Wholesome Canine Cuisine Homemade Healthy Dog Food and Treats: Eleven Secrets: How to Give Your Best Friend Thriving Health and Longevity

By Genie Joseph

Are you worried about what's in your furry friend's food bowl? Say goodbye to concerns about commercial dog food with Wholesome Canine Cuisine - Healthy Homemade Dog Food and Treats! This book will teach you everything you need to know about canine nutrition essentials. Once you understand the basic pri

• Language: English
• Publisher: The Human-Animal Connection
• Release date: Apr 29, 2024
• ISBN: 9798985802658

Book preview

Wholesome Canine Cuisine

Homemade Healthy Dog Food and Treats

Eleven Secrets to Your Best Friends’

Thriving Health and Longevity

&

Homemade Healthy Dog Food & Treats

111 Recipes to Help Your Dog Thrive

Genie Joseph, PhD

Wholesome Canine Cuisine

Homemade Healthy Dog Food and Treats

Eleven Secrets to Your Best Friends Thriving Health and Longevity

Published by SPIRIT ANIMAL PRESS

Tucson, Arizona, U.S.A

Copyright © 2024 GENIE JOSEPH, Ph.D. All rights reserved

No part of this book may be reproduced in any form or by any mechanical means, including information storage and retrieval systems, without permission in writing from the publisher/author, except by a reviewer who may quote passages in a review. All logos, quotes, and trademarks included in this book are subject to use according to trademark and copyright laws of the United States of America.

Library of Congress Control Number: 2024906808

JOSEPH, GENIE, Author

Wholesome Canine Cuisine - Homemade Dog Food and Treats

GENIE JOSEPH, Ph.D.

ISBN: 979-8-9858026-6-5 (paperback)

ISBN 979-8-9858026-5-8 (digital)

Categories:

Dog Care and Health, Pet Food and Nutrition, Homemade Dog Food and Treats, Dogs, Dog Food, Canine Nutrition, Wholistic Dog Care

Book Cover Design: Angelina Joseph

Dog Illustrations: Dawn Price

All rights reserved by GENIE JOSEPH, Ph.D

Published by SPIRIT ANIMAL PRESS

This book is printed in the United States of America

Dedication

This book is a tribute to the dogs who fill our lives with immeasurable love and joy.

We dedicate this book to their health and long, happy lives.

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Lulu, Dog Food Tester & Genie, Dog Food Maker

And to all the wonderful dogs out there, may you enjoy each bite of these lovingly prepared meals and, in return, share your affectionate, doggy kisses with the caring humans who made it possible.

Dear reader,

Your purchase of this book supports the work of The Human-Animal Connection, a non-profit organization that helps challenging and often overlooked shelter dogs and trains them to become happy, loved therapy dogs. They find a new purpose for living—visiting high schools, the VA, nursing homes, and anyone needing solace and comfort. Your purchase supports our educational and training methods for the noble healing power of therapy dogs.

In our commitment to making this essential information accessible to as many dog owners as possible, we've printed this book in black and white. Our primary goal is to ensure that all doggie homes can benefit from this critical knowledge.

If you would like to learn more or donate to The Human-Animal Connection, please visit our website at www.thehumananimalconnection.org

Disclaimer Notice:

Please note the information contained within this document is for educational and entertainment purposes only. All effort has been executed to present accurate, up to date, reliable, complete information. No warranties of any kind are declared or implied. Readers acknowledge that the author is not engaged in the rendering of legal, financial, medical, or professional advice. The content within this book has been derived from various sources, and individual results may vary. Please consult a licensed veterinary professional before attempting any techniques outlined in this book.

By reading this document, the reader agrees that under no circumstances is the author responsible for any losses, direct or indirect, that are incurred as a result of the use of the information contained within this document, including, but not limited to, errors, omissions, or inaccuracies.  Under no circumstances will any blame or legal responsibility be held against the publisher or author for any damages, reparation, or monetary loss due to the information contained within this book, either directly or indirectly.

