10 Homemade Dog Food Recipes Every Dog Parent Should Know

Dogs are part of the family, and while you only want to feed your kids the very best foods, the same goes for our pups.

We’ve all read about the scary dog food recalls and some sketchy things that go into lower-grade dog foods. If you buy quality dog food, you’re fine. But it can be comforting to know exactly what is going into your dog’s food. That’s why some pup parents make their dog food from scratch.

In this article, we’ll explore 10 delectable and nutritious homemade dog food recipes that cater to your dog’s dietary needs and add a dash of variety to their daily dining experience.

From protein-packed delights to vegetable-rich stews, these recipes are designed to keep your canine companion healthy, happy, and tail-waggingly satisfied.

1. Turkey & Veggie Dog Food Recipe

Natural, human-grade ingredients like ground turkey, carrots, broccoli, and zucchini make this a healthy homemade dog food recipe packed with good-for-you nutrients.

Information:

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Yield: 8 servings
• Course: Pet Meals and Treats
• Cuisine: Pet Recipes
• Author: Gale Compton

Ingredients:

• 2 pounds lean ground turkey
• 2 tablespoons chicken liver, finely diced
• 2 medium carrots, coarsely chopped
• 1 cup green beans, diced
• 1 cup cauliflower florets
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions:

1. Add 1 1/2 cups water to a double boiler. Place vegetables in a steam basket over the pot and cover. Heat until boiling, then reduce heat to a low-boil and steam until veggies are tender, about 10 minutes.
2. In the meantime, add the ground turkey and diced chicken liver to a large skillet. Cook on medium-high heat until the turkey is thoroughly done. Drain off any fat and discard.
3. Chop the steamed veggies or pulse them in a food processor. Add the chopped or processed veggies to the cooked turkey.
4. Add the olive oil to the turkey and veggie mixture, and toss everything together. Allow the mixture to cool before dividing it into freezer-safe containers.

NOTE: Freezer-safe bags are great for freezing individual meals. Before tossing them into the freezer, make sure to label each bag with the date of preparation and name of the meal. The serving size for each meal will depend on the breed and weight of your dog. Check with your vet regarding how much to feed your dog on a daily basis. Always allow time to defrost each meal in the refrigerator the night before serving.

 

2.   DIY Dog Food

Cheaper than store-bought dog food, this recipe from DamnDelicious combines ground turkey, brown rice and lots of veggies. It’s easier on your wallet and on your dog’s tummy.

Information

• Title: Nutrient-Rich Homemade Dog Food Recipe
• Yield: 8 cups
• Prep: 10 minutes
• Cook: 45 minutes
• Total: 55 minutes

Keep your dog healthy and fit with this easy-to-make homemade recipe, which is cost-effective and packed with fresh veggies for optimal nutrition!

Ingredients:

• 1 ½ cups brown rice
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 3 pounds ground turkey
• 3 cups baby spinach, chopped
• 2 carrots, shredded
• 1 zucchini, shredded
• ½ cup peas, canned or frozen

Instructions:

1. In a large saucepan, bring 3 cups of water to a boil and cook the brown rice according to package instructions. Set aside once cooked.
2. Heat the olive oil in a large stockpot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the ground turkey and cook until browned, approximately 3-5 minutes. Be sure to crumble the turkey as it cooks.
3. Stir in the chopped baby spinach, shredded carrots, shredded zucchini, peas, and the cooked brown rice. Continue cooking until the spinach has wilted, and the entire mixture is heated through, about 3-5 minutes.
4. Allow the homemade dog food to cool completely before serving to your furry friend.

This DIY homemade dog food recipe is a nutritious blend of brown rice, lean ground turkey, and a medley of fresh vegetables. Ensure your dog’s health and well-being with this wholesome and flavorful meal, made with love right in your own kitchen.

 

3. Make-Ahead Chicken Stew for Dogs Recipe

Your pup will love this chicken stew for dogs, made with wholesome ingredients like chicken, apples, carrots, green beans, and peas. Our dog food recipes are human-grade, so feel free to take a bite. This make-ahead recipe is easy to freeze, too.

Divide the stew into freezer-safe bags or containers, defrost in the fridge, and serve. Arf, Arf!

