Your Dog's Bowl Doesn't Have to Be Boring
Even if you feed a perfectly good commercial diet, adding a few whole foods to your dog's bowl can boost nutrition, improve palatability, and add variety that benefits their gut microbiome. Think of it like adding a side salad to your dinner. The main course is fine on its own, but the extras help.
Here are ten foods you probably already have in your kitchen that are safe, nutritious, and easy to add tonight.
1. Sardines (Canned in Water)
Sardines are one of the most nutrient dense foods you can give your dog. They're packed with omega 3 fatty acids (EPA and DHA), which support joint health, reduce inflammation, skin and coat quality, and cognitive function. Because sardines are small and low on the food chain, they accumulate far less mercury than larger fish like tuna.
How much: One sardine for small dogs, two to three for medium dogs, and a whole small can (3.75 oz) for large dogs, two to three times per week.
What to buy: Canned in water, no added salt. Skip anything in oil or with seasonings.
2. Eggs
Eggs are considered the gold standard protein source because of their near perfect amino acid profile. They also provide vitamin D, B vitamins, selenium, and choline (important for liver and brain function). You can serve them scrambled (no butter or oil), hard boiled, or even raw if you're comfortable with it.
How much: One egg per day for medium to large dogs. Half an egg or a few times per week for small dogs.
3. Blueberries
Blueberries are loaded with antioxidants, particularly anthocyanins, which research has linked to improved cognitive function and reduced oxidative stress. A study published in Frontiers in Neuroscience demonstrated that dietary anthocyanins may help protect against age related cognitive decline in animals.
How much: A small handful (8 to 12 berries) for medium to large dogs. A few berries for small dogs. Fresh or frozen both work great. Frozen berries also make excellent hot weather treats.
4. Pumpkin (Plain, Canned)
Pumpkin is a digestive superstar. It's high in soluble fiber, which helps regulate both diarrhea and constipation by absorbing water and adding bulk. It also contains beta carotene, potassium, and vitamin C.
How much: One to two tablespoons for medium to large dogs, one teaspoon for small dogs.
Important: Make sure you buy PLAIN canned pumpkin, not pumpkin pie filling, which contains sugar and spices.
5. Beef Liver
Liver is nature's multivitamin. It's exceptionally rich in vitamin A, iron, B vitamins (especially B12), copper, and highly bioavailable protein. It's one of the most nutrient dense foods on the planet, for dogs or humans.
How much: A small amount goes a long way. About one ounce for medium dogs, two to three times per week. Too much liver can lead to vitamin A toxicity over time, so moderation matters.
Prep: Lightly cook it (boil or pan sear with no oil) and chop into small pieces. You can also find dehydrated liver treats and powder supplements that make this easy.
6. Sweet Potato
Cooked sweet potato is an excellent source of dietary fiber, beta carotene, manganese, and vitamins B6 and C. It's gentle on the stomach and most dogs love the taste.
How much: One to three tablespoons of mashed cooked sweet potato, depending on dog size.
Prep: Bake, boil, or steam. No butter, marshmallows, or brown sugar (obviously, but you'd be surprised what people ask).
7. Bone Broth
Homemade bone broth provides collagen, glycine, glucosamine, and other compounds that support joint health and gut lining integrity. A study in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry confirmed that bone broth contains meaningful amounts of collagen derived amino acids, particularly glycine and proline.
How much: Pour a few tablespoons over food as a topper. Great for encouraging picky eaters and adding hydration.
Important: Make your own or buy one specifically made for dogs. Store bought broth for humans often contains onion, garlic, and excessive sodium, all problematic for dogs.
8. Plain Kefir or Yogurt
Fermented dairy products contain probiotics that support a healthy gut microbiome. Kefir typically has a broader range of beneficial bacteria than yogurt. Most dogs tolerate small amounts of dairy well, even those with mild lactose sensitivity, because fermentation breaks down much of the lactose.
How much: One tablespoon for small dogs, two to three tablespoons for large dogs.
What to buy: Plain, unsweetened. Absolutely no xylitol (an artificial sweetener that is toxic to dogs).
9. Broccoli
Broccoli contains sulforaphane, a compound that has been extensively studied for its anti inflammatory and potential anti cancer properties. It's also a good source of fiber, vitamin C, and vitamin K. Research published in Cancer Prevention Research has shown that sulforaphane can activate detoxification pathways in cells.
How much: A few small florets, lightly steamed. Keep it under 10% of your dog's daily food intake, as large amounts can cause gas.
10. Chia Seeds
Chia seeds are a plant based source of omega 3 fatty acids (ALA), fiber, and antioxidants. While dogs convert ALA to EPA/DHA less efficiently than they use fish sourced omega 3s, chia seeds still provide valuable fiber and micronutrients.
How much: One quarter teaspoon for small dogs, one teaspoon for large dogs, sprinkled on food. Soak them in water first for better digestibility.
A Note on Portions and Caution
These additions should make up no more than 10% to 15% of your dog's daily caloric intake. The base diet should still be a complete and balanced commercial food (or a properly formulated homemade diet). If your dog has any health conditions, food sensitivities, or is on medication, check with your vet before adding new foods.
Start with one new food at a time, in small amounts, and give it a few days before adding another. This way, if something doesn't agree with your dog's stomach, you'll know exactly what caused it.
For my own senior dog, I layer a few of these toppers on top of her regular food along with a scoop of LongTails for the NAD+ and collagen support. It takes about 30 seconds and she acts like she's won the lottery every meal.
Better nutrition doesn't require an overhaul. Sometimes it just requires opening a can of sardines.
