The Most Common Nutritional Deficiencies in Homemade Dog Food & How to Fix Them!

Feeding homemade dog food is a great way to ensure quality ingredients, but it’s easy to miss key nutrients! Here are the most common deficiencies and how to fix them:

 Calcium & Phosphorus Imbalance – Missing bones? Dogs need a proper ratio!

 Fix: Add raw meaty bones (chicken necks, duck wings) or eggshell powder.

 Omega-3 Fatty Acids – Dry skin, dull coat, or inflammation?

 Fix: Add sardines, salmon oil, flaxseed, or chia seeds.

 Vitamin D – Weak bones, muscle issues?

 Fix: Include pasture-raised egg yolks, oily fish (mackerel, herring), or cod liver oil.

 Vitamin E – A crucial antioxidant missing in many diets!

 Fix: Add almonds (ground), sunflower seeds, or wheat germ oil.

 Iodine – Thyroid health matters!

 Fix: Add a tiny pinch of kelp powder (be careful not to overdo it).

 Zinc – Poor immunity, flaky skin?

 Fix: Feed beef, turkey, oysters, or pumpkin seeds.

 Iron & B Vitamins – Lethargy, pale gums?

 Fix: Include organ meats like beef liver, heart, and kidney (but in moderation!).

 Magnesium & Potassium – Muscle weakness or cramps?

 Fix: Add leafy greens, bananas, or bone broth.

 Balance is key! A well-formulated homemade diet should mimic what dogs would get in the wild. If unsure, consult a pet nutritionist to ensure your pup gets all the nutrients they need!