Looking for ways to change up meals for your furry friends? Well no need to look any further-- we have put together a list of 15 of Hooch & Rebel's favorite dog food toppers for your pups to try!!
***Please note, I am not a veterinarian, just a very passionate dog owner! The information in this blog post documents our own personal experiences, research, and the recipes that we feed our dogs under our veterinarian's supervision. Please, consult with your vet and use your own personal judgment when changing your dog's diet or when using probiotics***
Adding dog food toppers to your dogs meals is an easy way to boost your dog's nutrition!
Dog food toppers are a lot easier to incorporate into your dogs meals than you might think. They are as easy as the name - simply add any of these delicious treats on top of your dogs food!
Blueberries
Blueberries are full of antioxidants that protect cells in dogs making them perfect dog food toppers. They're also high in fiber and phytochemicals.
Antioxidants found in blueberries aid in the battle against free radicals, which cause molecular and cellular damage in dogs.
Antioxidants in a dog's food have been shown to minimize the impact of neurodegeneration, which is fantastic news if you have an older dog.
Click here for our dog's favorite blueberry dog treat recipe!
Cucumbers
Cucumbers are a tasty and nutritious treat for dogs. They're especially ideal for dogs on a diet because their low-calorie content provides a good treat without adding extra weight.
Cucumbers contain 96% water, making them a refreshing and delightful snack for any pup.
DO NOT feed your dog pickles, though. Spices and salt added to pickles could be detrimental at worst.
Olive Oil
Olive oil has numerous advantages for your dog. It is high in phytonutrients, vitamin E, and omega-3 fatty acids, among other things. It can keep skin hydrated and develop a beautiful coat.
If your dog has been refusing to eat recently, a slight drizzle of olive oil is enough to transform the flavor and texture of their regular meal, and it could be what you need to rekindle their appetite.
Fish Oil
One of the best supplements for your dog's diet is fish oil. Fish oil enhances a glossy coat, decreases itchy and flaking skin, and can help ease allergies and joint pain in your pup.
Native Pet Omega Oil
Fish oil can provide considerable health benefits to pets starting at a young age. It may even aid in strengthening their immune systems and the battle against cancer.
Bone Broth
Bone broth is safe for dogs! It can be a delightful and nutritious addition to your dog's regular meals. Although nutritional, it should not be a dog's primary source of nutrition.
Bone broth contains a variety of nutrients that are good for dogs. It's high in protein, glycine, collagen, and glucosamine, as well as vitamins and minerals.
Glycine: This neutral amino acid is helpful in the kidneys of dogs suffering from ischemia-reperfusion (tissue damage caused when blood supply returns to tissue).
Collagen- A protein that has positive effects on mobility, skin, and coat, and digestion
Glucosamine- This nutrient can help lubricate your dog's joints and boost the making of core proteins, which can aid in the health and overall of joints.
Bone broth is a tasty and nutritious supplement to your dog's daily diet. Although it is nutritious, it should not be a dog's primary source of nutrition.
Bone broth is high in nutrients that are beneficial to dogs. Protein, glycine, collagen, and glucosamine are all abundant, as are vitamins and minerals.
In our opinion some of the best bone broths for dogs are:
Our dogs love our homemade bone broth recipe below, but they also really dig Native Pet's Beef Bone Broth Topper when I'm running low.
Bone Broth Recipe
Bone broth can be used and fed in so many different ways. If your dog needs their food hydrated due to poor teeth or you are looking to add a protein boost to your pup's diet - bone broth is the way to go.
- You can freeze it into bone broth ice cubes for cold treats on hot days.
- When heated until just warm it can be served as a warm drink for your pup.
- Or you can pour it over your dog's dinner as a savory topper for homemade or dry food.
Click here for this dog food topper recipe!
Beef Bone Broth Topper from The Native Pet
Native Pet's bone broth contains only natural ingredients and is sourced and packaged in the USA.
This bone broth delivers on the nutritional benefits of a homemade broth in a convenient powder form and is used to re-hydrate dry food, or as a simple, nourishing drink.
Use code "THISMESSISOURS20" at checkout for 20% off your order!
How much bone broth to feed at a time to your dog.
- Dogs under 20 pounds, serve them 1 oz of bone broth a day.
- For dogs between 20-40 pounds, serve them 2 oz of bone broth a day.
- Dogs between 50-80 pounds, feed them 4 oz of bone broth a day.
