Making homemade dog food is a wonderful way to ensure your furry friend gets meals full of love and nutrition. Many pet owners are adopting this approach to personalize what goes into their dogs’ dishes.
Yet, there’s an important aspect that shouldn’t be overlooked: how you store that fresh food. Storage containers might seem simple, but they can hide potential dangers. By being aware of these hidden risks, you can make sure your homemade meals stay safe and healthy for your dog.
Table of Contents
1) Moisture buildup
When storing homemade dog food, moisture can be a sneaky issue. You might not see it at first, but moisture can creep in over time. This can happen when the container’s seal isn’t airtight, or when it’s opened and closed a lot.
Moisture can cause the food to spoil faster. This means your dog’s food might not stay fresh as long as you expect.
Too much moisture can also lead to mold growth. Mold is not just gross; it can be harmful to your furry friend.
Make sure to check your containers regularly. Keep them dry and sealed properly to avoid any yucky surprises.
By regularly checking for signs of moisture, you’ll help keep your dog’s food safe and tasty. A little attention now can save trouble later.
2) BPA Contamination
When storing homemade dog food, BPA is a concern. This chemical, found in some plastics, might seep into the food.
Using storage containers with BPA could harm your furry friend. It is important to choose BPA-free options.
Glass containers are a safe alternative. They keep food fresh while avoiding chemicals. Always check labels for BPA-free assurance.
3) Pests and rodents
When storing your homemade dog food, pests and rodents might become a pesky problem. These critters are attracted to the smell of food and can easily find their way to containers that aren’t sealed properly.
Make sure your storage containers are sturdy and airtight. This helps keep the smell of food in and pests out.
It’s important to check your containers regularly for any signs of damage like cracks or holes. Even a tiny opening can be an invitation for unwanted guests.
Consider storing your dog food containers in a cool and dry place. Pests and rodents often search for warm spots with easy access to food. Keeping them sealed and stored away can reduce this risk. Little steps can help keep your pup’s meals safe.
4) Plastic leaching
When you store homemade dog food in plastic containers, some chemicals in the plastic can seep into the food.
Even though this might seem minor, it is important because certain chemicals can be harmful to your dog’s health over time.
BPA is one chemical often found in plastics. It’s linked to potential health problems. You might not notice any changes in your dog right away, but exposure over time could lead to issues.
To protect your furry friend, consider using glass or stainless steel containers. These materials are safer and don’t release harmful chemicals. They also keep food fresh longer.
5) Improper sealing
Improperly sealed containers can cause problems with your dog food. If the seal isn’t tight, air and moisture can get inside. This can spoil the food faster.
Mold can grow more easily in containers that aren’t sealed well. This isn’t just gross—it can be dangerous for your dog.
If you notice cracks or weak spots in the container, it might not seal properly. Consider replacing it if it doesn’t keep the air out. Using tape or clamps to secure the lid can help, but make sure it’s airtight so the food stays fresh.
6) Expired food residues
When storing homemade dog food, it’s important to watch for expired food residues. These residues can build up in containers if not cleaned properly. They may encourage mold and bacteria growth, which can spoil new food added to the container.
Always clean storage containers thoroughly before refilling them. This prevents leftover residues from past meals that could make your dog sick.
Use hot, soapy water to wash away old food bits and any microbes lingering behind.
Regular checks are vital. Check for any unpleasant smells or moldy bits, even if you’ve just cleaned the container. This ensures your dog’s meals are always fresh and safe to eat.
7) Mold Formation
Mold can grow in dog food storage containers, especially if the containers are not sealed tightly. Moisture trapped inside creates a perfect environment for mold to thrive. This can affect the quality of the food and may even make your dog sick.
To prevent mold, make sure your storage containers are dry before adding food. Clean them regularly to remove any residue that might encourage mold growth.
It’s also a good idea to store them in a cool, dry place.
If you notice any signs of mold, like a musty smell or visible spots, it’s best to stop using that food right away.
Proper Storage Techniques
Keeping your dog’s food fresh and safe is important. Focusing on temperature control and choosing the right containers can help prevent spoilage and contamination.
Temperature Control
The temperature at which you store your dog’s food can make a big difference.
Always keep the food in a cool, dry place. This helps prevent mold and bacteria growth. Avoid storing food near the stove, oven, or in direct sunlight.
Refrigeration can be useful for perishable foods. Check that your fridge is at the right temperature. Safe storage usually means a temperature below 40°F (4°C).
Storing in a garage or outdoor shed where temperature varies can lead to spoilage. Make sure the storage area is consistent.
Choosing the Right Containers
Using the right containers will keep the food fresher longer.
Choose airtight containers. They help keep out moisture and pests.
Glass or stainless steel containers are ideal for preventing odor absorption and are easy to clean. Avoid flimsy plastic bags that might tear.
Make sure containers are labeled with the food’s expiration date. This keeps track of freshness and helps maintain a regular rotation.
Avoid storing food in its original bag unless it is in another container or has a resealable feature.
Signs of Spoiled Food
Recognizing when dog food has spoiled is important for your pet’s health. There are several signs to help you identify if the food is still safe.
Unusual Odors
One of the first things you might notice is a strange smell. Fresh dog food typically has a mild or neutral scent.
When it goes bad, it can produce strong, unpleasant odors.
Smells like sour milk or rotten eggs often indicate spoilage. Trust your nose—if it doesn’t smell right, don’t feed it to your dog.
Visible Mold or Discoloration
Another sign to watch for is mold. Spoiled food may develop fuzzy spots or strange patterns of color.
Mold can be white, green, or even black, and it usually spreads quickly.
Discoloration, like patches of gray or brown, can also be a warning sign.
Always examine the food closely and be sure it’s safe before serving it to your pet.
Health Risks of Poor Storage
Improper storage of dog food can lead to serious health risks for your furry friend.
When food is not stored correctly, mold can develop. Mold can make your dog feel very sick, causing vomiting and diarrhea.
Another problem is bacteria. If food storage containers aren’t cleaned well, bacteria can grow. Bacteria can make your pet sick, leading to stomach upset or more severe problems.
Plastic containers might also pose a risk. Some plastics can leach harmful chemicals into the food. Make sure to use BPA-free containers to keep your dog safe.
Here’s a simple checklist:
- Use airtight containers.
- Choose BPA-free materials.
- Clean the containers regularly.
- Store in a cool, dry place.
My name is Danny Jackson and I’m the CEO and Chief Editor behind Petloverguy.com. After spending a decade working with vets and private clients as an animal behavioral and nutritional specialist I co-founded Pet Lover Guy to help other pet parents learn how to interact with, and make the most of the time that they spend with their adopted and rescued best pet friends.
Working with Ella, our chihuahua rescue, we seek to help all dog and cat lovers have the happiest life possible.
