also low in fat. Beef lungs are most commonly found, but the strong taste receives mixed responses from doggy diners.
• Stomach: Also known as tripe, the stomach lining of lambs, pigs, and cows is a good source of B vitamins and selenium. It can be quite chewy, but its flavor is milder than liver, so most dogs like it.
• Gizzards: Found in the digestive tract of birds, gizzards are an organ rich in protein, iron, zinc, and taurine. Gizzards also have glucosamine, benefiting joint health in dogs. Chicken and turkey gizzards are readily available at most butcher shops, and if you stock up and freeze around Thanksgiving, youll be set all year long.
• Tongue: Tongue is rich in healthy fats and vitamin B12. Beef tongue is the best and most readily available, but the texture isnt always well-liked by dogs. That said, its pretty affordable, and a little goes a long way, so you can freeze extras for an occasional treat at mealtime.
• Eyeball: Not all of us can stomach this one, but eyeballs are a good source of vitamin A if you can look past the ick factor. Beef and lamb eyeballs are most commonly used for doggos.

Less is more with organ meat, as its super nutrient-dense and can make your pup sick, particularly small dogs and puppies. Skip brains, as the risk of prion disease just isnt worth it.

Organ meat like muscle meat must be cooked to the proper temperature to avoid making your pup sick.

6. Fish

Fish is filled with skin and coat-nourishing omega-3 fatty acids, making it a bangin bonus addition to your dogs meal. The smell can be off-putting to human noses, but most dogs go bonkers for fish, so much so that its often used as the star protein in dog food for picky eaters.

Dog-safe fish for your floof include:

• Salmon: Salmon is a super fatty fish thats an excellent source of protein and amino acids, plus its loaded with Vitamin D and Vitamin B12. Its a low mercury fish compared to others and packed with flavor, tempting even the pickiest of pooches. Small portions of boneless filets are best for doggos. Just make sure its always cooked raw salmon (though typically safe for humans) can transmit parasites to dogs.
• Whitefish: Whitefish is an umbrella term used for white-fleshed fish like whiting, haddock, cod, and pollock, among others. Its a leaner fish than salmon and milder in taste, so its a good choice if your pup doesnt like salmons fierce flavor, and it still contains protein and omega-3s. As with salmon, only offer bits of boneless filets.
• Tilapia: Tilapia is an affordable place to start if youre unsure if your dog will like fish. This mild-tasting fish is low in calories and fat, too, making it a good choice for doggos on a diet. Tilapia has a decent amount of protein, but its firm, flaky texture can be off-putting for some dogs. Opt for chopped portions of boneless filets. Note that there are also tilapia dog foods, if youd prefer to go that route.
• Trout: Trout is a relatively low mercury fish loaded with omega-3 fatty acids for brain and eye development in puppies, plus protein for promoting lean muscles. Most dogs go gaga for the taste, but it is a bonier fish, so be sure to carefully check for them before offering your pup chopped bits of boneless filets.
• Canned fish: Canned fish is a convenient way to give your dog fishs fatty acids and protein without breaking down an animal or cooking anything. Opt for those not packaged in oil or loaded with salt. Try small amounts of canned sardines, salmon, or tuna for a fun, fishy bonus, and skip albacore tuna, as it can be high in mercury.
• Shellfish: Though shellfish arent true fish, they can still be incredible sources of omega-3s, vitamins, and minerals. Most dogs like the taste, but keep it simple without butter or seasoning. Cooked shrimp, scallops, muscles, clams, crabs, and lobster are all dog-safe.
• Cephalopods: OK, so these arent technically fish either, but youll find them in the seafood department, so were putting them here. This family consists of octopus and squid, which are good sources of lean protein and vitamins like vitamin B12 and vitamin B2. These fishy critters are mild in flavor but can be rubbery if hammered in the oven. Use basic preparations like boiling or oven baking (not frying) to prevent tummy upset.

