In the realm of pet care, the well-being of our furry companions is of utmost importance. As conscientious pet owners, we often seek ways to enhance our dogs’ health and happiness. One fundamental aspect of their care is nutrition, and many pet owners are increasingly turning to homemade dog food recipes to ensure their four-legged friends receive the best possible nourishment.
Providing vet-approved homemade dog food can offer several benefits for your canine companion. However, working closely with your veterinarian is crucial to ensure that the homemade diet meets your dog’s specific nutritional needs.
Customize the diet to meet specific dietary needs, ideal for dogs with allergies or medical conditions.
Control the quality of ingredients, opting for fresh and wholesome choices while avoiding artificial additives and fillers.
Adjust the diet based on age, size, breed, activity level, and health condition.
Address sensitivities by eliminating or substituting ingredients, potentially reducing gastrointestinal issues.
Precise control over calorie content and portion sizes, aiding in managing weight-related issues.
Fresh ingredients may make homemade diets more appealing, especially for picky eaters.
This can be cost-effective with bulk and seasonal ingredient purchases, though supplement costs should be considered.
A hands-on approach strengthens the bond between the owner and the dog.
Top 10 Homemade Dog Food Recipes Vet Approved
Chicken and Rice Delight
Turkey and Quinoa Feast
Beef and Sweet Potato Stew
Salmon and Potato Surprise
Vegetarian Delight
Pork and Barley Bliss
Egg and Oatmeal Medley
Chicken Liver Delight
Venison and Pumpkin Extravaganza
Duck and Pea Paradise
Disclaimer: Before changing your dog’s diet, please consult a qualified veterinarian to ensure it suits your pet’s specific health needs, age, and breed. Every dog is unique, and individual dietary requirements may vary.
1. Chicken and Rice Delight:
Ingredients
Type of Material
Cooking Method
Key Considerations
Safe Serving Ideas
1 cup cooked chicken (boneless, skinless)
Chicken, cutting board, knife, pot
Boil or bake chicken, cook rice separately
Ensure chicken is thoroughly cooked, remove bones
Serve in appropriate portion sizes based on dog’s size
Ingredients:
2 cups cooked chicken (boiled or baked, without bones or skin).
1 cup cooked brown rice.
1/2 cup cooked vegetables (such as carrots or green beans), finely chopped.
1 tablespoon olive oil or vegetable oil.
1/4 teaspoon salt (optional).
Instructions:
Cook the chicken thoroughly, removing any bones or skin. Shred or chop the chicken into small, bite-sized pieces.
Cook the brown rice according to the package instructions. Make sure it is plain, without any added seasonings or sauces.
Cook the vegetables until they are soft. Chop them into small, dog-friendly pieces.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, cooked rice, and cooked vegetables.
Add the olive oil to the mixture for additional healthy fats.
If desired, add a small amount of salt. However, it’s generally recommended to avoid adding salt to your dog’s food, so consult your vet before doing so.
Mix all the ingredients thoroughly until well combined.
Allow the mixture to cool before serving it to your dog.
2. Turkey and Quinoa Feast:
Ingredients
Type of Material
Cooking Method
Key Considerations
Safe Serving Ideas
1 cup cooked ground turkey
Turkey, cutting board, knife, skillet
Cook ground turkey in skillet, cook quinoa separately
Use lean ground turkey, monitor fat content
Mix with regular dog food for a balanced meal
Ingredients:
1 cup cooked turkey (ground or shredded)
1 cup quinoa (cooked)
1/2 cup carrots (cooked and finely chopped)
1/2 cup peas (cooked)
1/4 cup pumpkin puree (unsweetened)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/4 teaspoon fish oil (optional for omega-3 fatty acids)
1/4 teaspoon turmeric (optional for anti-inflammatory properties)
One egg (cooked, scrambled)
Instructions:
Cook the quinoa according to the package instructions.
In a separate pan, cook the ground turkey until fully cooked. If you’re using shredded turkey, ensure it’s cooked thoroughly.
Steam or boil the carrots and peas until they are tender.
