Ketogenic Diet Recipe for Dogs

This ketogenic diet is designed to feed an average 5 kg dog (11 pounds) using a higher protein and fat approach with polyphenol and carotenoid enrichment from primarily vegetables, with high levels of anti-inflammatory polyunsaturated fatty acids. For larger dogs, just multiply portions for every 5 kg of body weight (11 pounds).  This is designed to provide approximately 315 kcals for a dog of average activity.  Active dogs may require slightly more, while inactive dogs may require less (up to 40% more or less depending on activity).  Monitor your dog and consult with your veterinarian if there is weight gain or loss – we recommend regular weigh-ins with your vet after starting a home prepared diet.

 

Daily Diet to consist of:

4 ounces (120 grams) of cooked chicken breast/thigh mix; OR 4 ounces (120 grams) of cooked 95% lean bison/beef OR 4 ounces of cooked salmon

1 cup (360 grams) of cooked/blanched chopped broccoli, carrots, spinach, kale, cauliflower, Brussel sprouts, chard and/or parsley

1 teaspoon of borage, evening primrose or black-current seed oil

2 teaspoons of fish oil or krill oil (or 2 – 1000 mg capsules)

ADDED SUPPLEMENTS:

¼ scoop of iViBlend

¼ teaspoon of Calgae

 

This daily portion is usually mixed together with the supplements and fed over two meals.   The supplements can be gradually added in over a 10 day period if your dog is already eating a home prepared diet.   Healthful supplements of this nature can alter the taste and acceptability of diets for more picky eaters, and a gradual introduction often prevents food refusal.

 

The diet above is to be used per 5 kg body weight, for any dog that needs a ketogenic alkalinizing metabolic approach, which has anecdotally suggested to help various conditions.  The diet provides approximately 40-45% of metabolizable energy from protein, 50-55% from fat and 5% from carbohydrate.  The diet is very high in fat, therefore we recommended to start with the meat and vegetables and increasing the amount of oils to the diet gradually. Typically, start with the primrose, borage or black-current oil for a few days and then gradually increase the fish oil over a two week period of time to test acceptance and tolerance.  If fish/ krill oil are not tolerated then you may try flaxseed oil in its place, if desired.

 

These diets are only to be used under the advice of a veterinarian. Please consult a vet or vet nutritionist on whether this is appropriate for your dog before feeding. Even though this recipe has been designed by board-certified veterinary nutritionists, your dog's unique calorie requirements, medical history, and diet history can all affect whether it is the best option for your dog.

 

Happy Feeding!