- For dogs 80+ pounds, feed them 6 oz of bone broth a day
Nonfat Greek-Style Yogurt
Yogurt is high in protein, calcium, and probiotics, which aid your dog's immune system and help them recover from stomach problems.
Plain nonfat Greek yogurt is the best yogurt to give your dog, and you can add a variety of ingredients to make it even more delectable.
Any yogurt containing xylitol, a popular sweetener in human foods, should be avoided by dogs. Xylitol accumulates in the liver tissue; even a modest amount of xylitol-sweetened yogurt is hazardous to dogs and can lead to liver failure.
**If you suspect that your dog has a lactose issue, you should refrain from giving your dog yogurt altogether.**
Pumpkin Puree
Pumpkin is beneficial as a dog food topper to all dogs, large and tiny, but especially those with digestive difficulties. Plus, they think it's delicious!
Plain canned pumpkin with no additional sweeteners, additives, or fillers, and plain raw pumpkin and pumpkin flesh are all excellent dog food toppers for dogs.
You should avoid giving your dog the sugar-free canned pumpkin at all costs. The primary issue with sugar-free canned pumpkin is that it could contain xylitol, which is poisonous to dogs.
Pumpkin and Yogurt Bowl for Dogs
These yogurt bowls are filled with good for your dog ingredients like plain, fat-free Greek yogurt, 100% pure pumpkin puree, plant-based vitamin and mineral powder, and my Homemade Dog Food Seasoning which is a blend of 5 herbs that have extraordinary health benefits for your dog!
Click here for this pumpkin recipe for your dog.
Native Pet Pumpkin Dog Food Topper
By using organic pumpkin powder, organic pumpkin seed powder, and organic apple powder, Native Pet created a dehydrated pumpkin purée that you can mix up for your pups at home just by adding water!
Pour it over dry kibble, mix it into food, or just add to water to create a delicious puree.
Use code "THISMESSISOURS20" at checkout for 20% off your order!
Click here to visit the Native Pet site!
Peanut Butter
Peanut butter is pretty safe for dogs to eat; just make sure that it is natural peanut butter containing ZERO XYLITOL on the ingredient list. It is very important to check the Xylitol label as an ingredient because it is toxic to dogs.
When consumed in moderation, peanut butter can be a good source of protein, good fats, vitamin B, niacin, and vitamin E.
Unsalted peanut butter, peanut butter made for dogs, or homemade peanut butter is the healthiest option since high sodium levels can be harmful to dogs.
***IMPORTANT TO NOTE: Did you know that everyday items like candy, gum, toothpaste, and even peanut butter are often sweetened with xylitol? Xylitol can cause your dog's blood sugar to drop and can also cause liver failure. Early symptoms include vomiting, lethargy, and coordination problems. Contact your vet immediately if you suspect your dog has ingested xylitol!***
Carrots
Carrots are a low-calorie snack full of fiber and beta-carotene, a vitamin A source. Also, carrots are good for your dog's teeth and are found in many dog foods.
Hooch and Rebel love to eat whole carrots (minus the greens) just like bones! When we put them in their food, we find it's easier for them to eat shredded carrots.
When introducing foods like cucumbers, carrots, and apples to your dog try starting in small quantities and working your way up to whole fruits and vegetables. Our dogs have definite palette and texture preferences. They can sometimes even be incredibly picky with new foods. But we find that when we shred new ingredients as dog food toppers over their meal, they are more likely to give it a try. From there we increase the size of the fruit and veggie treat gradually.
Apples
Low in protein and calories, apples provide all their health benefits without filling up your dog's tummy, leaving plenty of room for the regular diet of healthy food that is so important in developing dogs' bodies.
Are apples good for dogs?
Yes! Apples are high in vitamins A and C and fiber and are great for your dog. Since they're low in protein and fat, they are an ideal snack for older dogs. Make sure that you remove the seeds and core first.
We cut up apples for hooch and rebels breakfast in the mornings, and they love it!!!
Coconut Oil
Coconut oil has anti-inflammatory, anti-fungal, and anti-bacterial effects. Antiviral effects are also known to exist in lauric acid.
Coconut oil helps with digestion. Excess weight can harm a dog's health by causing joint pain and making movement difficult. Coconut oil can help dogs have a healthier metabolism, more energy, and better joints. As well as, giving your dog a luscious coat.
