The English Mastiff is one of the largest and most powerful dog breeds, known for its gentle nature and loyal temperament. Due to their massive size and unique dietary requirements, ensuring they receive proper nutrition is critical for their joint health, weight management, and overall well-being. While commercial dog food is a convenient option, many Mastiff owners are turning to homemade dog food to provide their pets with a healthier, more controlled diet.
In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about homemade dog food for English Mastiffs, including nutritional requirements, best ingredients, recipes, feeding guidelines, and common mistakes to avoid.
Why Choose Homemade Dog Food for Your English Mastiff?
The Benefits of Homemade Meals
Making homemade food for your Mastiff allows you to control the ingredients and ensure high-quality nutrition. Some of the key benefits include:
- Avoiding harmful additives: Many commercial foods contain preservatives and fillers that can be harmful over time.
- Tailoring nutrition: You can adjust the diet based on your dog’s specific needs, such as weight control or joint health.
- Improving digestion: Fresh, whole foods are often easier on a dog’s stomach compared to processed kibble.
- Enhancing coat and skin health: High-quality proteins and fats support a healthy coat and skin.
- Reducing the risk of allergies: Many dogs are sensitive to common allergens in commercial foods like corn, soy, or artificial flavors.
Potential Risks & How to Avoid Them
While homemade dog food offers many benefits, there are also risks if not done correctly:
| Common Risk | How to Avoid It |
|---|---|
| Nutritional imbalances | Use vet-approved recipes with the right balance of protein, fat, and carbs. |
| Calcium-phosphorus imbalance | Ensure proper bone health by including bone meal or calcium supplements. |
| Overfeeding or underfeeding | Measure portions accurately based on your Mastiff’s weight and activity level. |
| Unsafe ingredients | Avoid toxic foods like onions, grapes, and chocolate. |
Understanding the Nutritional Needs of an English Mastiff
What Makes a Balanced Diet?
English Mastiffs require a balanced combination of proteins, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals. Here’s a breakdown of essential nutrients:
- Protein (30-40%): Supports muscle growth and repair. Sources: Chicken, beef, turkey, fish, eggs.
- Fats (15-20%): Essential for energy and coat health. Sources: Fish oil, flaxseed oil, coconut oil.
- Carbohydrates (30-40%): Provides fiber and energy. Sources: Brown rice, sweet potatoes, quinoa.
- Vitamins & Minerals: Crucial for bone health and immunity. Sources: Leafy greens, carrots, blueberries, calcium supplements.
Special Considerations for English Mastiffs
- Joint Health: Large breeds are prone to hip and elbow dysplasia. Glucosamine-rich foods (like bone broth) can help.
- Weight Management: Mastiffs are prone to obesity, which strains their joints. Portion control is crucial.
- Bloat Prevention: Avoid feeding large meals in one sitting and prevent rapid eating.
Best Ingredients for Homemade Dog Food for English Mastiffs
High-Quality Protein Sources
- Lean meats (chicken, beef, turkey, lamb)
- Organ meats (liver, kidney – in moderation for vitamin A)
- Eggs (high in protein and essential amino acids)
Healthy Carbohydrates and Fiber
- Sweet potatoes (rich in fiber and beta-carotene)
- Brown rice (easily digestible and energy-rich)
- Oatmeal (good for sensitive stomachs)
Fats and Oils for Joint and Skin Health
- Fish oil (anti-inflammatory, improves coat health)
- Flaxseed oil (rich in omega-3 fatty acids)
- Coconut oil (aids digestion and skin health)
Fruits and Vegetables to Include (and Avoid!)
✅ Safe: Carrots, blueberries, pumpkin, spinach, apples (without seeds) ❌ Toxic: Grapes, onions, garlic, avocados, chocolate
Homemade Dog Food Recipes for English Mastiffs
Basic Balanced Recipe (Everyday Meal Plan)
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs lean ground turkey
- 1 cup cooked brown rice
- 1 cup diced carrots
- 1/2 cup peas
- 1 tbsp fish oil
- 1 tsp bone meal powder
Instructions:
- Cook turkey in a large pan until fully browned.
- Boil brown rice until soft.
- Steam carrots and peas.
- Mix all ingredients in a large bowl and let cool before serving.
Joint Health Recipe (For Senior Mastiffs)
Ingredients:
- 1 lb salmon
- 1 cup quinoa
- 1/2 cup steamed spinach
- 1 tbsp turmeric powder (anti-inflammatory)
- 1 tbsp glucosamine supplement
Instructions:
- Cook salmon and flake into small pieces.
- Cook quinoa separately.
- Mix all ingredients and serve when cooled.
How to Transition Your English Mastiff to Homemade Food
Switching to homemade dog food should be done gradually to prevent stomach upset. Follow this 7-day transition plan:
| Day | Old Food | Homemade Food |
| 1-2 | 75% | 25% |
| 3-4 | 50% | 50% |
| 5-6 | 25% | 75% |
| 7 | 0% | 100% |
Feeding Guidelines and Portion Sizes for English Mastiffs
How Much Should an English Mastiff Eat?
- Puppies (3-12 months): 4-6 cups per day
- Adults (1-7 years): 6-10 cups per day
- Seniors (7+ years): 5-8 cups per day (adjust based on activity level)
Adjusting Portions for Weight Management
If your Mastiff is gaining too much weight:
- Reduce fat intake and add more fiber-rich vegetables.
- Increase exercise and break meals into smaller portions.
Final Thoughts – Is Homemade Dog Food Right for Your English Mastiff?
Homemade dog food can provide significant health benefits for your English Mastiff, including better digestion, healthier joints, and a shinier coat. However, it’s important to ensure balanced nutrition and consult a veterinarian or canine nutritionist before making any drastic dietary changes.