13 Cheap Homemade Dog Food Recipes That Are Healthy

This is the go-to recipe for a reason! It’s gentle on the tummy, easy to make, and most dogs find it irresistible. It’s the perfect meal for a dog who’s feeling a little under the weather or has a sensitive stomach.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
• 1 cup brown rice
• 2 medium carrots, shredded
• 1/2 cup peas (fresh or frozen)
• 4 cups water or low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, for healthy fats)

Instructions:

1. Cook the brown rice according to package directions.
2. While the rice cooks, chop the chicken into small, bite-sized pieces.
3. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the chicken until it’s no longer pink. If you’re using oil, add it first.
4. Add the water or broth, shredded carrots, and peas to the pot with the chicken. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 15-20 minutes, until the carrots are tender.
5. Mix the cooked chicken and vegetable mixture with the cooked brown rice. Let it cool completely before serving.

Verdict:

This is the perfect starting recipe for any pet parent venturing into homemade dog food. It’s also a vet-recommended bland diet for dogs with temporary digestive upset.

For the active pup who needs a little extra fuel, this beef stew is a powerhouse of protein and nutrients. It’s a rich, savory meal that will have your dog licking the bowl clean every single time.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef (lean)
• 1 large sweet potato, peeled and diced
• 1 cup green beans, chopped
• 1/2 cup carrots, diced
• 4 cups water or low-sodium beef broth
• 1 tablespoon coconut oil

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, melt the coconut oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon.
2. Drain off any excess fat from the beef.
3. Add the sweet potato, green beans, carrots, and water/broth to the pot.
4. Bring the stew to a boil, then reduce the heat, cover, and simmer for about 25-30 minutes, or until the vegetables are fork-tender.
5. Mash some of the sweet potatoes to thicken the stew if desired. Allow it to cool completely before serving.

Verdict:

An excellent choice for active, medium-to-large breed dogs without weight concerns. The combination of beef and sweet potato provides long-lasting energy.

Leaner than beef but just as delicious, turkey is a fantastic protein source. Paired with nutrient-dense sweet potatoes, this recipe is great for dogs who need to watch their weight but not sacrifice flavor.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground turkey
• 2 medium sweet potatoes, cooked and mashed
• 1/2 cup spinach, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup blueberries (fresh or frozen)
• 1 tablespoon fish oil (for Omega-3s)

Instructions:

1. In a skillet, cook the ground turkey over medium heat until it’s no longer pink. Drain any excess fat.
2. In a large bowl, combine the cooked turkey with the mashed sweet potatoes.
3. Wilt the spinach by adding it to the warm skillet for a minute, then add it to the turkey and sweet potato mixture.
4. Stir in the blueberries and fish oil.
5. Mix everything together thoroughly and let it cool before serving.

Verdict:

Ideal for dogs on a diet or those who need a lower-fat protein source. The added antioxidants make it a great choice for senior dogs as well.

Want to give your dog a glossy coat and healthy skin? This recipe is your answer. Salmon is packed with Omega-3 fatty acids, which are fantastic for reducing inflammation and promoting a beautiful coat.

Ingredients:

• 1 can (14.75 oz) of salmon, packed in water, no salt added
• 1 cup cooked quinoa
• 1/2 cup chopped zucchini
• 1/2 cup chopped broccoli florets
• 1 tablespoon flaxseed oil

Instructions:

1. Cook the quinoa according to the package instructions and set it aside to cool.
2. Lightly steam or boil the zucchini and broccoli until they are tender-crisp. This makes them easier to digest.
3. In a large bowl, flake the canned salmon with a fork. Make sure to remove any large bones, though the small ones are usually soft and edible.
4. Add the cooked quinoa, steamed vegetables, and flaxseed oil to the salmon.
5. Mix gently until everything is combined. Serve once cooled.

Verdict:

This recipe is a must-try for dogs with dry skin, allergies, or joint issues. It’s a fantastic way to boost their intake of anti-inflammatory fatty acids.

For dogs with sensitivities to common meat proteins, a plant-based meal can be a great option. This lentil loaf is surprisingly hearty and packed with fiber, protein, and essential vitamins.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup red lentils, rinsed
• 4 cups vegetable broth (low-sodium)
• 2 carrots, grated
• 1/2 cup rolled oats
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a saucepan, combine the lentils and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 20-25 minutes until the lentils are soft and have absorbed most of the liquid.
3. In a large bowl, mix the cooked lentils, grated carrots, rolled oats, beaten eggs, and olive oil.
4. Press the mixture into a greased loaf pan.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the loaf is firm and golden on top.
6. Let it cool completely before slicing and serving.

Verdict:

A wonderful, budget-friendly option for dogs who can’t tolerate meat. It’s also a great way to add variety to your dog’s diet on occasion.

