13 Best Copycat Taste Of The Wild Dog Food Recipes

Inspired by the iconic High Prairie formula, this recipe is a hearty, protein-packed stew perfect for active dogs. It combines the rich flavors of bison and venison with nutrient-dense sweet potatoes, peas, and antioxidant-rich berries for a meal that fuels adventure.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground bison
• 1/2 lb ground venison (or lean ground beef)
• 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 1/2 cup blueberries (fresh or frozen)
• 1/2 cup raspberries (fresh or frozen)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil or coconut oil
• 4 cups water or low-sodium beef broth
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• Optional: A vet-approved canine multivitamin/mineral supplement.

Instructions:

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground bison and venison, breaking it up with a spoon until browned.
2. Drain off any excess fat.
3. Add the diced sweet potatoes and water/broth to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender.
4. Stir in the frozen peas, blueberries, and raspberries. Cook for another 5 minutes until the peas are heated through.
5. Remove from heat and let it cool completely before serving. Stir in the rosemary and any recommended supplements.

Pros & Cons

Verdict

This recipe is an absolute winner for high-energy, adult dogs who thrive on a rich, red-meat-based diet. It’s particularly good for dogs who may have sensitivities to common proteins like chicken.

Channeling the spirit of the Pacific Northwest, this recipe is perfect for dogs with sensitive skin or stomachs. Salmon is loaded with omega-3 fatty acids, which are fantastic for a healthy coat and joint support, while sweet potatoes provide easily digestible energy.

Ingredients:

• 1.5 lbs salmon fillet, skin and bones removed
• 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and grated
• 1 cup chopped carrots
• 1 cup green beans, trimmed and chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 2 tablespoons flaxseed oil or fish oil
• 1/2 cup water

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine the grated sweet potatoes, chopped carrots, green beans, and parsley.
3. Spread the vegetable mixture evenly in the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish.
4. Cut the salmon fillet into large chunks and place them on top of the vegetables.
5. Drizzle the flaxseed oil and water over the entire dish.
6. Cover with foil and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
7. Let it cool completely. Flake the salmon and mix everything together before serving.

Pros & Cons

Verdict

This is the go-to recipe for dogs struggling with dry, itchy skin or food allergies. It’s also a fantastic, gentle option for senior dogs who need extra joint support from those wonderful omega-3s.

A tribute to the Sierra Mountain Canine formula, this lamb-based loaf is a crowd-pleaser for dogs of all life stages. Lamb is a nutritious protein that many dogs love, and baking it into a loaf makes for easy portioning and storage.

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs ground lamb
• 2 eggs, lightly beaten
• 1 cup cooked lentils
• 1 cup rolled oats (uncooked)
• 1/2 cup finely grated zucchini
• 1/2 cup finely grated carrots
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint (great for digestion and breath!)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a standard loaf pan.
2. In a large bowl, combine all ingredients: ground lamb, eggs, cooked lentils, oats, zucchini, carrots, mint, and olive oil.
3. Mix with your hands until everything is well combined, but be careful not to overmix.
4. Press the mixture firmly and evenly into the prepared loaf pan.
5. Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the loaf is cooked through and the center is no longer pink.
6. Let the loaf cool in the pan for 15 minutes before turning it out onto a cutting board. Cool completely before slicing and serving.

Pros & Cons

Verdict

Perfect for busy pet parents! This recipe is fantastic for meal prepping. It’s a well-rounded, tasty option suitable for most adult dogs and can be easily adapted for puppies by ensuring it’s fully balanced with their growth needs.

Inspired by the Wetlands Canine formula, this recipe features a delightful mix of duck and quail. These novel proteins are not only delicious but also great for dogs with allergies to more common birds like chicken. We’ve added quinoa for a complete protein and fiber boost.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground duck
• 1/2 lb ground quail (or extra duck/turkey)
• 1 cup cooked quinoa
• 1 cup sweet potato, cooked and mashed
• 1/2 cup cranberries (fresh or unsweetened dried)
• 1/2 cup chopped spinach
• 2 tablespoons coconut oil
• 3 cups water or low-sodium chicken broth

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, melt the coconut oil over medium heat. Add the ground duck and quail and cook until browned.
2. Stir in the mashed sweet potato, cooked quinoa, and broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
3. Add the spinach and cranberries, stirring until the spinach has wilted.
4. Simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
5. Remove from heat and let it cool completely before serving.

Pros & Cons

Verdict

This rich and flavorful casserole is ideal for the discerning canine palate, especially for pups who need to avoid chicken. It’s a gourmet meal that provides a wide array of nutrients from unique sources.

