13 Giant Breed Homemade Great Dane Dog Food Recipes
Welcome, fellow Great Dane parent! If you’re here, it’s because you know that loving a gentle giant is a unique experience. From their goofy personalities to the way they take up the entire sofa, everything about them is larger than life—including their dietary needs. Store-bought kibble can be a great option, but sometimes you want to know exactly what’s going into that giant food bowl. That’s where the magic of homemade dog food comes in!
Crafting meals for your Great Dane isn’t just about showing love; it’s about taking control of their nutrition. You can cater to their specific needs, whether it’s supporting those hard-working joints, managing a sensitive tummy, or just tempting a picky eater. We’ve put together 13 delicious, nutritious, and Dane-approved recipes that are easy to make. Before we dive in, here’s a quick look at what we’ll be cooking up.
Quick Recipe Comparison
| Recipe Name | Main Protein | Primary Benefit | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| The Guardian’s Chicken & Sweet Potato Mash | Chicken | Joint Support | Active Adults & Seniors |
| Hearty Beef & Barley Stew | Beef | Muscle Maintenance | Young, Growing Danes |
| Gentle Giant’s Turkey & Rice | Turkey | Sensitive Stomachs | Dogs with Digestive Issues |
| Silky Coat Salmon & Quinoa Bowl | Salmon | Skin & Coat Health | Danes with Dry Skin |
| Lean Lamb & Lentil Loaf | Lamb | High-Energy Protein | Athletic or Underweight Dogs |
| Sunrise Egg & Oatmeal Scramble | Eggs | Easy Digestion | Breakfast or Recovery Meals |
| Novel Venison & Pumpkin Puree | Venison | Allergy-Friendly | Dogs with Food Sensitivities |
| Omega-Rich Sardine & Rice Mix | Sardines | Brain & Joint Health | All Life Stages |
| Slow Cooker Shredded Pork | Pork | Easy Preparation | Busy Pet Parents |
| Powerhouse Bison & Veggie Medley | Bison | Lean Muscle Building | Highly Active Danes |
| Picky Eater’s Duck & Pear Delight | Duck | High Palatability | Fussy Eaters |
| Calcium-Boost Cottage Cheese Scramble | Cottage Cheese | Bone Health Topper | Puppies & Seniors |
| Nutrient-Dense Liver & Kale Mix | Beef Liver | Vitamins & Minerals | A Supplemental Meal |
Important Note: Before you switch your dog to a homemade diet, it’s crucial to consult with your veterinarian or a board-certified veterinary nutritionist. They can help ensure the recipes are balanced and meet your specific Dane’s health requirements. Many homemade diets require additional supplements to be complete and balanced.
1. The Guardian’s Chicken & Sweet Potato Mash
This recipe is a classic for a reason. It’s packed with lean protein for muscle support and sweet potatoes, which are a fantastic source of fiber and vitamins. We’ve also added turmeric and a dash of coconut oil, both known for their anti-inflammatory properties that can help support your Great Dane’s joints.
Ingredients:
- 3 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breast, cooked and shredded
- 2 large sweet potatoes, boiled and mashed
- 1 cup cooked brown rice
- 1 cup green beans, steamed and chopped
- 1/2 cup carrots, shredded
- 2 tablespoons coconut oil
- 1 teaspoon turmeric
- Calcium and vitamin supplement (as recommended by your vet)
Instructions:
- In a very large bowl, combine the shredded chicken and mashed sweet potatoes.
- Stir in the cooked brown rice, chopped green beans, and shredded carrots.
- Drizzle with coconut oil and sprinkle with turmeric.
- Mix everything together thoroughly until it forms a consistent mash.
- Add any vet-recommended supplements and mix again.
- Allow to cool completely before serving.
Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Excellent for joint health | Chicken can be an allergen for some dogs |
| Highly digestible ingredients | Requires boiling/steaming multiple components |
| Great source of fiber and vitamins | – |
Verdict:
This is a fantastic, well-rounded meal for adult and senior Great Danes. Its focus on joint-supporting ingredients makes it an ideal choice for maintaining mobility and comfort in this large and lovely breed.
2. Hearty Beef & Barley Stew
For the growing or active Great Dane, this beef and barley stew provides the protein and complex carbohydrates needed for sustained energy and strong muscle development. It’s a rich, savory meal that will have your gentle giant drooling.
Ingredients:
- 3 lbs ground beef (90% lean)
- 1.5 cups pearled barley, cooked
- 2 cups beef broth (low sodium)
- 1 cup chopped carrots
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1/4 cup chopped parsley (for fresh breath!)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
- In a large stockpot, brown the ground beef in olive oil over medium heat. Drain off excess fat.
- Add the low-sodium beef broth, chopped carrots, and cooked barley. Bring to a simmer.
- Reduce heat, cover, and let it cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until the carrots are tender.
- Remove from heat and stir in the frozen peas and fresh parsley. The residual heat will cook the peas.
- Let the stew cool to room temperature before serving.
Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Excellent for muscle building | Higher in calories; may not be suitable for overweight Danes |
| Rich in iron and B vitamins from beef | Barley contains gluten, which may not suit all dogs |
| One-pot meal makes for easier cleanup | – |
Verdict:
Perfect for young adult Great Danes who have finished their rapid growth phase but are still active and building muscle. It’s also a great option to help an underweight Dane gain healthy pounds.
3. Gentle Giant’s Turkey & Rice
When a giant tummy gets upset, you need a simple, gentle meal. This turkey and white rice recipe is the canine equivalent of chicken noodle soup. It’s bland, easy to digest, and perfect for dogs recovering from an upset stomach or those with chronic digestive sensitivities.