In a large bowl, mix the cooked turkey, cooked quinoa, chopped carrots, peas, pumpkin puree, olive oil, fish oil (if using), and turmeric (if using).
If your dog enjoys eggs, you can scramble one and mix it with the rest of the ingredients. Ensure the egg is fully cooked.
Allow the mixture to cool before serving.
Serve an appropriate portion size for your dog’s size and weight.
Safe Serving Ideas:
How much you feed your dog depends on size, age, and activity level. Consult with your veterinarian to determine the appropriate portion size for your specific dog.
While this recipe provides a balanced meal, it’s essential to offer a variety of foods over time to ensure your dog gets all the necessary nutrients.
Some human foods can be toxic to dogs. Ensure you know foods that are safe for dogs and those that should be avoided.
3. Beef and Sweet Potato Stew
Ingredients
Type of Material
Cooking Method
Key Considerations
Safe Serving Ideas
1 cup cooked lean ground beef
Beef, cutting board, knife, pot
Brown ground beef in pot, add sweet potatoes
Remove excess fat, ensure beef is fully cooked
Serve as a warm stew or mix with kibble
Ingredients:
1 pound lean ground beef
1 cup sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
1/2 cup carrots, diced
1/2 cup peas (fresh or frozen)
1/2 cup green beans, chopped
4 cups low-sodium beef or chicken broth
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
1 cup brown rice (optional)
Instructions:
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
Add the ground beef and cook until browned. Make sure to break it up into smaller pieces as it cooks.
Add the sweet potatoes, carrots, peas, and green beans to the pot. Stir to combine with the ground beef.
Pour in the low-sodium beef or chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer.
If you choose to include brown rice, add it to the pot at this point. Simmer until the rice and vegetables are cooked and tender, usually around 15-20 minutes.
Once the stew is cooked, let it cool before serving it to your dog.
Optionally, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top before serving. Parsley can add some extra nutrients and freshness to the meal.
Let the stew cool completely before serving it to your dog to avoid burns.
Note: Adjust the portion sizes based on your dog’s size and nutritional needs. Permanently remove any bones if you’re using meat with bones. Additionally, be cautious of any allergies your dog may have to specific ingredients and consult with your vet if you have any concerns.
4. Salmon and Potato Surprise
Ingredients
Type of Material
Cooking Method
Key Considerations
Safe Serving Ideas
1 cup cooked salmon (boneless, skinless)
Salmon, cutting board, knife, oven
Bake or grill salmon, cook sweet potatoes
Avoid bones, ensure salmon is fully cooked
Serve as a topping on regular dog food
Ingredients:
1 cup cooked salmon (ensure it is boneless, skinless, and free of any seasonings)
2 cups cooked sweet potatoes or regular potatoes (mashed or diced)
1 cup frozen peas or green beans
1 tablespoon olive oil or fish oil (for added omega-3 fatty acids)
1/2 teaspoon powdered calcium supplement (consult your vet for the correct dosage)
1/4 teaspoon salt (optional – consult your vet on the appropriate amount)
1/2 cup plain yogurt (optional – check with your vet if your dog is lactose intolerant)
Instructions:
Cook the salmon thoroughly, removing any bones and skin. You can bake or boil it.
Cook the sweet potatoes or regular potatoes until they are soft. Mash or dice them.
Cook the frozen peas or green beans according to package instructions.
Combine the cooked salmon, mashed/diced potatoes, peas or green beans, and olive oil in a large bowl.
Add the powdered calcium supplement, salt (if used), turmeric, dried parsley, and plain yogurt (if used). Mix all ingredients thoroughly.
Allow the mixture to cool before serving.