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Sophia, Dog Food Tester, says, Bone Appetit

Table of Contents – PART ONE

Table of Contents – PART ONE

PART ONE: Eleven Secrets to Your Best Friends’  Thriving Health and Longevity

Introduction

How Do I Know This Is True?

What You Will Learn

Principle One

How to Get Started Protecting Your Dog's Health with Wholesome, Homemade Food

How to Unleash the Benefits of Homemade,  Healthy Dog Food

The Role of Balanced Nutrition for Dogs

The Hidden Hazards

All About AAFCO's Role in Your Dog's Diet

Understanding Your Dog's Unique Nutritional Needs

Gradual Transition to Homemade Meals for Your Dog

Dog Nutrition 101:  How to Craft Balanced Homemade Meals

Work at a Pace That Is Right for You and Your Dog

Principle Two

Balancing the Basic Elements of Canine Nutrition

From Puppies to Golden Oldies: Exploring the Balance of Food Groups and Canine Well-Being at Every Life Stage

Identifying Health Issues Linked to  Nutrient Deficiencies in Dogs

Paws and Puddles:  Ensuring Optimal Canine Hydration

Principle Three

Understanding the Gut Biome: The Third Key to a Healthy Dog

The Role of Prebiotics and Probiotics

Principle Four

Digestion and Allergies in Dogs

Exploring Your Dog's Digestion

Deciphering the Scoop:  Why Doggie Doo Matters

Unlocking the Diet-Skin Allergy Connection: What You Need to Know

Homemade Food Deepens Your Bond

Principle Five

The Essential Ingredients Your Dog Needs – and Those to Stay Away From

Protein Picks

Nutrient-Dense Carbohydrates

Supercharged Vegetables

Fruitful Feeding

Elevating Your Dog's Diet with Herbs and Spices

Unsafe Food Alert: Know Which Common Foods  Pose a Threat to Your Dog's Health

Principle Six

Maintaining Your Dog's Healthy Weight

Mastering Portion Control

Five Vital Questions to Ask Your Vet  About Managing Obesity

Quick Tips for Achieving and Sustaining a Healthy Weight in Dogs

Principle Seven

The ABCs of Raw Food

Principle Eight

Safe Prep and Storage

Equipping Your Canine Cuisine Kitchen

Choosing the Ideal Containers for Safe Food Storage

Hygiene Practices

Preserving Nutritional Integrity Through  Safe Cooking Methods

Simplify Your Dog's Mealtime with  Quick and Easy Batch Cooking

Principle Nine

Play, Stimulation, and Natural Care— A Holistic Approach to Your Dog's Well-Being

Balancing Physical Fitness with Mental Agility

Simple Home Remedies for  Your Dog's Common Ailments

The Benefits of Homemade Dog Shampoo

Seven Nutritious Herbs for Your Dog’s Diet

Principle Ten

Food, Love, and Emotional Issues in Dogs

The Connection Between  Nutrition and Behavior in Dogs

Identifying Emotional Issues Around Food

Principle Eleven

Natural Healing Is in Your Hands: Soothing Touch and Massage for Dogs

Good Food, Great Health:  Why Cooking for Your Dog Matters

Conclusion

Resource Section

PART TWO:  The Recipes Your Dog Will Adore

PART ONE:

Eleven Secrets to Your Best Friends’

Thriving Health and Longevity

Introduction

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Bailey

Dog Food Tester

Congratulations on taking this paw-by-paw journey toward wholesome homemade dog food and providing a healthy life for your beloved companion.

Nothing is quite as heartwarming as returning home to the boundless joy of a happy and healthy dog. Regardless of the challenges we face in our day, that wagging tail and those gentle doggie kisses can make all our troubles fade away. Dogs offer us profound love and loyalty, and in return, they simply ask for our wise care.

