It’s one thing to be uninformed and it’s another to be an ignorant ZOMBIE!

Don’t be swayed by the colorful dog food bags with those adorable dogs plastered all over them. Like the saying goes – “don’t judge a book by its cover!” The entire package might look good but what exactly is inside? You must be resourceful, do your own research and not necessarily feed what they’re giving you. Your dog’s life depends on it.

“The purpose of man’s life … is to become an abject Zombie who serves a purpose he does not know, for reasons he is not to question.” } Ayn Rand

We might not know our purpose in life but I strongly believe we should question it, especially when it comes to what we’re feeding our dogs. Dogs are gluttonous by nature and eat pretty much anything we offer to them.

We need to rise up and do right by our Furry Friends!

Yes, Zombies ARE feeding our dogs! I’m not kidding! If you pay close attention to how most of US are feeding dogs, we’re doing it without much thought like mindless human beings. You’ll understand where I’m coming from which such a bold statement.

“Wow Asia, don’t you think you’re exaggerating a little bit? “Mindless human beings” sounds a bit harsh…”

Please let me explain and you’ll learn why my Zombie comparison is more than fitting.

This article idea has been stirring in my head for awhile now. I got inspired by one of my all time favorite books, A New Earth by Eckhart Tolle. This article is a combination of what I learned from Mr. Tolle, with what I know about the dog food industry, mixed with some behavioral observation (my fancy way of referring to people watching).

I strongly believe, and I’m sure you might agree, the key to a happy healthy life for your dog begins with what you put in his bowl. If your dog consumes a variety of species-appropriate, good healthy foods including fresh proteins, meaty bones, grains, legumes, vegetables and fruits, he will be a very happy and super healthy beast.

Who are the Zombies?

Let’s play name the Zombie…

The list is actually pretty long and complex because it involves an entire network of individuals and corporations. Think of the majority of parties that are directly and indirectly associated to feeding dogs.

When I say ZOMBIE, I’m referring to:

A person who is unconsciously doing and being – one who is unaware of his or her actions and consequences.

Of course, not everyone in the following list is necessarily a Zombie. I’m just trying to make a point. Here are just a few of the people that might be Zombies in disguise:

- Pet store clerks and owners
- People who transport and deliver dog food
- Dog Feed Animal by-product processing plants and workers
- Giant dog food corporation workers and owners
- Veterinarians and technicians
- Your Neighbor
- Packaging Clerks
- Anyone Purchasing Dog Food
- Suppliers and Farmers
- YOU and your Family

Everyone involved in the production, distribution, sale and consumption of dog food shares the responsibility of what ends up in our dog’s bellies. When it’s all said and done, there’s definitely work to do because there’s way too much unacceptable dog feeding going on.

Unconscious Dog Owners!

Yes YOU!

Have you ever carefully read the ingredient label and formula analysis on your dog’s food bag? Are you familiar with all the ingredients listed? Do you have any idea what a healthy dog diet should entail? Did you know that there are many highly toxic additives, preservatives and food colorants that are commonly used in commercial dog food? Fillers, sugars and contaminated slaughterhouse waste are found in some commercial dog food brands. Do you call that nutritious dog food? Maybe what you’re feeding your dog isn’t a huge concern of yours? My guess it is because you wouldn’t be reading this article and all the other dog food related articles on HBD!

If you’re concerned about your dog’s health and happiness and you’re interested in raising your dog in a more natural Holistic way, then I am very excited and I thank you from the bottom of your dog’s heart.

I’m happy to say YOU are NOT a Zombie.

If you’re on top of things and you’re already feeding your dog healthy nutritious dog food, please stand up and dust your shoulders off! You’re a totally aware and compassionate dog owner. Halle gives you two Weimaraner paws way up!

However, my guess is the majority of dog owners unfortunately fall into the Zombie category!

They have absolutely no clue of what’s in their dog food. In fact, dog food is just another item on their scheduled grocery list. They probably buy whatever goes on sale that week, paying zero attention to their dog’s potential wellbeing. Zombies feed their dogs the same thing everyday. Some form of mysterious brownish pebble never questioning, “Hmmmn, this sure doesn’t smell too good! I can’t believe my dog likes this (expletive)! I wonder what it’s made of?”

These folks have mutated and transformed into unconscious machines stuck in their own unhealthy daily routines. Some might even read the dog feeding guidelines and assume that’s all there is to it. Unfortunately it’s only the “tip of a dog’s nose.” If this is you, don’t worry because we have the cure that will snap you out of your unenlightened state.

Everywhere we turn, we’re hit with tons of ads that read “Buy this,” “Try that,” or one of my all time favorites – “Revolutionary! New! such and such.” Just because it’s new doesn’t mean it’s healthy! It’s so hard not to fall victim to powerful marketing tactics. Giving in is easy! The same goes for the fast food industry.

Sometimes we can get so stuck in a routine or bad habit simply because we’ve gotten so used to doing something one way. We never think of other, greater options because the routine is always workable, easy and familiar! The unknown is hard, too much work! You might not even know why you’re feeding your dog this or that, you just are. I don’t entirely blame you!

“All truly successful action comes out of a field of alert attention, rather than from ego and conditioned, unconscious thinking.” } Eckhart Tolle

Like I said in my intro, its one thing to be uninformed and it’s another to be an ignorant ZOMBIE! As a loving compassionate dog owner, your job is to always be ahead of the pack. You are the leader not the follower. You have a tremendous amount of influence on your dog’s health and wellbeing. It all starts with fresh healthy dog food.

The dog food industry is intricately complex and one-sided with the corporations slowly killing our dogs and making millions in the process. Meanwhile, we’re spending our hard working dollars on vet bills, trying to save our furry little friends. The system is built in a way that doesn’t support asking questions but would rather you keep doing, without hesitation or doubt.

It’s your Responsibility to Switch the Game Up!

Unfortunately that’s the world we live in. But the great news is you can ask questions and make a difference in your dog’s life. I want you to pay closer attention to what you feed Fido and ask yourself the following:

- What exactly am I Feeding my Dog?
- Is this Dog Food any Good?
- What is that overly processed colorful Kibble made of?
- What is the best possible Dog Diet?
- Are there other Dog Food Alternatives?

The purpose of my article is to raise questions in your head and create awareness about your dog’s diet and the quality of your typical commercial dog food.

If Your Dog Could Speak Human…

I imagine he would say something like this:

“You’ve got to be kidding me? I have to eat this (expletive) again? I’m gonna have to start hunting again! What have I ever done to deserve this? I promise to leave those slippers alone, ok? How could you possibly feed me this overly flavorful waste? You eat it!”

And your poor dog would probably go on a hunger strike, furiously requesting fresh healthy natural food in his bowl. It’s not fair.

You are one of those very special human beings – you have been paired with a very extraordinary animal who effortlessly gives you bundles of love, joy and happiness every single day. All he asks for in return is some good food and a little belly rub (Halle’s favorite) here and there!

“Mom, do you really have to tell the whole world that I’m a sucker for belly rubs?” } Halle

The Cure – Awareness!

