Welcome to our article on a homemade dog food topper recipe with freeze dried options. If you’re looking for a nutritious and flavorful addition to your furry friend’s dry dog food, you’ve come to the right place. We understand the importance of providing the best nutrition for our dogs, especially those with picky appetites. That’s why we embarked on a journey to create our own dog food topper using a freeze dryer. With guidance from our trusted veterinarian, we’ve crafted a recipe that uses human grade ingredients and promotes moderation to prevent weight gain. By sprinkling a small amount of this homemade topper on top of your dog dry food, you can enhance the taste and nutrition without going overboard. This simple recipe can be used for both small dogs and large dogs. When making homemade food for your pet it is a good idea to check for a list of dangerous foods for your pet online. Join us as we delve into the details of this homemade dog food topper recipe, offering a healthier and more personalized option for our furry companions. So let’s look at our dog food topper recipe.
What can I put on my dogs food as a topper?
When considering what to put on your dog’s food as a topper, it is important to choose high-quality ingredients that are suitable for canine consumption. Making your own dog food topper can be a great way to ensure that your furry friend is getting the nutrients they need, especially if they are picky eaters. One option for a homemade dog food topper is freeze dried ingredients. Freeze dried dog food toppers are convenient and can provide added flavor and texture to your dog’s meals. Freeze drying is an easy way to preserve smaller pieces of whole foods like meat and produce. Adding the freeze dried tasty add-ons to your dog’s dinner can be a great way to boost nutrition for their health and energy levels.
Some popular ingredients for dog food toppers include red meat, sweet potatoes, bone broth, peanut butter, green beans, and fresh vegetables. Sweet potatoes are a great source of vitamins and minerals, while bone broth can add a boost of flavor and nutrients. Peanut butter is a favorite among many dogs and can be a tasty addition to their meals. Green beans are low in calories and high in fiber, making them a healthy option for meal toppers. Fresh vegetables, such as carrots or peas, can provide additional vitamins and antioxidants. Just remember you want to purchase human grade food, but not human food that your eating for dinner with all of the salt, butter and other things dogs don’t need to be eating. Always make sure you use unseasoned meat and unseasoned broth.
What should the top 3 ingredients be in dog food?
To ensure optimal nutrition for your canine companion, it is essential to prioritize the top three ingredients in their dog food recipe. The first ingredient to look for in dog food is a high-quality source of protein. Dogs require protein for muscle development, healthy skin and coat, and overall growth and maintenance. Look for ingredients such as chicken, beef, or fish as these provide essential amino acids.
The second important ingredient is healthy fats, particularly those that contain fatty acids. These fats are crucial for your dog’s overall health, including brain function and a shiny coat. Look for ingredients like salmon oil, flaxseed, or chicken fat, as they provide omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. We already have a few bottles of salmon oil on hand so we didn’t need to add any to our food topper but you certainly can. You can also use a variety of ingredients including brown rice, ground beef, whole chicken, wet dog food, fish oil, apple cider vinegar and fresh parsley. Decide what you are comfortable adding to your own dog’s diet.
Lastly, incorporating fresh veggies into your dog’s food provides essential vitamins and minerals. Vegetables like carrots, sweet potatoes, and peas are rich in fiber, antioxidants, and vitamin E. These nutrients support your dog’s immune system, digestive health, and promote overall well-being. Freeze drying is the best way to preserve nutritious veggies if you don’t have a lot of freezer space or know how to can. You still need to store them all in a sealed container though. The dog food topper recipe will last if freeze dried and stored properly.
Dog Food Topper Ideas
- Beef
- Chicken
- Turkey
- Salmon
- Flaxseed
- Sweet Potato
- Pumpkin
- Carrots
- Broccoli
- Chia Seeds
- Blueberry
- Ginger
- Turmeric
- Lion’s Mane Mushroom
- Green Beans
What ingredient Should I avoid in dog food or toppers?
One ingredient to steer clear of in dog food or toppers is artificial preservatives. These additives are commonly used in commercial dog food to extend its shelf life, but they can have negative effects on your dog’s health. Artificial preservatives such as BHA, BHT, and ethoxyquin have been linked to various health issues, including allergies, digestive problems, and even cancer. It is best to opt for dog food or toppers that use natural preservatives, such as vitamins C and E, or no preservatives at all.