Designed with small breeds in mind, just like the Appalachian Valley formula, this recipe features lean venison and energy-packed garbanzo beans (chickpeas). The ingredients are mashed into a texture that’s easy for little mouths to handle, while still being packed with big flavor.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground venison
• 1 (15-ounce) can of garbanzo beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 cup chopped carrots
• 1 cup chopped green beans
• 1/2 cup blueberries
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 cups low-sodium beef broth

Instructions:

1. Heat the olive oil in a pot over medium-high heat. Brown the ground venison.
2. Add the carrots, green beans, and beef broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes until vegetables are very tender.
3. Add the rinsed garbanzo beans and blueberries and cook for another 5 minutes.
4. Remove from heat. Using a potato masher or an immersion blender, mash the mixture to your desired consistency. For tiny dogs, you might want it smoother.
5. Let it cool completely before serving in small portions.

Pros & Cons

Verdict

This is the perfect homemade meal for the little guys! Small breed dogs, seniors with dental issues, or any dog that prefers a softer food will love this flavorful and easy-to-eat venison mash.

Get truly wild with this recipe inspired by the Pine Forest Canine formula. Wild boar is a fantastic, flavorful, and lean novel protein that many dogs have never tried before, making it an excellent choice for those with food sensitivities. Paired with a mix of healthy legumes, it’s a unique and satisfying meal.

Ingredients:

• 1.5 lbs ground wild boar (or ground pork as a substitute)
• 1/2 cup cooked lentils
• 1/2 cup cooked chickpeas, lightly mashed
• 1 cup butternut squash, peeled and diced
• 1/2 cup chopped kale, stems removed
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 3 cups water

Instructions:

1. In a large skillet or pot, brown the ground wild boar over medium heat. Drain excess fat.
2. Add the diced butternut squash and water. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10-15 minutes until the squash is tender.
3. Stir in the cooked lentils, mashed chickpeas, and tomato paste.
4. Add the chopped kale and cook for just 2-3 minutes until it wilts.
5. Remove from heat and allow the mixture to cool thoroughly before serving.

Pros & Cons

Verdict

For the adventurous pup with a sensitive stomach, this recipe is a game-changer. If your dog has tried everything and still has issues, the novel protein in wild boar might be just what the vet ordered.

Capturing the robust flavors of the Southwest Canyon formula, this recipe combines hearty beef with wild boar (or pork) and fiber-rich lentils. It’s a satisfying, high-protein meal designed to support strong muscles and an active lifestyle.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 1/2 lb ground wild boar or pork
• 1 cup cooked red lentils
• 1 cup peas
• 1 red bell pepper, finely diced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 3 cups low-sodium beef broth

Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet. Add the ground beef and boar/pork, cooking until browned. Drain the fat.
2. Add the diced red bell pepper and cook for 5 minutes until it begins to soften.
3. Stir in the cooked red lentils, peas, oregano, and beef broth.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook, stirring occasionally, for 10-12 minutes, until some of the liquid has been absorbed and it forms a thick, scramble-like consistency.
5. Let it cool completely before serving.

Pros & Cons

Verdict

This is a fantastic maintenance recipe for healthy, active adult dogs without beef sensitivities. It provides a great blend of protein and fiber to keep them feeling full and energized for their daily adventures.

Puppies need specific nutrients for healthy growth, and this recipe, inspired by the High Prairie Puppy formula, delivers. These easy-to-make patties are packed with protein, DHA from fish oil for brain development, and calcium from eggshells for strong bones.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground bison (or lean ground beef)
• 1/2 lb ground lamb
• 1 egg, plus the shell, finely crushed into a powder
• 1/2 cup cooked brown rice
• 1/2 cup pureed pumpkin
• 1/4 cup finely chopped carrots
• 1 tablespoon fish oil (rich in DHA)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine all ingredients: bison, lamb, egg, crushed eggshell powder, cooked rice, pumpkin puree, carrots, and fish oil.
3. Mix gently with your hands until just combined.
4. Form the mixture into small, 2-inch patties and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through.
6. Let the patties cool completely before serving. These can be easily stored in the fridge or freezer.

Pros & Cons

Verdict

An excellent choice for pet parents who want to start their puppy on a fresh food diet. However, it is absolutely critical to work with a vet to ensure your growing puppy gets everything they need. This recipe is a fantastic base for that conversation.

