Bringing a new puppy home is an exciting time, and ensuring they receive optimal nutrition is paramount for their growth and development. While commercial dog food is widely available, many owners seek to provide a more natural and controlled diet. Dr. Judy Morgan’s Puppy Loaf recipe offers a balanced, homecooked option specifically designed for puppies over six months old, focusing on whole ingredients and essential nutrients. This recipe emphasizes convenience and nutritional completeness, minimizing the need for additional mineral supplements.
Understanding the Recipe’s Nutritional Approach
Dr. Morgan’s recipe is designed to be a complete meal, incorporating a variety of proteins, vegetables, and healthy fats. It notably excludes the need for separate mineral supplements, as these are integrated within the ingredient list. The inclusion of ingredients like beef, chicken gizzards, liver, and mussels provides a rich source of protein, vitamins, and trace minerals. Fresh ginger and eggs contribute to the overall health benefits, while flaxseed oil adds essential omega-3 fatty acids. The recipe also incorporates a good balance of vegetables such as leafy greens, broccoli, and squash, along with cranberries and shiitake mushrooms, providing fiber, antioxidants, and other vital nutrients.
Key Ingredients and Their Benefits
The foundation of this puppy loaf is a blend of high-quality proteins:
- 3 pounds beef (90% lean): Provides essential amino acids and energy.
- 8 ounces beef heart: A lean source of protein and taurine, crucial for heart health.
- 5 ounces beef liver: Rich in Vitamin A, iron, and other essential vitamins and minerals.
- 20 ounces chicken gizzards: Offer protein and can be a good source of glucosamine for joint health.
- 3 cans sardines in water (juice removed): Excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, Vitamin D, and calcium.
- 6 ounces mussels: A fantastic source of iodine and other trace minerals. (Alternatively, 3 teaspoons of kelp can be used for trace minerals).
Complementing the protein sources are:
- 5 eggs with shell (farm fresh recommended): Provide protein, healthy fats, and calcium from the shells.
- Mixed dark leafy greens (kale, chard, spinach – 5 ounces): Packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
- Broccoli (4 ounces): Offers fiber, vitamins C and K.
- Butternut squash (6 ounces): A good source of fiber and vitamins.
- Cranberries (4 ounces): Known for their urinary tract health benefits.
- Shiitake mushrooms (4 ounces): Contain beneficial polysaccharides and B vitamins.
Flavor and digestive support are enhanced by:
- 2 teaspoons ground fresh ginger: Aids digestion and has anti-inflammatory properties.
- 3 tablespoons flax seed oil: A great source of ALA omega-3 fatty acids.
Preparation and Storage Instructions
Preparing the puppy loaf is straightforward:
- Grind and Mix: Grind all the ingredients together. This can be done using a meat grinder or a food processor, depending on your preference for texture.
- Form the Loaves: Pour the mixture into loaf pans, casserole dishes, or muffin tins. Muffin tins are excellent for portioning.
- Bake: Bake at 325°F (160°C) for 30 to 60 minutes. The cooking time will vary based on the size and depth of your pans. The loaf should be lightly cooked, remaining moist and juicy in the center, rather than overcooked and dry.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the loaf to cool to room temperature before serving. If using farm-fresh eggs, the shells can be included. For store-bought eggs, it’s best to omit the shells.
- Storage: Store the cooked loaf in the refrigerator for 3 to 5 days. Any extra portions should be frozen for longer storage.
Allergy Considerations: If your puppy has a known allergy to beef or chicken, turkey can be substituted as the primary protein source.
Feeding Guide for Puppies
Portion sizes are crucial for healthy puppy development. The following guide provides an approximate range based on a puppy’s weight. It’s always recommended to consult with your veterinarian to determine the exact feeding amount tailored to your individual puppy’s needs, activity level, and metabolism.
| Puppy Weight | Daily Feeding Amount (Ounces) |
|---|---|
| 5 pounds | 1.5 to 2.5 |
| 10 pounds | 3 to 5 |
| 15 pounds | 5 to 7 |
| 20 pounds | 6 to 10 |
| 25 pounds | 8 to 12 |
| 30 pounds | 10 to 14 |
| 35 pounds | 11 to 17 |
| 40 pounds | 13 to 19 |
| 45 pounds | 14 to 22 |
| 50 pounds | 16 to 24 |
| 55 pounds | 18 to 26 |
| 60 pounds | 19 to 29 |
| 65 pounds | 21 to 31 |
Remember to supplement this diet with a probiotic, such as plain yogurt or a commercial supplement like Purina Flora, and incorporate healthy fats into treats, like dipping a bedtime cookie in coconut oil.
This homecooked puppy loaf provides a nutritious and loving alternative for pet owners dedicated to their puppy’s well-being. Always prioritize consulting with a veterinarian to ensure your puppy’s dietary needs are fully met.
