What should I feed my dog to keep them healthy?

A balanced diet with high-quality protein (chicken, beef, fish or pork), healthy fats, vegetables, and appropriate amounts of carbohydrates is ideal. The food should be age-appropriate (puppy, adult, senior) and match their activity level and health needs. Ultra Balance Puppy and Ultra Balance Adult dog food is a balanced complete diet that contains no corn or soy in the diet.

What are the best types of food for puppies?

Puppies need food that’s formulated for growth, with higher protein and fat content. Look for foods labeled specifically for puppies, as they support their rapid growth and development.

What’s the difference between dry food, wet food, and raw food?

Dry food (kibble) is convenient, affordable, and helps with dental health. Ultra Balance Dog and Puppy are good examples of a dry kibble. Wet food is more palatable and has higher moisture content, which can benefit dogs that are prone to dehydration or have dental issues. Combining a dry and wet food is a good way to get the “best of both worlds.” Raw food is a diet of uncooked meat and bones, which proponents say is closer to a dog’s natural diet, but it requires careful preparation and storage. Making sure you keep an eye on expiration dates when using a raw diet.

What nutrients do dogs need in their diet?

Dogs need proteins, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins (A, D, E, K), minerals (calcium, phosphorus), and water. Their diet should include essential fatty acids, fiber, and a balanced mix of nutrients to promote overall health.

What’s the best food for senior dogs?

Senior dogs may need food lower in calories but higher in fiber and joint-supporting nutrients like glucosamine and chondroitin. Food with appropriate protein levels for aging muscles and easily digestible ingredients is ideal. Making sure pre and probiotics are included in your dogs diet.

Can I feed my dog table scraps?

It’s best to avoid feeding your dog table scraps, as many human foods can be harmful to dogs, such as garlic, onions, and chocolate. Scraps can also lead to obesity and digestive issues.

Is raw food safe for dogs?

A raw food diet can be safe for dogs if prepared properly to avoid bacterial contamination. However, there are risks, such as an unbalanced diet and the possibility of bones causing injury. Consult with a Vet before switching to raw food.

Are grains bad for dogs?

Grains are not inherently bad for dogs, and many dogs can digest them without issues. Some dogs may have grain allergies or sensitivities ( corn and soy can be the cause of some skin allergies), but for most, grains like rice and oats provide valuable nutrients.

Can I give my dog human food like vegetables or fruit?

Many vegetables and fruits are safe for dogs, such as carrots, blueberries, and sweet potatoes. However, some human foods, like grapes, raisins, and onions, are toxic to dogs. Always check before offering any human food to your dog.

What are common toxic foods for dogs that I should avoid?

Common toxic foods include chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, alcohol, caffeine, and xylitol (found in sugar-free gum and candies). Keep these foods well out of reach of your dog.

How do I choose the best dog food brand?

Look for reputable brands with high-quality ingredients, clear labels, and specific formulations for your dog’s age, breed, and health needs. Avoid foods with too many fillers, artificial colors, or preservatives. Check for AAFCO (Association of American Feed Control Officials) certification. Ultra balance dog has few fillers with no corn or soy. The formula has pre and probiotics for better digestion. The Ultra Balance dog foods also very palatable.

Should I be concerned about food additives or preservatives in dog food?

While some preservatives are necessary for food safety, natural preservatives like Vitamin E (mixed tocopherols) or Vitamin C are preferred over synthetic ones like BHA or BHT. Always aim for food with fewer artificial additives. Ultra Balance does not have BHA or BHT in the formula.

Can I feed my dog homemade food?

Homemade food can be healthy if it’s well-balanced. However, it’s challenging to ensure dogs get all necessary nutrients in the right proportions. Consulting a vet or pet nutritionist and using veterinary-approved recipes is advised. Adding a concentrated daily vitamin/mineral to your homemade food will help to balance the diet.

Can I feed my dog a vegetarian or vegan diet?

While dogs are omnivores and can survive on plant-based diets, it’s important to ensure they get all the necessary nutrients, including protein, amino acids, and vitamins like B12, which may require supplementation. Consult your vet before making this change.

What’s the importance of protein in my dog’s diet?

Protein is essential for building and maintaining muscle mass, supporting healthy skin and coat, and enabling a strong immune system. Dogs need high-quality animal-based proteins for optimal health. The more active the dog, the more protein level should be fed. Sports dog food is usually a higher protein food.

