Your next dog-treat recipe from Dr. Kwane Stewart
There are some foods that you should definitely avoid serving your dog.
Your dog might have their favorite brand of store-bought treats, but what if we told you that there were some homemade, pet-friendly snacks that you could make at home? If your pup is already your shadow in the kitchen, get prepared for them to be glued to you while you’re cooking up these ingredients.
To guide you through this cooking process, we spoke to Dr. Kwane Stewart, a veterinarian and member of Fetch’s Veterinary Advisory Board. He’s sharing his favorite dog-friendly ingredients, food items that shouldn't be in their diet and the inspiration behind his dog-treat recipes.
Every dog’s diet is different and before getting started, it’s a good idea to talk to your dog’s veterinarian to ensure the treats are OK for your pet to consume. You’ll also want to avoid serving your pup entirely homemade food without strict guidance and supervision from their vet.
What inspired you to start cooking homemade dog treats?
I think we all like to treat our pets. I enjoy trying new things in the kitchen and thought, “I can make a treat as good as those in the stores.”
How did you come up with your own pet-friendly recipes?
I did some research online on common ingredients that are palatable and healthy and just started experimenting.
Do you have any tips for pet parents who want to start cooking homemade dog food?
There are a number of starter recipes you can find online. Once you get a handle on what’s safe and how to cook or bake, you can start getting a little creative.
Safety first. Experimenting in the kitchen is fun, but don’t use your dog as the proverbial “guinea pig” if you don’t feel confident that what you’re doing may harm them.
RELATED: 6 qualities of great service dogs, according to Dr. Kwane Stewart
What are the benefits of cooking homemade dog food?
You know exactly what’s going into them. You can make them as healthy and palatable as you’d like. And the “taste-testing” is the most fun part!
Are there any health risks of cooking homemade dog food?
Including ingredients that are toxic or unhealthy and being aware of foodborne pathogens. There are a number of toxic foods we should avoid. The internet is a great resource, but to name a few: macadamia nuts, onions, wild mushrooms, grapes or raisins and nutmeg.
What’s your dog’s favorite recipe?
A mix of bone broth, cricket flour, which is for protein, sweet potato and peanut butter.
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Image source: @drkwane Instagram
The Dig, Fetch Pet Insurance's expert-backed editorial, answers all of the questions you forget to ask your vet or are too embarrassed to ask at the dog park. We help make sure you and your best friend have more good days, but we’re there on bad days, too.
