Can Labrador eat home food

Complete diet plan for Labrador puppies and dogs in India

Labrador Retriever is inarguably the most popular pet dog breed in India and the most common question we face from pet owners across our chat, emails and phone calls is a suggestion of a diet plan for their lab puppy. So, if you have just bought your new pupper and wondering what to feed him/her, you are at the right place. Although I am not a veterinarian myself, I have been a lab owner for 11 years and been in the pet food industry for the last 6 years. In the course of my journey, I have met countless dog owners, breeders, participated in many dog shows and visited/spoke to many registered veterinary practitioners. So, in this article, I would like to share my experience regarding the most suitable diet for a labrador puppy/dog based on the food and supplement options available in India.

1)Labrador puppy age(0-3 months) If you are buying or adopting your puppy from a good and responsible breeder, it is highly unlikely that he/she will allow you to take the puppy away from his/her mother before 1.5 months age. However, if this is not the case for your pupper, no need to worry. Although your pup wont get mothers milk, you can feed him dog milk available in the market. Be sure not to feed normal cerelac or cowmilk as that will result in loose motion as well as stunted growth. Among baby dog milk, there are various options from well-known brands like Royal Canin, Drools, Farmina although I personally prefer Beaphar Lactolor Royal Canin Babydog milk.At this tender age, you need to feed your lab pup via feeding bottle like you would feed a human baby of age 2 months.

Milk is the only food apart from purified water which your dog is gonna need till 1.5months. After this age, till 3 months you have two options. You can either continue with milk or look at starter food options like Royal Canin Maxi starter, Drools starter, Farmina Puppy Starter, Canine Creek Starter, Orijen puppy and plenty of other brands which are available in the market. The kibble for starter food is small and most probably, your puppy will be able to chew it.In case he/she is not, consider adding the dry food into a blender with lukewarm water and make a mix which should be dilute enough to be administered by feeding bottle. Certain dry food can be extremely hard to chew, so depending on the toughness of the kibble you might have to break i.e blend the food yourself as your puppy might not develop good teeth at this age.Puppies of age 1.5 3 months should be given around 200g-300g(total) of feed divided in separatemeals in a whole day.You should be following this diet of starter food till 3 months age at least. Also, make sure you are vaccinating as well as deworming your pup at the right intervals.

2)Labrador puppy age(3-15 months) Your puppy will grow to the maximum extent in this age span. So, a proper nutritious diet is essential to achieve good growth. You can either go for Royal Canin Maxi Junior or Royal Canin Labrador Junior or puppy variants of other brands like drools, canine creek, Orijen Puppy and Junior(Recommended), Acana large breed puppy, pedigree(not recommended) at this age. If you are giving a good diet like Royal Canin, farmina or even home-made food, growth should be good. For those who can extend their budget, you can go for something even more premium like Acana, Orijen, Arden Grange and the likes. No need to add additional supplements. If you are feeding home-made food like boiled chicken which itself is a very good food option, consider adding some fish oils like Beaphar Salmon Oil. In case, you are going for filler-prone options like pedigree / drools, supplements like Bone builder / Kalk tabs will be useful. Puppies of age 3-6+ months should be given around 300g-450+g of dry food per day.

3)Labrador dog age(15 months onward) Your puppy is an adult dog now. Its highly unlikely your dog will grow further in length and height after this age. However, a good diet is recommended to ensure a good life span(above 12 years) and muscle development. For those who want Royal Canin, you can go forRoyal Canin Labrador adult. You can also go for more premium brands than Royal canin like Farmina N&D, Hills, Orijen, Acana and more. Homemade food can be a healthy option as well. Remember, lab is a high energy dog, so regular exercises/walks are very essential.

Feeding guide(amount to feed in grams) depends on dog weight and varies from brand to brand. You will find the recommended portion for your brand based on the calories it carries on the packet you will buy.

Once your dog has reached 3 months age, its best to feed him/her twice a day. If you feed thrice, four times or keep food available in front of the dog all the time as many dog owners do, he/she is likely to lose interest in the food and not touch it at all. At other times, you can give chews or treats but whole meal should be fed not more than twice a day. Do not keep food available in front of the dog except during his eating time. However, you can keep water available in a bowl all the time. Sticking to schedule regularly is recommended.

Wait, till now we have been speaking about commercial dry food. What if your dog or puppy doesnt like any dry food at all?

