With the year coming to an end, we’re soon presented with the opportunity to set goals for the new year. If eating healthier happens to be on your list for 2024, consider including your dog, too, with the world of meal prepping—a timesaving, health-conscious solution for busy pet parents and their canine companions. Here we’ll explore the benefits of meal prepping for both you and your dog, share some simple recipes, and offer tips to make the process enjoyable and efficient. 

Benefits of Meal Prepping for You and Your Dog 

  1. Time Efficiency: Meal prepping allows you to streamline your cooking process, saving you precious time during the week. Spend a few dedicated hours on the weekend preparing meals for both you and your dog and enjoy the convenience of ready-to-eat options.
  1. Healthier Choices: By planning and preparing meals in advance, you have greater control over the ingredients you and your dog consume. This ensures a balanced and nutritious diet, promoting overall health and wellbeing.
  1. Cost-Effective: Buying ingredients in bulk for meal prepping can often be more cost-effective than purchasing individual items for each meal. Plus, it reduces the temptation to indulge in unhealthy, expensive takeout options.
  1. Reduced Food Waste: Meal prepping allows you to use ingredients efficiently, minimizing food waste. You can portion meals appropriately for both you and your dog, reducing the chances of leftovers going uneaten.
  1. Convenience: Preparing healthy meals for your pup in advance makes it easier for you to grab and go when you’re running them to daycare in the mornings or packing for their overnight stays during the holidays.

Simple and Nutritious Recipes 

  1. Chicken and Sweet Potato Bowls
  • For you: Grilled chicken breast, quinoa, roasted sweet potatoes, and a side of mixed vegetables. 
  • For your dog: Cooked and shredded chicken, mashed sweet potatoes, and steamed peas. Ensure there are no added seasonings and avoid ingredients toxic to dogs like onions and garlic. 
  1. Salmon and Brown Rice Patties
  • For you: Baked salmon patties with a side of brown rice and sautéed spinach. 
  • For your dog: Baked and flaked salmon mixed with cooked brown rice and finely chopped carrots. 
  1. Turkey & Veggie Stir Fry
  • For you: Stir-fried ground turkey, broccoli florets, bell peppers, snow peas, and quinoa. 
  • For your dog: Stir-fried ground turkey, broccoli, bell peppers, and snow peas. Ensure there are no added seasonings and avoid ingredients toxic to dogs like onions and garlic. 

Tips for Successful Meal Prepping  

  1. Plan Ahead: Before you start prepping, plan your meals for the week. Consider your dog’s dietary needs and preferences, and incorporate a variety of proteins, vegetables, and carbohydrates. Consult with your veterinarian to ensure your dog is getting all the necessary vitamins and minerals.
  1. Invest in Quality Storage Containers: Purchase a set of durable and pet-safe storage containers for both human and dog meals. This ensures freshness and prevents cross-contamination.
  1. Rotate Proteins: Just like humans, dogs benefit from a varied diet. Rotate proteins to provide a range of essential nutrients. Common proteins for dogs include chicken, beef, turkey, and fish.
  1. Monitor Portion Sizes: Be mindful of portion sizes for both you and your dog. This helps prevent overeating and ensures a well-balanced diet for both of you. Utilize a food calorie calculator to estimate your dog’s calories for each homemade meal to ensure they are getting enough or not too many calories!

Meal prepping for you and your dog is a win-win solution for busy pet parents seeking a healthier, more organized lifestyle. As always, please contact your veterinarian before modifying your dog’s diet. With a bit of planning and creativity, you can create delicious, nutritious meals that cater to both human and canine tastes. So, grab your apron, enlist the help of your four-legged sous chef, and embark on a culinary journey that keeps both you and your furry friend happy and healthy.