What to Feed Your Dog if You Run Out of Dog Food
Whether you're dealing with a natural disaster, supply shortages, or you simply forgot to restock, running out of your dog’s regular food can be stressful. Fortunately, there are safe and nutritious human food alternatives that can be used during such emergencies. This guide explores what you can feed your dog in a pinch, what to avoid, and how to prepare emergency meals that support your dog’s health.
Safe Human Foods for Dogs
In the absence of commercial dog food, consider these safe and dog-friendly options:
- Cooked, lean, unseasoned meats: chicken, turkey, beef, or lamb (remove skin, fat, and bones)
- Cooked eggs: boiled or scrambled without added salt, dairy, or spices
- Grains: cooked white or brown rice, cooked oatmeal
- Vegetables: carrots, green beans, peas, broccoli, spinach, and pumpkin (all cooked and unseasoned)
- Fruits: bananas, blueberries, strawberries, apples (peeled and deseeded)
- Plain peanut butter: small amounts without xylitol, salt, or added sugar
These foods can act as temporary substitutes and provide essential nutrients. However, portions should be moderate and new ingredients should be introduced slowly to prevent digestive upset.
Foods Dangerous for Dogs
Some human foods are toxic or harmful to dogs. Avoid feeding your dog any of the following:
- Grapes, raisins, or currants
- Chocolate, caffeine, and alcohol
- Onions, garlic, leeks, and chives
- Macadamia nuts and other high-fat nuts
- Avocados, rhubarb, mushrooms
- Cooked bones (risk of splintering and internal injury)
- Raw or green potatoes
- Fatty, processed, or heavily seasoned meat products
- Yeast dough and foods with xylitol or artificial sweeteners
- Excessively salty or sugary foods
Homemade Emergency Meal Example
Here is a simple balanced meal option for a 20-pound dog:
- 1/4 pound cooked, boneless, skinless chicken
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1 cup finely chopped peas and carrots (steamed)
Mix and cool before serving. Plain fruit like a few slices of banana or peeled apple can be offered as treats.
Store-Bought Emergency Rations
Preparing in advance ensures you're not caught off guard. Several brands offer ready-to-use emergency rations formulated for dogs:
- SOS Food Lab K9er Pet Food Rations: Chicken-based, complete for all life stages
- Mayday Emergency Dog Food Rations: Lightweight with up to 5 years of shelf life
- Ready America Emergency Survival Pet Food: Balanced nutrition for dogs and cats
These products are shelf-stable, vacuum-sealed, and suitable for storage in a pet emergency kit or for travel.
Water Is Just as Important
Store enough clean drinking water for at least 3 days—about 1 ounce of water per pound of your dog's body weight each day. Include collapsible bowls and remember water for any medications or dry food you plan to carry.
Emergency Preparedness Tips
- Build a pet emergency kit: food, water, medications, bowls, can opener, health records, and comfort items
- Have a buddy system: Arrange with neighbors or friends for pet care support
- Identify safe shelters: Find nearby pet-friendly hotels or emergency shelters
- Update your dog's ID: Ensure tags and microchips are current
- Practice in advance: Test emergency meals so your pet adjusts easily
How to Transition Back to Regular Food
Once your dog's regular food is available again, transition gradually by mixing it with the emergency diet over several days. Sudden changes in diet can lead to vomiting, diarrhea, or food refusal.
Signs of Food Intolerance
If your dog shows signs such as vomiting, lethargy, abdominal pain, or diarrhea after a diet change, consult your veterinarian promptly. For dogs with health conditions, consider commercial bland diets or vet-recommended meal plans as interim options.
Conclusion
A short-term lack of dog food doesn’t have to compromise your pet's health. With a plan that includes safe human food options, emergency rations, and proper storage, you can ensure your dog remains nourished and safe during any unexpected situation.