I’m giving you the Cure – it’s called awareness and it starts to work almost instantly upon reading the final part of this enlightening article.

I love the essence of the following quote by Jack Lalanne. I’m not implying you should take this literally of course, but it sure does leave an impression:

“If man made it, don’t eat it”, and “if it tastes good, spit it out.”

There’s so much information out there on the essentials of a healthy dog diet. You just have to turn into a sponge and soak it all up. Start small. I don’t expect you to be cooking up a homemade meal for your pup by the end of the weekend – of course not! Look into Holistic and Organic dog food. Do some research. Ask some questions. You can easily start by adding some fresh foods into your dog’s diet from time to time. Switch things up and see how quickly your dog’s eyes light up at the smell of a fresh carrot or small piece of chicken.

It’s our responsibility as loving compassionate dog owners to give our pets the maximum quality of healthy dog food.

And it all starts right now!

Please Comment below, Thank You for reading!

When discussing the subject of all natural dog food and high quality kibble, one question always seems to pop up:

Now I’m not saying you should feed your dog high quality natural dog food at the expense of your own comfort and life necessities.

I’ve wanted to write about this particular topic for some time because money is a huge factor when deciding what to feed your dog. It’s not a subject that’s been extensively covered considering that it’s probably the most deciding factor when it comes to dog food choices.

Don’t Blow Your Budget!

Regular dog food is cheap, filled with fillers, low quality proteins and who knows what else? Good quality dog chow is pricier. However it comes with mucho health benefits and creates happy dogs. We can’t expect you to spend 80$ a month on a bag of dog kibbles if you’re having a hard time making ends meet.

Wile on HBD we strongly emphasize the importance of a healthy dog diet that incorporates all natural dog food, we always recommend you go about with what fits your funds. Your dog shouldn’t be eating like a fancy king at the expense of your credit card debts! We’re not suggesting you break your bank feeding your little softy.

Here is a very powerful notion that I firmly advocate and hope you embrace…

Think of Natural Dog Food as Insurance

Why purchase additional dog insurance and make their pockets fuller when your golden ticket is in the very best all natural dog food?

Your dog is not only going to benefit tremendously when it comes to his precious health and well being but you’ll also be the smarter one, saving hundreds of dollars and your valuable time on vet visits. Doesn’t that sound sweet? It’s really simple. You are what you eat! The healthier your dog eats the lesser his chances of inviting all sorts of horrible diseases. You can consider dumping your dog insurance or lowering your coverage and transfer that money into something that will IMMEDIATELY change your dog’s life – good food!

On the other hand, if you really want to preserve your dog insurance policy, get a smaller policy and put the leftover money on a good brand of natural dog food. Considering that regular dog insurance will generally run you anywhere from $15 to $100 depending on your package. There’s a lot of room to maneuver.

Dog health insurance is very important for protection against unexpected occurrences. Just remember that above everything else, Natural Dog Food IS your best Insurance Policy!

Reevaluate Your Dog Food Budget Regularly.

When the economy starts to take a downturn, generally pets are hit the hardest. They end up at the very bottom of the list in terms of health and wellness. If, for instance, the best you can afford is grocery-bought commercial cheap dog food and that’s all you can manage then maybe you should just buy that for now. But, reevaluate! Because what we think we can afford isn’t always accurate.

Look at the global picture and write down all of your dog’s expenses. Is there any room for cutbacks? I mean, are you overspending on extra toys, posh collars and designer leads? Is your dog’s snack corner overflowing with treats? How many doggy outfits does your pup have? My guess is way too many ;) Then a grocery store-bought kibble is hard to justify!

“Are we implying that I get a Part-Time job?” } Halle

Maybe you can cut down on some of those expenses. 10$ here and 14$ there. You can put that money towards greater caliber natural dog food. Remember, $20-$30 goes a long way in dog food quality, greatly increasing your dog’s health and overall wellbeing. In the end, always go with the very best you can afford.

It might cost a little extra but factor in how much money and anguish you’ll save on veterinarian bills, prescription drugs, and headaches and high quality dog food pays for itself!

If you feel a little tight this month, scale back a little on those doggie expenses, it’s ok. However as soon as you can spend a little extra on your pooch, I suggest you put it into his dog food.

As much as you love you dog and pamper him, the number one best action step you can take is feeding your companion the very best all natural dog food. You will be greatly extending your dog’s wonderful years and you’ll instantly have a happier healthier dog. Don’t take my word for it. Try it for yourself and you’ll see the difference in your pup.

Take Action – 30 Dollars Should Do It!

Here’s what you can do with some of the spare change you have throughout the house. I have an easy exercise I want you to do this month. Take a clean recycled yogurt or glass container and cut a 2″ vertical line through it. There. This will be your dog’s very own food bank! Now, I’m going to ask you to donate $1 every day for 1 full month to a powerful cause – your dog’s optimum health. It’s absolutely worth it and I promise you many loving kisses and happy wags once your dog gets some natural dog food in his belly!

By the end of this exercise you should have collected roughly $30. Like I mentioned earlier, a $30 upgrade in dog food will easily boost you into the top notch dog food category. You will see the difference a higher quality dog food has on your animal companion after I would say, a bag or two. And like the motto goes – you’ll never look back!

Think Outside the Kibble!

A great way you can stretch that kibble bag is to supplement your dog’s diet with healthy natural foods. I’ve written an extensive article titled Super Dog Diet Power-Ups, where you can safely replace 25% of your dogs kibble with fresh proteins like eggs, lean meats and raw vegetables. Supplementing your dog’s diet with fresh natural foods tremendously boosts his taste buds and healthiness. Don’t forget to use a variety of foods, the more the better.

Selections a’ Plenty…

I have written many articles on the benefits of feeding your dog the best and healthiest dog food. The commercial natural dog food choices are a’ plenty. You have Canned, Dry, Organic, Holistic and Dehydrated.

Of course you also have the most excellent homemade and raw diets that I will be covering in upcoming articles. The closer your dog comes to an all natural diet the healthier and happier he will be. There’s no denying it, good food goes a long way!

Before I close it up, remember everything comes down to one simple rule;

We all want the very best for our dogs and we all know that money plays an important part in the decisions we make. I hope some of the solutions I presented will help you make good choices when it comes to purchasing your next doggy grub. You CAN balance your budget AND feed your cutie all natural dog food.

Please do us all a favor and post your dog food budgeting tips down below.

Dogs depend on us. Don’t you agree that it’s crucial we protect their wellbeing and safety by keeping tabs on potential Toxic Foods for Dogs that exist in our environment? I’m sure you do. Our canine friends don’t have nine lives and they don’t always know what’s best for them. They really like tasty things even if they might harm or injure them in some way. As guardians of our loving companions it’s our duty to keep them happy, healthy and safe through proper care and wholesome nutrition.

You might be wondering “What are toxic foods for dogs and how can I protect my dog?” Well there are a lot of poisonous foods for dogs out there. I’ll give you the 411 on dog poisons in this discussion.

