Dog food types
Can I follow a homemade recipe from the internet?
Last updated 23 September 2026 · How we write and check this
Short answer
Be cautious, since many homemade dog food recipes shared online have not been nutritionally analyzed or verified against a recognized standard, and studies reviewing published homemade recipes have repeatedly found a large majority fall short in at least one essential nutrient, even ones written by veterinarians without a nutrition specialty.
What research has found about online recipes
A well known study analyzing recipes from books and websites, including some written by veterinarians, found the vast majority were deficient in at least one essential nutrient, most commonly certain vitamins, minerals, or the calcium to phosphorus ratio.
How to evaluate a recipe you find online
Look for a recipe that states it was formulated using recognized nutrient software or reviewed by a board certified veterinary nutritionist, rather than one presented simply as a home cook's trusted family recipe with no stated nutritional analysis behind it.
A safer way to use an online recipe as a starting point
Taking a recipe you like to a veterinary nutritionist for review and adjustment, rather than following it exactly as published, combines the appeal of a specific recipe with the safety of professional verification.
Key takeaways
- Studies have found most published homemade dog food recipes online are missing at least one essential nutrient.
- Look for a stated nutritional analysis or professional formulation behind any recipe you consider.
- Having a chosen recipe reviewed by a veterinary nutritionist is safer than following it unverified.