What to feed your dog if you've run out of their usual food
Dogs are omnivores and can digest a wide variety of foods
DOG FOOD
Approximate reading time: 11 minutes
In the rush of everyday life, you didn't realise that your dog's food had run out, and suddenly you're wondering what you can feed them that they like and enjoy. If you've run out of dog food, the shops are closed or you can't go shopping, and you need an emergency solution to feed your pet, don't panic. Dogs are omnivores, which means that their bodies and teeth are prepared for a varied diet. There are many foods that you probably have in your fridge that are perfectly safe for your pet. Not only that, but they can provide numerous benefits. Meat, fish, some vegetables and fruit, root vegetables, eggs... Did you know that your dog can enjoy all these foods without any problems?
Table of contents
1- 10 foods that are safe and beneficial for your dog
2 - Three healthy natural dog food recipes
10 foods that are safe and beneficial for your dog
There are many very common, everyday foods for humans that are also suitable for dogs. As omnivorous mammals and ancestors of the wolf, these animals ate a much more varied diet when they lived in the wild. Today, most dogs have adapted to the new domestic diets based on specific foods, whether wet or dry, and their teeth and digestive systems have not changed as much. Dogs need a diet based mainly on protein, such as meat or fish, but they also need carbohydrates, fats and vitamins. Of course, the type of food a dog eats will vary depending on their age, health condition, breed and size, so you will need to take these aspects into account. There are many foods that can provide these nutrients for your pet, although some are more interesting than others. If you have run out of food for your dog, you can prepare a tasty homemade recipe with any of these ingredients.
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Salmon
Another excellent source of protein for your dog is salmon. This fish contains many minerals, such as magnesium and phosphorus, as well as vitamin D, which strengthens bones. Be very careful to crumble the fish to remove any bones and prevent them from sticking in your dog's throat. For fish, always opt for pre-frozen pieces to avoid anisakis and offer it to your dog previously cooked for safety.
Please note: other healthy fish for your pet include tuna, mackerel, sardines and hake, as long as they are of good quality.
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Sweet potato/potato
This tuber, similar to the potato, contains large amounts of calcium, vitamin C and magnesium, among other nutrients. The best way to feed it to your furry friend is by boiling and chopping (or even mashing). Its sweet taste and creamy texture is often very appealing to dogs. Potatoes are also a good option. Well peeled and boiled, it is very digestible for the animal.
Please note: potato has a very interesting prebiotic component in case your dog has diarrhoea or a tummy ache. Give it well boiled and mashed and it will be great for them.
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Egg
Although it may seem strange to you, yes, your dog can eat eggs without any problems. In fact, this food contains a lot of high-quality protein, so it is very beneficial for their body. In addition, it also provides your dog with fatty acids and amino acids, making it a highly recommended option. Always use cooked eggs to avoid salmonella.
Bear in mind: eggs are a very versatile food, so you can give them to your pet cooked (as they look like a ball, they will be great fun for him), grilled or as part of other preparations (scrambled, diced or used as a conglomerate in croquettes, balls...).
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Pumpkin
If you have some pumpkin at home, don't hesitate, it is an excellent source of carbohydrates and a very good option to feed your dog. A source of beta-carotene, fibre and vitamins A, C and K, this vegetable is very nutritious and light for your pet. Its natural sweetness will be very appetising for dogs with a sweet tooth.
Keep in mind: steam or boil the pumpkin and give it to your dog diced, sliced or mashed. Remember that dogs need carbohydrates in their diet, but they should not be the only nutrient in their diet, so try to keep the dish to a maximum of 40% pumpkin and add some source of protein as the main food.
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Turkey
Although dogs are omnivores, meat or fish - as a source of protein - should be the main component of their diet. You can offer any part of the animal, just make sure there are no bones in it that could cause choking or injury, and give it in pieces so that it can be easily eaten. Other options for your dog are beef (loin or sirloin), lamb and rabbit. Always opt for quality meat that is fit for human consumption. Do not give your dog anything you would not consider for yourself.
