9 Homemade Dog Food for Inflammatory Bowel Disease

Are you concerned about your furry friend’s tummy troubles? Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) can be a challenging condition for your dog to live with. It can cause chronic diarrhea, vomiting, and weight loss, which can take a toll on your dog’s health and quality of life. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to manage IBD, and one of them is to make homemade dog foods.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through some of the best homemade dog food recipes that can help soothe your dog’s inflamed bowels. These recipes use simple ingredients that are easy to find and provide essential nutrients that your dog needs to stay healthy.

1. Low-Fat Chicken and Rice

This recipe is easy to digest, and the low-fat chicken provides a good source of protein without causing any digestive issues. The rice and vegetables provide fiber and nutrients that are essential for maintaining a healthy digestive system.

Ingredients:

1 pound of ground chicken breast

1 cup of white rice

2 cups of low-sodium chicken broth

1 cup of chopped carrots

1 cup of chopped green beans

Directions:

Cook the ground chicken breast in a large pot until browned.

Add the rice, chicken broth, carrots, and green beans to the pot and stir to combine.

Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 20-30 minutes or until the rice is cooked.

Let the mixture cool before serving it to your dog.

2. Beef and Sweet Potato Stew

This recipe is packed with nutrients, thanks to the sweet potato and kale. The beef provides a good source of protein, and the low-sodium beef broth ensures that the stew won’t cause any digestive issues.

Ingredients:

1 pound of ground beef

1 large sweet potato, peeled and diced

1 cup of chopped kale

2 cups of low-sodium beef broth

1 tablespoon of olive oil

Directions:

Heat the olive oil in a large pot and add the ground beef. Cook until browned.

Add the sweet potato and kale to the pot and stir to combine.

Pour in the beef broth and bring the mixture to a boil.

Reduce the heat to low and let the stew simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender.

Let the stew cool before serving it to your dog.

3. Fish and Brown Rice

This recipe is perfect for dogs with IBD who need a low-fat diet. Fish is a great source of protein, and the brown rice provides fiber that is essential for maintaining a healthy digestive system. The carrots and green beans provide vitamins and minerals that are important for your dog’s overall health.

Ingredients:

1 pound of whitefish (such as cod or tilapia), cooked and flaked

1 cup of cooked brown rice

1 cup of chopped carrots

1 cup of chopped green beans

2 tablespoons of olive oil

Directions:

Cook the fish according to your preferred method, then flake it with a fork.

Cook the brown rice according to the package instructions.

In a large pan, heat the olive oil and add the carrots and green beans. Cook until the vegetables are tender.

Add the flaked fish and cooked brown rice to the pan and stir to combine.

Let the mixture cool before serving it to your dog.

4. Turkey and Pumpkin Stew

This recipe is rich in nutrients and packed with flavor. Turkey is a great source of lean protein, while pumpkin is rich in fiber and can help soothe your dog’s stomach. The spinach provides essential vitamins and minerals that can help support your dog’s immune system.

Ingredients:

1 pound of ground turkey

1 can of pumpkin puree

1 cup of chopped spinach

2 cups of low-sodium chicken broth

1 tablespoon of coconut oil

Directions:

Heat the coconut oil in a large pot and add the ground turkey. Cook until browned.

Add the pumpkin puree and spinach to the pot and stir to combine.

Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil.

Reduce the heat to low and let the stew simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until the pumpkin is tender.

Let the stew cool before serving it to your dog.

5. Lamb and Rice

This recipe is simple but delicious, and it’s perfect for dogs with sensitive stomachs. Lamb is a great source of protein, while the rice provides fiber that can help regulate your dog’s digestive system. The carrots and green beans provide essential vitamins and minerals that can help keep your dog healthy and happy.

Ingredients:

1 pound of ground lamb

1 cup of cooked white rice

1 cup of chopped carrots

1 cup of chopped green beans

2 tablespoons of olive oil

Directions:

Heat the olive oil in a large pan and add the ground lamb. Cook until browned.

Add the carrots and green beans to the pan and cook until the vegetables are tender.

Add the cooked white rice to the pan and stir to combine.

Let the mixture cool before serving it to your dog.

6. Chicken and Sweet Potato

This recipe is perfect for dogs with IBD who need a low-fat diet. Chicken is a great source of lean protein, while sweet potatoes are rich in fiber and essential vitamins. The broccoli provides antioxidants that can help support your dog’s overall health.

Ingredients:

1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken breast, cooked and shredded

1 large sweet potato, peeled and diced

1 cup of chopped broccoli

2 tablespoons of coconut oil

Directions:

Heat the coconut oil in a large pan and add the sweet potato. Cook until the sweet potato is tender.

Add the chopped broccoli to the pan and cook until the broccoli is tender.

Add the shredded chicken to the pan and stir to combine.

