11 Instant Pot Dog Food Recipes Ready in 20 Minutes

You can’t go wrong with a classic! This recipe is the go-to for many vets when a dog has an upset tummy, and for good reason. It’s gentle, easily digestible, and provides a great balance of lean protein and simple carbohydrates. Using chicken thighs adds a bit more flavor and healthy fat than breasts, but either will work wonderfully.

Ingredients:

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into chunks
• 1 cup white rice, rinsed
• 4 cups water or low-sodium chicken broth
• 2 carrots, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup green peas (frozen is fine)

Instructions:

1. Place the chicken, rinsed rice, chopped carrots, and water/broth into the Instant Pot.
2. Stir everything together gently.
3. Secure the lid, set the valve to ‘Sealing’, and cook on High Pressure for 15 minutes.
4. Once the timer goes off, let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then perform a quick release for any remaining pressure.
5. Stir in the green peas (the residual heat will cook them perfectly). Let it cool completely before serving.

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

This is the perfect starter recipe for any pet parent new to homemade dog food. It’s also an ideal meal for dogs recovering from a bout of digestive upset or for those who simply thrive on a simple, clean diet.

For the active pup who needs sustained energy, this grain-free beef and sweet potato stew is a powerhouse of nutrition. Beef provides iron and protein for muscle development, while sweet potatoes offer complex carbs, fiber, and a host of vitamins. It’s a rich, satisfying meal that will have your dog licking the bowl clean.

Ingredients:

• 1.5 lbs beef stew meat, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1 large sweet potato, peeled and diced
• 1 cup chopped green beans
• 4 cups water or low-sodium beef broth
• 1 tbsp olive oil or coconut oil

Instructions:

1. Set the Instant Pot to ‘Sauté’ mode and add the oil. Brown the beef cubes on all sides.
2. Turn off ‘Sauté’ mode. Add the sweet potato, green beans, and water/broth to the pot. Scrape the bottom to get any browned bits.
3. Secure the lid, set the valve to ‘Sealing’, and cook on High Pressure for 20 minutes.
4. Allow a full natural pressure release (about 15-20 minutes). This ensures the beef is fall-apart tender.
5. Stir, let it cool completely, and serve.

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

This recipe is tailor-made for active, medium-to-large breed dogs that need calorie-dense, muscle-building meals. It’s also a fantastic grain-free option for pups with sensitivities to rice or other grains.

If you’re watching your dog’s waistline or have a pup that’s less active, this lean turkey and quinoa recipe is a fantastic choice. Ground turkey is a lower-fat protein, and quinoa is a complete protein seed (not a grain!) packed with fiber and amino acids. Spinach adds a nice boost of iron and vitamins.

Ingredients:

• 1.5 lbs ground turkey
• 1 cup quinoa, rinsed thoroughly
• 4 cups water or low-sodium turkey/chicken broth
• 2 cups fresh spinach
• 1/2 cup chopped zucchini

Instructions:

1. Place the ground turkey, rinsed quinoa, zucchini, and water/broth into the Instant Pot. Break up the turkey with a spoon.
2. Secure the lid, set the valve to ‘Sealing’, and cook on High Pressure for 18 minutes.
3. When the cycle is complete, do a quick release of the pressure.
4. Open the lid and stir in the fresh spinach. The heat will wilt it down in a minute or two.
5. Let it cool completely before serving to your eager pup.

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

This is an excellent meal for senior dogs, less active breeds, or any dog on a weight management plan. The combination of lean protein and nutrient-dense quinoa provides satisfaction without excess calories.

Want to give your dog a shiny, luscious coat? This salmon recipe is your secret weapon. Salmon is loaded with Omega-3 fatty acids, which are incredible for skin and coat health, reducing inflammation, and supporting brain function. This is one of the quickest recipes on our list, making it perfect for a busy day.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb skinless salmon fillet, cut into large chunks
• 1 cup brown rice, rinsed
• 4 cups water
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 1 tbsp flaxseed oil (optional, for extra Omega-3)

Instructions:

1. Place the rinsed brown rice and water in the Instant Pot.
2. Lay the salmon chunks on top of the rice. Do not stir.
3. Secure the lid, set the valve to ‘Sealing’, and cook on High Pressure for 12 minutes.
4. Let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes, then do a quick release.
5. Open the lid, add the frozen peas, and flake the salmon with a fork, mixing everything together. Drizzle with flaxseed oil if using.
6. Cool completely before serving.

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

Ideal for any dog that could use a boost in skin and coat health. It’s particularly beneficial for breeds prone to skin issues or for senior dogs who can benefit from the anti-inflammatory properties of Omega-3s.

Lamb is a fantastic protein source that’s full of flavor and often well-tolerated by dogs with other protein allergies. Paired with barley, a chewy and fiber-rich grain, this recipe is built for dogs who live an active lifestyle. Rosemary adds a hint of flavor and has antioxidant properties, but make sure to use it sparingly.