There are also many environmental toxins that can harm your pooch. I’m saving those for another article. Make sure you sign up to our Dog Newsletter so you don’t miss it!

The thought of unintentionally upsetting or poisoning our beautiful Halle with an unknown toxic food for dogs is absolutely horrifying to us! I’m sure you’ve heard of many sad and unfortunate stories with the popular could of, would of, should of responses from owners. Sometimes it’s too late.

Take charge because prevention is your best defense. Dog poison is a very scary topic that must be discussed by every single responsible dog owner out there. The potential risks and side effects of poisonous foods for dogs are in most cases preventable and sometimes deadly.

I highly recommend you memorize both the key toxic ingredients and their high risk effects in case you suspect your dog might have eaten something harmful. Knowing the specific symptoms is very important because it could lead you back to the potential toxic food your dog could have ingested in the first place. It kind of works both ways.

You’ll find many toxic foods for dogs lists online. Many aren’t complete and some are outdated and lacking potentially important material that could save your dog’s life. There is obviously no “One Perfect List” because we cannot be ahead of science. For that reason, my toxic dog food compilation is a work in progress which I will continually be updating. I also highly encourage you to comment at the bottom of this page with some of your personal dog experiences. Also share this HBD toxic foods for dogs list with all your dog friends so that we don’t lose any more BDFs.

I’m going to try to keep this highly informative with as many potential side effects as I could find. I’m a naturally inquisitive person and I like to know the why as much as I want to know the what. Not every single contender in this list is inherently toxic to your dog but might be depending on quantities consumed versus dog size. It’s your job to use better judgment when serving your dog.

You also want to use better judgment when feeding your dog, we highly recommend going with an organic or holistic dog food diet for a very happy healthy pup.

Our poisonous foods for dogs list contains potential side effects from various toxic foods. What I mean is that not all dogs will experience similar symptoms. These are just examples of easily detected behaviors, exhibited by your dog after eating something dangerous.

Now, on with the list…

Rawhides & Cowhides

Rawhides, sometimes called cowhides, are probably one of the most popular and widely available dog chew toys. They’re recognizable, generally white-ish and transformed into a bone-like form or rolled into sticks or other novel shapes. Grocery stores, pet shops and even the local dollar store carry them in abundance. Rawhides are basically the skin of a food animal – generally a cow. Rawhides are cheap and extremely dangerous toxic foods for dogs. They carry a host of risky bacteria, arsenic, insecticides, pesticides, hormones, antibiotics, lead and sometimes dead animal remains. Eeeww! Enough said!

There’s a reason the packaging recommends properly washing your hands after each use – right! Watch out for vomiting, lack of appetite, lethargy, dizziness, avoidance, lack of energy, excessive drooling, diarrhea, high fever, depression and dehydration. We can tell you this from our own personal experience with rawhides.

A couple of years ago we thought we were going to lose Halle. We innocently gave her a rawhide (not her first) to play with one evening. The next 48 hours were a complete nightmare. It started with her refusing her breakfast and the rest was awful. She displayed every symptom I mentioned and she even had bloody loose stools. We got so scared, our poor little darling (9 months at the time) was bumping into walls for support. We thought she was dying. To make a long story short, the vets didn’t help much so we decided to take matters into our own hands. From that day we changed her food, treats and even her veterinarian. We took the holistic approach, our best decision ever. She is a transformed happy energetic dog. Bottom line, don’t buy this poisonous garbage for your dog or any other dog – ever!

Alcohol

Although imagining your dog intoxicated could be potentially hilarious, all types of alcoholic beverages are very dangerous. They could lead to coma even death, especially in the case of beer consumption. Maybe best to just imagine eh!

Baby Food

Baby food is tasty to humans and dogs but it’s for human babies only, not our four legged ones. Plus baby food may contain onion powder which is potentially toxic to the pooch.

Xylitol

Xylitol is a sugar substitute sweetener. Here are some products that may contain Xylitol: sugar-free gums, mints, jellies, chewable vitamins (Flinstones for kids), jams, certain candy, baked goods like cake mixes and sugar-free sweeteners. A good example of products that contain Xylitol are Orbit and Trident brand gums. Keep in mind, all Crest White Strips and the majority of toothpaste also contain this sweetener. If consumed by your dog in very high dosage (500 to 1000 mg/kg per kilogram of bodyweight), it can result in a seizure and death in as little as 30 minutes. Keep your dogs out of the medicine cabinets and purses guys! Plus don’t let your dog lick or pick up used gum on the sidewalk. Stay alert for that when walking your dog.

For more information on the dangers please read the following great Report on the Effects of Xylitol Ingestion on Dogs.

Chocolate, Tea, Acai Berries, Cola Drinks, Caffeine & Coffee

Chocolate might be one of your péché mignons but I suggest you keep it very far away from your dog. Yes, you’ve probably heard this one many times before. Chocolate, tea, acai berries, caffeinated sodas like Coca-Cola, coffee and chocolate all contain the following chemical compounds: theobromine (dogs metabolize this one very slowly), theophylline or caffeine. They can be highly toxic foods for dogs and affect the heart and nervous system. Your dog might experience hallucinations, internal bleeding, epileptic seizures as well as many more bodily side effects.

“Chocolate smells great but doesn’t seem to taste too good. I swallowed an entire Hershey Kiss once but didn’t taste a thing! Maybe cause of the wrapping?” } Halle

I will give you an example with chocolate because dogs have a loving penchant for sweets. We were playing ball with Halle last Christmas and the ball accidently bounced off the dining table and over tumbled a bowl filled with Hershey Kisses – we love’ em. Of course our little sugar-addict got to them first and swallowed an entire Kiss with the wrapping. Silly girl! Luckily the chocolate went through her healthy system with no problems. But some dogs aren’t so lucky. For the average small dog, 50 grams of chocolate (the size of an average chocolate bar) can cause serious complications. For larger dogs it’s roughly 400 grams (average 6-8 chocolate bars). The symptoms of theobromine poisoning are dehydration, excitability, restlessness, slow heart rate, seizures and death. Milk chocolate is of lower risk than dark chocolate and baking chocolate contains the most toxic amounts.

Grapes & Raisins

You might be familiar with this one, it’s one of the most known poisonous foods for dogs. Grapes and raisins contain an unknown toxin to dogs that causes acute kidney failure. The amount of raisins or grapes swallowed depends on each individual dog and its size. Some small dogs get sick from consuming as little as one grape. Best to keep those grapes to yourself.

Most Fruit Pits & Seeds

Be very mindful when cutting up certain fruits in the presence of your dog. The fruits themselves are not toxic but their seeds and pits are very toxic. The most dangerous pits and seeds to watch out for would be from apples, peaches, pears, plums, cherries, apricots, crabapples and persimmons. Your dog has to chew the pits or seeds for them to release their toxic chemical. Swallowing them will not release the toxin but may cause choking. The wilting leaves of these various rosy trees are also very dangerous if swallowed. Not only can the pits and seeds cause obstructions when swallowed by your dog, but also inflammation of the intestine. Plus they contain cyanogenic glycosides (the plant’s protective chemical) which results in cyanide poisoning causing seizures, coma and even death.