When choosing a dog food or topper, it is important to consider your dog’s specific dietary needs and any food allergies they may have. Some dogs may have sensitivities to certain ingredients, such as grains or poultry, which can cause digestive issues or skin problems. If your dog has food allergies, it may be beneficial to choose a topper made with fresh food or homemade ingredients, as these are less likely to contain allergens commonly found in commercial dog food.
Additionally, when making your own homemade dog food topper, it is important to avoid using ingredients that may be harmful to dogs. For example, avoid using onion, garlic, or certain spices that can be toxic to dogs. Instead, focus on using nutritious ingredients such as bone booster broths and organ meats to provide a boost of flavor and nutrients to your dog’s kibble or homemade dog food.
Here’s a list of people foods that dogs should avoid:
- Chocolate
- Grapes and raisins
- Onions and garlic
- Avocado
- Xylitol (artificial sweetener)
- Macadamia nuts
- Caffeine
- Alcohol
- Raw dough with yeast
- Dairy products (some dogs are lactose intolerant)
- Salty foods
- Foods high in fat
- Human medications.
- Human sweets and desserts
By avoiding artificial preservatives and choosing ingredients that are beneficial for your dog’s health, you can ensure that your dog’s meals are both delicious and nutritious.
Are freeze-dried foods good for dogs?
Freeze-dried foods have shown to be beneficial for dogs in terms of their nutritional value and convenience. When it comes to dog food toppers, freeze-dried options can be a great addition to your furry friend’s diet. These foods are made by removing the moisture from the ingredients while preserving their nutrients, resulting in a lightweight and shelf-stable product.
One of the main advantages of freeze-dried foods is their nutritional content. They retain a high level of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, making them a nutritious addition to your dog’s meal. Freeze-dried options also often contain a good amount of protein, which is essential for muscle development and overall health in dogs.
In addition to being nutritious, freeze-dried foods are also convenient. We have a travel trailer and we travel often throughout the year so this allows us to keep some packed in our travel trailer for long periods of time. They can be easily incorporated into your dog’s meals by simply sprinkling them on top or mixing them in. This can add variety and enhance the flavor of your dog’s food, making mealtime more enjoyable for them. Moreover, freeze-dried options have a long shelf life, allowing you to stock up and have them readily available whenever needed.
While there are many commercially available freeze-dried foods for dogs, you can also consider making your own homemade dog food topper using freeze-dried ingredients. This gives you the freedom to choose high-quality, human-grade ingredients and customize the recipe to suit your dog’s preferences and dietary needs.
How do you use freeze-dry dog food as a topper?
When using freeze-dried dog food as a topper, it’s important to consider the ingredients you’re using. Opt for human-grade ingredients and use them sparingly to avoid weight gain in your dogs. Simply sprinkle a small amount on top of each feeding, ensuring not to overdo it. This will add flavor and nutritional value to your dog’s meal. I like to sprinkle just enough on the top of the food for my dogs to smell it. We have a rescue dog that lost an eye before we adopted him and he has bad teeth and needs a little encouragement to eat. We sprinkle this on top of his food and he goes to town. Sometimes we will even add a little warm water to his food to soften it for him. You can use the dog food topper recipe as your pet needs it. Our other dogs Chloe and Tilly love it too. It’s a great way to get those extra vitamins in that they may be missing from their dry kibble.
Ingredients we used
When it comes to using freeze-dried dog food as a topper, the ingredients we used in our homemade recipe include turkey, green beans, sweet potatoes, Flaxseed and blueberries. These ingredients were chosen for their nutritional value and appeal to dogs. By sprinkling a small amount of this freeze-dried mixture on top of your dog’s regular meals, you can enhance the taste and texture of your dog’s regular food while providing them with additional nutrients. You should also know that one of the purposes of freeze drying is to to eliminate waste. So we often use leftovers that don’t have seasonings on them. The great thing about freeze drying is you don’t really have to use an exact amount of each item. We also love buying whats on sale at the top. So for example when our local market has blueberries on sale , we stock up because we can get them freeze dried right away and they will last forever. I also recommend getting a food processor to blend up your ingredients after they are freeze dried.