Who says homemade meals are just for dinner? This breakfast scramble is a fantastic way to start your dog’s day with a boost of protein and calcium. It’s quick, easy, and a nice treat from their usual fare.

Ingredients:

• 2 large eggs
• 1/4 cup cottage cheese (low-fat)
• 1/4 cup cooked oatmeal
• 1 teaspoon calcium powder (optional, consult vet)

Instructions:

1. Crack the eggs into a bowl and whisk them lightly.
2. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat (no oil or butter needed).
3. Pour the eggs into the skillet and scramble them until cooked through.
4. Remove the eggs from the heat and place them in your dog’s bowl.
5. Top the warm eggs with the cottage cheese and cooked oatmeal. If using, sprinkle the calcium powder over the top.
6. Stir everything together and let it cool to a safe temperature before serving.

Verdict:

Perfect as a special weekend breakfast or a supplemental meal for a dog who needs to gain a little weight. It’s a simple, high-protein treat they’ll adore.

Pork is a less common protein in dog food, which can make it a great choice for pups with allergies to chicken or beef. The touch of apple adds a hint of sweetness and fiber that picky eaters often love.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground pork
• 1 apple, cored and chopped (no seeds!)
• 1 cup cooked brown rice
• 1/2 cup chopped celery
• 2 tablespoons chopped parsley

Instructions:

1. In a large skillet, cook the ground pork over medium heat until browned. Drain the excess fat.
2. Add the chopped apple and celery to the skillet with the pork. Cook for another 5-7 minutes, until the apple and celery are slightly softened.
3. Remove from heat and stir in the cooked brown rice and fresh parsley.
4. Let the mixture cool down completely before serving to your eager pup.

Verdict:

A fantastic choice for the discerning dog who turns their nose up at other foods. The unique flavor combination is often a big hit!

This is a wonderfully simple, low-fat, and low-calorie recipe that’s perfect for dogs who are on a diet or prone to pancreatitis. It’s straightforward but still provides excellent nutrition and flavor.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground turkey (99% lean)
• 1 1/2 cups green beans (fresh or frozen), chopped
• 1/2 cup plain pumpkin puree (NOT pie filling)
• 1/4 cup cranberries (unsweetened, dried)

Instructions:

1. Cook the ground turkey in a skillet over medium heat until browned. Drain any fat (there should be very little with a lean grind).
2. While the turkey is cooking, steam the green beans until they are tender.
3. In a large bowl, combine the cooked turkey, steamed green beans, pumpkin puree, and cranberries.
4. Mix well and allow to cool before portioning out for your dog.

Verdict:

This is the ultimate weight-loss meal for dogs. It’s filling and nutritious without packing on the pounds, and it’s incredibly gentle on the digestive system.

Barley is a fantastic, fiber-rich grain that provides slow-release energy. Combined with iron-rich beef and spinach, this recipe is a true powerhouse for active and working dogs.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb beef stew meat, cut into small cubes
• 1 cup pearl barley, cooked
• 2 cups fresh spinach
• 1 large carrot, shredded
• 5 cups low-sodium beef broth

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, brown the beef stew meat.
2. Add the beef broth and shredded carrot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 40-50 minutes, until the beef is very tender.
3. Stir in the fresh spinach and cook for another 2-3 minutes until it has wilted completely.
4. Remove from heat and stir in the cooked pearl barley.
5. Let the meal cool to room temperature before serving.

Verdict:

Perfect for energetic dogs, working breeds, or any pup that needs a hearty, rib-sticking meal to keep them going all day long.

If your dog struggles with constipation or diarrhea, this is the recipe for you. Pumpkin is nature’s perfect regulator for the canine digestive system, and paired with gentle chicken, it’s a soothing and delicious meal.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs, chopped
• 1 cup plain pumpkin puree
• 1 cup cooked oatmeal
• 1/2 cup peas
• 1 tablespoon coconut oil

Instructions:

1. In a skillet, cook the chopped chicken thighs in coconut oil until fully cooked.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, pumpkin puree, cooked oatmeal, and peas.
3. Stir until everything is evenly distributed. The warmth from the chicken will gently heat the other ingredients.
4. Serve warm (but not hot!).

Verdict:

An essential recipe for any dog owner’s toolkit. It’s perfect for managing occasional digestive upset and keeping your dog’s system running smoothly.

Don’t let the smell scare you away! Sardines are one of the best sources of Omega-3 fatty acids you can give your dog. This no-cook recipe is incredibly fast and amazing for joint health, brain function, and skin.

Ingredients:

• 1 can (3.75 oz) sardines packed in water, no salt added
• 1/2 cup cooked sweet potato, mashed
• 1 hard-boiled egg, chopped
• A handful of chopped parsley

Instructions:

1. Open the can of sardines and mash them, liquid and all, in your dog’s bowl.
2. Add the mashed sweet potato, chopped hard-boiled egg, and parsley.
3. Mix everything together thoroughly. That’s it!

