When it comes to our furry friends, we want to make sure they’re getting the best possible nutrition. Commercial dog foods can be expensive and often contain additives and preservatives that we’d rather not feed our dogs. That’s why making your own homemade dog food is a great option. Not only can you control what goes into each meal, but you can also tailor it to your dog’s specific needs and preferences.
In this article, we’ll explore 18 healthy homemade dog food recipes that are vet-approved and delicious. From classic chicken and rice to more exotic options like venison and quinoa, there’s something for every pup on this list. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a culinary newbie, these recipes are easy to follow and require minimal cooking time.
Stay tuned for the first few recipes, which feature protein-packed chicken, beef, and turkey as the main ingredients.
Chicken and Rice Homemade Dog Food
This recipe provides a nutritious and balanced meal for your furry friend, using wholesome ingredients like chicken and rice. With just a few simple steps, you can create a delicious and healthy homemade dog food that your dog will love.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (such as green beans, carrots, and peas)
– 1/4 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1 tablespoon flaxseed oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook the chicken in a baking dish until fully cooked, about 30 minutes.
3. Mix cooked rice, mixed vegetables, and pumpkin puree together in a separate bowl.
4. Once the chicken is cool, chop it into small pieces and add it to the rice mixture.
5. Stir in flaxseed oil for added nutrition.
6. Serve immediately or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes (plus prep time)
Beef and Sweet Potato Stew for Dogs
This wholesome stew is a delicious and nutritious treat for your furry friend. Made with tender beef, sweet potatoes, and carrots, it’s a perfect blend of flavors that will surely delight their taste buds.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound lean beef (such as top round or sirloin), cut into small pieces
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 2 medium-sized carrots, peeled and sliced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 1 cup water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt-free seasoning blend (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the beef in olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened.
4. Add the sweet potatoes, carrots, and water. Season with salt-free seasoning blend if desired.
5. Transfer the pot to the preheated oven and bake for 1 hour and 15 minutes or until the sweet potatoes are tender.
6. Remove from the oven and let cool completely before serving.
Cooking Time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Turkey and Veggie Medley Dog Food
This recipe combines lean turkey with a colorful medley of vegetables to create a nutritious and delicious dog food that’s perfect for mealtime. With its unique blend of flavors and textures, your furry friend is sure to love it!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless turkey breast
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, zucchini, green beans, and peas)
– 1/2 cup cooked brown rice
– 1/4 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1 teaspoon fish oil
– 1 egg
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine turkey breast, mixed vegetables, and cooked brown rice.
3. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
4. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and bake for 25 minutes or until the turkey is cooked through.
5. Remove from oven and let cool completely.
6. Add canned pumpkin puree, fish oil, and egg to the cooled mixture. Mix well.
7. Serve warm or refrigerate for up to 3 days.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Salmon and Quinoa Dog Food Recipe
This recipe combines the omega-rich salmon with protein-packed quinoa, creating a healthy and flavorful dog food that’s perfect for your furry friend.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked salmon (boneless and skinless)
– 2 cups cooked quinoa
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (such as carrots, green beans, and peas)
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1 teaspoon flaxseed oil
– 1/2 teaspoon dried kelp powder
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked salmon, quinoa, mixed vegetables, and olive oil. Mix well.
3. Spoon the mixture onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Drizzle flaxseed oil and sprinkle dried kelp powder on top.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until lightly toasted.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Servings: 1/4 cup per serving
This recipe makes approximately 6 servings. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Enjoy!
Lamb and Brown Rice Dog Meal
A nutritious and flavorful dog meal recipe that combines the benefits of lamb with the fiber-rich goodness of brown rice, perfect for a healthy and happy pup.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless lamb shoulder or shanks
– 2 cups cooked brown rice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (such as carrots, green beans, and peas)
– 1 teaspoon dried parsley
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the lamb and cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes.
3. Transfer the lamb to a baking dish and top with mixed vegetables.
4. Cook the lamb in the preheated oven for 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until cooked through.
5. Serve the lamb with cooked brown rice and sprinkle with dried parsley.
Cooking Time: 1 hour and 20 minutes
Pumpkin and Oatmeal Dog Food
This recipe combines the natural digestive benefits of pumpkin with the fiber-rich goodness of oatmeal to create a nutritious and delicious dog food. Perfect for dogs with sensitive stomachs or skin allergies, this recipe is easy to make and can be customized to your pup’s individual needs.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1 egg
– 1 teaspoon fish oil
– 1/4 teaspoon flaxseed oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, combine cooked chicken breast, rolled oats, and pumpkin puree.
