Homemade Dog Food: Nutrients You Must Include

Macronutrients

Protein

Protein is critical for muscle repair, immune function, hormone production, and more. Dogs require ten essential amino acids in their diet: arginine, histidine, isoleucine, leucine, lysine, methionine, phenylalanine, threonine, tryptophan, and valine.

• Too little: Muscle loss, poor coat, weak immune system.
• Too much: Well-tolerated in healthy dogs, but may stress kidneys in dogs with late-stage kidney disease.

Fat

Fat provides energy, supports the skin and coat, and helps absorb fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K). Essential fatty acids include linoleic acid (omega-6) and alpha-linolenic acid (omega-3), though marine sources like fish oil provide more efficient DHA and EPA.

• Too little: Dry skin, poor energy, reproductive issues.
• Too much: Obesity, pancreatitis, inflammatory problems.

Carbohydrates

Carbs are not essential for adult dogs, but they help with energy and digestive health. Puppies, pregnant dogs, and lactating females benefit from carbs for rapid energy and glucose production.

• Too little: Low energy, constipation, diarrhea.
• Too much: Gas, loose stool, weight gain.

Water

Water powers every system in the body. Dogs should consume approximately 1 ounce of water per pound of body weight daily.

• Too little: Dehydration, organ failure, lethargy.
• Too much: Water intoxication is rare but can lead to dangerous electrolyte imbalances (hyponatremia).

Vitamins

Fat-Soluble Vitamins (A, D, E, K)

• Vitamin A: Needed for vision, immune support, and skin. Deficiency causes night blindness; excess leads to bone and liver problems.
• Vitamin D: Essential for calcium/phosphorus balance and bone health. Deficiency causes rickets; excess can be fatal due to organ calcification.
• Vitamin E: A powerful antioxidant. Deficiency results in muscle weakness and reproductive issues; excess interferes with A and K absorption.
• Vitamin K: Required for blood clotting. Deficiency leads to uncontrolled bleeding. Toxicity is rare.

Water-Soluble Vitamins (B-complex, C)

• Vitamin B1 (Thiamine): Supports nerve function and carbohydrate metabolism.
• Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin): Critical for red blood cell production.
• Vitamin B3 (Niacin): Aids skin and digestive health.
• Vitamin B5 (Pantothenic Acid): Helps metabolize fats and carbs.
• Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxine): Needed for amino acid metabolism and nervous system health.
• Vitamin B7 (Biotin): Important for coat and skin health.
• Vitamin B9 (Folic Acid): Essential for DNA synthesis and fetal development.
• Vitamin B12 (Cobalamin): Needed for GI health and neurological function.
• Choline: Supports liver function and nerve signaling.
• Vitamin C: Dogs produce it naturally, but additional amounts may help with oxidative stress.

Minerals

Macrominerals

• Calcium: Crucial for bone formation, muscle function, and nerve signaling.
• Phosphorus: Works alongside calcium in bone and energy metabolism.
• Magnesium: Supports enzyme activity and muscle relaxation.
• Potassium: Maintains fluid balance and heart rhythm.
• Sodium: Needed for nerve impulses and fluid regulation.
• Chloride: Works with sodium for hydration and pH balance.

Trace Minerals

• Iron: Required for oxygen transport in blood.
• Zinc: Promotes immune health and wound healing.
• Copper: Needed for iron absorption and connective tissue formation.
• Manganese: Supports bone formation and metabolic function.
• Iodine: Regulates thyroid hormones and metabolism.
• Selenium: Antioxidant partner of Vitamin E.

Conditionally Essential Nutrients

These are nutrients dogs can usually produce themselves, but supplementation may be necessary during growth, illness, or when certain diets lack bioavailable forms.

• Taurine: Crucial for heart and eye health. Some breeds are more prone to deficiency (e.g., Golden Retrievers, Dobermans).
• DHA & EPA (Omega-3s): Vital for brain, eye, and anti-inflammatory support. Found in fish oils.
• Arachidonic Acid: An omega-6 fatty acid important for reproduction and skin integrity.

Final Thoughts

Homemade dog food can be an incredible gift of love—but it must be nutritionally complete. The nutrients above are not optional. They are the foundation of your dog’s health and longevity.

If you’re unsure whether your recipe covers everything, consult a certified nutritionist or veterinary professional who understands formulation science. Balance matters—because love deserves better than guesswork.