5 Nutritious Homemade Dog Food Recipes for a Happy Dog

1. Homemade Dog Food for a 20‑lb Dog

This recipe was developed by Northwest Holistic Pet Care for a 20‑lb dog. It features lean protein from organic turkey along with organ meats and finely grated vegetables to provide a balanced mix of essential nutrients.

Ingredients:

• 8 oz. ground organic turkey thigh (boneless)
• 2 tbsp ground organic turkey organ meat (a mix of liver, gizzards, and hearts)
• ¼ cup finely grated organic vegetables (such as carrots or zucchini)
• 1 tsp ground raw sunflower seeds
• ½ tsp organic coconut oil
• ½ tsp salmon oil
• 500 mg Calcium Citrate (or an approved calcium supplement)

Instructions:

1. Blanch the vegetables briefly in boiling water and set aside.
2. Gently cook the ground turkey thigh and organ meat over medium-low heat until most of the meat turns white yet some pink remains (to preserve moisture and nutrients).
3. Pulse the blanched vegetables in a food processor until they’re finely grated.
4. In a bowl, combine the cooked meats, grated vegetables, sunflower seeds, coconut oil, salmon oil, and calcium supplement.
5. Allow the mixture to cool completely before serving it to your dog.

Reference: Get recipe at The Spruce Pets

2. Healthy Homemade Dog Food Recipe

This recipe is designed for pet owners looking for a nutrient-dense meal using high-quality, organic ingredients. It incorporates lean protein with a variety of vegetables and a touch of healthy fats to support your dog’s energy and coat health.

Ingredients:

(Adjust quantities as needed for your dog’s size.)

• 2 lbs organic grass-fed ground beef
• 1 cup cubed butternut squash
• 1 cup chopped broccoli
• ½ cup diced carrots
• 1 tbsp coconut oil

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a skillet, heat the coconut oil over medium heat and cook the ground beef until it’s browned.
3. Add the butternut squash, broccoli, and carrots; sauté for 5–7 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften.
4. (Optional) For extra tenderness and nutrient retention, transfer the mixture to a baking dish and warm in the oven for 10–15 minutes.
5. Let the dish cool completely before serving. Use as a full meal or as a supplement to your dog’s regular food.

Reference: Get recipe at The Fitnessista

3. Homemade Chicken, Sweet Potato & Pumpkin Dog Food

This simple, hearty recipe uses everyday ingredients to create a balanced meal. It combines lean chicken with sweet potatoes, pumpkin puree, and rice to offer a comforting dish that supports healthy weight and coat condition.

Ingredients:

• 6 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or a mix with ground turkey)
• 6 cups cooked brown (or white) rice
• 2 medium sweet potatoes, roasted until tender and mashed
• 6 (14 oz.) cans pure pumpkin puree (plain, not pie filling)

Instructions:

1. Boil or bake the chicken until thoroughly cooked; then chop or shred into bite-sized pieces.
2. Prepare the rice according to package instructions (using the cooking water from the chicken can boost flavor and nutrition).
3. Roast the sweet potatoes at 400°F for about 1 hour until soft, then peel and mash them.
4. In a large mixing bowl, combine the chicken, rice, mashed sweet potatoes, and pumpkin puree. Mix until evenly blended.
5. Allow the mixture to cool completely before serving. Store leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator or freezer.

Reference: Get recipe at Family Food on the Table

4. Homemade Grain-Free Organic Dog Food

Ideal for dogs with grain sensitivities, this organic recipe provides a balanced mix of fresh produce and lean meat. The use of olive and coconut oils adds healthy fats, while the blend of fruits and vegetables supplies antioxidants and fiber.

Ingredients:

• 3 lbs organic carrots, chopped
• 3 lbs organic apples, peeled, cored, and chopped
• 4 lbs green beans, trimmed and chopped
• 2 packages (16 oz. each) organic frozen blueberries
• 1 lb organic baby spinach
• ¾ cup olive oil (divided)
• ¾ cup coconut oil (divided)
• 3 lbs lean ground beef (85% lean, organic if available)
• 2 (15 oz.) cans pumpkin puree

Instructions:

1. In a large stockpot, heat 1 tablespoon each of olive and coconut oil. Sauté the chopped carrots for about 5 minutes until they begin to soften.
2. Add the apples, green beans, blueberries, and spinach. Continue to cook on low heat for an additional 5–10 minutes until all the produce is tender.
3. In a separate skillet, brown the ground beef until it’s fully cooked, then add it to the pot.
4. Stir in the pumpkin puree along with the remaining oils, mixing thoroughly to combine all the flavors.
5. Allow the mixture to cool completely before dividing into portions for serving or freezing.

Reference: Get recipe at Allrecipes

5. Kitchen Fun With My 3 Sons: Homemade Dog Food

This family-friendly recipe uses accessible ingredients to create a nutritious dog food that can be prepared in large batches. It’s a versatile recipe that can be adjusted with available leftovers and is ideal for busy households.

Ingredients:

(The original recipe may vary in quantities; refer to the source for specific measurements.)

• Cooked chicken (breasts or thighs), shredded
• A variety of vegetables (such as carrots, green beans, and sweet potatoes), chopped
• A carbohydrate source (like brown rice or potatoes), cooked
• Optional: A small portion of fruit (such as apples or blueberries) for extra vitamins

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, combine the shredded chicken with your choice of chopped vegetables.
2. Add the pre-cooked carbohydrate (rice or potatoes) and stir to blend the ingredients evenly.
3. If using fruit, mix in chopped apples or blueberries toward the end of cooking.
4. Simmer gently until the entire mixture is heated through and the flavors meld together.
5. Let the food cool completely before dividing into serving portions. This recipe works well when prepared in bulk and frozen for later use.

Reference: Get recipe at Kitchen Fun With My 3 Sons