Let the mixture cool before serving it to your dog.

7. Beef and Quinoa

This recipe is a great source of protein and fiber, and it’s perfect for dogs with IBD who need a low-fat diet. Beef is a great source of protein, while quinoa is a healthy alternative to rice that’s high in fiber and essential vitamins. The zucchini and yellow squash provide antioxidants that can help support your dog’s overall health.

Ingredients:

1 pound of ground beef

1 cup of cooked quinoa

1 cup of chopped zucchini

1 cup of chopped yellow squash

2 tablespoons of olive oil

Directions:

Heat the olive oil in a large pan and add the ground beef. Cook until browned.

Add the chopped zucchini and yellow squash to the pan and cook until the vegetables are tender.

Add the cooked quinoa to the pan and stir to combine.

Let the mixture cool before serving it to your dog.

8. Salmon and Sweet Potato

This recipe is perfect for dogs with IBD who need a low-fat, high-protein diet. Salmon is a great source of omega-3 fatty acids and protein, while sweet potatoes are rich in fiber and essential vitamins. The kale provides antioxidants and other essential nutrients that can help support your dog’s overall health.

Ingredients:

1 pound of salmon, cooked and shredded

1 large sweet potato, peeled and diced

1 cup of chopped kale

2 tablespoons of coconut oil

Directions:

Heat the coconut oil in a large pan and add the sweet potato. Cook until the sweet potato is tender.

Add the chopped kale to the pan and cook until the kale is wilted.

Add the shredded salmon to the pan and stir to combine.

Let the mixture cool before serving it to your dog.

9. Venison and Carrot Stew

This recipe is packed with protein and essential nutrients that are perfect for dogs with IBD. Venison is a great source of lean protein, while carrots and celery are rich in fiber and essential vitamins. The low-sodium beef broth provides additional flavor and nutrients that can help support your dog’s overall health.

Ingredients:

1 pound of ground venison

1 cup of chopped carrots

1 cup of chopped celery

2 cups of low-sodium beef broth

2 tablespoons of olive oil

Directions:

Heat the olive oil in a large pot and add the ground venison. Cook until browned.

Add the chopped carrots and celery to the pot and cook until the vegetables are tender.

Pour in the beef broth and bring the mixture to a boil.

Reduce the heat to low and let the stew simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.

Let the stew cool before serving it to your dog.

Supplements to add to homemade dog foods for IBD

While it’s important to seek veterinary care for your dog, adding supplements to their homemade food can provide additional relief.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Omega-3 fatty acids are essential for your dog’s overall health and well-being. They can help reduce inflammation and improve the function of the immune system, making them an excellent supplement for dogs with IBD. You can add omega-3 fatty acids to your dog’s diet by including fish oil or flaxseed oil in their homemade food.

Probiotics

Probiotics are beneficial bacteria that help support the digestive system. They can help reduce inflammation and improve nutrient absorption, making them an excellent supplement for dogs with IBD. You can add probiotics to your dog’s diet by including fermented foods such as kefir or yogurt, or by using a probiotic supplement.

Digestive Enzymes

Digestive enzymes help break down food and improve nutrient absorption. They can also reduce inflammation and improve overall digestion, making them an excellent supplement for dogs with IBD. You can add digestive enzymes to your dog’s diet by using a supplement that contains protease, amylase, and lipase.

Slippery Elm

Slippery elm is a natural supplement that can help soothe the digestive tract and reduce inflammation. It contains mucilage, a substance that can help protect the lining of the digestive tract, making it an excellent supplement for dogs with IBD. You can add slippery elm to your dog’s diet by using a supplement or by adding it to their homemade food.

Glutamine

Glutamine is an amino acid that can help support the digestive tract and reduce inflammation. It can also improve overall gut health and support the immune system, making it an excellent supplement for dogs with IBD. You can add glutamine to your dog’s diet by using a supplement or by including foods such as bone broth, chicken, or fish.

FAQs about home-cooked food for dogs with IBD

We’ll answer some frequently asked questions about homemade food for dogs with inflammatory bowel disease.

What is inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)?

Inflammatory bowel disease is a condition that affects a dog’s digestive system. It causes chronic inflammation in the gastrointestinal tract, which can lead to symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, and weight loss. There are different types of IBD, including lymphocytic-plasmacytic enteritis, eosinophilic enteritis, and inflammatory bowel disease associated with food allergies.

Why might homemade food be beneficial for dogs with IBD?

Homemade food can be beneficial for dogs with IBD because it allows you to have more control over what your dog is eating. Commercial dog food can contain ingredients that may trigger inflammation in dogs with IBD. Making your own dog food allows you to choose ingredients that are gentle on your dog’s digestive system and avoid those that may cause problems.

What should I include in homemade food for my dog with IBD?