Strawberries, raspberries and blackberries are also part of the rosy tree family. However, I haven’t heard anything about them being foods toxic for dogs. I would recommend keeping any berry dosage other than blueberries which are very safe to a minimal.

“I love Frozen Blueberries!” } Halle

Oxalate Dense Veggies

Spinach, Swiss chard, beet greens, collards, okra, parsley, leeks and quinoa are the vegetables that contain the highest concentration of oxalates. Oxalates are naturally-occurring substances found in the leaves of plants, which can affect the digestive, nervous, and urinary system of your dog. Your dog might come in contact with them especially if you have a garden. One thing you could do is teach your dog to never dig and roam around the garden or put up a small seasonal removable fence for more security.

Broccoli (one of Halle’s most faves!)

The only information I’ve read about broccoli being potentially toxic to dogs is if the dog consumes a very large quantity of it. My guess is the high fiber content might irritate their stomachs. Other than that, broccoli is a great add-on to your dog’s diets. It’s filled with powerful antioxidants and goodness.

Mushrooms

If you have any wild mushrooms growing in your yard, I suggest you destroy them if you have a dog and/or children running around. Some dogs like grazing on grass and will accidentally eat the fungi. Just coming in contact with a mushroom can cause some tummy troubles or severe toxic symptoms especially if the mushroom is poisonous. Symptoms include vomiting, diarrhea and complete liver failure. Keep your eyes open.

Avocado

Great in a salad, not so great for the dog! The seed is potentially toxic to some dogs. A dog may encounter gastrointestinal irritation including vomiting, respiratory difficulties, bodily fluid accumulations and diarrhea if he consumes the avocados’ fruit, seed, leaves or branches in large quantities.

Garlic, Onions & Chives

Halle eats garlic on occasion. Well, she mostly plays with it (like a cat) for a good part of the day and then surrenders. For dogs, I believe garlic’s benefits overpower its toxicity. Your dog would have to eat a lot of garlic before he gets any harmful side effects. The general rule is 1 small garlic clove per 25 lbs dog. If you stay in that range you should have no problems. Onions on the other hand are very toxic foods for dogs. They contain Sulfoxides and Disulfides (chemical compounds) which can damage red blood cells causing Anemia. Same goes for chives. Garlic is much less toxic than onions.

Spices

Salt and salty products are unnatural for your dog. He definitely won’t find salty chips while hunting in the wild. Some good signs that your dog has consumed way too much salty foods are diarrhea, vomiting, depression, high body temperature, seizures or possibly death. Better keep those chips to yourself. Another spice to watch out for would be nutmeg. It is not recommended for dogs. Symptoms of nutmeg ingestion can include seizures, tremors, central nervous system problems, and death. Another spice that you might be familiar with are mustard seeds, the side effects are similar to nutmeg.

Yeast Dough

Do not feed your dog rising yeast, especially products that made up of mostly yeast. It’s very dangerous and it can expand and produce gas in the digestive system causing pain and possible rupture of your dog’s stomach or intestines. Once the dough is cooked the potential dangers diminish. As a general rule don’t give your dog too much bread at one time. A few pieces here and there are fine. Don’t get confused with the yeast used as a leaven in baking, it’s very different from nutritional yeast. Large-flake torula (nutritional) yeast is used as a flavoring agent in homemade dog food preparations which is highly recommended.

Lead

Lead Poisoning happens more often than you think. One of the most common contacts occur with canned dog food, especially when the can’s components migrate into the prepared dog food. The harmful metal will affect your dog’s blood and nervous system with similar symptoms to mercury-laden fish. We recommend your serve your dog canned dog food only occasionally. Canned dog foods can also contain high numbers of fluoride.

Macadamia Nuts & Walnuts

Macadamia nuts are delicious for humans but when ingested by your dog can cause macadamia nut toxicosis. Your dog will show signs of weakness and lethargy, affecting the muscles and may have difficulties standing for a period of time but will recover within 12 to 48 hours after ingesting the nut. Some studies have shown macadamia nut toxicosis in dogs ingesting anywhere from 6 to 40 nuts. All parts of the walnut tree are offensive to dogs, including the bark, hulls, roots and nuts. Some symptoms of walnut poisoning include vomiting, trembling, loss of appetite, lack of coordination, lethargy, drooling, bloody stools and diarrhea. It can take a few days for the symptoms to appear after ingesting the nut so again, be very careful with these.

Fat Trimmings & Leftovers

Be very mindful about what you give your dog to eat. He’s not a one way garbage disposal. Sometimes dogs are such gluttons for tasty foods. Leftovers are generally good, all depending on what’s left on the half-eaten plate. Dogs will eat almost anything at any time. Stay away from hot and spicy foods. Dogs are not used to them. Fat trimmings are huge no-nos. They can cause pancreatitis, especially if the trimmings are cooked.

Animal Liver

I think I know what you might be thinking. What about those yummy dog favorite liver treats eh? Don’t panic, liver is the Grand Prix of treats but it can also become potentially dangerous if given in large amounts. It can cause toxic doses of Vitamin A, inducing bone weakness and muscle abnormalities. But don’t worry about those liver treats. Your dog has to consume very large amounts (dependant on dog and dog size) to have any side effects. Just be mindful.

Fish & Fish by-products

Certain types of fish may contain ridiculously high levels of mercury, like raw trout, salmon and tuna being the most polluted. Mercury poisoning can damage the nervous system. Symptoms include tremors, anxiety, loss of appetite, sleeping difficulties, lethargy, loss of coordination, vomiting, constipation, irritability, kidney damage and more.

Milk & Most Dairy Products

Cow’s milk is not meant to be consumed by dogs. Dogs have a hard time digesting milk and certain milk products, which are not fatal but can certainly cause stomach upsets or diarrhea. Milk offers a host of problems for humans as well, from allergies to osteoporosis. The only animal that’s supposed to benefit from cow’s milk is the baby calf. Do your research on milk. It’s more dangerous to humans than you think. The only dairy we give Halle everyday is yogurt to replenish her healthy flora. Yogurt has more positives than negatives, so in my book, it’s ok.

Moldy & Spoiled Foods

Moldy and spoiled foods only belong in one place, the garbage. Don’t give your dog any foods that are past their expiry date. Why would you do that anyway? The poor dog can suffer severe vomiting, diarrhea and the stuff can potentially affect several other organs in the body.

Fluoride

Fluoride is found in the majority of our public water supplies and also in the food chain in high numbers. It’s very poisonous when consumed in large dosages. Fluoride as a dog poison depends on the overall dosage from all sources your dog consumes. It goes something like this: livestock drinks contaminated water, goes to slaughter and is processed into dog food, (canned is worst because it has more water content) then your companion eats it. Your dog ends up with the worst result – all that gradually stored fluoride builds up in his body. Scary when you think about it. Exposure to fluoride can cause a host of serious problems like kidney and bladder disorders, arthritis, bronchitis, weakened immune system and genetic damages. Your best bet is to give your dog fresh filtered drinking water several times a day in a clean stainless steel bowl or container.