Information

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 5 hours
• Total Time: 5 hours 5 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings
• Course: Pet Meals and Treats
• Cuisine: Pet Recipes

Ingredients:

• 3 pounds boneless and skinless chicken thighs
• 1/4 cup chicken livers
• 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
• 1 cup frozen green beans
• 1 apple, cored, seeds removed, and cut into quarters
• 2 to 3 cups water
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 1/3 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions:

Slow Cooker Method:

1. Add all ingredients, except peas, parsley, and olive oil, to the slow cooker. Use just enough water to cover the ingredients.
2. Cover and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or high for 4 to 5 hours. About 15 minutes before turning off the slow cooker, add peas and parsley.

Stove Top Method:

1. Add all ingredients, except peas, parsley, and olive oil, in a large pot. Use enough water to cover the ingredients.
2. Bring to a boil and reduce to a simmer. Cover and cook on low for 1 hour or until carrots are tender and chicken is cooked through. About 15 minutes before turning off, add peas and parsley.
3. Allow ingredients to cool slightly. Using a slotted spoon, transfer ingredients and olive oil to a mixing bowl.
4. Mash with a fork or potato masher, or use a food processor, depending on the preferred consistency. Pulse in the food processor about 3 to 4 times for a canned dog food-like texture.
5. Allow the mixture to cool completely before dividing it into freezer-safe ziplock bags or containers.

Make-Ahead: The dog food mixture can be divided and stored in individual freezer-safe ziplock bags. Frozen baggies should be defrosted in the fridge overnight. The serving size will depend on the size and breed of your dog. If you’re unsure of how much to feed your dog, check with your vet first.

Nutrition Information:

• Calories: 353kcal

 

4. One for The Vegans | Vegan Dog Food

Here’s an interesting twist on homemade dog food. This completely vegan version has only four ingredients – quinoa, bananas, frozen peas and sweet potatoes – creating a simple, clean dish for dogs.

Ingredients: makes 2 servings

• 1 large sweet potato
• 1 cup frozen peas, cooked according to directions on package
• 2/3 cups uncooked quinoa + 1 1/3 cup water (yields 2 cups cooked)
• 1 banana, sliced

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400F.
2. Line baking sheet with tin foil.
3. Pierce sweet potato with a fork multiple times around the sweet potato.
4. Place on baking sheet and bake for one hour.
5. While sweet potato is baking, cook quinoa: Bring quinoa and water to a boil in stockpot. Lower temperature and simmer, covered, for about 15 minutes.
6. Chop sweet potatoes into small pieces when cooled.
7. Combine quinoa, sweet potatoes, peas, and banana, and separate into 3 equal servings.
8. Serve to your pup and watch them enjoy!

• Calories per serving: 422
• Equipment you’ll need: stock pot, baking sheet

 

5. Instant Pot Homemade Dog Food Recipe

The instant pot speeds up cooking times by 2-10x and uses up to 70 percent less energy. If you have one, use it to make this nutritious homemade dog food recipe. And if you don’t have one, consider purchasing one – you’ll get more use out of it than you’d ever imagine!

Information

• Course: Household & Health
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 12 minutes
• Total Time: 27 minutes
• Author: Lindsey Dietz

Ingredients:

• 3 cups white basmati rice
• 3 cups pure water
• 3 tablespoons raw apple cider vinegar or whey
• 3 pounds ground meat (beef, chicken, turkey, venison, or bison)
• 1 pound pastured beef livers or chicken livers (optional, but preferred)
• 36 ounces veggies (various fresh, can use frozen)
• 1 1/2 cups bananas or blueberries (optional)
• 6 tablespoons coconut oil
• 6 tablespoons ground flaxseed

Instructions:

1. Several hours before you plan to make the dog food, soak the rice in water with whey or apple cider vinegar. Strain the rice, measuring the amount of water left after soaking, and set aside.
2. Press the Saute button on the Instant Pot. Add the ground meat and break it up, along with the liver if using. Cook the meat and liver until they are about half-way browned, avoiding complete browning to prevent burning during the subsequent cooking steps.
3. Once the meat and liver are half-way browned, add the soaked rice and water according to the directions mentioned earlier. Stir the meat, rice, and cooking water together.
4. Add the veggies on top, but do not mix them in.
5. Place the lid on the Instant Pot, ensuring it is locked, and the vent is sealed. Change the setting to Manual and adjust the time to 12 minutes.
6. When the Instant Pot beeps, carefully turn the vent to release the pressure. You may want to place a towel over the steam to protect yourself and your kitchen from any sputtering steam.
7. Open the Instant Pot and add the fruit (if using) and the coconut oil. Stir everything together thoroughly.
8. Store the homemade dog food in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks or freeze for up to 3 months.