Gentle, nutritious, and easy to digest, this salmon porridge is our take on the Pacific Stream Puppy formula. It’s ideal for weaning puppies or those with sensitive tummies. The soft texture is easy for them to eat, and it’s loaded with brain-boosting omega-3s.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb salmon, skinless and boneless
• 1 cup rolled oats
• 4 cups water
• 1/2 cup pureed sweet potato
• 1/4 cup finely chopped kale
• 1 tablespoon coconut oil

Instructions:

1. In a medium saucepan, bring the water to a boil.
2. Add the rolled oats and reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Add the salmon fillet (whole or in chunks) to the simmering oats. Cover and cook for about 10-12 minutes, or until the salmon is opaque and cooked through.
4. Remove from heat. Use a fork to flake the salmon into small pieces and stir it into the oatmeal.
5. Stir in the pureed sweet potato, chopped kale, and coconut oil. The residual heat will wilt the kale.
6. Let the porridge cool to room temperature before serving. It should have a thick, soupy consistency.

Pros & Cons

Verdict

This is the perfect introductory fresh food for a young puppy. It’s gentle, packed with goodness, and easy for them to eat. As with any puppy recipe, partner with your vet to create a complete and balanced diet plan.

Inspired by the fish-forward Ancient Stream formula, this soft stew is tailored for our senior companions. It uses trout, a less fatty fish, which is great for older dogs. It’s soft, easy to chew, and includes ingredients like turmeric for its anti-inflammatory properties, which is great for aging joints.

Ingredients:

• 1.5 lbs trout fillets, skin and bones removed
• 1 cup cooked green lentils
• 2 carrots, finely diced
• 1 zucchini, finely diced
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
• 1 tablespoon fish oil
• 4 cups water or low-sodium vegetable broth

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, bring the water or broth to a gentle simmer.
2. Add the diced carrots and zucchini and cook for 10 minutes until soft.
3. Gently place the trout fillets into the simmering water with the vegetables. Poach for 6-8 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through.
4. Remove the pot from the heat. Carefully lift out the trout and flake it with a fork.
5. Return the flaked trout to the pot. Stir in the cooked green lentils, turmeric, and fish oil.
6. Let the stew cool completely before serving. The consistency should be soft and moist.

Pros & Cons

Verdict

This is a wonderfully thoughtful meal for the senior dog in your life. It’s gentle, supportive of their aging bodies, and delicious enough to tempt even the most diminished of appetites. A true comfort food for our golden-aged friends.

While the Lowland Creek formula is for felines, its novel protein profile of quail and duck is fantastic for dogs, too! We’ve adapted it into a canine-friendly recipe that is sure to entice even the pickiest of eaters with its rich, gamey flavors.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground duck
• 1/2 lb quail, deboned and ground (or use more duck)
• 1 cup cooked brown rice
• 1/2 cup chopped apples (seeds and core removed)
• 1/2 cup chopped carrots
• 1 tablespoon coconut oil
• 2 cups water

Instructions:

1. Heat coconut oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground duck and quail, cooking until browned.
2. Stir in the chopped carrots and apples, cooking for another 5 minutes until they begin to soften.
3. Add the cooked brown rice and water. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat and cook for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to combine and the liquid to reduce slightly.
4. Remove from heat and cool completely before serving.

Pros & Cons

Verdict

Have a picky eater on your hands? This is the recipe to try. The rich, unique flavor of the wildfowl is often enough to convince even the most stubborn dogs to clean their bowls. It’s a gourmet treat they’re sure to love.

Another feline-inspired creation, this recipe mimics the Rocky Mountain formula’s fowl-centric profile. We’ve used lean turkey and chicken, combined with fiber-rich peas and pumpkin, to create a lower-calorie bake that’s great for weight management.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground turkey (93% lean)
• 1 lb ground chicken breast
• 1 cup pureed pumpkin
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 2 eggs
• 1/2 cup rolled oats

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×9 inch baking dish.
2. In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, ground chicken, pumpkin puree, peas, eggs, and rolled oats.
3. Mix until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
4. Press the mixture into the prepared baking dish, creating an even layer.
5. Bake for 35-45 minutes, or until the center is cooked through and the top is lightly browned.
6. Let it cool completely before cutting into squares for serving.

Pros & Cons

Verdict

This recipe is the perfect solution for dogs who need to watch their waistline without feeling deprived. It’s satisfying, high in fiber to promote fullness, and packed with lean protein to maintain muscle mass during weight loss.

For dogs who do well with wholesome grains, this recipe is a nod to the Ancient Prairie formula. It combines robust bison and pork with a blend of nutrient-rich ancient grains like millet and sorghum for a hearty, satisfying meal that provides long-lasting energy.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground bison
• 1/2 lb ground pork
• 1/2 cup cooked millet
• 1/2 cup cooked sorghum
• 1 cup chopped spinach
• 1/2 cup shredded carrots
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cups low-sodium beef broth

Instructions:

1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot. Brown the ground bison and pork together. Drain any excess fat.
2. Add the shredded carrots and beef broth. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes.
3. Stir in the cooked millet and sorghum.
4. Add the chopped spinach and stir until wilted, about 2 minutes.
5. Remove from the heat and let the mixture cool. It will thicken as it sits.