Toxic Foods for Dogs Quick Recap

Rawhides & Cowhides
Alcohol
Baby Food
Xylitol
Chocolate
Tea
Acai Berries
Cola Drinks
Coffee & Caffeine
Grapes & Raisins
Most Fruit Pits & Seeds
Oxalate Dense Veggies
Broccoli in large quantities
Mushrooms
Avocado
Garlic, Onions & Chives
Spices
Yeast Dough
Lead
Macadamia Nuts & Walnuts
Fat Trimmings & Certain Leftovers
Animal Liver in large quantities
Most Fish & Fish by-products
Milk & Most Dairy Products
Moldy & Spoiled Foods
Fluoride

I know it’s a long list but better to be safe than sorry! Read the above list over several times so that you can remember as many potential toxic foods for dogs as you can. Read my Super Dog Diet Power-Ups article for my recommendations on boosting your dog’s daily food intake.

Like I said earlier, we will be adding to the list. In the mean time we would love to hear your thoughts and stories on poisonous foods for dogs. Also if you have any suggestions on some foods we could add or questions on particular toxic foods, please comment below. We love hearing from you! The more we share and talk about this topic the more problems can be avoided and dog lives saved.

What is a complete dog diet anyway? Does it consist of eating the same old dog food diet day in and day out for the entire life of your furry companion? I think not! Get a clear picture of your favorite meal in your head for a second. Can you taste it and smell it? I bet you would love a bite of that meal right now? Well, imagine for a moment that you are forced to eat that exact meal every single day for the rest of your life.

I can almost assure you, if you feed your loving companion a dog diet based on one single dog food formula, you are unavoidably going to have a very sick and nutritionally deficient soul. Your dog’s physical, emotional and spiritual wellbeing will be compromised of that little ‘something’ that give us life – a variety of healthy natural foods.

Don’t despair because you can use add-ons to greatly increase the goodness and complement your dog’s diet. Super Dog diet power-ups are fun and easy and highly beneficial for your dog. I’ll guide you with a variety of fresh natural foods you can feed your companion. There are a few easy guidelines that I recommend you follow and you’ll see that the overall benefits of upgrading your dog’s diet are ginormous.

If you’re like most dog owners you probably feed your dog a commercial kibble or canned dog diet. That’s ok, if that works best for you and your dog at this very moment. I can’t stress enough that one best dog diet simply doesn’t exist. There is no such thing! Each animal is an individual with particular needs. Think of your very own diet for a second. If you enjoy a warm bowl of oatmeal before bedtime because it helps you sleep better, that doesn’t mean it will work for everyone, right? It’s through trial and error that you’ll discover what suits both of you. Hopefully you’re feeding your dog an all Organic Dog Food or a premium Holistic Dog Food, both of which are much higher in quality ingredients than the regular store-bought types.

Power-Ups are Like Dog Diet Booster Packs

“I’m convinced that the red bell peppers Mom gives me help with my ‘Down-Sit-Spin’ combos!” } Halle

Humans are highly advanced intellectual creatures but we just can’t seem to exactly understand how foods actually work. In fact, we haven’t even scratched the surface of understanding! Both human and dog nutrition is still somewhat of a mystery. A complete dog diet is certainly not what you’ll find in those little brownish bits of kibble – no matter what the packaging says. With new scientific findings on food popping up daily around the world, eating has become very confusing and overwhelming for everyone.

“… and the fiber flakes make it easier for Mom and Dad to pick-up my you-know-whats!” } Halle

That being said, at least us humans can adjust to the newest scientific discoveries but dog’s certainly cannot. They can’t just one morning wake up and add a bit more recommended garlic into their dog diets? How silly, right? That’s why it’s necessary that you get familiar with the super dog diet power-ups. They are essential in maintaining a healthy dog food diet! The add-ons will also compensate for whatever is missing in your dog’s traditional diet.

Easy Peasy Dog Diet Guidelines

Rule of thumb: You can replace up to roughly 25% of your dog’s original kibble diet with fresh foods without disrupting the nutritional balance of your Dog Diet. You simply omit 25% of your dog food and replace it with some super dog diet power-ups that I will mention in a few. Easy peasy!

Also if you want, you can go 50% kibbles and 50% fresh add-ons, which means you’re greatly modifying your dog’s diet as a whole. A word of caution – If you decide to go 50/50, you’ll have to make sure the variety and proper proportions of fresh foods are correct. Keep in mind that your added 50% fresh foods encompasses at least 50% of various proteins. Another thing to remember is you’ll also have to add calcium for the appropriate calcium/phosphorus ratio to your dog’s diet, along with a variety of fresh foods to complete the nutritional requirements. But going 50/50 is another dog diet all together so make sure you read up on it as much as you can so that you don’t disrupt your dogs natural balance.

Keep in mind to always cut the foods into smaller pieces to avoid any choking accidents.

For now lets look at what great fresh foods are out there for your dog that you can supplement with their kibble while maintaining the safe and easy 25% rule.

Think Variety

The key for adding super dog diet power-ups is diversity. That’s the whole point! The greater you supplement with a variety of fresh natural foods the greater range of nutrients you dog receives. Here is a nice list of our recommended power-ups

(Remember this doesn’t have to be overwhelming. You can start by adding a few blueberries or a small piece of fresh chicken breast and see how your dogs eyes light up the instant you present the food. Start small once a week or so and gradually augment the frequency up to 25% mixed in with your dog’s kibble. For greater success and lesser headaches, always use baby steps whenever incorporating something new to your dog’s diet.)

Enjoy the process and have fun with your pooch!

Recommended Dog Diet Power-Ups

For Proteins try a mixture of fresh animal (lightly cooked or raw) and plant proteins like beans. Fresh protein is probably the best add-on you can give to your dog’s diet. A lot of the quality and nutritional value of proteins get destroyed during food processing so including protein to your dog diet is highly recommended. Lean meats that are higher in protein and lower in fat like chicken, turkey, duck (without skin), organ meats like liver (in moderation) and heart (beef, chicken, turkey).

Canned fish with bones, sardines in water, mackerel, pink salmon (fully cooked but make sure it’s not from the Pacific Northwest because it could harbor a lethal dog parasite).

Whenever we’re preparing chicken for supper, we always keep the trimmings and lightly cook them up for Halle, she loves assisting in the kitchen! Every Sunday I cook up a large pot of assorted legumes (plant proteins) like lentils, split peas, beans, mung beans, kidney and red beans for the family. I save a nice hardy bowl for Halle just before I add some spices for us. These are all great environmentally-friendly alternatives to animal proteins for your dog diet.

Eggs are great raw, cooked if your dog has a weak immune system. Try an egg omelet or scrambled eggs for your companion – a quick and easy dog diet power-up. If you’re going to power-up on eggs we highly recommend organic eggs for all the nutritional goodness without all the hormones and toxins. Worth the extra dollars, big time!

