8 Vet-Approved Homemade Dog Food Recipes

1. Chicken And Rice

This recipe is a classic for a reason! It's gentle on the stomach and provides essential nutrients. If your dog is feeling under the weather or has a sensitive tummy, this could be a great option. It's also a good choice for dogs recovering from an illness.

Here's why it works:

• Chicken provides lean protein, which is important for muscle development and overall health.
• Rice is a easily digestible carbohydrate source for energy.
• You can easily add other ingredients like carrots and peas for extra vitamins and minerals.

I remember when my old dog, Buster, had a bout of stomach issues. The vet recommended a bland diet of chicken and rice, and it worked wonders! It's simple, but effective. I've tweaked the recipe over the years to add a few more nutrients, but the base remains the same. It's a comforting and reliable meal for my furry friends.

When preparing this recipe, make sure the chicken is fully cooked and shredded. Brown rice is generally preferred over white rice because it offers more fiber. You can also add a small amount of fish oil for a healthy coat. Remember to let the food cool down before serving it to your dog. This is one of the most popular homemade chicken dog food recipes for a reason!

2. Beef And Sweet Potato

Okay, so this recipe is all about giving your dog a protein and vitamin boost. It's a good choice if you have a super active dog. The combo of beef and sweet potato is supposed to be great for their immune system and help build muscle. I know my border collie, Max, could definitely use some extra muscle!

Here's a simple breakdown of what you'll need:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 cup mashed sweet potatoes
• 1/2 cup chopped green beans
• 1/2 cup oats
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1/2 cup blueberries (optional, but why not?)

Instructions are pretty straightforward:

1. Brown the ground beef in a skillet, making sure there's no pink left. Drain off any extra fat. Nobody wants greasy dog food.
2. Boil the sweet potatoes until they're soft, then mash 'em up. I usually leave the peel on because, you know, extra nutrients.
3. Steam the green beans until they're tender. Steaming helps keep all the good stuff inside.
4. Mix everything together in a big bowl. Add the olive oil for some healthy fats. If you're feeling fancy, toss in those blueberries.

I've heard that a sprinkle of turmeric can be good for older dogs because it helps with inflammation. Might be worth a try if your furry friend is getting up there in years.

I actually tried this recipe last week, and both my dogs seemed to really enjoy it. I did add a little bit of butternut squash, too, just to mix things up. I'm hoping it helps with their allergies. I portioned it out, about 2 cups for my 40lb dog and 1 cup for my little 10lb guy. First dinner was a success! If your dog has attention required, this recipe might be a good option.

3. Turkey And Pumpkin

This recipe is great if your dog has a sensitive stomach. It uses turkey, a lean protein, and pumpkin, which is good for digestion and can help with constipation. It's a simple recipe that's easy to make at home.

This recipe is an ideal dietary option for dogs who experience stomach sensitivity.

Here's what you'll need:

• 1 lb ground turkey (lean protein, good for muscles)
• 1/2 cup pumpkin puree (helps digestion)
• 1/2 cup carrots (grated, adds vitamins A and K)
• 1/2 cup spinach (chopped, has iron and antioxidants)
• 1 tbsp flaxseed oil (omega-3s for skin and coat)
• 1/2 cup cooked brown rice (fiber and carbs for energy)

Instructions:

1. Cook the ground turkey in a pan over medium heat until it's no longer pink. Drain any extra grease.
2. Add the pumpkin puree, grated carrots, and chopped spinach to the pan and heat for a few minutes.
3. Mix in the cooked brown rice and stir until everything is well combined.
4. Drizzle with flaxseed oil before serving.
5. Store leftovers in the fridge for up to four days.

If your dog has allergies, you can swap the turkey for lean fish or chicken. Also, you can add a sprinkle of turmeric for senior dogs, as it works as an anti-inflammatory support.

If you're looking for more information, you might want to check out a guide on how to safely cook turkey for your dogs.

4. Northwest Holistic Pet Care

This recipe comes with permission from Donna Kelleher, DVM of Northwest Holistic Pet Care. It's designed for a 20 lb dog, but remember to adjust based on your dog's individual needs. Always keep an eye on their weight and activity level to make sure you're feeding them the right amount. A lazy dog will need less than a super active one.

Here's what you'll need:

• 8 ounces ground organic turkey thigh (boneless)
• 2 tbsp ground organic turkey organ meat (liver, gizzards, hearts)
• ¼ c finely grated organic veggies
• 1 tsp ground raw sunflower seeds
• ½ tsp organic coconut oil
• ½ tsp salmon oil
• 500 mg Calcium Citrate (must include this!)

Calcium Citrate is non-negotiable. It's super important for your dog's health, so don't skip it!

Remember, these are just guidelines. Every dog is different, so pay attention to how they're doing and adjust accordingly. You might even want to check out Dr. Donna's book, "Zen and the Art of Caring for Pets", for more tips.

5. MSPCA-Angell Sample

The MSPCA-Angell offers a sample recipe tailored for a typical 15-pound adult dog without any health issues. They present it as a potential choice for pet owners interested in preparing meals at home. This recipe is designed to be nutritionally complete for long-term feeding when prepared and served as directed.

It's a good idea to use a kitchen scale to measure the ingredients, at least until you get a feel for the right amounts. You can find these scales at most grocery stores. Make sure to mix everything well so your dog doesn't just pick out their favorite parts. If the ingredients separate, your dog might not get all the nutrients they need.