3. Crack in the egg and mix until fully incorporated.
4. Add fish oil and flaxseed oil, and stir well.
5. Spoon the mixture into an 8×8 inch baking dish lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until lightly golden brown.
7. Allow the mixture to cool completely before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chicken and Carrot Homemade Dog Food
This recipe provides a balanced and delicious homemade dog food option using chicken and carrots as main ingredients. With just a few simple steps, you can create a healthy meal for your furry friend.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 large carrots, chopped
– 1/4 cup brown rice
– 1/4 cup finely ground oats
– 1 egg
– 1 teaspoon fish oil (optional)
– Salt-free seasoning blend (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Place the chicken on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, steam the chopped carrots until tender.
5. In a large bowl, combine the cooked chicken, steamed carrots, brown rice, oats, egg, fish oil (if using), and salt-free seasoning blend (if using). Mix well.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Beef and Barley Dog Food Stew
A nutrient-rich stew perfect for a cold winter’s day, this recipe combines tender beef with wholesome barley and vegetables to create a delicious and healthy meal for your furry friend.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef (such as chuck or round), cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 cup pearled barley
– 1 medium carrot, chopped
– 1 medium potato, peeled and diced
– 1 teaspoon dried kelp flakes (optional)
– Salt-free seasoning blend (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine the beef, beef broth, barley, carrot, potato, and kelp flakes (if using).
2. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 1 hour.
3. Season with salt-free seasoning blend (if using) and continue to simmer for an additional 30 minutes or until the beef is tender.
4. Serve warm, and store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Cooking Time: 2 hours
Turkey and Spinach Dog Food Recipe
This recipe makes a nutritious and delicious dog food that combines the protein-rich turkey with the healthy benefits of spinach. Your furry friend will love this treat!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground turkey breast
– 1 cup cooked spinach, chopped
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup finely chopped carrots
– 1 egg
– 1 teaspoon fish oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, chopped spinach, rolled oats, and chopped carrots.
3. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
4. Add the egg and mix until the mixture is smooth.
5. Spoon the mixture onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Drizzle the fish oil over the top of the mixture.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Fish and Potato Homemade Dog Food
Nourish your furry friend with this easy-to-make, wholesome recipe that combines the benefits of fish and potatoes for a healthy and happy pup.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound of cod or haddock fillets
– 2-3 large potatoes, peeled and chopped
– 1 tablespoon of olive oil
– 1 teaspoon of dried kelp powder (optional)
– Salt-free seasoning blend (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Place the fish fillets on the prepared baking sheet and drizzle with olive oil.
4. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the fish is cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, boil the chopped potatoes in salted water until they’re tender.
6. Drain the potatoes and let them cool completely.
7. Once the fish and potatoes are both cooled, mash the potatoes and mix with the cooked fish.
8. Add kelp powder and seasoning blend (if using) to the mixture for added nutrition.
Cooking Time: Approximately 25-30 minutes
This recipe makes about 4 cups of dog food, which can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months. Always consult with your veterinarian before introducing new foods into your dog’s diet.
Venison and Rice Dog Food
This homemade dog food recipe combines lean venison with nutritious brown rice and healthy vegetables to create a balanced and delicious meal for your furry friend.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless venison (deer meat)
– 2 cups cooked brown rice
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (such as carrots, peas, and green beans)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried kelp powder
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Season the venison with salt and pepper.
3. Place the venison on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and roast for 30 minutes, or until cooked through.
4. Cook the brown rice according to package instructions.
5. Steam the mixed vegetables until tender.
6. Mix the cooked venison, brown rice, and steamed vegetables together in a large bowl.
7. Add the olive oil and kelp powder, stirring well to combine.
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 4-6 servings
Chicken and Green Bean Dog Meal
A healthy and tasty meal perfect for your furry friend! This recipe combines the protein-rich chicken with green beans, a crunchy and nutritious vegetable, making it a great treat for your dog.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cups fresh or frozen green beans
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon honey
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Place the chicken on the prepared baking sheet and drizzle with olive oil.
4. Roast the chicken in the oven for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, steam the green beans in a microwave-safe bowl with 1 tablespoon of water for 2-3 minutes or until tender.