Fish comes with the worry of mercury, which is dangerous to any doggo, but particularly puppies and pregnant females. Avoid fish known to be high in mercury, like tilefish, king mackerel, ahi tuna, shark, swordfish, and marlin. If youre unsure how safe a certain fish is for dogs, ask your vet before offering it to your pup.

Like other proteins, you must cook fish to an appropriate temperature to avoid foodborne illness and parasites like worms. Be sure to carefully check all shared bits for bones, too, as these can seriously injure your pups mouth or digestive tract.

7. Eggs

Eggs are a cheap protein universally enjoyed by dogs. Theyre usually easy for pups to digest and loaded with protein and healthy fats. Dogs who need to gain a few pounds can benefit from adding the occasional egg to beef up their caloric intake.

Eggs have a softer texture that older doggos and those with missing teeth can enjoy, something other proteins lack. You can also prepare eggs in two ways for added enrichment, with scrambled eggs (made without lots of icky butter or seasoning!) ideal for mixing in kibble and hard-boiled eggs offering an oddball texture most dogs will love.

Eggcellent egg additions to your dogs bowl include:

• Chicken eggs: Chicken eggs are the most readily available type of egg and have a decent amount of vitamins and minerals like iron, folate, and riboflavin. They have a mild taste most dogs love.
• Duck eggs: Duck eggs are a little pricier and harder to come by, but they have a richer taste dogs love. Theyre fattier, however, so keep this in mind while portioning a serving to your pup.
• Pheasant eggs: Like the bird that lays them, pheasant eggs have a gamey taste that dogs love or hate. Theyre a good source of Vitamin B and Vitamin D, plus they have a lot of protein. Theyre rare, though, so youll have to pay a pretty penny.
• Quail eggs: These tiny eggs make for cute #dogbreakfast photos and have a mild flavor dogs like, but theyre a real bite to handle because of their small size and delicate nature. Theyre also pricier than other eggs.
• Ostrich eggs: If you have one of these gargantuan eggs available, theyre a good source of protein, but overall they have similar vitamin content to chicken eggs when you compare serving sizes. Ostrich eggs have a thick shell thats hard to crack and make a ton of servings at once, so theyre best for multi-dog families who dont mind freezing leftovers.

Larger dogs can eat one chicken-sized egg daily, while smaller doggos are best eating about a fourth of one or less to avoid a sour stomach and packing on too many pounds.

Always cook eggs to temperature to avoid salmonella. If your dog has a chicken allergy or sensitivity, chicken eggs should also be avoided until theyre ruled out by your vet as a trigger ingredient, as egg allergies often go hand-in-hand with chicken allergies.

8. Vegetables

Vegetables contain heaps of essential vitamins, but most importantly to doggos, theyre often crunchy, adding exciting texture to otherwise boring everyday kibble. They also add a burst of fresh flavor, encouraging your dog to get her eat on. Stick to fresh or frozen varieties, as canned vegetables are usually packed with salt.

Some dog-safe vegetables to share with your sniffer include:

• Carrots: Carrots are loaded with Vitamin A and are a great low calorie-treat instead of chews like bully sticks. They can be served raw or baked, but raw carrots are preferred, as they offer crunch dogs cant resist.
• Peas: Peas have a sweet pop of flavor that dogs enjoy and are full of fiber and vitamins like A, B, C, and K. They can be served raw, steamed, or frozen for a cool summertime snack. There are concerns about peas and other legumes ties to DCM, so ask your vet before offering them to your pup, especially if shes a DCM-prone breed like a Doberman.
• Brussel sprouts: These smelly little buggers arent a win with every woof, but they do have some excellent nutrients for dogs that do enjoy them, like Vitamin A and C. Steaming these stink bombs works best, but skip these entirely if your dog is prone to gas or shell turn into a fart factory.
• Potatoes: Cooked potatoes have a softer texture thats ideal for older pups or those who struggle to chew. Theyre tasty and have some vitamins but not much, just a bit of Vitamin C and Vitamin B6. You can serve them mashed or roasted, but dont offer them to dogs with diabetes.
• Sweet Potatoes: Cooked sweet potatoes offer a fair dose of fiber, plus Vitamin A, Vitamin C, potassium, and more. Its soft texture suits older dogs, and theyre best served mashed, boiled, steamed, or roasted.
• Green beans: These fiber-packed veggies are rich in manganese and vitamins like A, B, C, and K. You can boil, steam, or serve them raw for a texture-filled snack most dogs enjoy. Theyre a great treat replacement for dogs on a diet, too.
• Celery: The crisp crunch and shreddable nature of celery make it a hit with most dogs. Its a good source of Vitamins A and C and has trace amounts of fiber. Its also great for freshening your dogs breath. Serve it raw in stalks or chop it down for bite-sized bits of crunchiness.
• Broccoli: Broccoli has a crunchy texture dogs love, but the flavor isnt always a favorite for dogs. Its a good source of fiber, Vitamin C, Vitamin K, and manganese. Serve it raw, steamed, or roasted, but you may want to skip it if your dog is known for toxic toots.

