The Simple Homemade Dog Food Recipe That Changed My Pup’s Health

Name: The Simple Homemade Dog Food Recipe That Changed My Pup’s Health
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 6 servings
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 2 cups peas (frozen or fresh); 1 cup carrots (chopped); 1 pound ground turkey; 1/2 cup rice (brown or white); 4 cups chicken broth (low sodium); 1/2 cup spinach (chopped)

April 6, 2025

Recipes

I’ll be honest—when I first heard people were cooking their own dog food, I thought it sounded like way too much effort. But after one too many ingredient-label horror stories and a few conversations with our vet, I decided to give homemade dog food a try. Now? I wouldn’t have it any other way. My pup is healthier, more energetic, and honestly, mealtime has become a whole new level of connection between us.

This homemade dog food recipe is balanced, easy to prepare in big batches, and customizable based on what your dog likes (and needs). Whether you’re trying to address allergies, support a sensitive stomach, or just want more control over what your dog eats, this is a great place to start.

Why I Make My Dog’s Food from Scratch

It might sound like a lot, but making your own dog food is surprisingly manageable. Here’s why it works so well for us:

I know exactly what goes into every bowl—no fillers, no surprises.
It’s budget-friendly when you cook in batches.
Great for picky eaters or dogs with food sensitivities.
Our vet gave it a thumbs up (after we reviewed the ingredients together).

The best part? My dog loves it. She gets excited the second I open the container, and I feel better knowing I’m giving her something real.

What You’ll Need

(Serves 6–8 meals for a medium dog | Prep Time: 15 mins | Cook Time: 20–25 mins)

Ingredients:

1 1/2 cups brown rice
1 tablespoon olive oil
3 pounds ground turkey (or chicken, beef, or a mix)
3 cups baby spinach, chopped
2 carrots, shredded
1 zucchini, shredded
1/2 cup peas (frozen or fresh)

This combo offers a solid balance of lean protein, healthy carbs, and nutrient-rich veggies. It’s a great base recipe and can be adjusted based on your dog’s needs.

How I Make Homemade Dog Food (Step-by-Step)

1. Cook the Brown Rice
First, I cook the rice according to package instructions. This usually takes about 15 minutes. I make it a little on the soft side so it’s easier for my pup to digest.

2. Sauté the Ground Meat
While the rice is cooking, I heat the olive oil in a large stockpot over medium heat and brown the ground turkey (or whichever protein I’m using). I make sure to crumble it as it cooks and drain off any excess fat if needed.

3. Add the Veggies
Once the meat is browned, I stir in the spinach, carrots, zucchini, and peas. I cook everything together for about 5–7 minutes, until the vegetables are tender and everything is well combined. The spinach wilts down quickly, and the carrots and zucchini soften nicely in the heat.

4. Mix in the Rice
When the rice is ready, I add it to the pot and stir until everything is evenly distributed. I let it cool completely before portioning it out.

5. Store and Serve
Once cooled, I divide the food into meal-sized portions and store them in the fridge for up to 4 days. I also freeze extra portions in airtight containers for up to 3 months. A quick thaw in the fridge overnight or a few seconds in the microwave (not hot—just room temp!) and it’s ready to serve.

My Tips for Homemade Dog Food Success

Start slow: If your pup is switching from kibble, I introduce the new food gradually over several days.
Always cool before serving: Hot food can upset sensitive tummies.
Use lean meats: Turkey, chicken, and lean beef are easier on digestion.
Chop or shred veggies finely: Makes them easier to digest and mix.
Talk to your vet: Especially for long-term feeding—your dog might need added supplements depending on their breed, age, and activity level.

Optional Add-Ins and Variations

Once I had the base recipe down, I started tailoring it to my pup’s preferences. Here are a few things I rotate in:

Pumpkin puree: Great for digestion and adds a creamy texture.
Sweet potatoes: A nice carb boost and vitamin source.
Blueberries: I’ll toss a few in raw when serving (dogs love them).
Boiled egg: Chopped and stirred in for extra protein.
Fish oil or a vet-recommended multivitamin: For healthy skin and coat.

When I Make This Recipe

I usually make a double batch on Sunday evenings while prepping meals for myself. It takes less than an hour, and then I don’t have to think about dog meals for the rest of the week. It’s also perfect for:

Transitioning off commercial food
Feeding older dogs with chewing or stomach issues
Helping dogs with allergies or food sensitivities
Special occasions (yes, my dog gets “holiday” meals too)

FAQs About Homemade Dog Food

Q: Can I serve it hot or cold?
A: I always serve it room temperature. If it’s been refrigerated, I let it sit out or microwave it for a few seconds to take the chill off. Dogs have sensitive mouths—hot food can burn.

Q: Is this a complete diet?
A: For most healthy adult dogs, yes—but I recommend checking with your vet about adding supplements like calcium or omega-3s, especially for long-term feeding.

Q: Can I freeze it?
A: Definitely! I portion it into containers or freezer-safe bags and thaw as needed.

Q: What if my dog doesn’t like veggies?
A: Chop them small and cook until soft—they usually blend right in with the meat and rice. My dog was skeptical at first, but now she doesn’t even notice.

Q: Can I use white rice instead of brown?
A: You can! Brown rice has more fiber and nutrients, but white rice is gentler on sensitive stomachs.

Final Thoughts

Making homemade dog food sounded intimidating at first—but now, it’s just part of my routine. I feel good knowing exactly what’s in my dog’s bowl, and she’s thriving with more energy, a shinier coat, and better digestion.

If you’re ready to take a more hands-on approach to your pup’s meals, this recipe is a great starting point. Easy, nourishing, and tail-waggingly good—it’s love in a bowl.