When I first adopted Max, my lovable Labrador, I had no idea what was really going into the food I was feeding him. Like most new dog owners, I trusted the labels on bags of commercial dog food and assumed it was all good for him. But over time, I started noticing signs of discomfort—an upset stomach, dry skin, and a lackluster coat. It wasn’t until I started digging deeper into the ingredients in his food that I uncovered the hidden dangers of commercial dog food that could be harming him.

Let me walk you through the shocking truth about the dog food industry and why switching to homemade meals could be the healthiest choice you make for your furry friend.

The Problem with Commercial Dog Food Ingredients

It’s easy to assume that all commercial dog food is made with your dog’s best interests in mind. After all, these products are sold by major companies with a reputation for quality. However, when you dig a little deeper, you'll find that many commercial dog food brands are filled with ingredients that might surprise you—and not in a good way.

1. Artificial Additives and Preservatives

Many dog food brands rely on artificial preservatives like BHA, BHT, and ethoxyquin to extend the shelf life of their products. These additives have been linked to potential health problems, including liver and kidney damage, allergies, and even cancer. You wouldn’t feed your dog food with artificial colors and chemicals—so why should you trust your pet’s food with these additives?

2. Low-Quality Meat By-Products

When you see the label “meat by-products” on your dog’s food, that’s a huge red flag. Meat by-products are leftover parts of the animal, like feathers, bones, and internal organs, which are not fit for human consumption. These ingredients might not provide the nutrition your dog needs and can lead to long-term health issues like digestive problems, skin issues, and even obesity.

3. Fillers and Grains

Many commercial dog foods contain fillers like corn, soy, and wheat to make the food cheaper and bulkier. While these grains aren’t inherently harmful in small amounts, most dogs—especially those with allergies—struggle to digest them properly. These fillers also offer little to no nutritional value, so they essentially serve as empty calories. Plus, grains can contribute to food sensitivities, resulting in digestive issues, skin irritation, and weight gain.

4. Low-Quality Fats

Fat is essential in your dog’s diet, but not all fats are created equal. Many commercial dog foods use low-quality fats such as animal fats or vegetable oils, which are less nutritious than high-quality fats like fish oil or flaxseed oil. Low-quality fats can negatively impact your dog’s skin, coat, and overall health, leading to poor absorption of nutrients and chronic inflammation.

Why Switch to Homemade Dog Food?

I made the decision to switch Max to homemade dog food, and it was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made for his health. Homemade meals allow me to control exactly what goes into his food, ensuring that every bite is packed with the nutrients he needs for optimal health. Plus, I know that the ingredients are fresh, high-quality, and free from any artificial additives.

Here’s why homemade dog food is a game-changer:

• Fresh, high-quality ingredients: Homemade meals use real meat, vegetables, and healthy fats that are tailored to your dog’s specific needs.
• Customizable: You can adjust the recipe to suit your dog’s preferences, allergies, and health concerns.
• No mystery ingredients: You’ll know exactly what’s in your dog’s food—no hidden additives or questionable by-products.

How You Can Make the Change

Making the switch to homemade dog food can seem overwhelming at first, but it doesn’t have to be. You can start small, gradually transitioning your dog over a few weeks, and adjust the recipes to make them as nutritious as possible.

If you’re new to homemade dog food and need some inspiration, I highly recommend my book Pawsitively Perfect: 110+ Gourmet Home-Made Dog Food Recipes for Healthy, Happy Pups. It’s packed with easy-to-follow recipes that will help you create balanced, delicious meals for your dog—no matter their age, size, or dietary restrictions.

Max’s Story: How Homemade Dog Food Changed His Life

Max had always been a big, healthy boy, but after years of eating commercial food, he started showing signs of distress—poor digestion, dull coat, and the occasional skin flare-up. I knew I had to make a change. When I began preparing homemade meals for him, the results were almost immediate.

Max’s coat became shinier, his energy levels soared, and most importantly, his digestive issues were gone. He was no longer itching, and his coat had a healthy shine that I hadn’t seen in years. Watching Max thrive on homemade food was the push I needed to dig deeper into how food affects our dogs’ overall health.

If you’re ready to make a similar change for your dog, start by considering the ingredients in their food. Research the risks of artificial additives and preservatives, and think about switching to a homemade, balanced diet.

Need Help Creating a Balanced Meal Plan for Your Dog?

I know how overwhelming it can feel to navigate the world of dog food—there’s so much conflicting information out there. If you’re ready to make the leap to homemade meals but need guidance, I offer personalized coaching to help you create the perfect diet for your dog’s needs. From meal plans to supplement recommendations, I’m here to support you on this journey!

Final Thoughts

Don’t let the convenience of commercial dog food compromise your dog’s health. By taking a more hands-on approach and preparing homemade meals, you’re giving your dog the best chance for a long, healthy life. Remember, it’s not just about what goes into their bowl—it’s about what goes into their body.

If you're ready to make the switch but aren’t sure where to start, check out my book Pawsitively Perfect for a guide to creating wholesome, delicious meals for your dog, or sign up for my coaching program for a more personalized approach.

Take control of your dog’s health today!