Why do I prepare the majority of Kirby's meals and treats?  The dog food recalls, the dog treat recalls, and the fact that I was slowly poisoning Kirby which you can read about HERE.

Why do I follow a rotation diet to provide a variety in Kirby's diet? Varying wholesome ingredients on a regular basis lessens the chance of developing food allergies and boredom. Rotating meat and vegetables exposes the dog to a healthier range of nutrient sources. Read THIS ARTICLE by Lucy Postin to better understand the concept of providing variety.

Why do I use portion control when feeding Kirby? Wondering how much to feed your pup on a daily basis? Read THIS POST to understand and determine the proper daily portion your dog needs. 

Why do I not worry about achieving proper nutritional balance? I raised two healthy children and never worried about counting or measuring vitamins or minerals.  Common sense told me they were receiving what their bodies needed from the variety of healthy foods they consumed every day.  They also took a daily vitamin to ensure they received any low or missing nutrients. Kirby is provided a wide variety of healthy appropriate foods and takes a daily multivitamin. In a nutshell I believe the basic principles of sensible eating should apply to your pet as well.

For those concerned about proper proportions, they generally run 25 - 60% meat, 30% carbohydrates (grain or sweet potato) and 20-40% vegetables. A multiple vitamin-mineral mix and bonemeal (lead free) or a calcium supplement are recommended.

I have begun adding ground egg shells as a calcium supplement for Kirby’s homemade meals (not the treats) by adding 1/2 teaspoon (this equals about 400 milligrams of absorbable calcium) to each pound of meat used in the recipe.

I am a pet parent not a pet nutritionist. Even though I have done extensive research please seek the advice of your Veterinarian before changing your dog's diet ot adding any ingredients to your dog's food especially if your dog has any underlying health issues.

Do you find Kirby's Kitchen tips and tricks useful? Do you enjoy our recipes? Donations are gladly accepted towards the purchase of wholesome, organic ingredients used to test and create these canine recipes.