Mixing dog food is a common practice among pet owners and professionals in the animal care industry. It involves combining different types of dog food or adding various ingredients to the diet in an effort to provide a balanced and nutritious meal for the animal. However, this practice has received criticism and controversy over the years, with some arguing that it can lead to negative health consequences for dogs.
Here are some ideas for what can be mixed with dry dog food to give your pup a tasty and healthy meal.
Canned Dog Food
Mixing dry dog food with canned dog food is a great way to add some moisture and extra protein to your pup’s diet. Just be sure to check the ingredients on the canned food to make sure it’s high quality and free from artificial preservatives or additives.
Cooked Meat
Dogs are carnivores by nature, so adding some cooked meat to their dry food can be a delicious and nutritious treat. Chicken, turkey, beef, and fish are all great options. Just make sure the meat is fully cooked and free from any seasonings or spices that could upset your dog’s stomach.
Vegetables
Adding some vegetables to your dog’s diet can provide them with essential vitamins and minerals. Some good options include carrots, green beans, and sweet potatoes. Make sure the vegetables are cooked and chopped into small pieces before mixing them in with the dry food.
Adding some broth or gravy to your dog’s dry food can make it more palatable and add some moisture to their diet. Just be sure to use low-sodium broth and check the ingredients in the gravy to make sure it doesn’t contain any harmful additives.
Yogurt
Adding a dollop of plain, unsweetened yogurt to your dog’s dry food can provide them with some healthy probiotics and aid in digestion. Just make sure the yogurt doesn’t contain any added sugar or artificial sweeteners.
Eggs
Adding a scrambled or boiled egg to your dog’s dry food is a great way to give them a protein boost. Eggs are also a good source of vitamins and minerals.
Fruits
Some fruits can be a healthy addition to your dog’s diet. Blueberries, bananas, and apples (without the seeds) are all good options. Just be sure to cut the fruit into small pieces and remove any seeds or pits.
Rice
Cooked white or brown rice can be mixed with dry dog food to add some extra fiber and carbohydrates. It’s a good option for dogs with sensitive stomachs or those that need to gain weight.
Cheese
A small amount of shredded cheese can be a tasty addition to dry dog food. Just be sure to choose a low-fat option and use it sparingly, as too much cheese can cause digestive issues.
Peanut Butter
A spoonful of peanut butter can be a yummy treat for your pup. Just be sure to choose a natural, unsweetened option without any added salt.
Fish Oil
Adding a few drops of fish oil to your dog’s food can provide them with essential omega-3 fatty acids, which can help promote healthy skin and coat.
FAQs about mixing dog food
As a pet owner, you may have wondered about the benefits and safety of mixing different types of dog food. Here are some commonly asked questions answered by experts.
Yes, you can mix two types of dog food as long as you choose high-quality brands and follow the feeding instructions. Mixing dry and wet dog food or combining different protein sources can provide a variety of textures, flavors, and nutrients that may improve your dog’s appetite and digestion.
Is it OK to give your dog different brands of food?
It is generally safe to give your dog different brands of food, as long as they have similar nutritional values and do not cause any adverse reactions or digestive issues. However, switching between brands too frequently or abruptly can upset your dog’s stomach and cause diarrhea, vomiting, or loss of appetite. It’s best to introduce new brands gradually and monitor your dog’s response.
What is good to mix in dry dog food?
You can mix various ingredients in dry dog food to enhance its flavor and nutritional value, such as:
Cooked meat, fish, or eggs
Vegetables and fruits (e.g., carrots, peas, apples, pumpkin)
Cheese, yogurt, or cottage cheese
Broth or gravy
Supplements (e.g., probiotics, fish oil, glucosamine)
However, make sure to avoid adding harmful foods such as chocolate, onions, garlic, grapes, and raisins.
Can adding water to dry dog food cause bloat?
Adding water to dry dog food can help prevent dehydration and improve digestion, but it is unlikely to cause bloat unless your dog eats too fast or ingests a large amount of water. To avoid bloating, feed your dog smaller meals throughout the day, use slow-feed bowls, and avoid feeding before or after exercise.
How to mix wet and dry dog food?
To mix wet and dry dog food, start by measuring the recommended amounts of each type according to your dog’s weight and activity level. Then, mix them in a bowl and serve immediately. You can adjust the ratio of wet to dry food based on your dog’s preference and tolerance. Make sure to refrigerate any leftover food and discard it after a few days.
In addition to the ingredients mentioned earlier, you can mix dry dog food with the following:
Cooked rice, pasta, or oatmeal
Peanut butter or almond butter (unsalted)
Canned pumpkin or sweet potato
Frozen peas, green beans, or blueberries
Sardines or tuna (in water)
Always check with your vet before adding any new foods to your dog’s diet, especially if they have any health conditions or allergies.
Can you mix dog food brands?
Yes, you can mix dog food brands, but it’s important to choose high-quality brands with similar nutritional values and ingredients. Avoid mixing brands that have different protein sources, fat levels, or fillers, as they may cause digestive upset. It’s also a good idea to stick with the same brand and formula for a few weeks before trying a new one.
Can mixing dog food hurt the dog?
Mixing dog food can be a great way to give your dog a variety of nutrients and flavors, as long as you are careful about the types of food you are mixing. It’s important to make sure that the foods are compatible and that your dog doesn’t have any sensitivities or allergies. Mixing dog food can also help prevent your dog from becoming bored with their food, which can lead to picky eating habits and weight loss.
Hannah Elizabeth is an English animal behavior author, having written for several online publications. With a degree in Animal Behaviour and over a decade of practical animal husbandry experience, Hannah's articles cover everything from pet care to wildlife conservation. When she isn't creating content for blog posts, Hannah enjoys long walks with her Rottweiler cross Senna, reading fantasy novels and breeding aquarium shrimp.