Yes, this happens to many dogs. While some dogs like pugs are voracious eaters, labs or goldens can be extremely choosy. At infant age, regardless you are giving milk or dry food blended in water through feeding bottle, puppy will eat/drink it. They will eat whatever liquid you put in the feeding bottle at this age.

However, once puppies mature and learn to eat themselves, they may not like dry food, rarely touch it. In these cases, the best option is to first add a home-made additive with the dry food. You may add many things dog like in small quantities of chicken stalk, chicken pieces(boneless for puppies), curd, egg and others to the dry food. Changing or trying out another brand helps as well. So its best to buy a small pack before trying any new brand.I have seen many dogs who hate Drools but like Canine Creek although they are manufactured by same company. Every dog has a mind of his own. If you cant add any home-made side dish, adding less nutritious but delicious wet food like drools holistic blended meals, pedigree chicken gravy, smart-heart chicken liver gravy etc into the dry food can change your dogs mind at times. In the end, either you can choose from some of the best commercial dog food brands available in India or you can go for totally home-made food if your dog doesnt like any brand of dry or wet food.

Most common diseases of Indian bred dogs like canine hyp dysplasia,ear infections, bent hind legs can happen to any dog. Take your dog to a registered veterinary practitioner in case such situations arise.

Lack of appetite is also observed during this age at times. For not-so-severe cases, you may administer Himalaya Liv52(syrup or tabs) or other appetite stimulants of various brands twice a day for 1-2 days. In case, your dog has gastrointestinal disorders, referring to a prescription diet under the guidance of a veterinarian can be immensely helpful.

If you have more questions regarding your Labrador dog/puppy and his/her maintenance , feel free to leave a comment below or reach us via the chat option from the bottom-right corner of this page. We have access to registered veterinary practitioners who can help your dog regardless of breed/age.

Homemade Food Recipes For Labrador Retrievers: Adult & Puppy

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This content was reviewed and fact-checked by veterinarian Dr. Aukse Caraite, DVM.

Are you considering preparing homemade food for Labradors? Labradors have different nutritional requirements than other dog breeds, so cooking for them is not as simple as replacing commercial pet food and substituting it with steak and veggies.

Whether youre interested in cooking homemade food for Labrador puppies, adults, or seniors, this guide will provide you with all the necessary information to prepare well-balanced meals for your Labs. It covers nutritional guidelines, homemade Labrador recipes, breed-specific nutritional advice, and cooking tips, encompassing all the essential aspects of home-cooked food for Labradors. Lets get started!

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Nutrition, Benefits & RisksJump to:Recipes & Cooking

Labrador RetrieverHomemade Dog Food Benefits

Here are some of the main benefits of cooking for your Labrador.

• Healthy eating habits
• Quality control
• More affordable
• Healthier
• Portion size control
• Fresh ingredients
• Dietary requirements can be met

Board-certified veterinary nutritionists and diplomates of the American College of Veterinary Nutrition, Jennifer A. Larsen, DVM, MS, Ph.D., and Joe Bartges, DVM, Ph.D., state that feeding homemade dog food comes with significant advantages, such asdiet management, appeasingpicky eaters, bond-building, combatting food intolerance andallergies issues,and avoid concern over dog food recalls.^[1]

Further benefits include preventing many conditions associated with a poor diet, such asobesity, poor skin, coat condition, pancreatitis, diabetes, and reduced immunity.

Why Feed Homemade Food to Your Labrador Retriever

Labrador Retrievers generally live between 10 to 12 years. This breeds most common health problems include hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, cancer, and arthritis. Diseases likeallergies, bloating, laryngeal paralysis, hypothyroidism, and obesity are also common in the breed. Other minor and less common health problems this breed suffers includeprogressive retinal atrophy, patellar luxations, ear infections, and heart disease.