Ingredients:

• 1.5 lbs lamb stew meat, cubed
• 1 cup pearl barley, rinsed
• 4 cups low-sodium beef or lamb broth
• 1 cup diced carrots
• 1 tsp dried rosemary (optional)

Instructions:

1. Place all ingredients—lamb, barley, broth, carrots, and rosemary—into the Instant Pot.
2. Give it a good stir to combine.
3. Secure the lid, set the valve to ‘Sealing’, and cook on High Pressure for 20 minutes.
4. Allow a full natural pressure release to ensure the lamb is extra tender.
5. Stir well, break up any large pieces of lamb, and let it cool completely before serving.

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

This is a fantastic meal for high-energy dogs, working breeds, or underweight dogs that need a calorie-dense diet. Its rich flavor also makes it a hit with picky eaters who turn their noses up at poultry.

Pork and apple is a classic flavor combination that humans love, and it’s a hit with dogs, too! This recipe offers a different flavor profile to keep mealtime exciting. The small amount of apple adds a touch of natural sweetness and fiber. Just be sure to use plain ground pork, not seasoned sausage meat.

Ingredients:

• 1.5 lbs ground pork
• 1 cup brown rice, rinsed
• 1 apple (like a Gala or Fuji), cored and finely chopped
• 1/2 cup chopped celery
• 4 cups water

Instructions:

1. Add the ground pork, rinsed rice, chopped apple, celery, and water to the Instant Pot. Use a spoon to break up the pork.
2. Stir everything to combine.
3. Secure the lid, set the valve to ‘Sealing’, and cook on High Pressure for 18 minutes.
4. When finished, perform a quick pressure release.
5. Stir well to fully incorporate all the ingredients. Let it cool down completely.

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

This recipe is a winner for the discerning canine palate. If your dog is getting bored with their usual chicken or beef, this sweet and savory pork dish is sure to reignite their interest in dinner.

Whether you’re looking for a meat-free meal to rotate into your dog’s diet or your pup has multiple protein sensitivities, this lentil recipe is a lifesaver. Lentils are packed with plant-based protein, fiber, and iron. Combined with a medley of dog-friendly veggies, it’s a surprisingly hearty and nutritious dish.

Ingredients:

• 1.5 cups brown or green lentils, rinsed
• 1 sweet potato, peeled and diced
• 2 carrots, chopped
• 1 cup chopped spinach
• 5 cups vegetable broth (ensure it’s onion and garlic-free)

Instructions:

1. Combine the rinsed lentils, diced sweet potato, chopped carrots, and vegetable broth in the Instant Pot.
2. Secure the lid, set the valve to ‘Sealing’, and cook on High Pressure for 15 minutes.
3. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, followed by a quick release.
4. Stir in the chopped spinach until it wilts.
5. Mash slightly with a potato masher for a better consistency and allow it to cool fully.

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

This is the perfect recipe for dogs with severe allergies to common animal proteins. It’s also a great way to add a ‘light’ meal into their weekly rotation to give their digestive system a break from rich meats.

Don’t let the smell fool you; sardines are one of the best foods you can feed your dog! They are tiny powerhouses of Omega-3s, Vitamin D, and calcium (from the edible bones). This recipe is incredibly fast and easy on the wallet. Using canned sardines in water with no added salt is key.

Ingredients:

• 2 cans (3.75 oz each) sardines in water, undrained
• 1 cup quick-cooking oats (not instant)
• 3 cups water
• 1/2 cup finely chopped parsley (for fresh breath!)

Instructions:

1. Pour the water and oats into the Instant Pot.
2. Secure the lid, set the valve to ‘Sealing’, and cook on High Pressure for 3 minutes.
3. Yes, just 3 minutes! Then, let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes.
4. Open the pot and stir in the two cans of sardines (with their water) and the chopped parsley.
5. Mash everything together with a fork. Let it cool completely.

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

This isn’t an everyday meal for most, but it’s an absolutely fantastic food topper or supplemental meal a few times a week. It’s perfect for any dog needing a joint, skin, or brain health boost on a budget.

Duck is another excellent novel protein, making it a great choice for dogs with food sensitivities. It’s naturally rich and flavorful. Pairing it with pumpkin puree creates a meal that is not only delicious but also incredibly soothing for the digestive system. Pumpkin is a well-known remedy for both constipation and diarrhea, making this a go-to for tummy troubles.

Ingredients:

• 1.5 lbs boneless duck breast, fat trimmed and cubed
• 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) pure pumpkin puree (not pie filling)
• 4 cups water

Instructions:

1. Place the duck cubes, rinsed quinoa, and water into the Instant Pot.
2. Secure the lid, set the valve to ‘Sealing’, and cook on High Pressure for 20 minutes.
3. Allow a full natural pressure release. This is important for making the duck tender.
4. Open the lid and stir in the can of pumpkin puree until it’s fully combined and has a stew-like consistency.
5. Allow to cool completely before serving.

