Author: Brindle-n-Fawn

Big dog mom striving to prolong the life of her brindle Bullmastiff with healthy homemade dog food, natural dog treats, and mental stimulation through dog toys and outdoor adventures.

5 Reasons to Consider Switching to Homemade Dog Food

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As a dog guardian, we all want the best for our canine buddies. While the idea of switching to homemade dog food can be intimidating, it’s important to remember that feeding your dog a balanced, nutritious diet is crucial for their health and well-being.

Here are five reasons why you should consider making the switch to homemade dog food:

  1. Better quality ingredients: Homemade dog food allows you to control the quality and source of the ingredients you use. This means you can avoid additives, preservatives, and other potentially harmful substances commonly found in commercial dog food.
  2. Customizable meals: Homemade dog food allows you to tailor your dog’s meals to their specific needs, such as incorporating more protein, vitamins, or minerals. This can help address any dietary deficiencies or health issues that are unique to your dog.
  3. Improved digestion: Homemade dog food can be easier for your dog to digest, as it doesn’t contain as many fillers or artificial ingredients that can upset their stomach.
  4. Enhanced energy and vitality: Feeding your dog a nutritious homemade diet can improve their overall energy and vitality, leading to a happier and more active pet.
  5. A closer bond: Preparing homemade dog food for your pet is a great way to bond with them and show your love and care. It’s a chance to spend quality time with your canine friend and make them feel special.

Switching to homemade dog food may seem daunting, but with the right guidance and support, it can be a safe and rewarding experience. Consider consulting with a veterinarian or canine nutritionist, and start small by incorporating fresh ingredients into your dog’s diet. Your dog will thank you for it with a longer, healthier, and happier life.

Ceramic Slow Feeder Dog Bowl:
Available on Amazon

Homemade Blueberry Dog Treats Recipe

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As a pet owner, you want to make sure that your furry friend is healthy, happy, and well-nourished. One way to do that is by feeding them wholesome, nutritious food and treats. If you’re looking for a quick and easy dog treat recipe that uses only a handful of ingredients and requires no special kitchen tools, this homemade blueberry dog treat recipe is perfect for you!

Ingredients:

  • 1/4 cup Broth
  • 1/2 tsp. Turmeric
  • 1 Egg
  • 1 cup Whole Wheat Flour
  • 1/2 cup Blueberries

Instructions:

  1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Add turmeric to broth and mix well.
  3. Mash blueberries.
  4. Beat egg.
  5. In a mixing bowl, combine all of the ingredients.
  6. Stir until everything is well combined.
  7. Use a spoon or melon scoop to drop batter onto lined baking sheet.
  8. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown.
  9. Let the treats cool completely before serving to your furry friend.

Tips:

  • You can store these homemade blueberry dog treats in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
  • If you don’t have fresh blueberries, you can also use frozen blueberries in this recipe.
  • You can add 1/2 tsp. of mint or parsley to freshen your dog’s breath!

Why make your own dog treats?

Making your own dog treats has several benefits. For one, it allows you to control what goes into your pet’s food and treats. When you make your own treats, you know exactly what ingredients are being used, and you can avoid any additives, preservatives, or other chemicals that may be present in store-bought treats.

Another benefit of making your own dog treats is that it’s often more cost-effective than buying pre-packaged treats. With just a few ingredients, you can make a large batch of treats that will last your pet for several days or even weeks. Rather than throw away blueberries that are starting to go soft, make them into dog treats before they go bad!

Lastly, making your own dog treats can be a fun and rewarding experience. It’s a great way to spend time with your furry friend, and you can even get your kids involved in the process.

The benefits of blueberries for dogs

Blueberries are a great addition to any dog treat recipe. They’re low in calories, high in fiber, and packed with essential vitamins and antioxidants. Blueberries are also known to improve brain function, boost the immune system, and promote healthy skin and coat in dogs.

In conclusion, this homemade blueberry dog treat recipe is a great way to spoil your furry friend with a healthy and tasty snack. With only a handful of ingredients and no special kitchen tools required, you can easily make a batch of treats that your pet will love. So, next time you’re in the mood for a DIY project, why not try making these homemade blueberry dog treats?