Please note: as to whether you should give cooked or raw meat to your dog, there are very different opinions on the matter. Raw meat has a higher nutritional value, as vitamins and enzymes are lost during cooking.
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Courgette
Courgette is a very interesting vegetable if your dog suffers from obesity, as it has very few calories and is mainly made up of water. It provides many vitamins and minerals and you can cook it or give it raw to your dog. Other interesting vegetables for your pet are carrots, artichokes or chard.
Please note: The recommended dose would be between 5 and 10% in each meal. As it does not have much flavour, we recommend that you combine the courgette with some other more tasty ingredient so that the food is attractive to your pet and they do not reject it.
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Green beans
If you are looking to entertain your dog with a snack that will keep them satiated while you get their regular food, we recommend green beans. Because of their format and taste, this vegetable provides your pet with protein, fibre and vitamins.
Please note: Dogs can eat vegetables, but always in moderation, between 5-10% of their daily diet, as, like people, they can cause digestive discomfort such as gas.
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Rice
There is much controversy as to whether or not cereals are beneficial for dogs. The truth is that these animals do not need cereals in their diet, but according to some studies, they can be an appropriate source of energy as long as the portions are limited and they are not the basis of their diet. Since rice - which contains B vitamins and iron, among other nutrients - is a pantry staple we almost always have at home, you can prepare some for your dog.
Keep in mind: we recommend pairing the rice with a protein source that dominates the dish, such as turkey or fish.
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Apple
Because of their freshness and sweet taste, fruits are a food that some dogs tend to like. Apples provide vitamins, calcium and potassium if eaten with the skin on, and also provide fibre; they are a good alternative to include in your pet's food. Other fruits that your dog can eat are apricots and peaches, preferably peeled, blueberries, pears, or bananas, although the latter is very rich in sugars and should be eaten in moderation. Watermelon, on the other hand, is high in water and low in calories, making it an excellent fruit for dogs.
Please note: remove all the seeds from the apple, as they contain a small amount of cyanide and can be toxic.
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Pasta
If your dog does not suffer from gluten intolerance and you have some pasta in your pantry, you can offer them a small portion of this food (preferably combined with protein). Pasta is a source of carbohydrates that, while safe for your dog, does not provide many benefits, so we recommend using it only on a very ad hoc basis and if you have nothing else on hand.
Please note: if you are going to give your dog pasta, cook it so that it is a little softer than al dente and without salt. This will make it more digestible and more suitable for your dog.
Three healthy natural dog food recipes
Now that you know some totally safe foods for your pet, get imaginative! No one knows your dog's tastes and preferences better than you, so even if it's just a one-off meal because you've run out of food, take the opportunity to prepare something tasty and nutritious for them they`re sure to be very happy! Here are three quick and easy recipe ideas to surprise your dog with a gourmet meal.
Potato salad with apple and salmon. Steam or boil half a sweet potato and, when it cools, mix it with a chopped apple and some crumbled grilled salmon.
Turkey with courgette and carrot. Boil a turkey breast and shred it. Add half a steamed courgette and a steamed carrot until soft. Put it all together in a bowl and serve this tasty and nutritious meal to your dog.
Tuna and rice pancakes. Crumble a can of plain, unsalted tuna and add it to half a cup of cooked rice. Add beaten egg to help form the pancakes, and then fry in a non-stick frying pan (add a small amount of olive oil if you like).
You know: if you don't have any food on hand to give your dog, you can always cook something delicious and healthy with homemade ingredients, but keep in mind that this is for a one-off treat, otherwise a balanced diet will need to be prepared by a nutritionist.
Be very careful with your choice, as some common foods such as onions, grapes or chocolate are toxic for dogs. In addition, if your pet has any specific health conditions, allergies or if you have any doubts about a particular food, it is best to consult a vet. Your dog's health comes first, and although you should never leave them without food if you have run out of their usual food, you should make sure that what you are going to give them as a replacement is suitable and safe for them Enjoy!