Introduction
You, as a loving caregiver, know that sometimes, your furry friend needs a little something special to spice up their meals. A delicious, homemade gravy can be just the thing to get your dog’s tail wagging at mealtime. Not only will it make their food more appealing, but it can also be a great way to sneak in some extra nutrients. Below is a guide on how to create a healthy, delicious gravy for your canine companion.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The ingredients you choose for your dog’s gravy should be nutritious and safe for canine consumption. Here’s a general list of what you might need:
- 1 cup of meat broth (beef, chicken, or turkey)
- 1/4 cup of flour or cornstarch
- 1/4 cup of fat (animal fat or oil)
- Optional: veggies like carrots, peas, or sweet potatoes
Remember, you are creating this gravy for your dog, so avoid ingredients that are harmful to dogs such as onions, garlic, grapes, and chocolate.
Step by Step Preparation Guide
Let’s dive into the process. Remember, safety first. Make sure your cooking area is safe from any doggie interruptions.
- Start by heating up the fat in a saucepan over medium heat.
- Slowly whisk in the flour or cornstarch to create a roux. This will thicken your gravy.
- Gradually add the broth to your roux, stirring constantly to prevent lumps.
- If you want to add veggies, make sure they are finely chopped or pureed before adding them to the gravy.
- Let the gravy simmer on low heat until it reaches the desired thickness.
Serving Suggestions
When the gravy has cooled down, you can serve it over your dog’s regular dry or wet food. Remember, this gravy is a treat and should not replace a balanced dog diet.
| Daily Serving Size | Gravy Portion |
|---|---|
| Small dogs (up to 20 lbs) | 1-2 tablespoons |
| Medium dogs (20-60 lbs) | 2-4 tablespoons |
| Large dogs (over 60 lbs) | 4-6 tablespoons |
Storing the Gravy
You can store leftover gravy in the refrigerator for up to five days. You can also freeze it in an ice cube tray for easy serving size portions, which can last up to two months.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use store-bought broth?
A: Yes, but make sure it’s low-sodium and doesn’t contain onion or garlic.
Q: Can I use different types of meat broth?
A: Absolutely! Just make sure it’s a type of meat your dog can eat.
Q: My dog is allergic to wheat. What can I use as a thickener instead of flour?
A: Cornstarch is a great alternative. You could also use rice flour or potato starch.
Q: Can I add spices to the gravy?
A: Most spices are not safe for dogs. Stick to the basics in this recipe.
Remember, every dog is unique. What works for one might not work for another. Always consult with your vet if you have any doubts or concerns. Happy cooking!
