Ensuring Your Dog’s Diet Is Nutritionally Balanced

In a recent blog, I shared insightful information regarding the potential dangers of relying solely on a diet of mince, rice, and vegetables for your furry companion. While the idea of cooking up some mince, rice, and vegetables might seem like a wholesome choice, it turns out it could be lacking in crucial nutrients vital for your dog’s health and well-being.

In my practice, I emphasize the importance of a well-balanced diet for our canine companions, one that meets specific nutrient requirements outlined by AAFCO (Association of American Feed Control Officials). These nutrients include calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, chloride, iron, copper, zinc, iodine, selenium, vitamins D and E, various B vitamins (such as B1, B2, B5, B12, folate, and choline), as well as essential fatty acids like linoleic acid.

To ensure your dog gets all the necessary nutrients, I’m sharing a nutritionally balanced recipe that enhances the simple mince, rice, and vegetable diet many pet owners opt for. Here’s what you’ll need:

100g cooked beef mince (85% lean)
100g cooked white rice (weighed after cooking)
100g mixed green leafy vegetables, finely chopped (raw)
50g canned salmon, drained
1 whole large egg, hard-boiled
Crushed shell from the cooked egg
30g beef liver treats
20g hempseed oil
12g ground cloves
10g canned oysters, drained
5g nutritional yeast
2g dried kelp powder

This recipe ensures a balanced nutritional profile for your furry friend, meeting their AAFCO nutrient requirements.

*A 10kg dog would need 300g per day and a 20kg dog would need 500g per day.

• Cook the rice and mince separately
• Mix the cooked mince with rice in a large bowl
• Finely chop the mixed green leafy vegetables
• Hard-boil the egg, peel, and crush the shell finely
• Combine all ingredients in the bowl, including liver treats (crushed or served as treats)
• Divide the mixture into two meals, serving half in the morning and half at night
• Any extra can be stored in the freezer for future use.

Feeding your dog a balanced diet is essential for their overall health and vitality. By following my expert advice and using this carefully crafted recipe, you can ensure your beloved pet receives all the necessary nutrients for a happy and healthy life.

For more insights on pet health and nutrition, don’t forget to tune in to my segment on RPPFM, the Peninsula local radio, every Tuesday morning at 8:30 am.