Pros & Cons

Verdict

This grain-inclusive recipe is perfect for athletic or working dogs who need the extra carbohydrates for fuel. It’s a fantastic way to provide a balanced, whole-food diet for pups that thrive with grains included.

Switching to homemade dog food is an amazing act of love, but it’s more than just cooking meat and veggies. To ensure your dog gets everything they need to thrive, keep these key points in mind. Think of this as your ‘chef’s guide’ to canine culinary success!

1. Balance is Everything (Talk to Your Vet!)

This is the golden rule. Dogs have complex nutritional needs that go beyond just protein, fat, and carbs. They need a precise balance of vitamins, minerals, and amino acids. Before you start, have a serious conversation with your veterinarian or a board-certified veterinary nutritionist. They can analyze these recipes and help you add the right supplements (like calcium, B vitamins, and essential fatty acids) to make them ‘complete and balanced’ for your specific dog.

2. Pick Your Proteins Wisely

Protein is the star of the show. Look for high-quality muscle and organ meats. While our recipes feature exciting proteins like bison and venison, don’t be afraid to substitute with more accessible options like lean ground beef, turkey, or chicken if that’s what your budget allows. Rotating proteins can also be beneficial, as it provides a wider range of amino acids and can help prevent new allergies from developing.

3. Don’t Fear the Carbs (and Veggies)

Carbohydrates provide essential energy. Good choices include sweet potatoes, pumpkin, butternut squash, and legumes like lentils and chickpeas. Vegetables are your dog’s source of vitamins and fiber. Carrots, green beans, spinach, kale, and zucchini are all fantastic options. Just be sure to cook them well, as this breaks down the cellulose and makes the nutrients easier for your dog to absorb.

4. Healthy Fats are a Must

Fats are crucial for skin and coat health, brain function, and absorbing certain vitamins. Good sources include fish oil (for omega-3s), flaxseed oil, and coconut oil. The fat naturally present in meats like salmon and duck is also highly beneficial.

5. The Absolute No-Go List

Some human foods are toxic to dogs. Never, ever include these in your recipes:

• Onions, garlic, chives, and leeks
• Chocolate
• Grapes and raisins
• Macadamia nuts
• Xylitol (an artificial sweetener found in many products)
• Alcohol or caffeine
• Cooked bones (they can splinter and cause serious injury)

6. Cook, Cool, and Store Safely

Treat your dog’s food with the same care you’d treat your own. Cook meats thoroughly to kill harmful bacteria. Once cooked, let the food cool completely before portioning it out. Homemade dog food can typically be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. For longer storage, freeze individual portions. A great tip is to use large ice cube trays or muffin tins to freeze perfect meal-sized blocks!

Is making my own dog food really cheaper?

It can be, but not always. If you’re comparing it to super-premium commercial dog food (like Taste of the Wild), the cost can be similar or even slightly less, especially if you buy ingredients in bulk or on sale. However, it will almost always be more expensive than budget-friendly kibble. The main benefit isn’t cost savings, but rather the control you have over the quality and freshness of the ingredients.

How do I ensure my dog gets all the necessary vitamins and minerals?

This is the most critical question. While whole foods provide many nutrients, it’s very difficult to meet 100% of a dog’s needs through food alone, particularly for minerals like calcium and zinc. The best way to ensure a complete diet is to use a supplement formulated for homemade dog food. Brands like Balance IT or Just Food For Dogs offer supplement blends designed to be mixed into homemade recipes. Always consult your vet before adding any supplements to your dog’s diet.

How much homemade food should I feed my dog?

Serving size depends on your dog’s age, weight, breed, and activity level. A general guideline is to feed about 2-3% of their ideal body weight per day. For a 50-pound dog, this would be 1 to 1.5 pounds of food daily, split into two meals. However, this is just a starting point. Monitor your dog’s body condition—you should be able to feel their ribs but not see them—and adjust the amount accordingly. Again, your vet can provide the most accurate feeding recommendation.

Can I make these recipes in a slow cooker or Instant Pot?

Absolutely! A slow cooker is a fantastic tool for making these recipes. Simply brown the meat (if desired), then add all the ingredients (except for quick-cooking things like peas or spinach, which should be added at the end) to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. An Instant Pot can also be used to cook everything much faster, typically in under 30 minutes. These methods are great for tenderizing ingredients and melding flavors.