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

This is the ultimate meal for a dog with a sensitive stomach or multiple food allergies. The combination of novel protein and digestive-aiding pumpkin makes it gentle, nutritious, and highly palatable.

Perfect for a chilly morning or for a senior dog who needs a soft, comforting meal. This porridge-like dish is warm, easy to eat, and packed with soluble fiber from the oatmeal, which is great for digestive health and keeping a dog feeling full. Blueberries add a fantastic antioxidant boost.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground chicken
• 1 cup rolled oats (not instant)
• 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 1/2 cup blueberries (fresh or frozen)

Instructions:

1. Combine the ground chicken, oats, and chicken broth in the Instant Pot. Break up the chicken with a spoon.
2. Secure the lid, set the valve to ‘Sealing’, and cook on High Pressure for 15 minutes.
3. Perform a quick pressure release.
4. Stir in the blueberries. The heat will soften them slightly.
5. Let the porridge cool to a safe temperature before serving. It will thicken as it cools.

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

This recipe is a warm hug in a bowl, making it perfect for senior dogs with dental issues, dogs recovering from illness, or any pup who just deserves a cozy, comforting meal.

Organ meats are incredibly nutrient-dense, and beef liver is the king. It’s packed with Vitamin A, iron, and B vitamins. A little goes a long way! We’re pairing it with nutrient-rich kale and brown rice for a true ‘superfood’ meal. Because liver is so rich, this is best served as a smaller meal or a topper.

Ingredients:

• 1/2 lb beef liver, cut into small pieces
• 1 lb ground beef (85/15)
• 1 cup brown rice, rinsed
• 2 cups kale, finely chopped
• 4 cups beef broth

Instructions:

1. Place the ground beef, beef liver, rinsed rice, and beef broth into the Instant Pot.
2. Secure the lid, set the valve to ‘Sealing’, and cook on High Pressure for 12 minutes.
3. Perform a quick pressure release.
4. Stir in the finely chopped kale. The residual heat will wilt it perfectly.
5. Mix everything thoroughly and let it cool completely before serving.

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

This is a nutrient-boosting powerhouse meal. It’s ideal for highly active dogs, dogs needing an iron boost, or as a supplemental meal to add incredible nutritional value to any dog’s diet. Always start with small portions.

Switching to homemade dog food is an amazing act of love, but it’s not as simple as just tossing meat and veggies in a pot. A balanced diet is crucial for your dog’s long-term health. Here are a few key things to keep in mind before you start your culinary journey.

1. Talk to Your Vet

This is the most important step. Every dog is an individual with unique nutritional needs based on their age, breed, size, activity level, and health status. Your veterinarian or a veterinary nutritionist can help you ensure the recipes you choose are appropriate and balanced for your specific dog. They can also recommend essential supplements.

2. The Importance of Balance

A balanced canine diet typically consists of:

• High-Quality Protein: Muscle meat, poultry, fish.
• Complex Carbohydrates: Brown rice, quinoa, sweet potatoes, barley for energy and fiber.
• Healthy Fats: From the protein source, or added via fish oil or flaxseed oil for skin, coat, and brain health.
• Vitamins & Minerals: Found in vegetables like carrots, peas, spinach, and pumpkin.
• Calcium: Essential for bone health. Commercial foods add it, but homemade diets often lack it. Your vet may recommend a calcium supplement.

3. Foods to ALWAYS Avoid

Many human foods are toxic to dogs. Never include these in your recipes:

• Onions, garlic, chives
• Grapes and raisins
• Chocolate
• Xylitol (an artificial sweetener)
• Macadamia nuts
• Cooked bones (they can splinter)
• Avocado

4. Storage and Portion Control

You can make these recipes in big batches! Let the food cool completely, then portion it into airtight containers. It will last 3-4 days in the refrigerator or up to 3 months in the freezer. To determine portion size, consult your vet. A general starting point is 1/2 cup of food for every 25 pounds of body weight, twice a day, but this can vary greatly.

Do I need to add supplements to these recipes?

For long-term feeding, almost certainly yes. While these recipes are healthy, they may not provide 100% of the vitamins and minerals, like calcium and zinc, that your dog needs every day. It’s crucial to consult your veterinarian about a good multivitamin or specific supplements to round out your homemade meals and ensure complete nutrition.

How do I transition my dog to homemade food?

Don’t switch overnight! A sudden change can cause digestive upset. Start by mixing a small amount of the new homemade food (about 25%) with their old food (75%). Gradually increase the amount of new food and decrease the old food over a period of 7-10 days until you’ve fully transitioned.

Can I swap ingredients in these recipes?

To some extent, yes. You can often swap one dog-safe vegetable for another (e.g., green beans for peas) or a similar protein (e.g., ground turkey for ground chicken). However, be careful when changing the main components like the protein or carbohydrate source, as this will alter the nutritional profile of the meal. If your dog has allergies, always double-check that the new ingredient is safe.