Homemade Dehydrated Dog Treats

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Bought a new dehydrator and tested various seafoods and meat. Which piece did Ruger our Bullmastiff decide to eat first? The dehydrated pork!

Dehydrated dog treats have become increasingly popular in recent years, and for good reason. These treats are not only delicious for our furry friends, but they’re also packed with nutrients and offer several benefits over other types of dog treats.

What are dehydrated dog treats?

Dehydrated dog treats are made by removing the moisture from the ingredients through a drying process. This process preserves the nutrients in the ingredients, resulting in a highly concentrated and nutrient-dense treat. Unlike baked or cooked treats, dehydrated treats do not require any preservatives or additives to keep them fresh.

We love our Magic Mill!

Why choose dehydrated dog treats?

  1. Nutrient-dense: Dehydrated dog treats are highly nutritious because they retain all the vitamins and minerals that are typically lost during the cooking process. This means that your furry friend can benefit from a higher concentration of essential nutrients in every bite.
  2. No fillers or additives: Many commercial dog treats are packed with fillers and additives that may not be good for your pet’s health. Dehydrated treats are made from pure, whole-food ingredients, with no additives, artificial preservatives, or colors.
  3. Great for dogs with food sensitivities: Dehydrated dog treats are often made from a single protein source, making them ideal for dogs with food sensitivities or allergies. This means that if your pet is on a special diet, you can still offer them a tasty treat without causing any digestive issues.
  4. Dental health: Dehydrated dog treats are often harder and chewier than other types of treats, making them great for promoting dental health. Chewing on dehydrated treats can help remove plaque and tartar from your pet’s teeth, keeping their teeth and gums healthy.
  5. Perfect for training: Dehydrated dog treats are a great option for training your dog because they’re small, portable, and easy to handle. You can carry them in your pocket or treat pouch and use them as a reward for good behavior or during obedience training.

How to choose the best dehydrated dog treats

When choosing dehydrated dog treats, it’s important to look for those made from high-quality ingredients. Make sure the treats are made from whole-food sources and are free from any preservatives, fillers, or additives. It’s also important to choose treats that are appropriate for your dog’s size and breed, and to monitor them while they’re eating to prevent choking or other hazards.

Homemade dehydrated dog treats

If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even try making your own dehydrated dog treats at home. All you need is a dehydrator and your choice of ingredients. You can experiment with different dog-friendly proteins, vegetables, and fruits to create a variety of tasty and healthy treats for your furry friend.

In conclusion, dehydrated dog treats are a great option for pet owners who want to offer their furry friends a healthy and nutritious snack. They’re easy to make, free from additives and preservatives, and offer several health benefits. So, if you haven’t already, why not give dehydrated dog treats a try? Your pet will thank you!

🐛 Book in image and opening shot of video:

Carle, E. The Very Hungry Caterpillar. New York, Philomel Books, 1969.

5 Benefits of Homemade Dog Food

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  1. Control Over Ingredients: When you make your own dog food at home, you have complete control over the quality and source of ingredients that you use. This means you can choose high-quality meats, vegetables, and grains while avoiding unhealthy fillers, preservatives, and artificial additives commonly found in commercial kibble.
  2. Nutritional Value: Homemade dog food allows you to tailor the diet to your dog’s specific needs, ensuring that they are getting the right balance of nutrients, vitamins, and minerals they require for optimal health. Many commercial kibbles may not contain adequate nutrition, or may contain too much of certain ingredients that can be harmful to your dog’s health.
  3. Freshness: Homemade dog food is prepared fresh, meaning that the food is less likely to be contaminated with harmful bacteria or toxins. In contrast, commercial kibble can sit on store shelves for months, and may be made with low-quality ingredients that are not fit for human consumption.
  4. Variety: With homemade dog food, you can vary the ingredients and flavors, keeping your dog interested and engaged with their food. This can help prevent picky eating habits and encourage a healthy appetite.
  5. Health Benefits: Feeding your dog a homemade diet has been shown to offer a range of health benefits, including improved digestion, reduced risk of allergies, and better dental health. By providing your dog with a fresh, natural diet, you may be able to prevent or manage certain health conditions, and help them live a longer, healthier life.
Bullmastiff getting ready to eat healthy homemade dog food
Pet Cleaner Spray helps to reduce the risk of bacterial contamination after feeding raw dog food
Our Pet Cleaner Spray
Raw dog food can contain bacteria such as Salmonella and E. coli, which can pose a risk to both the dog and the owner. Cleaning your dog with our Clean-n-Fresh Pet Cleaner Spray after feeding raw can help reduce the risk of bacterial contamination.