Top Reasons to Cook Homemade Food For Your Labrador

Increased lifespanResearch shows that dogs eating fresh food diets are linked to a20% longer lifespanthan those that dont. A year-long study of 522 dogs found that dogs fed high-quality, freshly made, real food had an average life expectancy of13.1 yearsversus just 10.4 years for dogs fed commercially processed pet food.^[2]Obesity & jointsHomemade dog food cooking allows you to easily calibrate the amounts of carbohydrates, proteins, vegetables, vitamins, and minerals your dog needs to maintain a healthy body weight. Obesity in dogs can increase their risk forbone and joint problems (i.e., hip dysplasia) and subsequent osteoarthritis. Studies show that dogs maintaining theirideal body weightlive almost 2.5 years longer (with significantly fewer diseases) than their overweight siblings.^[3]Cancer preventionWhen it comes tocancer, homemade dog food removes the highly processed food from the equation, which is often linked tocancer issues in dogs. Food processing has been shown to cause free radicals and carcinogenic chemicals to be released. With homemade, you no longer have to worry about oxidative stress due to processed food.^[4],[5]Easy digestionHomemade dog food is easier to digest than those hard-kibble mystery balls. Feeding your pet freshly made food puts less stress on their digestive system and liver, reducing the likelihood ofbloating or other digestive issues.Avoid allergiesCooking for your dog lets you pick ingredients that wont trigger allergies in your Labrador. If you are unsure what ingredients may cause sensitivities or allergies in your pet, we advise doing anat-home dog food allergytest before selecting the ingredients for your dogs next meal.BioavailabilityHome-cooked dog food is easier to digest more digestible food means dogs can absorb nutrients more efficiently and faster. Quicker nutrient absorption means minerals, vitamins, fatty acids and amino acids act quicker in the body to carry out different functions, such as decreasing inflammatory responses that can help prevent allergies or help boost overall health. Fresh ingredients with no chemicalsHomemade meals ensure your dog always eatsfresh, wholesome, and chemical-free foods without additives, fillers, high-glycemic carbs, or colorants commonly found in kibble. Excellent taste, smell & varietyDogs love the taste, smell, texture and variety of fresh ingredients.Avoid unsafe commercial dog foods While commercial dog food is generally healthy, studies show that feed-grade kibble may not always be the healthiest option compared to human-grade dog foods.

Labrador Retriever Homemade Dog Food Risks

Research by the University of California Davis, School of Veterinary, and two studies published in The JournalPreventive Veterinary Medicine and The Journal of Nutritional Science found that most homemade dog food recipes lackkey essential nutrients, and other recipes used dangerously high levels of some nutrients.^[6],[7],[8]

48%

of homemade dog dietshad an imprecise determination of ingredients and quantities

28.3%

didnt use any recommended vitamins, minerals,or amino acids.

30.4%

of the pet parents admittedto purposely changethe recipe.

40%

of owners didnt measure the proportions of the ingredients well enough.

Key Considerations When Feeding Your Labrador A Homemade Diet

• Understand your Labradors nutritional needs
• Do not use inadequate or dangerous recipes
• Ensure your dogs meal is balanced
• Do not use toxic ingredients
• Understand the impact of food and dietary changes
• Do not neglect your dogs health conditions
• Switch to homemade gradually
• The diet must be based on your dogs life stage nutritional needs (puppies, adults or seniors)

Always work with your vet before changing your dogs diet.

You can get personalized nutritional advice from a registered vet nutritionist through Vetster anytime, anywhere. You can also chat with an online vet and ask them questions about your dogs nutritional needs. For further dog nutrition guidance, consult Home-Prepared Dog & Cat Diets: the Healthful Alternative by Donald R. Strombeck, DVM, Ph.D., a renowned veterinary expert. This book is the go-to resource for healthy homemade dog nutrition for most pet nutritionists.

How to Make Homemade Food For Labrador Retrievers

Homemade food for Labrador Retrievers must include the six essential nutrients for a dogs proper growth, body function, and health. These nutrients include proteins, carbohydrates, minerals, vitamins, fats, and water. Its also important to consider your pups weight, health conditions, size, and activity level.

Below is a detailed breakdown of each nutrient and its importance.

Labrador Nutritional Guidelines to Follow

Proteins

Protein plays a vital role in your dogs diet, providing essential amino acids necessary for bodily processes, including the creation of blood glucose for energy. Protein also helps build and repair muscles and other body tissues. Its needed to make new skin cells, grow hair, hormones and enzymes. The proteins in your dogs diet must have a balanced amino acid profile and are provided in appropriate amounts.

Protein dietary recommendations for Labrador Retrievers homemade food:

• Adult Labrador Retriever. 18% dry matter protein (45.0g for every 1,000 kcal ME).
• Puppies & Pregnant or Lactating Labrador Retriever: 22.5% dry matter protein (56.3g per 1,000 kcal ME).