Verdict:

This is the ultimate health-booster meal. It’s particularly beneficial for older dogs to support their joints and cognitive function, but dogs of all ages can benefit from this nutrient-dense mash.

Lamb is another excellent novel protein for dogs who are allergic to more common meats. This simple, casserole-style dish feels like a warm, comforting hug in a bowl.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground lamb
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 1 cup cooked quinoa or rice
• 1/4 cup bone broth (low-sodium)
• A sprig of fresh mint, finely chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a skillet, cook the ground lamb until browned. Drain the excess fat thoroughly, as lamb can be fatty.
2. Add the frozen peas to the skillet for the last few minutes of cooking to warm them through.
3. In a bowl, combine the lamb and pea mixture with the cooked quinoa or rice.
4. Stir in the bone broth to add moisture and nutrients.
5. Garnish with a little fresh mint, which aids digestion and complements the lamb flavor. Serve once cooled.

Verdict:

A perfect, easy-to-digest meal for dogs with food sensitivities. The simple, wholesome ingredients provide great nutrition without common allergens.

For birthdays, holidays, or just because they’re a good dog, this ‘Pup-Loaf’ is the ultimate special occasion meal. It’s packed with goodness and feels like a real treat, but it’s healthy enough for a regular meal.

Ingredients:

• 1.5 lbs lean ground beef or turkey
• 2 eggs
• 1/2 cup rolled oats
• 1/2 cup mixed vegetables, finely chopped (carrots, peas, celery)
• 1/4 cup low-fat cottage cheese
• For the ‘frosting’ (optional): Mashed potatoes or plain yogurt

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, use your hands to mix the ground meat, eggs, oats, chopped vegetables, and cottage cheese. Don’t overmix.
3. Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in a lightly greased baking dish.
4. Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the center is no longer pink.
5. Let the loaf cool completely. You can then ‘frost’ it with a thin layer of plain mashed potatoes or yogurt before slicing and serving.

Verdict:

This is the recipe to pull out when you want to show your dog just how much you love them. It’s a healthy, hearty, and celebratory meal that’s as fun for you to make as it is for them to eat.

Switching to homemade dog food is an amazing journey, but it’s important to do it right. A dog’s nutritional needs are different from ours, and a balanced diet is key to their long-term health. Here’s what you need to know before you start cooking.

Key Nutritional Components

A balanced canine diet needs a proper ratio of protein, fat, carbohydrates, and essential vitamins and minerals.

• Protein: This is the cornerstone. Use high-quality animal proteins like chicken, turkey, beef, lamb, and fish. Eggs are also a fantastic source.
• Fat: Healthy fats are crucial for energy, brain function, and skin/coat health. Good sources include fish oil, flaxseed oil, coconut oil, and the natural fats found in meats.
• Carbohydrates: Carbs provide energy and fiber. Opt for complex carbs like brown rice, sweet potatoes, barley, quinoa, and rolled oats.
• Vitamins & Minerals: Vegetables like carrots, spinach, green beans, and peas provide essential vitamins. However, it’s very difficult to meet all of your dog’s micronutrient needs through food alone. This is why a consultation with your vet is critical; they will likely recommend a specific canine multivitamin or supplement powder to add to your homemade meals.

Foods to Always Avoid

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

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

Batch Cooking and Storage

To make life easier, cook a large batch of food once or twice a week. You can portion out the meals into individual airtight containers. Homemade dog food will typically last 3-4 days in the refrigerator. For longer storage, you can freeze individual portions for up to 2-3 months. Just thaw a portion in the fridge the night before you need it!

1. How much homemade food should I feed my dog?

This is one of the most common questions, and the answer depends on your dog’s age, weight, breed, and activity level. A general guideline is to feed 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. The best course of action is to ask your vet for a precise recommendation based on the specific recipe you’re using and your dog’s caloric needs.

2. Is it really cheaper to make my own dog food?

It certainly can be! If you’re comparing it to premium, fresh-food subscription services, homemade is almost always significantly cheaper. If you’re comparing it to low-end kibble, the cost might be similar or slightly more. The key to keeping it cheap is buying ingredients in bulk, choosing proteins that are on sale, and using budget-friendly, nutrient-dense fillers like rice, lentils, and seasonal vegetables.

3. Do I need to add supplements to my dog’s homemade food?

For long-term feeding, the answer is almost always yes. While these recipes are healthy, it’s incredibly difficult to achieve the perfect balance of all essential vitamins and minerals (like calcium, zinc, and Vitamin D) that dogs need to thrive. A commercial dog food is formulated to be 100% complete and balanced. To replicate this at home, you should work with your vet or a veterinary nutritionist to choose a good quality canine multivitamin/mineral supplement to stir into the food just before serving. This ensures there are no nutritional gaps in their diet.