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Prairie Dog DietIn the wild, prairie dogs live on low grade grasses and an occasional insect. Their bodies were built for this kind of low-fat, low-protein diet which does not change just because we bring them into our homes. Most only drink small amounts of water but you should rinse and change their water bottle at least once a week. (don't wait till it's empty to give fresh water) Hay should be your prairie dog's main staple food and be available to them all the time. There are several different types of hay but the most common type is Timothy Hay. Most types are ok, except Alfalfa, and a little variety is good. Unfertilized and chemical-free grass should also be given free-choice. An occasional treat (usually no more than once a week) is relished by your prairie dog. Sweet potatoes, broccoli, kale, carrots, and romaine lettuce are a few veggies that are safe and enjoyed. When giving treats, keep the portions small. Low-sugar cereals like Cheerios make good treats for rewarding and training. Again, only small portions. Young prairie dogs need a little more protein than adults so a few small pieces of low-fat dry dog food every other day is ok. Nuts and seeds are high in fat and should not be given. Corn can also lead to problems and should also be avoided. Dairy products are not recommended either. Monkey biscuits and lab blocks are not recommended. Monkey biscuits are high in fat. Lab blocks are also high in fat and some contain corn. Giving extra treats is not a suitable substitute for your time and can be harmful to your prairie dog's health. While there may be exceptions (due to illness, etc..), the closer you stay to their natural diet the better! There is still so much to learn about these little critters. If you have any suggestions or objections regarding the diet outlined above, please contact me. Important Note: The information given on this site has been derived from communication with other prairie dog owners and my own personal experience. This page is not a replacement of advice from a certified veterinarian. A vet should always be your first line of information. Preferably one experienced with prairie dogs. This site is copyrighted in it's entirety.© 
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