Quick Answer

Start with a lean protein like chicken or turkey, add a mix of dog-safe vegetables and a healthy fat source, then stir in a complete supplement like Holistic Total Body Support to fill any nutritional gaps.

Why Supplements Matter in Homemade Dog Food

Even the most carefully prepared homemade meals can miss essential vitamins, minerals, and amino acids that dogs need for long-term health. A well-chosen supplement bridges that gap without requiring you to become a canine nutritionist.

Choosing the Right Protein and Veggies

Lean meats like chicken, turkey, or lean beef provide high-quality protein. For vegetables, stick to dog-safe options such as carrots, green beans, or spinach. Avoid onions, garlic, and grapes. Cook everything to improve digestibility.

Step-by-Step Guide to Balanced Homemade Dog Food

  1. Step 1: Choose a Lean Protein: Cook a lean protein like boneless skinless chicken breast or ground turkey. Avoid seasoning. Let it cool, then chop or shred into bite-sized pieces. A common mistake is using fatty cuts or seasoning, which can upset your dog's stomach.
  2. Step 2: Add Dog-Safe Vegetables: Steam or boil carrots, green beans, or spinach until soft. Mash or chop finely to aid digestion. Use about 1/4 cup of veggies per 1 cup of protein. Never feed raw cruciferous veggies like broccoli in large amounts—cooking makes them safer and easier to digest.
  3. Step 3: Include a Healthy Fat: Add a teaspoon of fish oil or a small amount of flaxseed oil for essential fatty acids. Alternatively, a teaspoon of unsalted pumpkin puree adds fiber and moisture. Too much fat can cause diarrhea; start with a small amount and adjust based on your dog's stool.
  4. Step 4: Mix in a Complete Supplement: After the food has cooled to room temperature, stir in the recommended dosage of Holistic Total Body Support. Follow the label instructions based on your dog's weight. Do not heat the supplement—high temperatures can degrade sensitive nutrients.
  5. Step 5: Portion and Store: Divide the prepared food into daily portions. Refrigerate portions for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight. Bacteria grow quickly in homemade food; never leave it at room temperature for more than 2 hours.

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