As dog owners, we spend plenty of time thinking about exercise, vet visits and keeping our dogs happy. But one of the biggest opportunities to support their health is sitting right in front of us: the bowl.
That's what led me to create The Biohacked Dog, a series of books and resources focused on canine health, wellness and longevity. The idea isn't to declare kibble the enemy or chase every new wellness trend. It's about paying closer attention to what we're feeding our dogs and recognizing that breed, age, activity level and health history all matter.
Here in West Palm Beach, Labrador Retrievers, French Bulldogs, Golden Retrievers, German Shepherd Dogs and Poodles are among our most popular breeds. While their needs vary, incorporating fresh, dog-friendly whole foods can be one simple way to rethink what's on the menu.
Here are two easy recipes to try.
THE GOOD DOG BOWL
A fresh-food bowl combining lean protein, fiber and targeted additions to support digestion, skin, coat and joint health. Amounts should be tailored to your dog's size and nutritional needs.
INGREDIENTS
- Lean ground turkey or chicken — digestible protein for muscle maintenance
- Liver — rich in vitamin A, B vitamins and iron
- Plain pumpkin — fiber for healthy digestion
- Spinach or kale — vitamins, minerals and antioxidants
- Ground eggshell — natural source of calcium
- Low-sodium, unseasoned bone broth — adds hydration and flavor
- Fish oil or algae-based omega-3 — supports skin, coat and joints
- Canine probiotic — supports gut health
- Turmeric — contains curcumin, known for anti-inflammatory properties
DIRECTIONS
- PREPARATION: Cook the turkey or chicken and liver completely; lightly cook the pumpkin and greens. Cool, then stir in the bone broth and veterinarian-recommended amounts of eggshell, omega-3, probiotic and turmeric. Serve according to your dog's size and calorie needs.
WATERMELON DOG ICE CREAM
A two-ingredient frozen treat made for Palm Beach afternoons.
INGREDIENTS
- 1½ cups seedless watermelon, diced — hydrating and a source of vitamins A and C
- ¼ cup plain, unsweetened yogurt — provides protein and calcium
PREPARATION: Freeze watermelon for at least four hours, then blend until smooth. Add yogurt and blend until creamy. Serve immediately or spoon into silicone molds and freeze for later.
BEFORE YOU SERVE
Never feed dogs chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions or macadamia nuts, and always check labels for xylitol, which is toxic to dogs. Consult your veterinarian before significantly changing your dog's diet or adding supplements.
Will Corrente is founder of Very Important Paws and creator of The Biohacked Dog, featuring recipes for more than 86 breeds and breed mixes.