Maintaining a healthy weight is essential for our canine companions, just as it is for humans. Some dogs may struggle to gain weight due to various reasons such as a high metabolism, medical conditions, or simply being picky eaters.
5 Homemade weight gainer for dogs
If your furry friend needs a little extra help in putting on some healthy weight, these homemade weight gainer recipes can be a delicious and nutritious solution.
- Peanut Butter: A protein-packed mix of Greek yogurt, peanut butter, banana, and chicken for healthy weight gain.
- Sweet Potato: Mashed sweet potatoes, lean meat, quinoa, and coconut oil provide balanced nutrition for gradual weight gain.
- Cheesy Chicken: Shredded chicken, cheese, yogurt, and peas create a tasty protein-rich blend for encouraging weight gain.
- Energizing Egg and Oatmeal Blend: Scrambled eggs, oatmeal, lean meat, and olive oil offer a balanced mix of nutrients to support weight gain.
- Banana Breakfast: Ripe bananas, cottage cheese, chicken, and blueberries deliver a nutritious combo for healthy weight gain and vitality.Top of Form
Always consult your veterinarian before making significant changes to your dog’s diet, especially if they have any existing health concerns.
1. Peanut Butter
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Ingredients:
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1/4 cup natural peanut butter (unsalted, no xylitol)
- 1 ripe banana, mashed
- 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
- 1/2 cup cooked and finely diced chicken breast
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, peanut butter, and mashed banana.
- Stir in the honey for added sweetness if desired.
- Fold in the finely diced chicken breast to boost the protein content.
- Serve a portion of this mixture as a topper for your dog’s regular meals.
2. Sweet Potato
Ingredients:
- 2 cooked and mashed sweet potatoes
- 1/2 cup cooked lean ground beef or turkey
- 1/4 cup cooked quinoa or brown rice
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil
- 1/4 cup finely chopped steamed carrots
Instructions:
- Mix the mashed sweet potatoes with the cooked ground beef or turkey.
- Stir in the cooked quinoa or brown rice to provide complex carbohydrates.
- Add the coconut oil for healthy fats and extra energy.
- Gently fold in the finely chopped steamed carrots.
- Portion out this mixture as an occasional meal supplement for your pup.
3. Cheesy Chicken
Ingredients:
- 1 cup cooked and shredded chicken
- 1/4 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1/4 cup grated low-fat cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons plain Greek yogurt
- 1/4 cup cooked peas
Instructions:
- Combine the cooked and shredded chicken with the low-sodium chicken broth in a bowl.
- Stir in the grated cheddar cheese for added flavor.
- Mix in the plain Greek yogurt to enhance creaminess.
- Gently fold in the cooked peas for added nutrients and fiber.
- Offer this mixture as a tasty topper to your dog’s regular meals.
4. Energizing Egg and Oatmeal Blend
Ingredients:
- 2 scrambled eggs
- 1/2 cup cooked oatmeal
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/4 cup cooked and finely diced lean beef or turkey
- 1 tablespoon chopped parsley for digestion
Instructions:
- Prepare the scrambled eggs and cooked oatmeal separately.
- Combine the scrambled eggs with the cooked oatmeal in a mixing bowl.
- Add the olive oil to boost healthy fats.
- Mix in the finely diced lean beef or turkey.
- Sprinkle chopped parsley for added digestion support.
- Serve this mixture in moderation to provide extra nutrients and calories.
5. Banana Breakfast
Ingredients:
- 2 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1/4 cup cottage cheese
- 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
- 1/4 cup chopped cooked chicken or turkey
- 1/4 cup blueberries (fresh or frozen)
Instructions:
- Mix the mashed bananas with the cottage cheese in a bowl.
- Stir in honey for sweetness if desired.
- Add the chopped cooked chicken or turkey for protein.
- Gently fold in the blueberries to provide antioxidants.
- Offer a small portion of this mixture as an occasional treat.
FAQs
Can I use these recipes to replace my dog’s regular food?
No, these recipes are designed to supplement your dog’s regular diet, not replace it entirely. They should be given in moderation and alongside a balanced commercial dog food that meets your dog’s nutritional needs.
How often should I offer these weight-gainer recipes to my dog?
Offering these recipes as occasional meal toppers or treats rather than as a staple in your dog’s diet is recommended. Consult your veterinarian for specific guidance on the appropriate frequency based on your dog’s needs.
What if my dog has food allergies or sensitivities?
If your dog has known food allergies or sensitivities, be cautious when introducing new ingredients. Always check with your vet before adding anything new to your dog’s diet. Consider using hypoallergenic ingredients and avoiding common allergens.
My dog is a picky eater. Will these recipes help improve their appetite?
These recipes can entice picky eaters due to their various flavors and textures. However, if your dog’s picky eating is due to an underlying health issue, consult your veterinarian before making dietary changes.
Is including dairy products like yogurt and cottage cheese in these recipes safe?
In small amounts, dairy products like yogurt and cottage cheese can be safe and beneficial for many dogs. However, some dogs are lactose intolerant, so monitor your dog’s reaction after trying these ingredients for the first time. If you need more clarification, consult your vet.
Can I adjust the recipes based on my dog’s specific needs?
Absolutely. These recipes are customizable to some extent. For example, you can adjust the portion sizes based on your dog’s size, age, and activity level. You can also substitute ingredients if your dog has preferences or dietary restrictions.
Will these recipes work for all dog breeds?
While these recipes are generally suitable for most dog breeds, individual dogs have unique dietary requirements. Larger breeds may need larger portions, and smaller breeds might need smaller portions. Consider your dog’s needs and consult your vet for personalized advice.
Can I store these recipes for later use?
You can store these recipes in airtight containers in the refrigerator for a few days. You can freeze them in individual portions if you want to keep them longer. Thaw them in the refrigerator before serving.
How can I monitor my dog’s weight gain progress?
Regularly weigh your dog and consult with your veterinarian to track their weight gain progress. They can guide you on whether adjustments are needed to the amount of the weight gainer recipes you’re providing.
Are there any ingredients I should avoid using in these recipes?
Some ingredients, like chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, and garlic, can be toxic to dogs and should be avoided. Also, avoid using ingredients high in fat or salt content, as they might lead to other health issues.
Conclusion
These homemade weight gainer recipes can be a fantastic way to help your dog achieve and maintain a healthy weight. However, remember that these recipes are meant to be used as supplements to your dog’s regular diet, not as complete meals.
It’s crucial to monitor your dog’s weight and consult your veterinarian before making any significant dietary changes. With these delicious and nutritious options, you can keep your furry friend happy, healthy, and full of energy.