Turkey
How can freeze-dried dog food be used as a topper, specifically when using turkey as an ingredient? Turkey is a nutritious protein source that many pet owners love to incorporate into their DIY dog food recipes. When using freeze-dried turkey as a topper, simply sprinkle a small amount over your dog’s regular food to add a boost of flavor and nutrition. This convenient and easy-to-use option is perfect for pet owners who want to enhance their dog’s mealtime experience. We bought leftover turkeys that had been marked down after Thanksgiving and smoked them with no seasonings. Cut them into small amounts and then freeze dried the meat to use as our topper but you can also use fresh ground turkey as well from your local grocery store. If you don’t want to do turkey you can certainly use chicken breast, it is also a great source of protein. We avoid giving chicken and turkey bones to our dogs because they can splinter, but the meat is great for the dog food topper recipe. -0
Flaxseed
Flaxseed can offer several benefits when used as a food topper for dogs:
- Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Flaxseed is rich in alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), an omega-3 fatty acid. These fatty acids are beneficial for a dog’s skin, coat, and overall immune system health. They can help reduce inflammation and promote a healthy, shiny coat.
- Digestive Health: Flaxseed contains soluble and insoluble fiber, aiding in maintaining a healthy digestive system for dogs. It can help regulate bowel movements, prevent constipation, and support gastrointestinal health.
- Joint Health: The omega-3 fatty acids found in flaxseed may also contribute to joint health, potentially reducing inflammation and easing joint stiffness in dogs, especially in aging or arthritic pets.
- Supports Cardiovascular Health: Omega-3 fatty acids can support heart health in dogs by potentially lowering the risk of heart disease and promoting better circulation.
- Nutrient Content: Flaxseed is a source of various nutrients such as manganese, magnesium, and B vitamins, which contribute to a dog’s overall well-being.
When using flaxseed as a food topper for dogs, it’s essential to use ground or milled flaxseed to ensure optimal digestion and absorption of nutrients. Whole flaxseeds may pass through a dog’s digestive system undigested. Start by introducing flaxseed gradually to your dog’s diet and always consult your veterinarian before making significant changes to their diet, especially if your dog has specific health conditions or is on medication.
Green Beans
Green beans can be a beneficial food topper for dogs due to several reasons:
- Low in Calories: Green beans are low in calories and can be a great addition to a dog’s meal if they’re on a diet or need to lose weight. They can add bulk to the meal without adding excessive calories, helping your dog feel full without overeating.
- Nutrient-Rich: They are a good source of vitamins like K, C, and A, as well as minerals such as manganese and fiber. These nutrients can contribute to your dog’s overall health and digestion.
- Digestive Health: The fiber content in green beans can aid in maintaining a healthy digestive system for your dog. It can help regulate bowel movements and prevent constipation.
- Hydration: Green beans have a high water content, contributing to your dog’s hydration, especially helpful if your dog doesn’t drink enough water.
- Alternative Treat: For dogs who enjoy crunchier textures, green beans can serve as a healthy alternative to high-calorie treats. They can be given raw, steamed, or even frozen for a crunchy and refreshing snack.
Sweet Potatoes
The recipe for using freeze-dried dog food as a topper includes incorporating sweet potatoes into the mix. Sweet potatoes are a nutritious addition to your dog’s meals, as they are high in fiber, vitamins, and minerals.
- Nutrient-Rich: Sweet potatoes are packed with essential vitamins and minerals, including vitamins A, C, and B6, as well as potassium and fiber. These nutrients support your dog’s overall health, immune system, and digestion.
- Digestive Health: The high fiber content in sweet potatoes can aid in regulating and improving digestive health in dogs. It can help prevent constipation and promote regular bowel movements.
- Low in Fat: Sweet potatoes are naturally low in fat, making them a great option for dogs prone to weight gain or those on a low-fat diet.
- Energy Source: The complex carbohydrates in sweet potatoes provide a good source of energy for dogs, making them a suitable addition to an active dog’s diet.
- Antioxidants: Sweet potatoes contain antioxidants like beta-carotene, which can help support a dog’s immune system and promote healthy aging.
- Tasty and Versatile: Dogs often find sweet potatoes palatable and enjoy their naturally sweet taste. They can be served in various ways—baked, boiled, or mashed—as a food topper or a standalone treat.