Protein sources for homemade Labrador Retriever food include:

Carbohydrates

Dogs need energy for daily activities, growth, pregnancy, lactation, and exercise. This energy, measured in calories, comes from carbohydrates, proteins, and fats. Omnivorous animals, including dogs, derive some energy from carbohydrates. Carbohydrates supply glucose needed by the brain, nervous system, and other critical organs for normal function in dogs. You can use our dogcaloriecalculator to find the exact caloric needs of your dog based on his weight. Ensure you follow the 10% rule if feeding treats to your dog. Food would equal 90% of the total calories and treats the remaining 10%.

Energy dietary recommendations for Labrador Retrievers homemade food based on life stage, weight and activity level.

Type of Dog	10 lb	50 lb	70 lb	90 lb
Puppies	990
Inactive Labradors		989	1,272	1,540
Adult Active Labradors		1,353	1,740	2,100
Pregnant Labradors		1,940	2,570	3,170
Young Active Labradors		1,451	1,876	2,264
Senior Active Labradors		1,093	1,407	1,700

Carbohydrate sources for homemade Labradors food include:

• Oats
• Brown rice
• Potatoes
• Quinoa
• Sweet potatoes
• Whole wheat

Fats

Fats play a multifaceted role in a dogs diet. They are a dense energy source, provide essential fatty acids for skin and coat health, enable absorption of fat-soluble vitamins, improve food palatability, offer insulation and organ protection, support reproductive health, are critical for nervous system function, and serve as a reserve for energy storage.

Fat dietary recommendations for Labrador Retrievers homemade food:

• Adult Labrador Retriever. 5.5% dry matter fat (13.8g for every 1,000 kcal ME).
• Puppies & Pregnant or Lactating Labrador Retriever. 8.5% dry matter fat (21.3g for every 1,000 kcal ME).

Fat sources for homemade Labrador Retriever food include:

• Meats fats
• Fish oils
• Olive
• Sunflower oil
• Canola oils

Minerals

Minerals in a dogs diet are indispensable for bone and dental health, nerve function, enzymatic reactions, fluid balance, oxygen transport, and maintaining the bodys pH level, making them essential for overall health and metabolic processes. Proper mineral balance is crucial and should be carefully managed to avoid deficiencies or excesses.

These 12 minerals are known to be essential nutrients for dogs:

• Calcium
• Potassium
• Sodium
• Magnesium
• Iodine
• Chlorine
• Iron
• Copper
• Selenium
• Manganese
• Zinc
• Phosphorus

Mineral sources for homemade Labrador Retriever food include:

• Sweet potatoes and pumpkin (Magnesium)
• Fish (Iodine)
• Beef, eggs, and liver (Zinc)
• Poultry, nuts, and legumes (Copper)
• Bananas and carrots (Potassium)
• Chicken and duck (Iron)

Vitamins

Vitamins in a dogs diet are integral for maintaining overall health and bodily functions. They support vision, immune health, aid in energy metabolism and nervous system function, provide antioxidant benefits, reduce inflammation, prevent diseases and ailments and more. Dogs require vitamins, but only in small amounts, and excessive doses of certain vitamins, like vitamin D, can harm them.^[9]

These 12 vitamins are known to be essential nutrients for dogs:

• Vitamins A, B1, B6, B12, D, E & K
• Riboflavin
• Niacin
• Folic Acid
• Pantothenic Acid
• Choline

Vitamin sources for homemade Labrador Retriever food include:

• Sweet potatoes and spinach (Vitamin A)
• Eggs, chicken, and beef (Vitamin B)
• Broccoli (Vitamin C)
• Kale and parsley (Vitamin K)
• Vegetables (Vitamin E)
• Meats and fish (Vitamin D)

Water

Water is vital in a dogs diet to maintain hydration, support body functions such as digestion, nutrient absorption, and waste excretion, lubricate joints, regulate body temperature, ensure proper organ function, and facilitate metabolic processes. Continuous access to clean water is as crucial as providing nutritious food for overall health and well-being. Generally, Labradors should drink 2 to 3 times the amount of their dry food intake daily. However, if water is readily available from various sources, Labradors can naturally regulate its daily water consumption.

Source: We compiled the data for the table above by referencing the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) guidelines and the Nutrient Requirements of Dogs Report by the National Research Council (NRC). The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) utilizes the information from these reports to regulate and ensure the safety of pet foods.