How are your pet foods preserved?

Star Milling’s pet foods are preserved with Vitamin E (mixed tocopherols – alpha, beta, gamma and delta isomers), Vitamin C, and propionic acid, which is a natural mold inhibitor. We do not use preservatives such as BHA, BHT, or ethoxyquin.

Are supplements necessary for my dog’s diet?

If your dog is on a complete and balanced commercial diet, supplements are generally not necessary. However, dogs with specific health conditions (e.g., arthritis, digestive issues) may benefit from supplements like omega-3s, glucosamine, or probiotics.

What if my dog eats cat food or vice-versa?

Dogs and cats have different nutritional requirements. It is normally safe for dogs to consume cat foods, but it is not recommended for optimum nutrition. Cats are true carnivores, so they require more protein than what is found in dog food. It is okay if cats eat dog food occasionally, but they may become malnourished if dog food is their main source of nutrition.

What is the shelf life of dog food?

Every bag or tag has an expiration date that displays the shelf life. Typically it is one year from the date of manufacture for dry dog foods. It is important to check the stamp on the bag or tag for expiration dates.

How often should I feed my dog and/or puppy?

Puppies typically need to eat 3–4 times per day, while adult dogs usually eat 2 meals per day. Senior dogs may also do well with 2 meals per day, but some may prefer smaller, more frequent meals.

How much food should I give my dog based on their weight?

The amount of food depends on your dog’s weight, age, and activity level. Generally, follow the feeding guidelines on the dog food packaging, but adjust portions based on your dog’s individual needs (such as weight gain or loss). Follow your breeders recommendations for the particular breed as some breeds grow quicker than others.

How often should I feed my puppy?

Puppies from 10 weeks to 6-8 months old get three meals per day. Dogs older than eight months can be fed once or twice daily, depending on the breed, activity, and appetite. Feeding an adult dog two small portions a day, instead of one big meal, can help prevent bloat.

How do I transition my dog to a new food?

Gradually transition by mixing the new food with the old food over 7–10 days, slowly increasing the amount of the new food while decreasing the old food. This helps prevent digestive upset and ensures a smooth switch.

How do I know if my dog has food allergies?

Signs of food allergies include itching, gastrointestinal upset, ear infections, or chronic skin issues. If you suspect allergies, consult your vet for proper diagnosis and possibly an elimination diet.

My dog has loose stools. What's wrong?

There are a few different causes for loose stools or diarrhea, such as over-feeding, switching to a new food too quickly, or a non-food related condition. Over-feeding is a common cause of loose stools. It causes the dog’s system to overload and its body reacts by producing loosely formed stools. By reducing the feeding amount, the stools may return to normal in a day or two. Abruptly switching foods may cause loose stools as well. It can take a dog’s digestive system up to six weeks to completely adapt to new food. Slowly adding the new food over three weeks can make the change easier on the dog. Please consult your veterinarian if you believe the problem is not due to over-feeding or a recent change in dog food.

Why does my dog have gas after eating?

It is natural for dogs to have gas, and some have more than others. Younger dogs often have more gas than older dogs. Excess flatulence may be due to overeating, eating too fast, or a recent change in diet. If your dog has recently changed food, his gas may decrease naturally within a few weeks. Tips: Break up your dog’s food into more, smaller meals. Verify you are feeding the correct portion size. If applicable, cease feeding supplements to your dog. Help your pet eat slower by feeding them on a plate or tray. Please consult your veterinarian if these common solutions do not work for your pet.

Are purebred dogs better than mixed breed dogs?

The benefit of a purebred dog is that you know how he will look as an adult. In a puppy’s mother, you can get a good idea of the final size, coat type, and characteristics. This helps you to choose a dog that fits your lifestyle. However, mixed breed dogs have less genetic disorders.

Homemade Dog Treat Recipes

Healthy & simple ideas for everyday rewards

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Easy Homemade Dog Treat Recipes for Tasty Rewards

Homemade dog treats can be a smart way to give your dog a fresh, wholesome snack while keeping a close eye on what goes into every bite. Many pet owners want treats that feel simple to make, easy to serve, and supportive of everyday wellness, especially when their dogs have food sensitivities or need lighter rewards for training.