Discover and experience the convenience of making nutrient-packed dog food in your Instant Pot with this easy recipe. Your canine companion will love the flavorful combination of meat, rice, veggies, and essential nutrients.

 

6.   Crockpot Chicken Dog Food Recipe

Information

• Prep Time: 20 mins
• Cook Time: 8 hours
• Category: Dog food
• Cuisine: Canine
• Total Time: 8 hours 20 mins

Ingredients:

• 1 cup brown rice
• 2 cups water
• 1/2 lb. green beans, broken into segments
• 1 medium sweet potato, raw, cut into medium-sized chunks (leave skin on)
• 3 carrots, sliced into about 1” thick rounds
• 2 boneless chicken breasts (with or without skin)

Instructions:

1. Put all ingredients into the crockpot in the order given, layering them without mixing.
2. Cook on low for about 8 hours or on high for about 5 hours.
3. When done, stir the mixture, breaking up the chicken into small pieces. Everything will be quite soft.
4. Let the dog food cool before serving.
5. Refrigerate any unused portion; it keeps for up to three days.

This easy chicken and rice dog food recipe is tailored for pups with allergies or sensitive tummies. Using the convenience of a crockpot, this nutrient-packed meal features brown rice, green beans, sweet potato, carrots, and boneless chicken breasts.

Before transitioning your pet entirely to homemade food, it’s essential to consult with your veterinarian. Give your furry friend a wholesome and delicious dining experience with this homemade crockpot dog food.

 

7. Homemade Dog Beef Stew

An easy one-pot recipe, this homemade dog beef stew is straightforward and simple to make and will provide your dog with lots of healthy nutrients.

Information

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes

NOT MEDICAL ADVICE This is just what has worked for us with our dog. Seek the advice of your veterinarian for any dietary changes.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef, chicken, or turkey
• 1 large potato or sweet potato, diced
• 1 medium carrot, diced
• ½ cup frozen peas
• Water

Instructions:

1. Saute the meat in a large pot until no longer pink. Do not drain the fat, as it provides healthy fats for your pooch. If you chose a leaner meat like chicken or turkey, add a couple of tablespoons of coconut oil for additional fats.
2. Add in the diced potatoes and carrots.
3. Pour in just enough water to cover the vegetables. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, and simmer for 20 minutes or until the vegetables are cooked.
4. Stir in the frozen peas. Optionally, add a little sea salt for flavor.
5. Allow the stew to cool before serving. Refrigerate or freeze any extra portions.

This homemade beef stew dog food recipe is a delicious and nutritious option for your canine companion. Made with ground beef, potatoes, carrots, and peas, it provides a balanced meal that your dog will love.

Remember, this recipe is based on personal experience and not medical advice; consult your veterinarian for any dietary changes for your furry friend.

 

8. DIY Dog Food for Diabetic Dogs

Unfortunately, some dogs, especially older or overweight ones, develop diabetes. Fortunately, there are things you can do to help with their health, like feed them this homemade dog food recipes developed especially for diabetic dogs.

Welcome to Ruby’s Diner! This homemade diabetic dog food recipe has been crafted with love, serving as a low glycemic option to help control canine diabetes.