Many vegetables are super rich in fiber, so keep serving sizes to a minimum until you know how theyll affect your floof. If your senior pup cant enjoy crunching her veggies anymore, consider juicing them for a tasty addition to her bowl.

Remember to wash vegetables thoroughly before serving to eliminate any potential ickies.

9. Fruit

Fruit is a sweet treat that dogs can enjoy in moderation with meals. While rich in vitamins and sometimes fiber, its also usually high in sugar, which can be a problem for some sniffers. Most fruits should be served raw and skip canned varieties, as theyre typically soaked in high-sugar syrups.

The best dog-friendly fruits for bonus ingredients are:

• Tomatoes: Tomatoes are OK for dogs, but offer them in moderation as their acidic nature can be tough on your dogs tummy. Tomatoes have fiber, folate, and potassium, as well as vitamins like Vitamin C and Vitamin K. Small cherry tomatoes add a fun pop of texture to your dogs meals, but you can also add slices of raw tomatoes.
• Olives: Pitted plain olives are great sources of Vitamin A, Vitamin E, and Vitamin K, plus theyre packed with nutrients like zinc and potassium, making them a solid addition to your dogs bowl. That said, not every dog is a fan of the flavor.
• Apples: Apples are packed with fiber, Vitamin A, and Vitamin C, with the skin especially rich in fiber (just make sure to remove the core and seeds). The fruits crunchy texture is a hit with most dogs, but you can also mash it into homemade applesauce for older dogs who struggle to chew.
• Blackberries: These tasty berries are excellent sources of fiber and have lots of vitamins, including Vitamin A, Vitamin B, and Vitamin C. Dogs usually love the poppable texture of this fruit, though some can be tart.
• Strawberries: Fiber and vitamins like Vitamin C and Vitamin K are this fruits star features. The sweet taste is typically well-liked by dogs but cut large berries down so theyre not choking hazards.
• Blueberries: Most dogs love blueberries, as this antioxidant-rich fruit has a sweet taste and interesting texture. Theyre a good source of fiber and Vitamin C but should be fed in moderation to prevent doggy diarrhea.
• Pears: Pears contain fiber, Vitamin A, and Vitamin C, but feed them sparingly since they can lead to a sour stomach. Serve them chopped up for a crunchy texture, or mash some for doggos who cant chew well.
• Pumpkin: Most people consider pumpkin a veggie, but its technically a fruit, so were leaving it here. Its a fiber-rich addition to your doggos diet and a good source of Vitamin A and Vitamin C. Its commonly used to soothe tummy trouble and can be roasted, pureed, or roasted. You can also make it into delicious DIY pumpkin treats.
• Squash: Roasted zucchini and summer squash are good bonus ingredients, as theyre decent sources of fiber and magnesium. The texture adds some variety to your dogs kibble, and the taste leans bland, so its not likely to strike dogs as especially gross.
• Pineapple: Raw, cored pineapple is a fabulous source of Vitamin C, plus it packs in nutrients like riboflavin, niacin, and folate. Its also high in fiber and sugar, so it should be fed in moderation. Cubed pineapple has tons of texture, but you can up the ante by freezing it for a great summertime snack.