Blueberries
We frequently incorporated freeze-dried blueberries as one of the ingredients in our homemade dog food topper recipe. Blueberries are a great addition to your furry friend’s meals as they are packed with antioxidants and vitamins.
- Rich in Antioxidants: Blueberries are packed with antioxidants such as vitamin C, vitamin K, and various phytochemicals. These antioxidants help combat free radicals, support the immune system, and promote overall health.
- Low in Calories and Fat: Blueberries are low in calories and fat, making them a suitable addition to a dog’s diet, especially for those needing to manage their weight or on a restricted-calorie diet.
- High in Fiber: The fiber content in blueberries can aid in digestion and promote gastrointestinal health by supporting regular bowel movements and maintaining a healthy digestive tract.
- Vitamins and Minerals: Blueberries contain essential vitamins and minerals that contribute to a dog’s overall health, including manganese, which supports bone health and metabolism.
- Natural Treat: Many dogs find blueberries tasty due to their naturally sweet flavor. They can be a healthy alternative to high-calorie treats, providing a flavorful addition to their meal or a standalone snack.
- Supports Cognitive Function: Some research suggests that the antioxidants in blueberries may benefit cognitive function and brain health in dogs, potentially aiding in maintaining mental sharpness as they age
To prepare them, we ground the freeze-dried blueberries into small pieces using a blender. Then, we simply sprinkled them over our dog’s dry kibble or mixed them with a little bit of olive oil or coconut oil for added flavor. Our dogs loved the burst of fruity goodness on top of their regular meals!
After freeze drying all of the ingredients we took each tray and blended them up in our food processor. Then added each batch to large mixing bowl. After mixing it all well we then transferred the dog food meal topper into mason jars.
Do I have to Have a Freeze Dryer to Make My Dog Food Topper?
No, owning a freeze dryer isn’t mandatory to make a dog food topper. However, opting for alternatives like preparing it fresh requires extensive time and immediate use without long-term storage capabilities. Additionally, using a dehydrator might strip away natural vitamins from the ingredients due to prolonged exposure to heat. Freeze drying, on the other hand, effectively retains almost all the nutritional content of fresh food. Traditional preservation methods like canning and dehydrating involve high temperatures that diminish the food’s nutritional value significantly. While a freeze dryer might entail a higher initial cost, it ultimately saves ample time and money in the future. Consider it an investment in both your and your dog’s well-being, ensuring preserved food maintains its nutrients for longer periods, contributing to a healthier diet.
Freeze Dry Times Based on my Harvest Right Medium Freeze Dryer
Based on the freeze dry times of my Harvest Right Medium Freeze Dryer, the process took a total of 17 hours. This may vary depending on the size and type of ingredients you are freeze drying. It is important to note that freeze drying is a lengthy process, but the end result is worth the wait. Check your machine instructions before making the dog food topper recipe.
Creating a dog food topper is more about the concept of reducing waste and providing a healthy addition to your dog’s meals rather than strict measurements. The beauty lies in using what you have available in your kitchen without generating unnecessary waste. Whether it’s leftover veggies, lean meats, or grains, the goal is to repurpose these ingredients into a nutritious topper for your dog’s meals. This approach not only minimizes food waste but also allows for variety and flexibility in your pet’s diet. Experimenting with different combinations and quantities based on what’s on hand ensures your dog gets a diverse range of nutrients without the need for precise measurements. It’s a sustainable and resourceful way to enhance your furry friend’s meals while making the most of your kitchen leftovers. This means there are NOX EXACT MEASUREMENTS FOR THIS RECIPE.
Can I Freeze Dry Everything at the Same Time?
Yes, you can freeze dry multiple ingredients together at the same time in a freeze dryer. Most freeze dryers have multiple trays, allowing you to utilize them simultaneously. If you typically consume certain foods together, you can freeze dry them together as well. This approach streamlines the process and allows for efficient batch processing of various ingredients.
However, it’s important to note that while many foods can be freeze-dried together, items with high fat content may not freeze dry as effectively. Foods high in fat, like certain meats or oily items, might not freeze dry well and could result in an uneven texture or spoilage during the freeze-drying process. It’s advisable to be cautious with high-fat foods and possibly freeze dry them separately or in smaller quantities to ensure better results.