Information:

• Servings: 18 quarts
• Author: Joanne Becotte

Ingredients:

• 28 cups water
• 1 bag (4 pounds) chana dal, rinsed
• 2 bags (1 pound each) brown lentils, rinsed
• 2 bags (1 pound each) black-eyed peas, rinsed
• 2 bags (1 pound each) green split peas, rinsed
• 1 pound pearl barley, rinsed
• 5 pounds boneless chicken breasts, cut into ½-inch cubes
• 1 pound ground turkey
• 1 can (29 ounces) Libby’s 100% Pure Pumpkin
• 2 bags (16 ounces each) frozen broccoli cuts
• 2 bags (16 ounces each) frozen crinkle-cut carrots
• 2 bags (16 ounces each) frozen green beans
• 2 packages (10 ounces each) frozen chopped spinach

Instructions:

1. Pour water into a 20-quart pot. Bring to a boil over high heat.
2. Add chana dal, brown lentils, black-eyed peas, green split peas, and barley. Reduce heat to medium, stirring occasionally.
3. Cut and add chicken breast.
4. Add ground turkey.
5. Stir in pumpkin.
6. Add in the frozen vegetables. If your pot cannot accommodate all the vegetables, add as much as possible, and thaw the rest to be added before storage.
7. Reduce heat to medium-low, stirring occasionally until most of the water is absorbed. Let the mixture stand and cool before storing.

Recipe Notes:

Serving Size: This recipe is based on a 48-pound dog eating four cups of Ruby Stewbie and one cup of dry food daily. For example, for a 20-pound dog, approximately 1 1/2 cups of Stewbie and roughly 1/2 cup of dry food daily.

Calculate a comparable amount for your dog’s weight by substituting the bold amount in the formula above.

 

9. Turkey and Brown Rice Homemade Dog Food Recipe

This homemade dog food is easy to make with ground turkey, rice, and vegetables. I have made my own dog food ever since my dogs were puppies — 4 years now! You can also add it to their kibble. They love it!

Information:

• Prep Time: 5 mins
• Cook Time: 25 mins
• Total Time: 30 mins
• Servings: 5
• Yield: 10 cups

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground turkey
• 6 cups water
• 2 cups brown rice
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• ½ (16 ounce) package frozen broccoli, carrots, and cauliflower combination.

Instructions:

1. Place ground turkey, water, rice, and dried rosemary into a large Dutch oven. Stir until the ground turkey is broken up and evenly distributed throughout the mixture. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 20 minutes.
2. Add the frozen broccoli, carrots, and cauliflower combination, and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
3. Remove the Dutch oven from heat and allow the mixture to cool.
4. Refrigerate the homemade dog food until ready to use.

This homemade dog food recipe combines the goodness of ground turkey, brown rice, and a medley of vegetables for a balanced and flavorful meal. With a quick and easy preparation, your furry friend will enjoy this wholesome treat that’s packed with essential nutrients. Ensure your pup’s well-being with this Turkey and Brown Rice Delight.

 

10. Lucky and Rippy’s Favorite Dog Food

This boiled chicken and rice for dogs recipe has been reviewed and approved by my vet. Due to the pet food recall, I submitted this for other dog owners looking for a soft pet food alternative.

This healthy recipe for dogs can be cut in half for smaller dogs. Combined with a kibble, this recipe lasts about 4 to 5 days for two large golden retrievers. Be sure that your vegetable mix contains no garlic or onions.

Information:

• Prep Time: 15 mins
• Cook Time: 35 mins
• Additional Time: 1 hr
• Total Time: 1 hr 50 mins
• Servings: 12
• Yield: 12 cups

Ingredients:

• 3 pounds minced chicken meat
• 4 cups rice
• 2 ½ cups frozen vegetable blend (no garlic or onions), minced
• 6 ½ cups water

Instructions:

1. Gather all ingredients.
2. Place minced chicken, rice, and minced vegetables into a large saucepan or Dutch oven. Stir in water until smooth. Place over medium-high heat and bring to a boil, stirring constantly.
3. Reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed, approximately 25 minutes.
4. Cool the dog food completely before serving. Store covered in the refrigerator.

Treat your furry friends to Lucky and Rippy’s Favorite Chicken and Rice Dog Food, a delicious and nutritious homemade recipe that combines minced chicken, rice, and a flavorful vegetable blend.

With a simple preparation process, this recipe ensures a balanced meal for your dogs, contributing to their overall well-being. Cool completely before serving and store covered in the refrigerator for a delightful treat every time.

 

Conclusion

In crafting these diverse and nutritious homemade dog food recipes, we’ve embraced the joy of providing our canine companions with flavorsome meals.

From the wholesome Ground Turkey and Chicken & Rice delights to the specialized Diabetic

Dog Food and Ruby Stewbie, each recipe offers love, care, and a tail-wagging dining experience.