Like veggies, wash fruits thoroughly before serving to your fur friend, and if youre unsure of a fruits safety for dogs, ask your vet before adding it to your dogs diet.

10. Dog-Safe Yogurt

Add a small dollop of plain, unsweetened yogurt to your canines kibble for a lickable serving of natural probiotics. You can serve it right from the fridge or freeze it for a pupper popsicle bite. Going with Greek yogurt is best, as its lower in lactose and less likely to cause tummy trouble.

Always double-check a yogurts ingredient list for xylitol before serving, as this artificial sweetener is toxic to dogs.

11. Cheese

Most dogs appreciate the richness of cheese, and its an okay source of protein, calcium, and Vitamin A. It is calorie-dense, however, so it can pack on pupper pounds if youre not careful. Some dogs are also lactose intolerant, making cheese a no-go.

The best cheeses for dogs include low-fat varieties like:

• Cottage cheese: Cottage cheese has a lumpy, bumpy texture that dogs enjoy, with most finding the bland flavor appealing. It has less lactose, fat, and sodium than other cheeses and is sometimes used to help dogs recovering from a sour stomach.
• Mozzarella: Some forms of mozzarella are low in fat, so adding a small chopped or grated portion to your dogs kibble is a fun way to add extra texture. Its not a flavor bomb, but its a nice contrast from kibble for added enrichment.
• Swiss: This hole-punched cheese is lower in fat and salt than most cheeses, so its a better fit for Fidos food bowl than other picks. It doesnt offer a ton of texture, but dogs tend to like the funky taste.
• Parmesan: A sprinkle of parmesan goes a long way in bringing a burst of flavor to your dogs kibble. Its super fatty and salty compared to other cheeses, so it isnt the best option unless youre trying to entice your dog with a tiny amount over her kibble.
• Cheddar: Small chunks of cheddar are great training treats, but you can also grate it over your dogs food for finer bits in every bite. Cheddar has a flavor most dogs adore.
• Goat cheese: Goat cheese has protein, magnesium, and calcium, so it brings some nutrients to your dogs bowl along with an intense flavor that pups either love or hate. Its very high in fat, so only use small amounts.

Skip blue cheeses like gorgonzola and Roquefort entirely, as they can make your dog extremely ill. As with any new food, stick to small amounts of cheese (a tiny chunk) in your pups kibble to avoid gastric upset. If your dog cant tolerate fats, opt for another bonus ingredient.

12. Grains and Pseudo-Grains

Dog-safe grains and pseudo-grains can add some bulk to your dogs bowl, helping active dogs maintain their weight, but they can pack on pounds if your floof isnt as fit. Theyre a mixed bag of nutrients, with some having useful vitamins and minerals while others are strictly for enrichment only.

Top-notch grainy additions to your dogs kibble include:

• Rice: Cooked white and brown rice have fiber, but brown rice has more, plus B vitamins, magnesium, and phosphorus. Rice is a fun texture for your dog to enjoy but has little flavor. Its a good bland ingredient to have on hand in case your dog has an upset tummy.
• Quinoa: Quinoa is actually a seed, but its often lumped with grains, so were running with it. A great source of calcium and magnesium, its a nutritious eat with a cool texture most dogs enjoy as added enrichment mixed in kibble.
• Oatmeal: Cooked plain oatmeal is a good source of fiber and protein. It has more mouthfeel to it than other grains, though it is bland, so not every dog is a big fan.
• Corn: Despite its bad rap, corn is easily digestible for most dogs. Its affordable and has nutrients like Vitamin E, fatty acids, and beta-carotene. Best of all, its tasty, with most dogs loving the naturally sweet flavor. Always cut it off the cob to ensure safe eating.
• Pasta noodles: Cooked pasta noodles are a fun texture to pop into your dogs kibble occasionally. They wont add much nutrition, but theyre great for enrichment. Just ensure theyre not cooked in any seasonings and dont feature toxic ingredients like garlic or onion.

