One of the most frequent questions I hear from pet parents is, “How many calories are in this homemade recipe?” And my answer often surprises them: I don’t calculate every calorie. Instead, I focus on balance, quality, and variety. Let me explain why you can skip the calorie-counting rabbit hole when preparing homemade meals for your dog.
Calorie Contributions in Homemade Dog Food
Most balanced homemade dog food recipes follow a simple guideline:
- 70% meat – with it’s fat and bone is ideal. Target 80/20 ratios for muscle to fat.
- 20–30% vegetables and fruits
- (Optional) 10% grains or other add-ins
Here’s what that looks like in practice:
- Meat is the primary calorie source—think beef, chicken, or fish.
- Vegetables and fruits are nutrient-rich but low in calories per gram.
- Grains, while calorie-dense, are typically used sparingly.
This natural structure keeps meals within a reasonable calorie range without the need for precise tracking.
How to Ensure Balance Without Obsessing Over Calories
Instead of crunching numbers, focus on these strategies:
- Stick to Proportions
The 70/30 or 70/20/10 rule ensures meals are balanced in macronutrients and calories. - Rotate Proteins
Include a mix of higher-calorie meats (like lamb or duck) and leaner options (like turkey or white fish). Over time, this natural rotation keeps your dog’s calorie intake balanced. - Pair Ingredients Wisely
- Combine calorie-dense foods like sweet potatoes or pumpkin with low-calorie options like zucchini or green beans.
- Mix protein sources, like beef and turkey, to balance richness with leanness.
- Moderate Grains
Grains like oats or rice are calorie-rich and should be used moderately if at all, especially for dogs prone to weight gain. If you are not using grains you may need to increase your meat source and/or your fat %. - Focus on Fresh, Nutrient-Dense Ingredients
Shift your focus from calories to quality. A diet rich in lean proteins, vegetables, fruits, and moderate grains minimizes the need for processed or calorie-dense fillers.
Do You Need to Count Calories?
For most healthy dogs, the answer is no. Unless your dog has a medical condition that requires precise calorie management, calorie counting is often unnecessary. Instead:
- Monitor your dog’s weight and body condition over time.
- Adjust portion sizes or ingredient ratios as needed based on their activity level and overall health.
- If you do want to calculate calories occasionally, any human calorie tracking app will suffice—calories are the same whether you’re feeding humans or dogs.
Real-Life Results
When I first started feeding homemade meals to my dogs, I was meticulous about calorie counts. Over time, I realized that following these balanced principles and observing my dogs’ health and weight was far more effective. My dogs thrive on homemade meals without the stress of overanalyzing every batch.
The Takeaway
When preparing meals for your dog, focus on proportions, variety, and the quality of ingredients. Trust the process, pay attention to your dog’s condition, and make adjustments as needed. Simplicity can be powerful—and less stressful for both you and your furry companion.
Let me know your thoughts or any questions about feeding homemade meals in the forum. We’re all here to learn and share!