6. In a small bowl, mix together honey and green beans. Set aside.
7. Once the chicken is done, let it cool slightly before chopping into bite-sized pieces.
8. Combine the cooked chicken and green beans in a single serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Beef and Pumpkin Dog Food Recipe
This recipe combines tender beef with nutritious pumpkin, providing a delicious and healthy meal for your furry friend. With this easy-to-make formula, you can ensure your dog gets the nutrients they need to thrive.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup cooked, mashed pumpkin
– 1 cup whole wheat flour
– 1/4 cup finely chopped carrots
– 1/4 cup plain yogurt
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 egg
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, cooked pumpkin, whole wheat flour, chopped carrots, and honey. Mix well.
3. Add the plain yogurt and mix until a dough forms.
4. Roll out the dough to about 1/4 inch thickness.
5. Cut into desired shapes or use a cookie cutter.
6. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until lightly browned.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Turkey and Rice Homemade Dog Food
This recipe provides a nutritious and delicious homemade dog food option that combines the protein-rich flavor of turkey with the comforting simplicity of rice. This recipe is perfect for dogs of all ages and breeds, including puppies, adult dogs, and seniors.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground turkey
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (such as peas, carrots, and sweet potatoes)
– 1 tablespoon flaxseed oil
– 1 teaspoon dried kelp powder
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, cooked rice, mixed vegetables, flaxseed oil, and dried kelp powder. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
3. Spoon the mixture into an 8-inch square baking dish or airtight container.
4. Cook for 20-25 minutes, or until the food is heated through and slightly browned on top.
5. Allow the food to cool completely before serving to your dog.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Salmon and Sweet Potato Dog Food
This recipe provides a nutritious and delicious meal option for your furry friend, combining the omega-rich benefits of salmon with the fiber and vitamins from sweet potatoes.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked salmon (boneless and skinless)
– 2 large sweet potatoes
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried kelp powder (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Wash and poke some holes in the sweet potatoes.
3. Bake the sweet potatoes for 45-50 minutes, or until they’re soft and easily pierced with a fork.
4. While the sweet potatoes are baking, mix the cooked salmon with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of kelp powder (if using).
5. Once the sweet potatoes are done, let them cool slightly before mashing them in a bowl.
6. Add the salmon mixture to the mashed sweet potatoes and mix well.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Yield: Approximately 4-6 servings depending on serving size
Lamb and Lentil Dog Food Stew
A hearty, wholesome stew perfect for canine companions. This recipe combines the nutritious benefits of lamb with the fiber-rich goodness of lentils.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless lamb shoulder or neck, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the lamb pieces and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the lentils, chicken broth, and chopped parsley. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Yield: 2-3 cups of stew, perfect for serving as a treat or adding to your dog’s regular meals.
Chicken and Broccoli Dog Food
This recipe is a nutritious and delicious treat for your dog, made with chicken breast and broccoli, two ingredients that are rich in protein and fiber.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 1 cup whole wheat flour
– 1/4 cup rolled oats
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine the chicken breast, broccoli florets, and whole wheat flour. Mix well.
3. Add the rolled oats, egg, and olive oil to the bowl. Mix until a dough forms.
4. Roll out the dough to about 1/4 inch thickness.
5. Cut into bite-sized pieces or shapes of your choice.
6. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through and lightly browned.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Beef and Carrot Homemade Dog Food
Nourish your furry friend with this wholesome recipe, packed with protein-rich beef and sweet carrots.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound lean ground beef (90% or higher)
– 2 medium-sized carrots, peeled and chopped
– 1 cup cooked brown rice
– 1/4 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1 teaspoon fish oil (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, chopped carrots, cooked brown rice, and canned pumpkin puree.
3. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
4. Spoon the mixture into an 8×8 inch baking dish or muffin tin.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the meat is fully cooked and the carrots are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Yield: Approximately 2 pounds of dog food (suitable for small to medium-sized dogs)
Summary
Discover 18 healthy homemade dog food recipes that are vet-approved and delicious! From chicken and rice to beef and sweet potato, these easy-to-make meals are tailored to your furry friend’s dietary needs. With ingredients like quinoa, oats, and green beans, you’ll be creating balanced meals that will keep your pup happy and healthy. Try the Chicken and Rice Homemade Dog Food, Beef and Sweet Potato Stew for Dogs, or Turkey and Veggie Medley Dog Food – there’s something for every canine companion. Get started today and give your dog the gift of a nutritious homemade diet!
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