Homemade dog food has gained popularity among pet owners who want full control over their dog’s diet. Canning homemade dog food is an excellent way to prepare nutritious meals in bulk, ensuring long-term storage without preservatives. This guide covers everything you need to know about making, canning, and storing homemade dog food safely.
Why Can Homemade Dog Food?
Benefits of Canning Dog Food
Canning homemade dog food offers multiple advantages, including:
- Convenience: Batch cooking and canning save time and effort.
- Cost Savings: Making dog food at home is often cheaper than store-bought options.
- Nutritional Control: You decide the ingredients, avoiding harmful preservatives and fillers.
- Long Shelf Life: Properly canned dog food lasts 12-18 months without refrigeration.
- Better Digestibility: Homemade food can be tailored to your dog’s dietary needs, reducing allergies and digestive issues.
Is Canned Homemade Dog Food Safe?
When done correctly, canned homemade dog food is completely safe. Follow these key precautions:
- Use a Pressure Canner – A pressure canner is essential to eliminate bacteria like Clostridium botulinum (responsible for botulism).
- Choose Dog-Safe Ingredients – Avoid toxic foods like onions, garlic, grapes, and excessive fats.
- Follow Proper Storage Guidelines – Store in a cool, dry place and check seals before serving.
Essential Equipment for Canning Dog Food
Before you start, gather these necessary tools:
| Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Pressure Canner | Kills bacteria and ensures food safety |
| Canning Jars | Store food securely |
| Lids & Seals | Prevent contamination |
| Funnels & Ladles | Make filling jars easier |
| Timers & Thermometers | Ensure proper cooking and sealing |
Pressure Canner vs. Water Bath Canning – Which One to Use?
For dog food, pressure canning is the only safe option. Water bath canning is not safe for meats and vegetables due to the risk of bacterial growth.
Ingredients for Homemade Canned Dog Food
Best Proteins for Canning
- Chicken (low-fat, high-protein)
- Turkey (easy to digest)
- Beef (iron-rich, supports muscle growth)
- Lamb (good for dogs with allergies)
- Organ Meats (liver, kidneys, heart – nutrient-dense but should be limited to 10-15% of diet)
Dog-Safe Vegetables to Include
- Carrots (vitamin A for eye health)
- Peas (fiber for digestion)
- Green beans (low-calorie, good for weight management)
- Pumpkin (great for digestion)
- Sweet potatoes (rich in antioxidants and fiber)
Grains and Carbs – Should You Add Them?
- Brown rice (energy source, easily digestible)
- Quinoa (high-protein alternative)
- Oats (good for sensitive stomachs)
Ingredients to Avoid (Toxic & Unsafe for Dogs)
❌ Onions & Garlic
❌ Grapes & Raisins
❌ Chocolate & Caffeine
❌ High-fat meats & dairy
❌ Artificial sweeteners (xylitol)
Supplements to Add for Balanced Nutrition
- Calcium (eggshell powder, bone meal)
- Omega-3s (fish oil, flaxseed oil for skin & coat health)
- Probiotics (improves gut health)
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Homemade Canned Dog Food
1. Preparing the Ingredients
- Trim excess fat from meats.
- Chop vegetables into small, dog-friendly pieces.
- Pre-cook grains to aid digestion.
2. Cooking the Dog Food Before Canning
- Simmer meat and vegetables together.
- Maintain a moist but not watery consistency.
3. Filling and Sealing Jars for Canning
- Use sterilized jars to prevent contamination.
- Leave 1-inch headspace to allow expansion.
- Secure lids and wipe rims before sealing.
4. Pressure Canning Process for Dog Food
| Food Type | Pressure (PSI) | Processing Time |
| Meat-based dog food | 10-15 PSI | 75-90 minutes |
| Vegetable & grain mix | 10 PSI | 60 minutes |
5. Cooling and Storing Jars
- Let jars cool undisturbed for 12-24 hours.
- Check for a firm seal before storing.
- Label jars with date and ingredients.
Storing and Using Homemade Canned Dog Food
How Long Does Canned Dog Food Last?
Properly canned dog food lasts 12-18 months. Discard any jar with bulging lids, strange odors, or mold growth.
How to Feed Canned Homemade Dog Food
- Serve at room temperature or slightly warmed.
- Mix with kibble or serve alone.
How to Reheat Canned Dog Food (If Needed)
- Use warm water instead of a microwave to avoid nutrient loss.
- Stir well to ensure even heating.
Common Questions About Homemade Dog Food for Canning
Can You Can Raw Dog Food?
No, raw dog food must be cooked before canning to eliminate bacteria.
What If My Dog Has Food Allergies?
Use limited ingredient recipes and avoid common allergens like beef, dairy, and wheat.
Can I Add Bone Broth to Canned Dog Food?
Yes! Bone broth adds collagen, minerals, and flavor.
How to Transition Your Dog to Homemade Canned Food?
Gradually mix with current food over 7-10 days to avoid digestive issues.
How to Tell if a Canned Batch Has Gone Bad?
- Bulging lids or broken seals.
- Unpleasant smell when opened.
- Mold or discoloration inside.
Final Tips for Making Safe and Nutritious Canned Dog Food
✔ Stick to balanced recipes to prevent deficiencies.
✔ Always use a pressure canner for safety.
✔ Rotate jars using the oldest batch first.
✔ Consult a veterinarian for recipe approval if needed.