If you boil your eggs, keep the eggshells because they are a great natural source of calcium. What I do is wait until we have eggshells from about 6 eggs and dry them over night. The next day I grind them in a clean coffee grinder until they turn to powder. ½ a teaspoon of powdered eggshells equals to roughly 1000 mg of calcium. I then sprinkle it sparingly. If you’re doing the 50/50 dog diet then you have to be more precise with the calcium/phosphorus intake for your dog diet. Otherwise a small sprinkle here and there is perfectly ok.

The only type of Dairy we give Halle is 1-2 tablespoons of plain no fat yogurt – preferably organic if you can pay a little extra. Yogurt is filled with millions of active bacterial cultures that keep her internal flora happy and healthy. Plus it’s a great source of calcium and vitamins D and B12.

Vish and I have drastically cut down and almost eliminated cow’s milk from our diet for various health concerns. We really don’t recommend you or your dog consume milk if you can help it. Do your research on the countless harmful effects of milk on your overall body. It’s also loaded with many toxins, hormones and impurities – all sorts of yucky stuff that poisons your body.

Grains should be added to your dog diet from time to time but remember that the majority of packaged dog food already contains a high amount of carbohydrates. Be mindful and assess your dog’s carb intake before making any adjustments. If your dog has any allergies, we don’t recommend adding any grains at all. The good thing about grains is that they also provide a natural inexpensive source of protein and they are packed with vitamins and minerals. The best way to add grains to your dog diet is by cooking them or else your dog won’t digest them well. Depending on the grains cooking times will vary. Oatmeal, cornmeal, millet, bulgur, barley and rolled oats. Halle’s most favorite is brown rice or basmati rice. Yummo!

Veggies are convenient and easy additions to your dog food diet. Halle gets a variety of raw bell peppers, carrots (the crunchiness stimulates gums), lettuce and mixed greens, zucchinis, soft squash, tomatoes (preferably skin removed) and cucumbers. I also steam broccoli and give her the stems, cooked cauliflower and potatoes. Halle goes absolutely nuts for potatoes! Not all dogs tolerate cooked potatoes, so experiment with your companion first.

“The family makes mashed potatoes with a masher, I prefer to make ’em with my Super Jaws!” } Halle

Watch out for your Herb garden because dogs love herbs. Parsley (Halle and I both love this one), dandelion, alfalfa, thyme, raspberry and blackberry leaves, fenugreek, linden flowers, basil and comfrey. Halle also gets some mint for that super sweet breath of hers. Please make sure your herbs are herbicide and pesticide free before adding them to your dog diet.

As soon as Halle hears us cutting up an apple, she miraculously appears out of nowhere with her sharp adorable “please can I have a little piece” irresistible look – LOL! Needless to say Halle loves ’em! Papayas, berries and pears are wonderful for your diet for dogs. You could also incorporate dried fruits such as figs, apricots and prunes. Dogs generally have a sweet tooth so they will gobble up fruits with no problem. Halle seems to scootch with her stark stare closer and closer to us whenever we’re eating a banana – silly girl! Watch out for all fruit seeds and pits – very dangerous when consumed by dogs.

Garlic does wonders to your dog’s general health including keeping the digestive tract in check and repelling certain worms, parasites and fleas. A couple of thin garlic slices here and there will do the trick. At first some dogs might not be huge fans of garlic’s potent smell but they eventually come around. Halle generally plays with her’s for a few minutes – starring down at the garlic with her droopy ears – then in no time gobbles it up!

As you can see, adding power-ups to your dog diet is really easy with the large variety of fun fresh foods available. Mix it up and have some fun. Your dog will love you for it! It’s a great way of adding foods without worrying too much about specific food balances. Plus you get to discover your dog’s preferred tastes – apples and potatoes might be the winners here! Power-ups are excellent as training treats. Halle goes through training in a breeze once she realizes apples, carrots and chickpeas are involved. If you had to choose only one thing to add to your dog diet, I would greatly recommend it be proteins.

Have you ever considered adding fresh foods to your dog’s diet? I would love to know what combos your dog prefers? What are some of your favorite power-ups that you like to give your dog? Have you discovered any particular kooky things your dog does at the sight, smell or sound of his favorite power-up? Halle has too many to mention, LOL. Share your thoughts and stories with us. What foods do you plan on trying out with your dog for the first time? Keep your dog happy and healthy and the rewards will come back ten-fold.

We are very fortunate to live in a modern time where organic dog food is readily available on the market. These days organic dog foods are all the rage. There’s no doubt that incorporating organic dog food into your pet’s diet is a healthy, smart choice. Organic is good for humans and good for dogs as well. In your grocery store you can find almost everything you eat labeled organic: berries, tomato sauces, dairy products, beauty products, even organic meats, poultry, fish, breads and of course, organic dog food.

No more excuses for feeding your dog regular commercial dog food.

Incorporating organic dog food into you dog’s diet just makes sense. There are many health, environmental and social benefits to organic farming that I often wonder “where did it all go wrong?” First let’s look at it from a human perspective. Have you ever actually paused a moment and asked yourself “what’s the real difference between organic strawberries and conventional strawberries?” Try the taste test next time you’re buying groceries. If you already eat organic foods you know exactly what I’m talking about. Those organic strawberries don’t compare in taste, nutrition, and overall quality to the other ones. Plus their environmental impact on the land and farms is also greatly reduced. Most importantly, they have much more “life energy” and they taste yummier too!

The same goes for organic dog food. Don’t think just because your dog gobbles up all his regular food that he actually loves it or that it’s good for him. If he’s eating regular store-bought dog food, there’s a good chance it doesn’t contain anything close to complete nutrition or any organic ingredients either. Quite the opposite. It’s probably loaded with combinations of toxins, waste, pesticides, drug residue, hormones, animal by-products and many more horrific ingredients. I have lots to say on commercial dog food – let’s keep that for my upcoming super dog food post.

Ok here’s what went Terribly Wrong…

There was a time not too long ago when organic farming, including organic dog food was all that existed. Farmers used traditional natural methods to control unwanted pests, fertilize their lands and feed their animals, according to their distinct biological structure. What I mean is that cows grazed on fields, chickens freely roamed the farm and pigs basked in the sun in their mud ponds, just as nature intended. Each farm animal consumed what was most appropriate for its wellbeing. They all had their own specific natural diets according to Mother Nature’s structure. Dogs were already eating all natural organic dog food because that’s all there was. Back then their feast consisted of leftover table food scraps and raw meats. You couldn’t just stop by the market and pick up a bag of dog food. That was unheard of. Packaged dog food did not even exist…yet!

Then the 20th century rolled along with all sorts of modern manufacturing, packaging and synthetic chemicals that revolutionized the entire farming and food industry. That’s where we stand today. Giant food corps control, grow and manufacture our food and most of their waste is then turned into dog food for additional profit – so wrong! But enough with the history lessons!

Notice the ratio difference between your grocers organic produce versus non organic foods. It’s a pretty small number – 5 to 15 percent at most, depending on your location of course. If you’re lucky and you happen to live close to a farmer’s market then chances are you will find much more available organic foods.