Homemade Dog Food For Labrador Puppies

A Labrador Retriever puppys dietary requirements differ from an adults Labrador Retriever. Compared to adult dogs, puppies require higher protein, fat, calcium, and phosphorus levels. Inadequate or excessive amounts of these nutrients can lead to deficiencies, hindered growth, or lifelong health complications.

• 6 weeks to 5 months puppies. 3-6 meals a day
• 6-12month puppies.2-3 times a day
• Do not skip meals. Skipping meals is not advisable during your puppys growth and development
• Puppy feeding needs are unique. The science isntexact. Fine-tune their diet. If your puppy is getting chunky, cut back a smidge and vice versa.

Homemade Dog Food Delivery Service

The Farmers Dog

Who Its For: The perfect homemade dog food recipe if you dont have time to cook for your Labrador or are unable to balance nutrients to provide a balanced diet.

The Farmers Dogis one of our homemade dog food delivery options. They offer various fresh, homemade dog food options tailored to your dogs unique dietary needs, age, health conditions, and nutritional goals. For example, if your Labrador suffers from food-related health issues such as allergies or illnesses, The Farmers Dog can create a customized recipe that caters to those needs. Their meals are made with real, human-grade ingredients and delivered to your doorstep.

The food is developed by veterinary nutritionists who adhere to AAFCO nutritional guidelines. In our experience, using The Farmers Dog saves you time, allowing you to focus on more important things like walks or training your dog. Additionally, you wont have to worry about the hassle of meal planning, grocery shopping, or cooking, and you can mitigate the risks of cooking for dogs.

Our readers get 50% offtheir first The Farmers Dog order with Canine Bibles link.

Best Homemade Food For Labrador Retrievers

The best homemade food for Labrador Retrievers is a balanced diet that provides optimal nutrients for proper function while considering your dogs nutritional goals and health. We highly recommend The Farmers Dog as the best homemade food for Labrador Retrievers, adults and puppies.

Dont feel like cooking for your Labrador Retriever? Here is the most comprehensive guide to help you find thebest dog food for Labrador Retrievers.

Recipes, Cooking Tips & MoreJump to: Benefits & Nutrition

Labrador Retriever Homemade Dog Food Recipes

Browse the best homemade dog food recipes for Labrador Retrievers that will make your pup beg for more. Weve also included a special treat recipe for your Labrador, enriched with the health benefits of our favorite ingredient: dog CBD oil. CBD oil might help with issues like seizures, anxiety, arthritis, inflammation, pain, and overall wellness.

Note:Consult your vet before adjusting your dogs diet. The recipes below dont specify serving sizes since they depend on your dogs breed, weight, age, activity, and health. As a guideline, consider feeding the equivalent amount youd give in kibble, but always consult your veterinarian for proper portioning.

Labradors Gourmet Recipe

Labradors Gourmet Delight

This recipe, carefully researched for safety and nutrition, is perfect for my dogs Bandit and Pepe. Before introducing any new ingredient in their diet, I always test it in small amounts to see how they tolerate it. I encourage you to do the same. This approach has been invaluable in keeping their tummies happy and their tails wagging.

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 50 minutes mins

• 1 cup of brown rice
• 1 tbsp of olive oil
• 3 lbs of ground turkey (or another lean meat like chicken or beef)
• 3 cups of baby spinach, chopped
• 2 carrots, shredded
• 1 zucchini, shredded
• 1 small sweet potato, cooked and diced
• 1 apple, cored and diced (ensure no seeds)
• cup of blueberries (fresh or frozen)
• 2 tbsp of ground flaxseed (for omega-3 fatty acids)
• 1 egg, cooked and chopped

• Cook Rice: Prepare the brown rice according to package instructions and set aside.

• Cook Sweet Potato: Cook the sweet potato until tender, then dice it into small, bite-sized pieces.

• Cook Meat: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground turkey and cook until browned, making sure to crumble the meat as it cooks.

• Add Vegetables and Fruits: Stir in the spinach, carrots, zucchini, cooked sweet potato, diced apple, and blueberries. Cook until the spinach wilts and the other ingredients are tender, about 5 minutes.

• Combine with Rice: Add the cooked brown rice, ground flaxseed, and chopped egg (including shell if used) to the pot. Stir to combine all the ingredients well and cook for an additional 3-5 minutes.