Get Homemade Dog Treat Recipes Vet Approved

Getting homemade dog treat recipes vet approved is a smart step if your dog has allergies, a sensitive stomach, weight concerns, or other health needs.

Your veterinarian can review ingredients, portion sizes, and treat frequency so homemade rewards fit your dog’s routine. Even simple recipes can benefit from a quick professional review when your goal is to keep treats appropriate and safe for your dog’s overall diet.

Homemade Dog Treats – A Simple Way To Support Better Nutrition

Homemade dog treats work best when they use a few highly nutritious ingredients, stay easy to portion, and match your dog’s needs for training, weight management, or ingredient sensitivity.

You can make healthy dog snack recipes at home with familiar ingredients, skip fillers that don’t fit your feeding goals, and create treats that feel more thoughtful than heavily processed options. For many households, that means choosing recipes that are easy on digestion, practical for daily use, and made with the same care that goes into your dog’s regular meals.

Are Healthy Dog Snack Recipes Worth Making At Home?

Yes, healthy dog snack recipes are worth making at home when you want more control over ingredients and portion size. The best healthy dog snack recipes start with simple ingredients and a clear reason for using each one. Oats can add texture. Pumpkin can help bind a dough and add fiber. Lean proteins can make treats more appealing. A little mashed banana or unsweetened applesauce can add moisture without overdoing sweetness.

Homemade recipes also give you more control over texture and size. That’s especially important for dog treats for training because training rewards should be small, soft enough to eat quickly, and easy to carry.

A large biscuit may look appealing, but it can slow down a training session and add more calories than many owners realize. Small bites help keep your dog focused without turning every reward into a full snack.

Low calorie dog treats

Low calorie dog treats are often easier to make at home than people expect. You can use pumpkin, oat flour, shredded carrot, or lean meat in modest portions and bake small pieces that work well for frequent rewards.

Portion size is just as important as ingredients. Even a wholesome ingredient can become too much when the treats are oversized.

A Simple Base Recipe For Homemade Dog Treats

Here’s a dependable and easy homemade recipe your dog will love.

Classic Peanut Butter & Pumpkin Dog Treats

Whisk 1 cup pumpkin puree, ½ cup peanut butter, and 2 eggs. Gradually mix in 2½ to 3 cups of flour (whole wheat or oat flour). Roll to ¼-inch thickness, cut into shapes, and bake at 350°F for 20–25 minutes.

For training, cut the dough into very small squares instead of larger shapes. That makes the finished treats easier to use throughout the day. For a firmer texture, bake them a little longer. For a softer bite, remove them earlier and store them in the refrigerator.

This kind of recipe is popular because it fits several goals at once.

it can serve as a base for healthy dog snack recipes
it can be portioned into dog treats for training
it can stay fairly light when kept small

It is also easy to follow, which makes it a practical starting point for pet owners who want a straightforward recipe without a long list of specialty ingredients.

Why Dog Treats For Training Should Stay Small And Purposeful

Dog treats for training should be small, quick to eat, and easy to repeat throughout a session.

Training treats need to do one job well. They should reward the behavior quickly and keep your dog interested in the next cue. That is why smaller is usually better. A pea-sized treat can be enough for many dogs, especially during a short session with repeated rewards.

This is where homemade dog treats can be especially helpful. You can control the size from the start and bake a batch that fits your training style. Soft treats often work best because dogs can eat them quickly and stay engaged. A simple pumpkin and oat dough, baked just until set, can create a texture that works well for this purpose.

When you train often, calories can add up fast. Low calorie dog treats make daily practice easier to manage, especially for dogs who are less active or prone to weight gain. Homemade options can help you balance frequent rewards with sensible portions.

Building Better Treat Habits Starts With Better Everyday Nutrition

Treats should support your dog’s routine, not compete with it. Homemade snacks are most useful when they fit alongside a balanced daily food and a feeding plan that makes sense for your dog’s age, activity level, and sensitivities.

Dogs do best when treats support a strong nutritional foundation instead of replacing it. That is why it helps to pair homemade rewards with a balanced food like Ultra Balance Adult Meat & Rice Dog Food. This formula is made without corn, wheat, or soy. It’s ideal for pet owners trying to avoid common ingredients that may trigger sensitivities.

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