I will give you all the goods on Organic dog food including certification programs and benefits and I’m pretty sure you’ll be instantly convinced of its overall natural goodness. You’ll see how slowly changing your dog’s diet with healthy natural organic dog foods will ensure many, many happy years with your beloved pet.

Organic dog food is in the same ball park as Holistic dog food. There’s nothing really scientific about the term ‘organic’. All it means is that the organically labeled product was grown free of synthetic chemicals such as genetically modified organisms (GMO’s), pesticides, herbicides, antibiotics, food additives and insecticides. Organic food is also minimally processed.

Each country has different organic regulations, certifications and restrictions. So make sure you’re well informed with your local organic programs. The USA has a National Organic Program (NOP) that takes care of the production, handling and labeling of organic food. The United Stated Department of Agricultures (USDA) regulates organic certifications.

There are 3 general levels of organics for humans and organic dog food;

- 100% organic: product has been made with 100% organic materials and methods.

- Organic: product has at least 95% organic materials.

- Made with organic ingredients: product contains a minimum of 70% organic ingredients.

As I am writing this post, the Organic Dog Food labeling exactly follows the National Organic Program’s (NOP) certified organic foods for human consumption. So whatever is labeled USDA certified organic for you is organic for your dog too.

The National Organic Program (NOP) launched an Organic Pet Food Task Force (PFTF) in 2006.

Their primary goals are as follow:

1) Propose changes in the organic regulations to support labeling of organic pet food, and

2) Evaluate where any conflicts may exist between organic labeling claims and the existing state requirements for pet food labeling, and propose remedies in collaboration with state officials.

At the present time, the PFTF has completed a draft proposal for organic regulation changes for public and NOSB consideration. The PFTF will continue to work further on evaluating any conflicts with state requirements, as embodied in the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) model Pet and Specialty Pet Food regulations. Organic pet food manufacturers will have to comply with both the NOP regulations and existing state pet food regulations, so the goal will be to reconcile any conflicts and propose guidance for the AAFCO officials in interpreting organic claims.

“Mom, enough with the ABCs and PPTs, they’re giving me the ZZZZs! Lets get back to the tasty organic dog fooooooood!” } Halle

What I have discovered is if you’re looking for reliable Organic Dog Food your best bet would be to choose a product that is USDA Certified Organic or certified by your country’s organic program. The reason is quite simple, the USDA Certified Organic Label is regulated by the law and verified by a third party. If the product doesn’t have the USDA Certified Organic seal then it’s not necessarily honest ‘Organic Dog Food’. Dog food manufacturers are very keen at jumping on the organic hype. It’s up to you, the consumer, to do your research and get as much info as you can before making a purchase. Also don’t assume if a product is expensive that it must be healthy and nutritious. Not quite! Dig, dig, dig and read, read, read! Trust me. Your beloved dog and your wallet will thank you.

“Thank You very much!” } Halle

Here are 3 Brands that we recommend if you’re looking for some of the best organic dog food available on the market:

1. Newman’s Own Organics

2. Castor and Pollux Organix

3. Karma Organic

For more great organic dog food selections check out the Dog Food Project.

Organic foods are filled with all the good stuff – nutrients and life. They look, smell and taste like they are supposed to with all the odd shapes and imperfections. And you see the difference in both humans and dogs. What they are not is contaminated by mankind’s pollution and waste.

So what are the benefits of going with organic dog food? Here are just a few:

Like I said in my last article Switching to Holistic Dog Food, there is no such thing as the best diet for your dog. Yes there are some that are better than others but that doesn’t necessarily mean that it’s the right one for your dog. However, adding some organic dog food to your dog bowl IS definitely a healthy conscious choice. If you follow nature’s way then you just can’t go wrong. Sure you might pay a little more for your dog’s food but the results are priceless!

If my article has inspired you to try out some organic dog food the next time you need a new bag then I am grateful. If, on the other hand, my article has also inspired YOU to eat some more organic carrots and berries here and there, then I’m thrilled!

Let me know what works best for you and your dog. What’s your preferred organic dog food brand? Why did you decide to switch to organic dog food? If you have switched what kind of changes have you seen in your dog? Good nutrition leads to happy healthy dogs – that’s the least we can do for our loving companions. Share and inspire!

“The whole is more than the sum of its parts” – Aristotle

Switching to Holistic Dog Food has never been more important and easier than it is today.

You hear it all the time “Oh, my dog is a fussy eater. I think he may have digestive problems” or “My dog stinks. His breath smells. He has allergies and skin problems.” and “What a funny dog. He prefers our table food scraps over his own kibbles.” You don’t have to be a specialist to figure this one out. Guys, your beloved pet is trying to tell you something! Get your dog off the ‘Fast-Food’ and switch to Natural Holistic Dog Food immediately.

I know what you might be thinking, “What exactly is holistic dog food and why should I switch when my dog seems perfectly fine on his regular grub?” The answer is quite simple: Nature knows best! Plus there are a host of benefits to holistic dog foods that I will explain in this article. If you are concerned about your pet’s health and well being, I promise, you’ll be making the switch. It just makes sense.

I want to briefly mention that there are many types of alternatives out there like Organic dog food, RAW, homemade, BARF, natural and the ever-so-popular, commercially manufactured food – WE call it “Fast-Food”. I will write-up articles on each type so that you get a clearer picture of the dog food industry and dog-appropriate foods for your pet. You will then become fully aware of what enters your dog’s belly and of what should definitely stay out.

“Holistic dog food is serious business – I would listen to what Mom says! I love carrots…” } Halle

Here come the goods on Holistic Dog Food – a natural wholesome option for your furry friend. Keep in mind that there isn’t one type of dog food that is ideal for every single dog out there. Dogs are just as unique as humans.You will have to experiment with your own dog to determine what works best.

Let’s define Holistic

Let’s see what our friend Merriam-Webster says about Holistic:

1 – of or relating to holism; defined as a theory that the universe and especially living nature is correctly seen in terms of interacting wholes (as of living organisms) that are more than the mere sum of elementary particles.

2 – relating to or concerned with wholes or with complete systems rather than with the analysis of, treatment of, or dissection into parts

Ok let me summarize the dictionary lingo! The most important words to take from the definition are “interacting wholes” and “complete”.

Without getting overly scientific about it, Holistic dog food is unrefined, unprocessed and isn’t enhanced with additives, fillers, or artificial components like coloring and flavoring. The food is taken in its original state and it maintains that state throughout its preparation. The good Holistic dog food companies have a very high and strict control over the management of the manufacturing process, assuring the best and freshest dog food available to the market. You end up with a naturally balanced formula, one that is biologically appropriate and wholesome, so that your dog can grow and develop to his full potential.

Holistic food nourishes and renews your dog’s body, mind and spirit. It strengthens the immune system and prevents disease. A happy healthy dog, can’t ask for better!

What does it all Mean?

If you’re a bit unsure about all this “Holistic Business”, I will give you an example that will clear things up instantly.