5. Vegetarian Delight:
Ingredients
Type of Material
Cooking Method
Key Considerations
Safe Serving Ideas
1 cup cooked lentils
Lentils, pot, stove
Boil lentils, cook brown rice
Ensure lentils are soft, monitor protein intake
Mix with a small amount of dog-safe veggies
Ingredients:
2 cups cooked brown rice
1 cup cooked lentils
1 cup cooked quinoa
1 cup sweet potatoes, cooked and mashed
1 cup carrots, finely chopped or grated
1/2 cup peas (fresh or frozen)
1/4 cup chopped spinach or kale (lightly cooked or steamed)
2 tablespoons olive oil
1/2 teaspoon salt (optional)
1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder (for its potential anti-inflammatory properties)
1/4 teaspoon vitamin and mineral supplement formulated for dogs (consult your vet for the right product and dosage)
Instructions:
Cook all grains and lentils according to package instructions.
Combine the cooked rice, lentils, quinoa, sweet potatoes, carrots, peas, spinach or kale in a large mixing bowl.
Add the olive oil, salt (if using), turmeric, and the vitamin and mineral supplement. Mix well to ensure even distribution.
Allow the mixture to cool before serving to your dog.
Feeding Guidelines:
Portion sizes depend on your dog’s size, weight, and energy requirements. Consult your veterinarian to determine the appropriate amount for your specific dog.
Monitor your dog’s weight and adjust the serving size accordingly.
Introducing any new food gradually to your dog’s diet is essential to avoid digestive upset.
Regularly check with your veterinarian to ensure your dog receives adequate nutrition and adjust the diet as needed.
6. Pork and Barley Bliss
Ingredients
Type of Material
Cooking Method
Key Considerations
Safe Serving Ideas
1 cup cooked lean ground pork
Pork, cutting board, knife, pot
Brown ground pork in pot, add cooked barley
Remove excess fat, ensure pork is fully cooked
Serve in moderation due to pork fat content
Ingredients:
1 cup lean ground pork
1 cup barley, cooked
1/2 cup carrots, finely chopped
1/2 cup peas, frozen or fresh
1/4 cup spinach, finely chopped
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 cups water or low-sodium chicken broth
1/4 teaspoon salt (optional)
Instructions:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
Add the ground pork and cook it thoroughly until it’s browned. Make sure to break it into small, bite-sized pieces.
Add the chopped carrots and peas to the skillet. Cook for about 5 minutes or until the vegetables start to soften.
Stir in the cooked barley and spinach. Continue to cook for an additional 3-5 minutes until the spinach is wilted.
Pour in the water or low-sodium chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Simmer the mixture for about 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the liquid to be absorbed.
If you choose to add salt, do so at this stage. Remember that excessive salt is not suitable for dogs, so it’s best to keep it minimal.
Allow the mixture to cool completely before serving it to your dog.
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze portions for longer storage.
7. Egg and Oatmeal Medley
Ingredients
Type of Material
Cooking Method
Key Considerations
Safe Serving Ideas
2 boiled eggs (chopped)
Eggs, pot, stove
Boil eggs, cook oatmeal separately
Remove eggshells, monitor portion sizes
Mix with regular dog food for variety
Ingredients:
1 cup cooked oatmeal (plain, without added sugar or flavorings)
1 boiled or scrambled egg
1/2 cup cooked and chopped vegetables (such as carrots, peas, or green beans)
1 tablespoon plain, unsweetened yogurt (optional)
Instructions:
Cook the oatmeal according to the package instructions. Make sure it is plain and does not contain any added sugar or flavorings.
Boil or scramble the egg. If boiling, make sure it is cooked thoroughly and without any seasoning.
Cook and chop the vegetables. Suitable options include carrots, peas, or green beans. Avoid using onions, garlic, or other toxic vegetables.
In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked oatmeal, boiled or scrambled egg, and chopped vegetables.
Optionally, add a tablespoon of plain, unsweetened yogurt for an extra boost of probiotics.
Mix all the ingredients thoroughly.
Allow the mixture to cool before serving it to your dog.
8. Chicken Liver Delight
Ingredients
Type of Material
Cooking Method
Key Considerations
Safe Serving Ideas
1 cup cooked chicken liver (chopped)
Chicken liver, cutting board, knife, pan
Cook chicken liver in pan, mash cooked white potatoes
Limit liver due to high vitamin A, ensure full cooking
Serve as an occasional treat
Ingredients:
1 pound (about 450g) chicken livers, trimmed
1 cup cooked brown rice
1 medium carrot, grated
1 egg
1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).
