Want to give your furry friend a healthy and tasty treat? Learn how to cook homemade dog food with herring! This guide provides step-by-step instructions to create a balanced, protein-rich meal that’s perfect for your pup’s diet.
Have you ever been stared down by a dog who clearly thinks you’re holding out on her? That’s Luna every time I step into the kitchen. I mean, this dog knows her way around the sound of a cutting board. So, when I unpacked the herring, her nose was glued to my leg like a furry inspector general.
But cooking with herring? Oh boy. Let’s talk about it.
The “Not-So-Perfect” Prep
First off, let’s be real: herring is not glamorous. It smells like the sea decided to move into your house uninvited. I was convinced my neighbors would call animal control. But hey, Luna? She was all in.
I started with:
- Fresh herring (pro tip: check for bones like your dog’s life depends on it—because it kinda does).
- Some brown rice (I once tried quinoa; Luna gave me the “really, Mom?” look).
- Carrots and peas, because dogs like veggies, even if they pretend not to.
- A sprinkle of flaxseed—it’s like the Instagram superfood of dog diets.
Oh, and don’t forget the chaos of cooking while dodging a dog who’s determined to trip you for scraps.
Cooking: A Comedy of Errors
First, I steamed the herring. The smell? Let’s just say Luna thought it was heaven, while I opened every window in the house.
The rice? Easy-peasy. Except I added too much water and turned it into something closer to soup. But hey, Luna doesn’t judge.
The veggies? I may have burned the first batch while scrolling Instagram (don’t tell Luna). The second round turned out fine, though—bright, colorful, and just soft enough for her to munch on without spitting it out.
Mix it all together, let it cool (don’t skip this, trust me), and voila! Luna’s feast was ready.
Luna’s Verdict
I’ll admit, I was nervous. Dogs can smell fear, right? She sniffed the bowl, tilted her head (classic Luna), and took one cautious bite. Then another. Then… gone. Bowl clean.
And you know what she did next? She sat by the empty bowl, looked at me with those big, soulful eyes, and sighed. Like, “Thanks, but where’s dessert?”
Why Herring, Though?
Okay, quick science break: herring is like a miracle fish for dogs. Packed with omega-3s, it keeps their coat glossy and their brain sharp (not that Luna needs help outsmarting me). Plus, it’s low in mercury, so no guilt trip.
And honestly? It’s cheaper than most fancy kibble, and I know exactly what’s going into her food. Win-win.
Real Talk: Is This for Every Dog?
Not every dog is a Luna. Some might not vibe with fish, and that’s okay. Always run it by your vet first. Also, if your dog’s a picky eater, prepare for some trial and error. (Side note: anyone want a bag of untouched kale from my “healthy dog food” phase?)
Wrapping It Up (and Cleaning the Mess)
Cooking for Luna isn’t about perfection. It’s about showing her that she’s more than just a pet—she’s family. Sure, my kitchen smelled like a fish market for hours, and I stepped on a stray pea or two, but watching her wag her tail with every bite? Totally worth it.
So, what about you? Are you up for the challenge of cooking for your furry friend? Warning: it’s addictive. One day it’s herring, and the next, you’re Googling “dog-friendly soufflé”.