Extra grains can increase your dogs blood sugar, so stick to small treats here and there or avoid them if your doggo is diabetic.

13. Herbs

Herbs add a surprise sprinkle of flavor to your dogs food, but they can be overwhelming, so keep them to a minimum. They have some nutrients too, so theyre not just a growlin garnish.

Hound-friendly herbs for dogs include:

• Rosemary: Antioxidants are this woody herbs top perk, giving your dogs immune system a gentle nudge in the right direction. Add a tiny amount of fresh, chopped rosemary to your dogs food, but remember that the flavors strong. Some dogs may find it too intense.
• Basil: Small amounts of fresh, chopped basil to your dogs kibble introduces some antioxidants for immune support. Its not as overbearing of a flavor as other herbs, so most dogs dont seem to mind it.
• Dill: A pinch of dill over your canines kibble adds some antioxidants, but too much can cause tummy upset. The flavor isnt too strong, so most sniffers are fine with it.

Avoid parsley, tarragon, sorrel, oregano, and mint, as they can make your dog quite ill.

14. Olive Oil

Olive oil is a good source of healthy fats that can help prevent a dry, itchy coat and soothe inflammation in dogs. Its also rich in antioxidants that boost your four-footers immune system.

As with other oils, too much olive oil can lead to stomach trouble in your pup, so never overdo it. Its also dense in calories, so too much olive oil too often can lead to weight gain. Flavor-wise, it doesnt add much, so dont expect your dog to do backflips for it.

Stick to one teaspoon per 20 pounds of body weight daily, and skip it if your dog needs a low-fat diet.

15. Coconut Oil

Coconut oil isnt as rich in omega fatty acids as other sources, but it has some that can aid in cognitive function and skin and coat health. It has a mild flavor most dogs wont notice in food, and some owners think it aids in freshening a doggos breath. Its high in fat and calories, so opt for one teaspoon a day for large breeds and a teaspoon for smaller pups.

As with other oils, less is more with coconut oil. Too much can lead to weight gain or stomach upset. Never offer coconut oil or other oils to dogs with a history of pancreatitis.

16. Peanut butter

Dog-safe peanut butter is a sticky snack thats healthy for your hound in moderation. This pantry staple is a good source of protein and healthy fats, plus it has niacin, Vitamin B, and Vitamin E. A little goes a long way in your dogs food, too, and most dogs love the flavor. Just dont give your pup too much, as this calorie-dense treat can pack on the pupper pounds.

Shop with caution, however, as some peanut butter contains xylitol, an artificial sweetener highly toxic to dogs. Others contain excessive amounts of sugar and salt, too, so stick to the all-natural, dog-friendly versions.

17. Wet Dog Food

Adding a spoonful (or more, depending on your dogs diet and size) of wet dog food is a welcome addition to kibble for most dogs. Available in pate-style meat mashes and stewed varieties with gravy, wet dog food mixes great into kibble and entices even the pickiest of canines to lick their bowl clean.

Since wet food is made for dogs, you dont have to worry about any toxins, but always check the ingredients list for any sensitivity triggers your dog may have.

18. Commercial Dog Food Toppers

Dog food toppers elevate everyday kibble to a lip-smackin concoction of textures and taste. Usually rich in gravy, they mix easily into and coat kibble well, ensuring your pup doesnt simply eat around her usual food.

If you feel like popping on your chef hat, you can also make homemade dog food toppers. They take some work, obviously, but its a fun opportunity to bond with your dog, and your pooch wont mind tasting the fruits of your labor (or face-vacuuming the floor for any fallen veggies!)

19. Popcorn

Relatively low in calories, plain, unsalted popcorn is a crunchy addition to your canines kibble that shell love to munch on. It doesnt add much flavor or crazy high amounts of nutrients, but it does have traces of zinc and manganese. The main perk of popcorn is enrichment and changing up your dogs dinner.

Things You Should NEVER Mix with Your Dogs Dry Food

While plenty of your pantry favorites double as great bonus ingredients to your barkers bowl, others are downright dangerous to dogs and should be avoided.