Here's a breakdown of the cooked weights and daily amounts for each ingredient, specifically for a 15-pound adult dog at their ideal weight:

• Cooked Rice: 150 grams
• Cooked Chicken (no skin, no bones): 75 grams
• Cooked Mixed Vegetables: 75 grams

Many people like to make food in larger batches and then keep it in the fridge or freezer in individual portions. This can save you time and effort. However, it's a good idea to start with smaller amounts to see how your dog reacts to the diet.

According to MSPCA-Angell, a 15-pound dog needs about 443 kcal per day. This recipe has about 1.51 kcal per gram, so a dog should eat around 300 grams of this food each day. Keep in mind that this is just an estimate, and every dog is different. If you think your dog needs more or less food, adjust the amount accordingly, but don't change it by more than 25% at a time. Weigh your dog every week to make sure they're maintaining a healthy weight. Always consult with your vet before making significant changes to your dog's diet. If you are concerned about the security verification, consult with your vet.

6. Homemade Puppy Food

Making your own puppy food can be a great way to ensure your little one gets the best possible nutrition. It's all about providing the right balance of nutrients to support their rapid growth and development. However, it's super important to consult with your vet before switching to a homemade diet, especially for puppies. They can help you create a recipe that meets your puppy's specific needs.

Here are some things to keep in mind when making homemade puppy food:

• Protein: Puppies need a lot of protein for muscle development. Good sources include lean meats like chicken, turkey, and beef.
• Carbohydrates: Carbs provide energy. Rice, sweet potatoes, and oatmeal are good options.
• Fats: Healthy fats are important for brain development and overall health. Consider adding fish oil or flaxseed oil.
• Calcium: Crucial for bone growth. Your vet can advise on the right amount and whether supplementation is needed.

Remember, a puppy's nutritional needs are different from an adult dog's. They require more calories and specific nutrients to support their growth. Always double-check with your vet to make sure your homemade recipe is complete and balanced. You can also look into dog nutrition for more information.

7. Ground Turkey, Rice, And Vegetables

Okay, so this one is super simple and a total crowd-pleaser for my pups. I've been making this for years, and they still gobble it up like it's the best thing ever. Plus, it's a great way to sneak in some extra veggies. I usually make a big batch and then freeze it in portions, so I always have some on hand. It's way cheaper than buying fancy dog food, and I know exactly what's going into it.

This recipe is easy to customize based on what you have in the fridge or what your dog likes (or doesn't like!).

Here's a basic rundown of what I use:

• 1 pound ground turkey
• 6 cups water
• 2 cups brown rice
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary (optional, but I think it adds a nice flavor)
• 1/2 (16 ounce) package frozen mixed vegetables (broccoli, carrots, cauliflower – whatever you like)

I usually throw everything into a big pot – ground turkey, water, rice, and rosemary. I break up the turkey and stir it all together. Then, I bring it to a boil, turn down the heat, and let it simmer for about 20 minutes. After that, I add the frozen veggies and cook for another 5-10 minutes until they're tender. Some people like to process the frozen veggies separately, but I'm too lazy for that.

Honestly, the best part about this recipe is how forgiving it is. Don't have brown rice? Use white rice. Dog doesn't like broccoli? Throw in some peas or green beans. It's all good. Just make sure everything is cooked thoroughly and cooled down before you serve it to your furry friend.

Here's a quick look at the nutritional benefits:

Ingredient	Benefit
Ground Turkey	Protein
Brown Rice	Fiber, carbohydrates
Mixed Vegetables	Vitamins, minerals, antioxidants

My dogs absolutely love this stuff, and I feel good knowing I'm feeding them something healthy and homemade. Plus, it's way cheaper than buying those expensive dog food brands. Give it a try – your pups will thank you!

8. The 8 Best Natural Dog Foods

Okay, so you've been experimenting with homemade dog food, which is awesome! But let's be real, sometimes life gets hectic, and you just need a reliable, store-bought option. That's where natural dog foods come in. Finding the right one can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack, but it's worth it to ensure your furry friend is getting the nutrients they need.

It's important to remember that every dog is different. What works wonders for one might not be the best choice for another. Always consult with your vet before making significant changes to your dog's diet.

Here are some things to consider when choosing a natural dog food:

• Ingredient Quality: Look for foods with real meat, whole grains, and recognizable fruits and vegetables. Avoid artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives.
• Life Stage: Puppy, adult, or senior? Make sure the food is formulated for your dog's specific life stage.
• Specific Needs: Does your dog have allergies or sensitivities? There are plenty of limited-ingredient diets available. For example, if your dog has a sensitive stomach, you might want to consider chicken and rice dog food.

Wrapping Things Up

So, making your dog's food at home can be a real game-changer for their health and happiness. It lets you pick out good stuff, tweak their meals for their age or any health issues, and skip all those weird additives you find in store-bought food. Plus, it can save you some cash in the long run. Just remember, getting the right balance of nutrients is super important.

Don't forget to keep your pet safe and sound at home, Fairybaby has been making dog gates for over a decade, and if you need any safety gates, feel free to contact us.

Always chat with your vet before you switch up your dog's diet, even if you're using these vet-approved recipes. They can help make sure your furry friend gets exactly what they need to stay healthy and full of energy.