I really don’t understand why people pay so much for dog food! My parents just adopted a puppy German Shepard and they asked me how much money I pay to feel my Mini Pin, Mari. Well, though it is going to be no comparison (that puppy probably eats more than my doggie right now), I told them there is absolutely no reason they should blow their budget on dog food.

First and foremost I think it is extremely important to feed your dog good, wholesome food. I am a Blue Buffalo Dog Food pet parent myself. (I’m not on the Blue Buffalo payroll by the way–I just really like the product). If you think you can feed your dog any old thing, or because it says “healthy” in he title, they’ll be in good shape, you’re kidding yourself. The quality of most dog food would astonish you. You have to remember dogs are domesticated animals with a wild background. These hunting breeds need to have proper diet to look and feel their best for years to come.

There are some simple things you can do to help your dog eat nutritiously, and stay within your budget. Here are 5 tips I gave to my parents…

• There is nothing wrong with dry food! Ask most vets and they will tell you that dry food is much better for your dog to eat on a regular bases than can food. While Mari sometimes gets treats mixed into her food, sometimes she doesn’t. Her main source of nutrition is Blue Dog Food. I don’t mind paying a few extra bucks because it’s her primary source of food, and it’s well balanced.

• Can food is occasional. I mix a few scoops in with her dry food, and she loves it. Again, I opt for Blue only. She enjoys the canned food, and because it’s just mixed in it lasts (remember, she is small). We only go through two cans a month.

• Chicken Breast! Ever been to the meat department and saw “manger special” on meat they have to get rid of quick? Well snag that chicken up, boil with no seasoning, and chop it up. Place it in a plastic baggie and mix a small handful in with the dog’s food, and they’ll love you! Plus you’ll know exactly what your pooch is eating!

• Boiled eggs and sardines! My dog loves boiled eggs! Not only are they full of nutrition, they are cheaper than canned food! Think about it… you can grab a dozen eggs on sale from Walgreens for a buck. You can feed you large dog 12 servings (mixed in with dry food) or 24 servings for a smaller dog. Seriously, how could it be any cheaper? As for the sardines: because they are so potent I can feed my dog 3-4 times from one can. Sardines are great to help you dog have a shiny coat. People think cats are the only ones that like fish…. not true!

Following these tips I have a happy, healthy, lean-mean Mini-Pin machine! And I honestly spend no more than $15 on her food per month (with treats, but that’s a whole other article)!

Remember these suggestions are based on personal opinion and experiences.

I am not a trained animal dietitian.