It's our responsibility to cherish these incredible companions and ensure their well-being. To honor the special bond we share, it's essential to understand the importance of providing them with the right nourishment.

What we choose to feed our beloved dogs directly influences their health, vitality, and overall quality of life, according to holistic veterinarian Dr. Mark Restey. By making informed decisions about their diet and nutrition, we can contribute to their longevity and ensure that they continue to brighten our days with their presence. Commercial dog food can be convenient, but it may not always be the optimal choice for safeguarding your dog's well-being.

If you’re reading this book, you are probably someone who already knows that homemade food is better for your health than processed or commercial foods. The same is true for your dog. It is so much better than any product on the store shelf that claims to be healthy or wholesome. Home cooking offers a variety of benefits, ranging from improved health and an ideal weight to reduced food sensitivities and allergies, better digestion, improved mobility, and longevity. Most of us trusted commercial dog food, which meant opening a can or package of kibble. It seems so convenient and easy, but it can be a costly option in the long run, with expensive tests and visits to the vet to try to resolve mystery symptoms. Most commercially produced dog foods contain nutritiously dead fillers, flavor enhancers, preservatives, harmful additives, and questionable protein sources. By shifting to home cooking, you have control over the source, the quality, and the quantity of ingredients used.

There's truly no greater satisfaction than knowing you're offering your dog the healthiest, most nourishing food available. The pure joy they exhibit when I watch my three dogs eagerly dive into their homemade nutritious meals, wagging their tails in contentment and gazing at me with gratitude in their eyes, is a priceless reward for any loving dog owner.

Before making any dietary changes, it is important to consult your veterinarian, especially if your dog has specific health issues. Every dog is unique, and their nutritional needs vary. The amount you serve and the balance of macro and micronutrients must be adjusted depending on age, breed, and activity levels. Once you understand a few basic principles of canine nutrition, you can begin to shift to homemade dog food. There are many benefits, such as improved weight, better skin and coat, and better behavior. The good news is you don’t have to change everything about what you feed your dog, and not all at once, either. Your dog's well-being is the top priority, and I'm here to assist you in achieving that goal.

I have seen with my client's dogs that even small changes can make a big difference. When you feed a variety of homemade foods and a balanced diet, you can rest easy knowing your furry companion’s nutritional needs are met.

How Do I Know This Is True?

Allow me to briefly introduce myself. My name is Genie Joseph, PhD. I am a Certified Pet Food Specialist and the Executive Director of The Human-Animal Connection. The HAC is a non-profit organization dedicated to bringing people and animals together for mutual benefit, healing, and comfort. Our organization offers free therapy dog visits to healthcare providers, veterans, those on active duty, and anyone else experiencing stress in their field of service to others. We also have a high school therapy program, Canines Teach Compassion, where therapy dogs reduce students' stress by over 50% after an hour of structured interaction. The HAC also conducts educational classes and Zoom consultations to help others deepen their connection with their animals, increase empathy, and promote cross-species communication. The HAC is based on thirty-three principles, and our book, The Human-Animal Connection-Deepening Relationships with Animals and Ourselves, is available in print, eBook, and audiobook versions. I'm also an award-winning filmmaker and author of another book, The Act Resilient Method—From Trauma to Transformation.

I am an Animal Chaplain and have been working with humans and animals for over three decades. I am also a dog trainer and volunteer at different animal rescue shelters, working with shy and traumatized animals to help them become ready for adoption.

While I was volunteering, a wonderful rescue dog adopted me. Literally, she jumped into my arms! Her name is Sophia. She was once a feral dog who scared grown men and had to be strapped to my waist to let anyone into the house. However, by implementing our HAC healing methods, she became a Certified Therapy Dog. Today, she not only embodies the love and compassion she received but also shares and imparts these invaluable qualities to those who are in need. Although Sophia had been on several brands of premium dog food, including veterinary prescription diets, she was overweight and on thyroid medication. Her battle with two different types of cancer marked the beginning of my quest to explore alternative ways to safeguard her health and well-being. It sent me on a path of exploration, research, training, and learning to cook! After spending two decades in the movie business, I was not the kind of person who made myself home-cooked food very often!