Think of it this way: A freshly picked potato is Holistic. A potato chip isn’t!

Got it?
Let’s move on…

One of the key principles behind Holistic dog foods is they are human-grade. This means the ingredients are good for human consumption. Another important term is whole foods – unrefined and unprocessed (or minimally processed) before consumption. Simply put, all the goodness nature provides including fruits, veggies, meats, poultry and fish. Some ingredients in the recipe may be organic, which is a bonus, but that’s not necessary to be labeled holistic.

By feeding your dog a Holistic formula you eliminate many diseases and health problems that can occur in a “Fast-Food” diet. Think of it from a human perspective. I’m talking about obesity, diabetes, cancer, degenerative diseases, skin problems, infertility, digestive problems, bad oral health, excessive shedding and obsessive licking, to name a few. I will dig into details in future posts so stay tuned for those.

Do I hear those magical words “I’m Switching to Holistic!” coming from you? Hmmmm?
Maybe Halle will convince you.

We made the switch to Natural Holistic Dog Food when Halle was about 6 months old and we never went back. Why would we? Going Holistic was the single best decision we’ve ever made! We also give her additional raw and cooked food as well as vitamins to supplement her diet. Adding a variety of proteins and a small amount of greens to your dog’s diet is crucial. We believe that whatever you find in a single kibble cannot be 110% complete – think about it. How can all the natural goodness your dog needs fit into one tiny kibble? Almost impossible!

Halle is a Holistic Dog and she absolutely loves her Orijen Holistic Dog Food. We recommend Orijen as the Best Holistic Dog Food simply because we have been using it for a couple of years. We love the brand, plus the quality of their fresh and natural ingredients are very impressive. But even better are the results – a happier, more energetic and super healthy “Hurricane Halle”. We instantly saw the difference in her outgoing personality and in her shiny coat. Now nothing stops our beautiful beast! We were seeing way too much of our vet before we made the switch to Holistic Dog Food. From loose stools to eye infections, to skin problems, the list went on and nothing was computing at first. Luckily we did our research and even found a Holistic Veterinarian that helped get Halle back to health. There’s been a very distinct and noticeable reduction of health problems ever since. In fact, she hasn’t visited her vet outside of her yearly checkups since the food and doggy lifestyle makeover. We can’t complain. Happy dog and saving money on vet bills – priceless!

Dogs are carnivores and they need a diet that is high in proteins. We give Halle Orijen’s Adult formula which is high with those essential proteins but low in carbs. Here’s a quick look at Orijen’s protein list:

“Our fresh regional ingredients include free-run chicken, turkey & ducks, whole Grade A eggs, free range wild boar, bison and heritage pork, grass-fed lamb, and a variety of wild-caught freshwater & saltwater fish—all farmed or fished within our region, passed ‘fit for human consumption’ and delivered FRESH TO OUR DOOR. Each & every day!”

Doesn’t that sound yummy? I promise that your dog won’t be able to resist once he gets a taste of Holistic Dog Food. Fresh regional nutritious fruits, grasses and vegetables are added to complete the formula. Various vitamins and minerals are also added to complete the mix.

Now just for fun, put those healthy ingredients head-to-head with some of the most popular dog food brands! You just can’t compare.

Orijen is not necessarily the best one out there but it’s currently our favorite.

Recommended Brands of Holistic Dog Food

If you are thinking about making the switch, here are a few other Holistic Dog Food Brands other than wonderful Orijen that are worth looking into. Remember, don’t expect miracles overnight and give your dog some time to get habituated to the new diet. It shouldn’t take too long and you’ll notice the benefits of going holistic in no time.

We recommend Innova and EVO which are manufactured under Natura. They make several high quality Holistic Dog Foods that you might consider for your pooch. Innova includes high quality nutrient rich foods from all 5 food groups with formulas from puppies to seniors.

We like EVO because their dog food recipe, similar to Orijen, resembles very closely the ancestral dog diets which include higher meat-based proteins and highly digestible fats. EVO is low on carbs and most importantly grain-free. A great choice for an active dog like Halle.

We know a few dogs that are on Solid Gold and their owners give it great reviews. Solid Gold’s products are all natural, holistic, and do not contain any chemical preservatives or any funny business.

Another Holistic dog food brand to check out is Honest Kitchen. The coolest thing about Honest Kitchen is that humans actually test the dog food recipes before they end up in your dog’s bowl. If humans like them, I’m sure your dog will love it to – Very Sweet! They offer high quality dehydrated dog food. The dehydration process actually keeps all the goodness virtually intact so your dog gets all the benefits. All YOU have to do is add some water and serve. How convenient!

Just like their name says, Chicken Soup for the Pet Lover’s Soul Dog Food is an all-round great Natural Holistic Dog Food. Nothing but the freshest ingredients packed into each recipe. Another great brand that’s worth looking into.

Again, do your research before offering any type of food to your dog. Just because he eats it doesn’t mean it’s good for him. Get familiar with ingredient lists for your specific dog appropriate diet. Look at the dog food analysis, VERY important cause it says the truth and nothing but the truth. Contact the manufacturers and look for honest reviews if you have any questions. Your best bet is to read up as much as you can before presenting Fido with something new to eat.

We are VERY lucky that we live in a time where as pet owners, we have many choices when it comes to simple good dog food. Natural Holistic Dog Food is readily available and there are lots of great brands out there. I only gave you some of our favorites but there are many many more.

Well if it says Holistic…

One more important note. Just because a certain brand of dog food says “Holistic” on the packaging that doesn’t necessarily mean it is completely holistic. Your best bet is to do your own research into the listed ingredients. That will tell you the honest truth. As well don’t always trust the sales clerk at the store or your vet’s opinion (they usually have incentives for offering specific brands) on dog food recommendations. Some people you’ll encounter will be very helpful and honest with their beliefs. All I’m saying is do your own homework.

Your dog is the best judge when it comes to good wholesome food. Like I said earlier if your dog is happy, active, looks and feels great then you’re doing good, especially if you don’t remember when your last vet visit was. All of this means that you’re on the right track to a healthy companion that will live a long life.

You don’t have to wait to make the switch. As a dog owner you must decide to veto any food that might be detrimental to your pet’s health. Our dogs are domesticated and rely on us to hunt for them. Why not surprise them with the biggest and ‘bestest’ catch you can find: Holistic Dog Food! They’ll be very impressed with your hunting skills and you’ll get a thankful dog in return. They might also brag to their doggy friends! All jokes aside, if you’re not feeding your dog a natural balanced diet, it’s your duty to make the switch NOW!

Just remember, natural is better no matter what. You obviously know the saying – You are what you eat? I couldn’t agree with it more.

There are plenty of insightful articles on dog nutrition, dog food and health on the way so make sure you look for them. You can also subscribe to our HB Dog Newsletter so you don’t miss out on any of the goodness.

As we increase our awareness about the best care for our loving pets the better for all of us. In the meantime if you have any questions or personal experiences and preferences with some of the Holistic Dog Food Brands that I have mentioned or any others, we would love to hear about it.