Is coconut oil good for dogs & should you give it to your dog?
Search for cold-pressed, virgin coconut oil, which is made using a method that preserves the nutrients by processing the oil shortly after the coconuts are collected.
Click here to learn more about feeding coconut oil to dogs.
Start with modest amounts and gradually increase the dosage if you wish to feed coconut oil to your dog. Consult your veterinarian if you're unsure about your dog's coconut oil dosage. Oily stools or diarrhea are common side effects that occur when the dose is too high.
Herbs
Herbs are amazing dog food toppers that most people probably never think of adding to their dog's food. I prefer to use dried-out herbs from the grocery or dry them myself.
Homemade Dog Food Seasoning Blend
It's no secret that fresh herbs and spices are beneficial to a person's health and diet, but did you know that your dog's diet could benefit from them too!? In the summer months, it's easy to include green leafy herbs like curly parsley and basil into our homemade dog food because I have lots of them growing in the garden. But, when fresh herbs are sparse I turn to my spice cabinet where I keep a little jar labeled 'Homemade Dog Food Seasoning'.
Basil
Basil has a high concentration of beta-carophyllene, making it effective in treating inflammatory bowel illness. We started integrating basil into Hooch's meals to help decrease symptoms of arthritis. Basil also has mood-lifting, stress-relieving, and anxiety-relieving properties for dogs.
***While very rare, some dogs can be allergic to basil, so incorporate it slowly into your dog's diet and work up from there. ***
Dill
Dill is a digestive aid that can assist with gas, nausea, cramps, and hunger. This herb is also an excellent breath refresher for dogs.
According to Gregory L. Tilford and Mary L. Wulff's Herbs for Pets, Dill's breath-freshening effect originates from its antibacterial properties, which work well in the mouth for foul breath produced by germs and gingivitis.
Parsley
Parsley, which is high in flavonoids, antioxidants, and vitamins, is commonly used as a breath freshener in dog treats and can also ease the stomach.
The beneficial effects of parsley on the kidneys are only preventative; if your dog has already been diagnosed with renal disease, parsley will not reverse the condition's progression.
Because parsley has a significant level of oxalates, you should avoid providing it to a dog who is prone to kidney stones.
Rosemary
There's a reason rosemary essential oil is so prevalent in dog food: it's an excellent pathogen-fighter against common food bacteria, which means it can help protect food from rotting!
Those pathogen-fighting powers also extend to your pet's body, where they can aid in the battle against germs and fungi! Because rosemary is high in antioxidants, it's an excellent herb to include in your dog's food to help prevent age-related ailments like cardiovascular disease and cancer.
***While big-name dog food brands use rosemary essential oil, I personally only recommend using dried rosemary at home as essential oils are SUPER concentrated and can have adverse effects if not portioned correctly.***
Oregano
Because of its strong antibacterial, antifungal, and antiviral characteristics, feeding moderate amounts of oregano to your dog can help cleanse their body of pollutants.
Oregano contains more than 40 times the antioxidants found in apples, as well as vitamins A, C, and K, as well as Omega-3s, calcium, iron, manganese, and dietary fiber, all of which are vital in your dog's diet.
Eggs
We not only add boiled eggs as dog food toppers, but we also add them to their dinner every night. If you haven't tried our easy homemade dog food recipe, click the link below to blow your dog's mind!
The Incredible, Edible, Treat All Dogs Love!
Yes, dogs can eat eggs. They are lovely additions to any dog's diet, containing numerous vitamins and minerals essential for a healthy dog. They are also packed with protein and healthy fatty acids, which maintain proper growth and development.
Click here to read more about feeding your dogs eggs.
Cooked eggs are an excellent source of nutrients for your dog. They're full of vitamins, protein, and fatty acids, all of which help your dog stay healthy on the inside and out.
***Some dogs with certain medical issues should not consume eggs, so if in doubt consult with your vet first.***
Eggshell Calcium Powder
One of the most important nutrients for dogs is calcium. It is necessary for bone health, muscle mobility, and blood clotting.
The recommended calcium intake for healthy adult dogs is 50 mg per kilogram of body weight. This means a 10 lb dog will require roughly 225 mg of calcium per day.
The amount of calcium a dog requires in their diet is determined by its age, breed, gender, and lifestyle.