As my eyes were opened to the dangers of commercial dog food, I discovered I was not alone in my ignorance about the ingredients. The labels are confusing at best and deliberately deceptive at worst. Many of my private HAC clients were desperate for better choices when veterinarians struggled to solve the mysterious and chronic health issues their beloved dogs were experiencing.

I started with one simple recipe: chicken, sweet potatoes, spinach, carrots, and some oats. It was a revelation. Could it be this simple? I could cook for both of us at the same time! My three dogs were in heaven, and I could see the benefits to their health immediately.

I was hooked! I took dog nutrition courses, spoke with holistic veterinarians, and learned what vitamins, minerals, and probiotics needed to be added. I started talking to everyone who would listen. Do you cook for your dog? What do you make? Can I have your recipes? What have you noticed regarding changes in your dogs' health and behavior?

Hearing the stories of healthy turnarounds made me an ardent supporter of home-cooked dog food and treats. Starting small can still make a significant impact. Implementing just one change, such as preparing homemade kibble for your dog, can result in noticeable improvements in both their health and behavior. I don’t cook every night. I prepare 3–4 days’ worth of healthy meals and refrigerate or freeze the rest. On the nights that I cook for my three dogs, Sophia, Bailey, and Lulu, they lay on the kitchen floor and watch me with calm and grateful delight. They know something wonderful is coming their way!

What You Will Learn

All dogs require high-quality protein, healthy fats, complex carbohydrates, vitamins, calcium, and essential fatty acids. In this book, I will guide you every step of the way as you transition your dog to healthy homemade dog food and treats. Part Two of this book provides over a hundred wholesome and nutritious recipes, spanning from balanced meals to homemade kibble and delectable, healthy treats for your furry companion. For those who choose raw food diets, you will learn what nutrients and micronutrients are essential to add. You will also be introduced to recipes for dogs with special needs. For canine delight, we provide recipes for healthy desserts you can make to treat your dog on those special occasions.

Every recipe within this book is highly recommended by our clients, carries the seal of approval from veterinarians, and has been rigorously tested by our dedicated HAC dog teams. These recipes are thoughtfully curated, emphasizing ease of preparation, allowing you to whip up nutritious meals for your dog in no more time than it takes to prepare a wholesome, simple meal for yourself.

Forget about spending a fortune on supplements or exotic ingredients to meet your dog’s nutritional requirements. With some planning, knowledge, and creativity, you can provide wholesome, balanced nutrition with all-natural ingredients.

Are you eager to get started?

As we journey to the next chapter, we open the door to understanding the myriad benefits of healthy, homemade dog food. We'll delve into the critical role balanced nutrition plays in your dog's health, exploring how a well-crafted diet can significantly enhance their well-being. Additionally, we'll shed light on the often-misleading food labels of commercial pet food and discuss the current regulatory limitations within the pet food industry. This chapter will equip you with the knowledge and insight needed to make informed decisions about your dog's diet.

Principle One

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Otis

Dog Food Tester

How to Get Started Protecting Your Dog's Health with Wholesome, Homemade Food

The food you eat can be either the safest and most powerful form of medicine or the slowest form of poison.

~Ann Wigmore

Choosing the right foods to give your dog is one of the most important things you can do to protect your dog's health, vitality, and longevity. The well-being of our dogs depends on adequate nutrition, which supports their immune system, strengthens their bones and muscles, and maintains an optimal weight. It also helps to prevent chronic diseases. However, navigating the vast array of options in the supermarket can be overwhelming, especially because the best choice may not even be on the supermarket shelf.