Overall, grouping foods that are typically eaten together can simplify the freeze-drying process, but always consider the characteristics of individual ingredients to ensure successful and optimal freeze-drying results.
How Long Does Freeze Dried Food Topper for Dogs Last?
Freeze dried food topper for dogs can last for an extended period when stored properly. This is great news for dog owners who want to add a nutritious and tasty add-on to their regular food. When making your own dog food topper recipe with freeze dried options, it’s important to ensure that the ingredients are of high quality and provide the proper nutrients for your furry friend.
To make your freeze dried food topper last longer, store it in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight. It’s also best to use airtight containers to maintain freshness. We use mason jars to store your tasty dog food topper but you can also use freezer bags. Properly stored, your homemade freeze dried food topper can last for several months, ensuring that you always have a delicious and nutritious addition to your dog’s meals.
When making your dog food topper, consider using freeze dried options such as certified organic bones, which provide essential nutrients like calcium and phosphorus. These bones are a great source of minerals that can support your dog’s overall health. Additionally, freeze dried fruits and vegetables can add a burst of flavor and provide essential vitamins and antioxidants. Make sure to add variety when making the dog food topper recipe.
How to Store Your Freeze Dried Dog Food Topper
To ensure the longevity and freshness of your freeze dried dog food topper, it is essential to store it properly. Here are some tips on how to store your freeze dried dog food topper to maintain its quality and flavor.
Firstly, make sure to transfer the freeze dried dog food topper into an airtight container. This will help to keep out moisture and prevent the topper from becoming stale. Mason jars or plastic containers with tight-fitting lids are ideal for this purpose.
Next, store the container in a cool and dry place. Avoid exposing it to direct sunlight or heat, as this can degrade the quality of the freeze dried ingredients. A pantry or cupboard away from the stove or any appliances that emit heat is a suitable location.
It is also important to label the container with the date of preparation. This will help you keep track of the freshness and ensure that you use the topper within a reasonable timeframe. Typically, freeze dried dog food toppers can be stored for up to several months if stored properly.
Lastly, avoid opening the container unnecessarily. Each time the container is opened, air and moisture can enter, potentially compromising the quality of the topper. Only open the container when you are ready to sprinkle the topper onto your dog’s food.
If you have a small dog you can make small dog treats as well as the dog food topper recipe. Larger chunks of veggies can be freeze dried to last a long time in a mason jar on the shelf and be great for treats. The best part is it is healthy and made from simple ingredients. The most important thing is keeping your pet safe, so always check the list of foods to avoid if you aren’t sure. You know your own dogs better than someone else, so trust your instinct and watch for any reactions to new foods added to their diets.
Getting a Freeze Dryer
We highly recommend the Harvest Right Medium freeze dryer for your food preservation needs. This versatile appliance provides excellent freeze-drying capabilities without the need for a large dedicated 20 amp circuit, unlike the larger sizes. As avid users and supporters of Harvest Right products, we’ve found their quality and customer support exceptional. As a Harvest Right Affiliate, we stand by their reliability and effectiveness. When you shop through our affiliate link, you help support our small business at no additional cost to you. It’s a straightforward way to assist us while investing in a superior freeze-drying solution for your home, ensuring your food stays fresh and nutritious for longer periods.
Right now Harvest Right is having an end of the year sale. Get $300 off, free shipping and a FREE PREMIER PUMP ($795 value).
Creating a homemade dog food topper with freeze dried options is a great way to provide a healthier and more personalized option for our furry companions. By using human grade ingredients and exercising moderation, we can ensure that our dogs are getting the best nutrition without the risk of weight gain. Freeze dried foods are a convenient and nutritious option for dogs, and by following the proper freeze drying process, we can create a flavorful and long-lasting topper for their meals. You can add to nutritious dog food or use this easy recipe and as a general guideline for an easy homemade dog food recipe. So why not give it a try and see the difference it makes in your dog’s appetite and overall health? Why not try making your own dog food as well? A new food with extra protein or just adding great dog food toppers to your regular dog food brand can be a healthy way to feed your canine companions. I can’t wait for you to try making our dog food topper recipe!
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