In a pan, lightly sauté the chicken livers in olive oil over medium heat until fully cooked. Make sure there is no pink in the center.
Once the chicken livers are cooked, let them cool for a few minutes, and then chop them into small, bite-sized pieces.
Combine the cooked chicken livers, brown rice, grated carrot, and egg in a large bowl. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
Grease a baking sheet or use parchment paper to line it.
Form small balls or use cookie cutters to shape the mixture into desired shapes, placing them on the prepared baking sheet.
Bake in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes or until the treats are firm and slightly browned.
Allow the treats to cool completely before offering them to your dog.
9. Venison and Pumpkin Extravaganza:
Ingredients
Type of Material
Cooking Method
Key Considerations
Safe Serving Ideas
1 cup cooked ground venison
Venison, cutting board, knife, skillet
Cook ground venison in skillet, mix with canned pumpkin
Use lean venison, monitor fat content
Serve in moderation due to richness
Ingredients:
1 pound ground venison
1 cup canned pumpkin (make sure it’s pure pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling)
1 cup cooked quinoa or brown rice
1/2 cup finely chopped carrots
1/2 cup finely chopped green beans
1 tablespoon olive oil
One teaspoon of fish oil (for omega-3 fatty acids)
1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary (optional)
1/2 teaspoon dried parsley (optional)
Instructions:
In a large skillet, cook the ground venison over medium heat until browned. Make sure it’s thoroughly cooked to eliminate any potential bacteria or parasites.
Finely chop the carrots and green beans while the venison is cooking.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked venison, canned pumpkin, cooked quinoa or brown rice, chopped carrots, chopped green beans, olive oil, fish oil, dried rosemary, and dried parsley. Mix well to ensure an even distribution of ingredients.
Once the mixture has cooled down, you can serve it to your dog. The serving size will depend on your dog’s size and nutritional needs. Consult your vet to determine the appropriate portion for your dog.
You can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Alternatively, you can portion and freeze the food for more extended storage. Thaw frozen portions in the fridge before serving.
10. Duck and Pea Paradise
Ingredients
Type of Material
Cooking Method
Key Considerations
Safe Serving Ideas
1 cup cooked duck (boneless, skinless)
Duck, cutting board, knife, oven
Bake or grill duck, cook green peas
Ensure duck is fully cooked, avoid bones
Serve as a special treat due to richness
Ingredients:
2 cups cooked duck meat (boneless and skinless)
1 cup cooked peas (fresh or frozen)
1 cup cooked brown rice or quinoa
1/2 cup carrots, finely chopped or shredded
1/4 cup sweet potatoes, cooked and mashed
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon fish oil (for omega-3 fatty acids)
1/2 teaspoon calcium carbonate (consult your vet for the appropriate amount)
1/4 teaspoon salt (optional)
1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder (for its potential anti-inflammatory properties)
Instructions:
Cook the duck meat thoroughly, ensuring it’s boneless and skinless. You can boil, bake, or grill it. Once cooked, chop it into small, bite-sized pieces.
Cook the peas according to the package instructions if using frozen peas.
Cook the brown rice or quinoa according to the package instructions.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked duck, peas, brown rice or quinoa, chopped carrots, mashed sweet potatoes, olive oil, fish oil, calcium carbonate, salt (if using), and turmeric powder.
Mix all the ingredients well to ensure an even distribution of nutrients.
Allow the mixture to cool before serving it to your dog.
Remember:
Consult your veterinarian to ensure this recipe is appropriate for your dog’s needs, especially if your dog has allergies, sensitivities, or health issues.
This recipe is a general guideline and may need to be adjusted based on your dog’s size, age, and activity level.
Always introduce new foods gradually and monitor your dog for any adverse reactions.
Rotate ingredients occasionally to provide a variety of nutrients.