• Cool and Serve: Allow the mixture to cool to room temperature before serving. Adjust the serving size according to your Labrador's size, age, and activity level.

• Store: Refrigerate leftovers in a sealed container for up to five days, or freeze in portion-sized containers.

Keyword homemade food for labradors

Blueberry-Banana CBD-Infused Dog Treat For Labrador

Treat your Labrador Retriever with these nutritious, therapeutic, and delicious homemade CBD dog treats. They are made with bananas, a great source ofessential vitamins and minerals(like potassium, vitamin C, and vitamin B6). Banana also aids with digestion and energy. Coconut is added for skin and coat, digestion and helps reduce allergic reactions.

Remember to consult your vet to ensure CBD is safe for your dog and that you are giving the correct dosage. Alternatively, you can buy commercially available CBD dog treatsso your pup can experience CBDs benefits without the cooking.

Ingredients

• 120 mg of the best CBD oil for dogs
• 2 1/2 cups gluten-free flour
• 1/2 cup oats
• 1 ripe banana, mashed
• 1 tbsp honey (optional, for a hint of sweetness)
• 1/2 cup fresh blueberries
• 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
• 1 egg, beaten
• 1/3 cup of coconut oil
• 1/2 cup water
• A pinch of sea salt

Directions

1. Oven preparation. Preheat oven to 350F and brush a dog biscuit baking tray with coconut oil.
2. Banana preparation. Mash a ripe banana in a bowl until smooth, ensuring no large chunks remain.
3. Dry ingredients. Blend gluten-free flour and oats in a medium-sized bowl.
4. Wet ingredients. In a separate bowl, whisk an egg until beaten. Add coconut oil, water, mashed banana, unsweetened applesauce, and fresh blueberries. Mix well.
5. Combining ingredients. Combine the wet mixture with the dry ingredients, stirring until even. Drizzle in CBD oil, stirring again for even distribution.
6. Mold filling. Scoop portions of the mixture with a tablespoon and press firmly into the dog treat baking mold.
7. Baking. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 to 40 minutes until the treats are firm to the touch and slightly golden.
8. Cooling and storage. Let the treats cool before transferring them to an airtight container for storage.

Chicken & Rice Delight Recipe For Labradors

Many dogs have a soft spot for chicken, making this dish a universal canine favorite. This easy-to-make recipe ensures your Labrador Retriever gets a nourishing and delightful meal. This batch yields approximately four servings, which can be stored in your refrigerator.

Ingredients

• 1 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• 1 cup brown rice (or white rice if preferred)
• cup peas
• cup chopped carrots
• cup flour (whole grain is preferable, but white flour is acceptable)
• cup water or chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil for frying

Directions

1. Chicken preparation. Cut the chicken into half-inch pieces. In a frying pan with 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil, cook the chicken on medium heat for about 15 minutes or until fully cooked. Remove the chicken pieces and set aside the pan drippings.
2. Rice preparation. In a pot, cook the rice according to the package instructions or until its soft and fluffy. Once done, set aside.
3. Gravy creation. Over medium to low heat, warm the chicken drippings in the pan. Combine cup of water or chicken broth with cup of flour. Gently stir until it becomes a smooth mixture. Continue cooking until it evolves into a thick gravy consistency.
4. Combining ingredients. Add the cooked chicken, rice, peas, and carrots to the gravy. Simmer the mixture for approximately 10 minutes or until the veggies are tender.
5. Cooling. Let the stew cool down to room temperature before serving to ensure its safe for your dog.

Turkey, Vegetable & Quinoa Feast Recipe For Labrador

As a lean protein, Turkey is excellent for Labrador Retrievers aiming for a healthy weight. This enhanced dog food recipe combines the richness of turkey with the nourishment of vegetables and quinoa a superfood known for its protein and fiber content. A nourishing blend of lean protein and wholesome veggies, its the ideal meal for your Labrador Retrievers.

Ingredients

• 4 cups of water
• 1 pound of ground turkey
• 1 cup of quinoa
• 1 cup of carrots, finely chopped
• 1 cup of green beans, finely chopped
• 1 cup of spinach, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon of fish oil
• A sprinkle of turmeric (for anti-inflammatory benefits, optional)

Directions

1. Cooking the turkey. Over medium heat, cook the ground turkey in a non-stick skillet until fully done. Ensure its crumbled well to make it easier for your dog to digest.
2. Preparing the feast. Combine the quinoa, cooked turkey, and water in a large pot. Bring this mixture to a boil.
3. Simmering. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low. Let it simmer for approximately 15 minutes or until the quinoa becomes soft and translucent.
4. Adding vegetables. Introduce the carrots, green beans, and spinach to the pot. Allow the mixture to cook for another 10 minutes, ensuring the vegetables are tender but not overly soft.
5. Finishing touches. Once off the heat, stir in the fish oil and sprinkle turmeric, ensuring its mixed well.
6. Storing. Let the meal cool to room temperature before serving. Extra portions can be refrigerated and consumed within five days.

Beefy & Veggie Medley Recipes For Labrador

Packed with lean protein from grass-fed beef and fortified with the nutritional punch of veggies, this recipe is both delicious and nourishing. Adding eggs and beneficial herbs ensures your Labrador Retriever gets essential vitamins and nutrients.

Ingredients

• 6 cups organic brown rice
• 4 eggs (hard-boiled, peeled, and finely chopped)
• 2 pounds lean ground sirloin (preferably grass-fed, cooked through, with excess fat drained off)
• 3 medium-sized carrots, either shredded or finely diced
• 1 cup fresh green peas or chopped green beans
• 1/2 cup minced fresh parsley
• 3 tablespoons of olive or safflower oil
• A sprinkle of ground turmeric

Directions

1. Egg prep. Begin by boiling the eggs until they are hard-boiled. Once done, peel and finely chop them.
2. Beef cooking. Brown the ground sirloin over medium heat in a large skillet, ensuring its thoroughly cooked. Once done, drain off any excess fat.
3. Mix & combine. In a large mixing bowl or container, combine the cooked brown rice, browned sirloin, chopped eggs, diced or shredded carrots, peas or green beans, minced parsley, and the optional sprinkle of turmeric. Drizzle with olive or safflower oil.
4. Stir together. Using a large spoon or spatula, gently mix all the ingredients until they are evenly distributed and well combined.
5. Serve & store. Serve the mixture in your dogs dish, ensuring its cooled to a safe temperature. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

More Labrador Homemade Food Recipes

If you want more homemade dog food recipes and cooking options for your Labrador Retriever, check out our article on the best vet approved homemade dog food recipes. Cookbooks can be useful for various recipes. Our favorite book for Labrador Retriever homemade food recipes isHome Cooking for Your Dog: 75 Holistic Recipes for a Healthier Dog.

How to Cook Homemade Food ForLabradors (Video)

Watch this video and learn how to cook homemade meals for Labrador Retrievers.

Labrador Retriever Homemade Cooking Tips

Follow these best practices when preparing your dogs next meal.

• Set a consistent feeding schedule
• Meal prep weekly or monthly
• Measure and controlportionsizes depending on your dogs calorie needs
• Keep mealsfrozen for 2 to 3 months or refrigerated for about 5 days
• Make a new batch when the food supply is getting low
• If you want to feed different recipes, you can make multiple batches and color code by ingredients, rotating out the different meals
• Prepare the food in bulk and portion it into containers (one container per meal makes it extra easy)
• Increase portions appropriately as your puppy grows
• Monitor weight to make sure you are feeding the proper amount of calories

At-Home Health Dietary Changes In Labradors

Labradors experiencing any of the issues below might benefit from dietary adjustments outlined in this table.

Condition	Dietary Needs & Adjustments
Coat Color Changes	Increase amino acids which can be found in protein (>75 grams per 1000 calories)
Concurrent GI Signs	Avoid foods with tryptamine and histamine such as dairy or fermented vegetables and meats. This includes bacon. Try a simple ingredient food trial.
Chronic Itching and Dermatitis	Fortify the diet with vitamin E, vitamin B, Zinc, omega-6 and the omega-3 fatty acids found in fish oil. Add a dog probiotic. Try a simple ingredient food trial.
Dull Coat and Scaling	Adjust EPA and DHA levels in the diet. Adding fish oil can promote healthier coats by reducing itchiness and flakiness in the skin due to its omega-3 fatty acid content.
Dandruff and Crustiness	Add Zinc and Vitamin A levels

Recommended Supplements For Labradors

Here are the top recommended supplements for Labradors based on their main health susceptibility issues.