You’ve got this!

Switching to homemade dog food is a journey, not a destination. It’s important to stay consistent and committed to providing your dog with nutritious, home cooked meals. Keep up the great work, and your dog will thank you for it!

Watch more homemade dog food inspiration on our YouTube Channel!

Diggs Groov for Crate Training

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Crate training our Bullmastiff puppy started from day one. A few hours after getting Ruger home from a three-hour drive, we introduced her to her dog crate with the intention of making it the happiest place ever by using this Diggs Groov interactive dog toy.

A few days before we picked up Ruger, I smeared plain Greek yogurt on this Diggs Groov crate training aid and placed it in the freezer in preparation for crate training. The Groov comes with a cover so it doesn’t get messy in your freezer, and it fits in a typical metal dog crate.

Though, I would have loved to test out the Diggs Revol Collapsible Dog Crate. Unfortunately, they do not offer a size made for large breed dogs. Medium is their largest size at 32″L x 20″W x 22″H.

This was taped just a few hours after we brought her home.

Bullmastiff LOVES her football!

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If you’re a Bullmastiff owner, you know that these sweet dogs are known for their love of playtime. And when it comes to toys, it can be tough to find ones that can withstand the power and enthusiasm of a Bullmastiff. That’s why we were so excited to discover the Nerf Dog Bash Treat Football Dog Toy, which quickly became a favorite for Ruger our Bullmastiff.

The football dog toy is made from durable materials that can stand up to rough play and chewing. Its unique shape makes it easy for dogs to pick up and carry around, and its soft texture is perfect for chewing and gnawing. Our Bullmastiff loves to play fetch with her football toy, and she also enjoys carrying it around the house and showing it off to visitors.

One of the best things about the football dog toy is that it can help promote exercise and playtime for your Bullmastiff. As a breed that is prone to obesity and weight gain, it’s important to make sure that Bullmastiffs get plenty of exercise to keep them healthy and happy. Playing with a toy like the football dog toy can provide mental and physical stimulation, and it’s a great way to bond with your furry friend.

Overall, we highly recommend the football dog toy for any Bullmastiff owner looking for a durable and fun toy for their pup. It’s a great investment that will provide hours of entertainment and playtime for your furry friend, and it can help keep them healthy and active as they get older.

Ku’u is short for “ho’oku’u” which means “to release” in Hawaiian. See more dog commands in the Hawaiian language.

Instant Pot Dog Food Idea #2: Brown Rice for Dogs

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Watch how to make perfectly cooked brown rice for your furry friend using an Instant Pot! Brown rice is an excellent source of nutrition for dogs, as it is packed with essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber that can help keep your pup healthy and happy.

After making hard-boiled eggs in the Instant Pot for Ruger our Bullmastiff, I make brown rice for her using the leftover water that was used to cook the eggs. This is the easiest method to make brown rice without burning it on the stove or creating a mess with all the sputtering when using a rice cooker.

Tools:

Ingredients:

  • Brown Rice
  • Homemade Broth or Unsalted Broth (any flavor)
  • Water
  • Herbs (optional)
https://youtube.com/shorts/gYpZwCHHAhc

Instructions:

  1. Add 1-1/2 cups of your dog’s favorite broth to the leftover water.
    • If you don’t make hard-boiled eggs before making this recipe, then add 1 cup of water to the broth (for a total of 2-1/2 cups of liquid).
  2. Add 2 cups of uncooked brown rice.
  3. Add your dog’s favorite herbs.
    • We like adding turmeric, basil, ginger, and parsley.
  4. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
  5. Set Instant Pot to the Manual setting for 22 minutes.
  6. When done, let the pressure naturally release for 10 minutes.
  7. Remove the Instant Pot lid and fluff the rice.
  8. Serve as an additional flavoring to your dog’s meals.
    • NOTE: Rice is not a replacement for a dog’s main meal. I like to think of it as a garnish to my dog’s meals.
Keto Instant Pot Recipes

FOR YOU: Keto Instant Pot Recipes (for Humans)

If you’re interested in Keto recipes that you can make for yourself in the Instant Pot, click this link for a comprehensive startup guide that includes recipes using this time-saving kitchen tool.