It's important to remember that not all commercial dog food products are as healthy as they claim on the package. Terms like natural and holistic lack standardized regulations, making it crucial for us to be diligent consumers. We must look beyond flashy packaging and delve into the ingredients, sourcing, and manufacturing processes. By making informed decisions about our dogs' nutrition, we can ensure that we provide them with the best possible care.

One powerful way to take control of our dogs' nutrition is by preparing their food ourselves. By doing so, we can choose high-quality ingredients that meet their specific needs. As responsible caregivers, it is our duty to prioritize the well-being of our beloved companions.

I have clients who choose to go with 100% homemade food, even kibbles and treats. Others do 50/50 homemade with high-quality prepared food and everything in between. I celebrate any step in the right direction. It is important to do what works for your lifestyle, your budget, and what you can commit to. What I often see is that people who start slowly, with small changes, see the progress in the health of their dogs, and this motivates them to continue on the wholesome path.

The good news is once you learn the basic principles of good canine nutrition provided in this book, it will be easier than you think. This act of crafting their meals with love and care becomes the secret to ensuring their optimal health and happiness. The power of this transformative journey is in your hands.

How to Unleash the Benefits of Homemade,

Healthy Dog Food

In this section, we will explore the remarkable benefits that homemade, healthy dog food can bring to your furry friend’s life. From increased energy levels and improved coat condition to enhanced mood and behavior, healthier teeth and gums, and even longer lives, the advantages of providing homemade meals are truly transformative.

Let’s dive into seven specific benefits that await both you and your canine companion when you choose to prioritize their nutrition with a homemade diet.

Enhanced energy levels: Nutrient-dense foods provide the necessary fuel for physical activities, ensuring your dog's vitality and zest for life. Say goodbye to sluggishness and hello to a more vibrant and active companion.

A luxurious coat:One of the most visible signs of a dog's overall health is the condition of their coat. Homemade, healthy dog food that is rich in essential fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals can contribute to a lustrous and healthy coat. You will be delighted by the softness, shine, and overall beauty of your dog's fur.

Calmer moods: Just like humans, dogs can experience fluctuations in mood. The right nutrients can help stabilize their mood swings, promote a sense of calmness, and lead to a more content and balanced emotional state for your four-legged friend.

Improved behavior and attention:Proper nutrition plays a vital role in your dog's cognitive function and behavior. You may notice increased attentiveness, improved focus, and better overall behavior.

Healthier teeth and gums: Dental health is crucial for your dog's overall well-being. Homemade healthy food can contribute to this by reducing plaque buildup and promoting good oral hygiene. This helps prevent dental issues and contributes to fresher breath.

Regular, well-formed stools:The quality of a dog's diet directly affects their digestive system. You will notice regular bowel movements and well-formed stools. This indicates proper digestion and optimal gut biome health, ensuring your dog feels comfortable and maintains a healthy digestive tract.

Longevity and well-being:Perhaps the most profound benefit of homemade healthy dog food is its potential to extend their lifespan. A diet of essential nutrients supports their immune system, organ function, and overall vitality.

By providing homemade, healthy dog food, you unlock a world of advantages for your beloved companion. Once you embrace the power of homemade nutrition, you will revel in the joy of seeing your dog thrive in all aspects of their life.

The Role of Balanced Nutrition for Dogs

Providing healthy and balanced nutrition for dogs is not just about the ingredients; it's about striking the right balance of nutritional components to meet their specific needs. Dogs, like humans, have different requirements based on their age, weight, and health needs.

Protein is a crucial component that helps build and repair tissues in your dog's body. It also supports a healthy immune system and provides energy. Healthy fats are necessary for maintaining a shiny coat, supporting brain health, and absorbing fat-soluble vitamins. Vitamins and minerals, in turn, play vital roles in your dog's overall health by supporting various bodily functions such as bone development, muscle contraction, and cell growth. Wholesome, healthy carbohydrates (as