A nutritionist has revealed how switching to a home-cooked diet completely transformed her shelter dog’s appearance and health.
Two-year-old Foxy was once underweight with thinning fur, had endured six rounds of chemotherapy for a non-cancerous condition. But she still had a “spark in her eyes” which caught the attention of certified pet nutrition coach Dani Dominguez.
“I was determined to help her heal—knowing that proper nutrition could play a key role in her recovery,” Dominguez from Tucson, Arizona, told Newsweek.
She explained that Foxy was diagnosed with a type of vaginal prolapse, and the treatment led to significant weight loss and fur thinning.
“During the foster period, I kept her on the kibble provided by the shelter,” said Dominguez. “After officially adopting her, I transitioned her to home-cooked meals.
“Since then, I have noticed her fur growing back faster, healthier, and shiner, and she has gained weight more easily. Not only that, but she has more energy, looks less gray in the face, and just seems happier overall.”
According to data analyzed by researchers from the Dog Aging Project—drawn from information on over 27,000 dogs and 43,000 owner surveys—most dog owners (81 percent) primarily fed their pets kibble, with home-cooked meals being a distant second at 4 percent.
Dominguez told Newsweek: “I focus on providing my dog, Foxy, with a balanced diet that includes high-quality proteins like turkey, pork, or duck; healthy fats such as coconut oil or olive oil; and small amounts of nutrient-dense carbohydrates like pumpkin or quinoa.
“I also incorporate a variety of vegetables, such as carrots and broccoli, along with calcium to support her overall health.
“Green beans are rich in vitamins C and K as well as iron. Broccoli supports digestion and immunity, and millet is a great source of fiber, B vitamins, and magnesium. I also add turmeric and ginger for their anti-inflammatory benefits, and olive oil to promote skin and coat health.
“A high-quality supplement fills in the nutritional gaps that home-cooked meals might miss, ensuring Foxy gets all the vitamins and minerals she needs, while supporting organ health and function for optimal wellness.
“This balanced, home-cooked approach allows me to rotate proteins, carbs, and fats, keeping Foxy’s meals interesting while reducing the risk of food sensitivities. Most importantly, it gives me full control over her nutrition, ensuring she thrives rather than just survives.”
The founder of pets’ health and nutrition company, SunBright Wellness, spends around $12 per week on Foxy’s diet. However, some owners may not have the time to cook for their dog.
For those who buy store-bought dog food, Dominguez suggests always reading the ingredients and avoiding harmful additives and fillers.
She said: “A good rule of thumb: if you can recognize the ingredients and would eat them yourself, it is likely a healthier choice for your pet.”
She warns against foods that rely heavily on fillers like corn, soy, or wheat, as they offer little nutritional value and may contribute to inflammation or allergies. Additionally, steer clear of artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives like BHA, BHT, and ethoxyquin, which can be harmful over time.
“Carbohydrates in your pet’s food should come from whole, nutrient-dense sources like sweet potatoes, pumpkin, or quinoa—not cheap fillers like corn or wheat. Ideally, they should make up a smaller portion of the diet, especially for dogs with weight or metabolic concerns,” she said.
4 Common Mistakes Made When Feeding Pets
Dominguez has highlighted the most frequent mistakes and how to avoid them:
- Overfeeding or underfeeding: “This can lead to obesity, increasing the risk of diabetes, heart disease, and arthritis, while underfeeding can leave your pet malnourished and low on energy. Portion control is key! When using commercial pet food recommendations, always adjust based on your pet’s age, activity level, and health status.”
- Relying solely on commercial pet food: “Many commercial kibbles are highly processed and loaded with fillers like corn and soy, which provide little nutritional value. Feeding kibble exclusively can contribute to long-term health problems such as obesity, diabetes, thyroid disorders, and even cancer.”
- Skipping supplements: “Even a well-balanced homemade diet may lack key nutrients. Adding high-quality supplements ensures your pet gets all the essential vitamins and minerals they need to thrive.”
- Overfeeding treats: “Treats are a great way to bond with your pet; however, they should only make up about 10 percent of their daily caloric intake. Too many treats can lead to weight gain and nutritional imbalances.”
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