Watch Me Make Homemade Dog Food Step-by-Step

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In this video, we’ll show you how to prepare a delicious and healthy homemade dog food dinner for your furry friend. Raw feeding has become increasingly popular among dog owners, as it can provide a host of benefits, including healthier skin and coat, improved digestion, and increased energy levels.

We’ll guide you through the process of the ingredients we use for your dog’s raw dog food meals, including a variety of meats, veggies, and supplements. Then, we’ll show you how to prepare and serve the meal in a safe and hygienic manner. See how we use our very own Clean-n-Fresh Pet Cleaner Spray to clean up after our Bullmastiff’s raw meals.

Watch as we serve this delicious healthy dog food meal to our Bullmastiff, who can’t get enough of this homemade dog food! Whether you’re looking to switch up your dog’s diet or simply want to learn more about raw dog feeding, we hope this video will inspire more dog lovers to add fresh foods to their dogs meals.

Our Pet Cleaner Spray

Feeding raw dog food can be messy, and it can leave residue on the floor, furniture, and other surfaces. Cleaning your dog with our Clean-n-Fresh Pet Cleaner Spray after feeding can help keep your home clean and hygienic.

Dog Scarf for a Big Dog

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It was a cold day in Humboldt County, California, so we put on Ruger’s handmade dog scarf and took her for a quick outing to one of favorite beaches in Humboldt County, California.

In this video, you’ll see Ruger our Bullmastiff wearing a a Petsafe Gentle Leader headcollar. If you have a big dog with the capability to pull hard, this would be a good dog collar to at least try. In comparison to the martingale dog collar that we typically use, there is an extra amount of control that this headcollar provides.

We only use the Gentle Leader when we need to ensure we will have the extra control if necessary, such as on walks or in public places. Not only has she been charged after on two separate occasions by unleashed dogs in our neighborhood, but she’s also been targeted for being a big dog. A person walking past our property had the nerve to tell us that she would spray Ruger with pepper spray if I didn’t have Ruger under control. We were standing on our own property when this happened, and Ruger was still a puppy and she was leashed up. That’s when I learned that not everyone will think Ruger is a sweetheart.

If you’re concerned that your dog is going to hurt themselves from pulling so hard, we’d recommend at least testing it out. My husband was an immediate supporter once we found the proper head collar. There are different brands available, but the Petsafe Gentle Leader is the one that fits our Bullmastiff properly and doesn’t allow her to wiggle out of it.

And, if you have ever wondered how to put on a Gentle Leader head collar, or if your dog will be able to eat or drink with it on, then watch here:

*Disclaimer: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.*

How to Use a Gentle Leader Head Collar on Your Dog

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If we are in public outdoor spaces, you will likely see Ruger our Bullmastiff wearing a Petsafe Gentle Leader head collar. Ruger has an incredible amount of strength, and while this doesn’t substitute continuous dog training, we use it for the extra control it provides.

Not only has Ruger been charged after on two separate occasions by unleashed dogs in our neighborhood, she’s also been targeted for being a big dog. A person walking past our property had the nerve to tell us that she would spray Ruger with pepper spray if I didn’t have Ruger under control. We were standing on our own property, and Ruger was still a puppy and she was leashed up. That’s when I learned that not everyone will think Ruger is a sweetheart.

If you’re concerned that your dog is going to hurt their throat from pulling so hard, we’d recommend at least testing it out. My husband was an immediate supporter once we found the proper head collar. There are different brands available like the Halti, but the Petsafe Gentle Leader is the one that fits our Bullmastiff properly and doesn’t allow her to wiggle out of it.

If you have ever wondered how to put on a Gentle Leader head collar, or if your dog will be able to eat or drink with it on, then watch here: