Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo

  • Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!

Can my dog get all the nutrition she needs from homemade food?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Will my dog get enough nutrition if I cook for her instead of buy comercial good?

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Image profile

Answered By Bette Isacoff

Dog Trainer

Published on February 4th, 2017

Probably not. It is very difficult to calculate the proper amounts of essential nutrients, which a good quality commercial dog food will have. There is really no reason to cook food for your dog, but if you are determined, there are nutritionists who can help you to formulate a healthful diet--they should be PhD level practitioners, however.

Vote icon

4Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Other Answers

  • Image profile

    Answered By Catherine Stecyk

    Veterinarian

    Published on July 8th, 2018

    Hello and thank you for reaching out to Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach. Homemade diets are very difficult to make properly and ensure your pet is getting the correct nutrients and vitamins. If you insist on cooking homemade food for Bode, I recommend consulting with a Veterinary Nutritionist to determine a recipe for home cooked food. They will be able to determine exactly what nutrients and vitamins Bode needs based on his age, breed and lifestyle. Dogs do not have the same nutritional needs as humans, so his diet should be created by a veterinary nutritionist. Lastly, there is nothing wrong with feeding commercial dog food diets. In fact, the large brand names (Hills, Purina, Pedigree, Beneful, Blue Buffalo) do a significant amount of research to ensure their diets are complete and balanced. This makes it less time consuming, safer (and cheaper) for pet owners to feed their pets. I hope this is helpful!

    Vote icon

    2Pet Parents found this answer helpful

See More Answers

Related Questions

Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
What fish dog food helps dry skin if my dog eats Science Diet?
Is your dog's dry skin a concern? A certified vet offers expert advice on finding the best fish-based dog food alternatives to Science Diet for essential oils.
Updated on February 04, 2026
Petco Pet Education Center
Food & Nutrition
Can chickens eat bell peppers daily and what about veggie salads?
Can your chickens eat bell peppers and salads? Veterinarian Dr. Elizabeth offers expert advice on safe feeding, frequency, and how fresh veggies boost vibrant yolks.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Food & Nutrition
Is Purina Layer Pellets good for chickens? What other feeds exist?
Is Purina Layer Pellets the right choice for your flock? Get expert advice from a Petco veterinarian on Purina and other top chicken feed brands for your chickens.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Food & Nutrition
My mice eat all their food together from one bowl. Is this normal?
Do your mice quickly eat together from one bowl? A Licensed Vet Tech explains normal mouse eating behavior and when to watch for aggression. Get expert insights.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My degu lost teeth after an accident. How can I feed him soft foods?
Your degu had an accident, lost teeth, and can't eat hard food. A Petco Vet Tech offers crucial advice on immediate vet care and how to feed your injured degu.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My rat is losing weight and has breathing issues. What should I do?
Dambo's weight loss, rough breathing, and mucus worry you? A Petco veterinarian addresses these concerning symptoms and recommends urgent professional care.
Updated on December 04, 2025
image
Have A Vet Question?

Book an appointment with the pros – our expert vets are here to help.

Book Now

Sponsored