• Hip & joint. Labradors are prone to musculoskeletal disorders. To prevent or alleviate these problems, consider supplementing their diet with Glucosamine and Chondroitin to help maintain an active lifestyle and support joint tissue. Finn Hip & Jointis an excellent choice.
• Digestive health. Gastrointestinal issues and allergies are two of the most common problems in this breed.Probiotics for dogscan help reduce your dogs digestive inflammatory responses to food allergens and provide many other gut benefits.
• Immune system. Cancer is more prominent in Labs than in most dogs. Addingdog immune system supplementationmay help boost your dogs defenses.
• Multivitamins: Incorporate a multivitamin such asZesty Paws Multivitamin Chewsto ensure your Labrador Retriever gets the optimal amount of vitamins and nutrients.

Monitor Weight And Health

A dogs weight and gut health are essential indicators of their health, and you need to track them when switching to a new diet (i.e., homemade). Maintaining a healthy weight is easier when your Labrador Retriever is fed the right dog food. If your dogs weight increases or decreases rapidly, it might be due to food-related health issues. A healthy gut can confirm a smooth transition to your dogs new diet, among other health issues. However, identifying a healthy gut is not an easy task. Fortunately, an at-home dog gut health test can provide insight into your dogs gut health.

Skin or coat issues, excessive tiredness, allergies, weight loss, malnutrition, and obesity can be caused by unbalanced and insufficient meal plans. If you detect any of these symptoms while feeding your dog meals, stop doing it immediately and seek expert advice.

Foods YourLabrador Retriever Should Never Eat

Below is a list of the most common toxic ingredients dogs need to avoid.

• Chocolate
• Xylitol
• Onions
• Garlic
• Avocados
• Raw bread dough
• Coffee, tea, and other caffeine
• Grapes
• Raisins
• Macadamia nuts
• Alcohol

Here is the complete list oftoxic ingredients your Labrador Retriever should never eat. Please print it out and put it on your refrigerator as a reminder.

Labrador Retriever Raw Diet (BARF)

Raw dog food mimics dogs diet in the wild millions of years ago. Raw dog foods, organs, muscles, whole or ground bones, fresh fruits, vegetables, and dairy products are usually included. Several raw dog foods are available, includinghomemade raw dog foodand store-bought (frozen, freeze-dried, and dehydrated).

As the risk of contamination and nutritional imbalance is higher when handling raw foods, preparing a BARF diet for your Labrador Retriever requires a lot of extra care and planning. Raw dog diets are gaining popularity because of their fantastic health benefits for teeth, coats, digestion, and allergies. Read ourraw dog food diet articleto learn more about the benefits and risks and get the best raw food for your Labrador.

Homemade Dog Food For Labradors Conclusion & Alternatives

When cooking for your Lab, ensure all ingredients are safe and their meals meet the nutritional requirements. And remember thatswitching yourLabradors foodto homemade from kibble is a slow process, so patience is vital. Factors like your Labradors eating history, weight, and overall health should be considered before giving homemade food to your pet. Read up onvegan dog foodif your Labrador Retriever is prone to food allergies or food-related health issues. Plant-based diets are also becoming increasingly popular for dogs with food sensitivities and other health issues.

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Sources

Canine Bible uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read oureditorial processand product review methodology to learn more about how we fact-check, test products, and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.

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3. American Veterinary Medical Association. (2019, February 13). Study finds overweight dogs live shorter lives.
4. Podolsky, A. (2019, November 28). Feed the dog not the cancer: The danger of processed dog food. Lyka.
5. Harvard Health Publishing. (2018, May).Eating highly processed foods may raise cancer risk. Harvard Health; Harvard Health.
6. Pedrinelli, V., Gomes, M. de O. S., & Carciofi, A. C. (2017). Analysis of recipes of home-prepared diets for dogs and cats published in Portuguese.Journal of Nutritional Science,6.
7. Bland, I. M., Guthrie-Jones, A., Taylor, R. D., & Hill, J. (2010). Dog obesity: Veterinary practices and owners opinions on cause and management.Preventive Veterinary Medicine,94(3-4), 310315.
8. WebDev, I. E. T. (2013, July 15).Homemade dog food recipes can be risky business, study finds. UC Davis.
9. U.S. Food and Drug Administration. (2023, February 9). Vitamin D toxicity in dogs.

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