chew toy

I may be a bit stupid here, but when I started cooking myself, I used a lot of different vegetables and berries in the recipe I was given. In these recipes here, there are very specific vegetables. When I ask Saga, I get very strict answers that I must not deviate from the recipe, and I understand that this is important in order to get the right nutrients, but how can I include more types of vegetables that I am used to giving? Berries are not included in all the recipes, so is it best to switch between the different ones? I also wonder about chew bones. They are not included in all recipes. Is it something you give on the side or just occasionally?

• We understand why you're wondering! We have instructed Saga not to substitute ingredients in the recipes because it can affect the balance between the supplements and the raw ingredients. However, this mainly applies to muscle meat, liver, etc., which may have a high content of copper, vitamin A, etc. You are welcome to vary the vegetables! The most important thing is that the quantities remain approximately the same. Berries are a great addition too. As for bones, they can definitely be given separately. I usually give bones about 3–4 days a week in addition to food. If I give large, “meaty” bones, I reduce the amount of food a little so that the total calorie intake is not too high. I think it’s just a matter of trying it out! 😊
• Great! Thank you! I've done what you explain here. I think it's good to have different vegetables, and if the bones have been large, it makes sense to give less meat. I understand that Saga has to be careful :)
• It’s very good to know that there is some leeway with certain ingredients. Perhaps this could have been included in the recipe? I’ve been feeding a varied homemade diet for a few months with only a few additions (omega-3, eggshells, a little sour milk and green-lipped mussels). My dog seems to tolerate “everything”, but of course I don’t know if he’s getting everything he needs. That’s why I’m here ❤️
• Thanks for the feedback! I fully understand that everything can seem very "precise" and detail-oriented in the recipes, and I completely agree that not everything needs to be followed to the letter. I’ll bear this in mind for future recipes and add that some things can easily be varied or swapped around ❤️ I’ve written some thoughts on the topic of “balanced” dog food in this article: {{ARTICLE:understanding-fediaf-guidelines:Understanding FEDIAF Guidelines for Homemade Dog Food}}