Never give your pupper any of these toxic foods for dogs:

• Coffee
• Artificial sweeteners (especially xylitol!)
• Chocolate
• Macadamia nuts
• Grapes
• Garlic
• Onions

• Shallots
• Walnuts
• Avocados
• Bread dough
• Raisins
• Wild mushrooms
• Alcohol

If youre unsure how safe a food item is for dogs, err on the side of caution and skip it until you can ask your vet.

Why Add Ingredients to Your Dogs Dry Food?

Most modern dry dog foods have the basics of what your pup needs, so you dont need to add any bonus ingredients, but it doesnt hurt.

Adding bonus ingredients to your dogs kibble is great for:

• Improving the taste: Eating the same thing day in and day out gets dull, even for dogs. Picky pups may outright demand enticing. Adding bonus ingredients makes bland kibble more exciting and encourages your pup to chow down.
• Adding texture: Similar to taste, the same old crunchy kibble texture gets old. Sprinkling in crisp celery or poppable blueberries makes your dogs food more texturally interesting. Other cool textures are creamy dog-safe peanut butter, gloopy yogurt, or shredded meat.
• Increasing nutrients: Your dogs kibble is most likely well-rounded enough to meet her needs, but introducing a tiny extra serving of protein or antioxidants here and there never hurts. You can also target the ones youre adding to your dogs life stage, with cooked fishs omega-3s benefiting brain and eye development in puppies, for example.
• Benefiting a health condition: Bonus ingredients can address your dogs specific health concerns, such as yogurt with probiotics for digestive support or a little cooked salmon for extra fatty acids to support your dogs skin and coat.
• Adding enrichment: Bonus foods enrich your dogs life, introducing new tastes, textures, smells, and more to kibble, whether its the crisp snap of a carrot or a gloopy glob of cottage cheese. This makes your dogs mealtime more interesting.

Bonus ingredients arent intended to complete your dogs diet but add to it. If youre concerned that your dogs kibble alone isnt meeting her nutrition needs, consult your vet.

Adding Things to Your Dogs Food: Tips & Tricks

Introducing bonus ingredients to your dogs kibble is fun, but there are some rules of the road to follow to ensure everyone is safe, including:

• Cook proteins thoroughly: Heat all proteins to the correct temperature to avoid foodborne illness and kill any hidden parasites.
• Use dog-friendly cooking methods: Never fry your dogs bonus foods or saturate them in fat-laden oils. Stick to lean cooking methods like boiling, baking, roasting, and steaming. This prevents triggering a super painful case of pancreatitis or stomach upset.
• Avoid adding salt/seasoning: Too much salt can make a dog ill, as can seasonings with hidden ingredients that are toxic to dogs. Its natural to want to flavor the food, but know that bonus ingredients have plenty of yummy taste as they are for dogs.
• Keep food safety in mind: Always practice food safety when prepping, handling, and storing bonus ingredients. Unwashed hands after handling raw protein can make you and your dog sick, for example.
• Store leftovers carefully: Tied into food safety is safe food storage, as improperly stored leftovers can make you and your dog very sick. This includes everything from fish to meat to produce and even rice.
• Practice moderation: Dont immediately add ten new bonus ingredients to your dogs bowl tonight. Keep it simple with one new food at a time in small amounts and rotate them to see how your dogs system reacts. This slow rotation protects your pups stomach and keeps bonus ingredients exciting.
• Be mindful of calories: Bonus ingredients have differing levels of calories, but all add extra calories to your dogs everyday diet. Too much of anything can lead to weight gain.
• Double-check toxicity: Never give your dog food if youre not positive its dog safe. When in doubt, double-check with your vet.
• Get creative: Remember to have fun with bonus ingredients. Theyre meant to be an enriching experience for you and your dog. Dont be afraid to experiment, whether youre hiding ingredients at the bottom of your dogs bowl as a reward or using them as training treats before serving her supper.

Does your dog enjoy any of these bonus ingredients in her food? Is there another dog-safe item shes gaga about? Share with us in the comments. Wed love to hear.