Calcium aids in the development of bones in puppies and slows the loss of bone density as they age. Calcium is especially beneficial to senior dogs since it lowers the risk and symptoms of bone diseases including arthritis and osteoporosis.
If a dog is pregnant and/or nursing, she will require more calcium than usual in order to preserve her strength and encourage healthy bone formation in her puppies. Too little calcium while pregnant is a worry since it can cause eclampsia, a potentially fatal illness.
Calcium For Dogs: A Simple DIY Eggshell Supplement Recipe
Calcium is one of the most critical nutrients for dogs. It plays a significant role in bone health, muscle movement, and blood clotting. This simple homemade, powdered supplement is a 1-ingredient calcium powerhouse that can be added as a topper to a homemade dog food recipe to ensure your dogs get adequate calcium in their diet.
Pet probiotics
Probiotics may be beneficial to some dogs but not to others. Probiotics can help with a wide range of digestive problems and illnesses.
Probiotics are bacteria that are good for your health and your pet's health. Hundreds of billions of them dwell in the stomachs of dogs and other animals to aid in illness prevention, immune system strengthening, food digestion, and vitamin and nutrient production.
What does this probiotic powder do?
- Addresses acute and chronic diarrhea.
- Creates a thriving environment for healthy flora.
- Protein-packed.
- Shelf-stable for up to 2 years
- Restores gut health after antibiotic use.
- Calms upset stomachs.
- Improves intestinal and immune systems on the regular.
- Aides in the introduction of new foods.
- Can help treat conditions like leaky gut and IBD.
Click here to learn more about this probiotic.
Thanks to their pet-loving crew, Native Pet offers innovative supplements, toppers, and chews that provide balanced nutrition to all pets!
Native Pet works with experts to create each formula from the ground up. They engage with professional nutritionists, veterinarians, specialized food scientists, and manufacturing experts to make the right treats for your pets.
If you’ve tried any of these dog food toppers for your pup I would be so grateful if you would let me know what you think in the comments below!
Jane says
I just found your website and I'm looking forward to switching from kibble to your homemade recipe. I'm just wondering about all the toppers that you have listed....am I suppose to use them all or just pick one? lol. Thanks for your help!
Eliza Clendenin says
Hi Jane!
Welcome to the blog, and I'm so glad you found us! Switching from kibble to homemade recipes is a great choice, and I’m sure your pup is going to love it!
As for the toppers, you don’t have to use all of them at once—just pick one or mix and match a few based on what you think your dog would enjoy and what fits their dietary needs. The toppers are meant to add variety and extra nutrients to your dog's meals, so feel free to experiment and see what your furry friend likes best. If you have any more questions, feel free to ask!
Tracey Hammons says
Hello!
Just a few quick questions: regarding the supplements; are you giving the Dog Greens, the Advanced Milk Rx AND the eggshells - all 3 - once a day, everyday? Also was wondering; do you know if pasta is safe for dogs with CKD. Thank you for all your recipes, we have been struggling with a very picky eater with ckd. Sometimes he will eat and sometimes not. He does not like pumpkin, squash or sweet potato so trying to find alternatives :/
Eliza Clendenin says
Hi Tracey! Thanks for your comment and for checking out the recipe! Regarding the supplements, it's generally fine to give the Dog Greens, Advanced Milk Rx, and eggshells daily, but it's always best to follow the specific dosing instructions provided by your vet or the supplement manufacturer. Each dog's needs can vary, so consulting with your vet ensures you're giving the right amount for your pup's unique needs.
As for pasta and CKD, it's typically safe for dogs with CKD in moderation, but you should avoid using any pasta that contains sauces or additives. Plain, cooked pasta can be a good alternative, but always check with your vet to make sure it fits well with your dog's overall diet and health plan.
I understand the struggle with picky eaters, especially with CKD. If your dog isn’t a fan of pumpkin, squash, or sweet potatoes, you might try alternatives like steamed green beans, carrots, or even a bit of plain, cooked chicken or turkey. Sometimes mixing in a small amount of a high-quality, low-phosphorus broth can help entice your pup to eat.
Vonda Laubach says
love your site, I have a dog that is 11 pds is a very finicky eater and has rumbling stomach a lot. Any suggestions?
Eliza Clendenin says
Hi Vonda!
As always, we strongly recommend talking with your vet about your dogs diet before starting anything new! Our Hooch was a pretty picky eater as well, but he LOVES our homemade dog food!
Hope this helps!