When making homemade food for your dog with IBD, it’s important to include ingredients that are easy to digest and unlikely to cause inflammation. Some good options include:

• Lean proteins like chicken, turkey, or fish
• Carbohydrates like sweet potatoes, pumpkin, or rice
• Vegetables like green beans, carrots, or spinach
• Fruits like apples or blueberries

It’s also important to avoid ingredients that may be problematic for dogs with IBD, such as dairy products, grains, and certain vegetables like onions or garlic.

Should I consult with my vet before making homemade food for my dog with IBD?

Yes, it’s always a good idea to consult with your vet before making any changes to your dog’s diet. They can help you determine the best approach for your dog’s specific needs and make sure that they are getting all of the nutrients they need.

Can homemade food alone cure my dog’s IBD?

Unfortunately, there is no cure for IBD, and homemade food alone is unlikely to completely eliminate symptoms. However, it can be a helpful part of an overall treatment plan that includes medication and other interventions.

Can I feed my dog raw food if they have IBD?

Raw food diets have become popular in recent years, but they may not be the best choice for dogs with IBD. Raw food can contain harmful bacteria that may cause further digestive upset in dogs with compromised immune systems. It’s best to stick to cooked homemade food for dogs with IBD.

How often should I feed my dog homemade food?

The frequency of feeding homemade food will depend on your dog’s individual needs and treatment plan. Your vet may recommend feeding homemade food exclusively or as a supplement to commercial dog food. It’s important to follow their recommendations closely.

How should I introduce homemade food to my dog with IBD?

It’s important to introduce homemade food gradually to your dog with IBD to avoid digestive upset. Start by mixing a small amount of homemade food into your dog’s regular food and gradually increase the amount over several days. Monitor your dog’s stool and other symptoms during this time and adjust the amount of homemade food accordingly.

Can I add supplements to homemade food for my dog with IBD?

Yes, supplements can be helpful for dogs with IBD. Omega-3 fatty acids, probiotics, and digestive enzymes are all supplements that may help reduce inflammation and improve digestive health. However, it’s important to talk to your vet before adding any supplements to your dog’s diet.

What are some signs that my dog’s IBD is not well-managed with homemade food?

If your dog’s IBD symptoms persist or worsen despite homemade food, it may be a sign that additional interventions are needed. Other signs to look out for include weight loss, loss of appetite, and lethargy. If you notice any of these signs, it’s important to contact your vet for further evaluation.

Can I use recipes for human food to make homemade food for my dog with IBD?

No, recipes for human food are not suitable for dogs with IBD. Dogs have different nutritional requirements than humans and may require different ingredients or ratios of ingredients to maintain optimal health. It’s best to use recipes specifically formulated for dogs with IBD or work with a veterinary nutritionist to create a custom diet.

How do I ensure that homemade food is nutritionally balanced for my dog with IBD?

It can be challenging to ensure that homemade food is nutritionally balanced for dogs with IBD, as they may have unique nutritional needs. Working with a veterinary nutritionist can be helpful in ensuring that homemade food meets all of your dog’s nutritional needs. Additionally, it’s important to monitor your dog’s weight and overall health and make adjustments to their diet as needed.

How long does homemade food last?

Homemade food for dogs with IBD should be refrigerated or frozen to ensure that it stays fresh. It’s best to make small batches of food that can be used within a few days. If you’re freezing homemade food, make sure to label it with the date and use it within three months.

How much homemade food should I feed my dog with IBD?

The amount of homemade food that you should feed your dog with IBD will depend on their individual needs and treatment plan. Your vet can help you determine the appropriate amount of food for your dog based on factors like their weight, age, and activity level.

Are there any risks associated with homemade food for dogs with IBD?

Homemade food for dogs with IBD can be a safe and effective part of an overall treatment plan, but there are some risks to be aware of. Homemade food can be more difficult to ensure that it is nutritionally balanced, and it may not be appropriate for all dogs. Additionally, homemade food can become contaminated with harmful bacteria if not prepared and stored properly.

Can I feed my dog homemade treats if they have IBD?

Yes, homemade treats can be a safe and enjoyable addition to your dog’s diet, even if they have IBD. However, it’s important to choose treats that are low in fat and easy to digest. Some good options include dehydrated meat treats, carrots, or blueberries.

Can I still give my dog commercial dog food if they have IBD?

In some cases, commercial dog food may be appropriate for dogs with IBD. However, it’s important to choose a high-quality, easily digestible brand that is free of ingredients that may trigger inflammation. Your vet can help you choose the best commercial dog food for your dog’s individual needs.

How do I know if my dog’s homemade food is working?

If your dog’s homemade food is working well, you should notice an improvement in their IBD symptoms. They may have less frequent or less severe diarrhea, vomiting, and weight loss. Additionally, they may have more energy and seem generally happier and healthier.