Ingredients:
- 3 lbs ground turkey
- 2 cups white rice, cooked
- 1 cup plain pumpkin puree (NOT pie filling)
- 1/2 cup boiled and chopped celery
- A multi-vitamin/mineral supplement for dogs
Instructions:
- Cook the ground turkey in a large skillet until browned. Drain all the fat very thoroughly.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked turkey, cooked white rice, and pumpkin puree.
- Add the chopped celery and mix well.
- Ensure the mixture is completely cool before serving. This is especially important for bloat-prone breeds.
- Add supplements as directed by your vet right before serving.
Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Extremely easy to digest | Lower in fiber than other recipes (by design) |
| Pumpkin is great for digestive regularity | Not as nutrient-dense for long-term feeding without careful supplementation |
| Turkey is a lean, often well-tolerated protein | – |
Verdict:
This is the go-to recipe for any Great Dane experiencing digestive upset. It’s also a solid base for dogs with known food sensitivities, as its limited ingredients make it easy to rule out allergens.
4. Silky Coat Salmon & Quinoa Bowl
Want your Dane’s coat to gleam? This recipe is loaded with Omega-3 fatty acids from salmon, which are superstars for skin and coat health. Quinoa provides a gluten-free source of protein and carbohydrates, while blueberries add a boost of antioxidants.
Ingredients:
- 2.5 lbs salmon fillet, baked and flaked (skin removed)
- 2 cups quinoa, cooked
- 1 cup chopped spinach
- 1/2 cup blueberries (fresh or frozen)
- 1 tablespoon flaxseed oil
Instructions:
- Ensure the baked salmon is free of bones, then flake it into a large bowl.
- Add the cooked quinoa, chopped spinach, and blueberries.
- Drizzle with the flaxseed oil, which adds even more healthy fats.
- Gently toss all ingredients together until well combined.
- Serve once cooled to room temperature.
Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Rich in Omega-3s for a shiny coat and healthy skin | Salmon can be more expensive than other proteins |
| Antioxidants from blueberries support immune health | The smell of fish can be strong for some owners |
| Gluten-free and great for dogs with grain sensitivities | – |
Verdict:
An excellent choice for Great Danes with dry, flaky skin, dull coats, or seasonal allergies. The anti-inflammatory properties of the Omega-3s are also beneficial for joint health, making it a great all-around meal.
5. Lean Lamb & Lentil Loaf
This isn’t your grandma’s meatloaf! This dog-friendly version uses lean ground lamb and protein-packed lentils to create a sliceable, servable loaf that’s both delicious and nutritious. It’s a great way to provide high-quality protein for active dogs.
Ingredients:
- 3 lbs ground lamb
- 1 cup cooked lentils (green or brown)
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1 cup grated zucchini (squeeze out excess water)
- 1/2 cup rolled oats (uncooked)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, use your hands to combine the ground lamb, cooked lentils, beaten eggs, grated zucchini, rolled oats, and fresh mint. Don’t overmix.
- Press the mixture firmly into a large loaf pan.
- Bake for 60-75 minutes, or until the loaf is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
- Let the loaf cool completely in the pan before slicing and serving. This helps it hold its shape.
Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Lamb is a great alternative protein for dogs with poultry allergies | Requires oven time, which can heat up the kitchen |
| Easy to portion control by slicing | Some dogs may find lentils a bit gassy at first |
| Lentils provide excellent fiber and plant-based protein | – |
Verdict:
This loaf is perfect for active Great Danes who need a dense source of calories and protein. It’s also a winner for owners who like to prep meals ahead of time, as the slices are easy to store and serve.
6. Sunrise Egg & Oatmeal Scramble
Who says homemade meals are just for dinner? This breakfast scramble is a wonderful way to start your Dane’s day. Eggs are a powerhouse of protein, and oatmeal provides slow-release energy. It’s gentle on the stomach and super easy to whip up.
Ingredients:
- 6 large eggs
- 1 cup rolled oats, cooked with water to a thick consistency
- 1/2 cup cottage cheese (low fat)
- 1/4 cup finely chopped bell peppers (red or yellow)
- A sprinkle of dried parsley
Instructions:
- In a large non-stick skillet (with no oil or butter), scramble the eggs until fully cooked.
- Remove the skillet from the heat. Add the cooked oatmeal, cottage cheese, and chopped bell peppers to the hot eggs.
- Stir everything together until the cottage cheese is slightly melted and everything is combined.
- Sprinkle with parsley and let it cool down significantly before serving.
Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Eggs are a complete and highly bioavailable protein source | Best served fresh; doesn’t store as well as other recipes |
| Very quick to prepare | Lower in calories, so it’s better as a special breakfast or for less active dogs |
| Cottage cheese adds a nice boost of calcium and protein | – |
Verdict:
This is an ideal breakfast meal, a light dinner for a less active day, or a great recovery meal for a dog feeling a bit under the weather. It’s gentle, nutritious, and a nice change of pace from meat-based meals.
7. Novel Venison & Pumpkin Puree
If your Great Dane is plagued by food allergies, finding a protein they can tolerate is key. Venison is a ‘novel’ protein, meaning most dogs haven’t been exposed to it, making it an excellent choice for an elimination diet or for dogs with known allergies to common proteins like chicken or beef.
Ingredients:
- 3 lbs ground venison
- 2 cups pumpkin puree (100% pure pumpkin)
- 1 cup cooked chickpeas, mashed
- 1 cup chopped kale, lightly steamed
- A balanced supplement for homemade diets
Instructions:
- In a large pot, cook the ground venison over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess fat.
- Stir in the pumpkin puree and mashed chickpeas, mixing until they are well incorporated with the meat.
- Remove from heat and fold in the lightly steamed kale.
- Allow the mixture to cool completely. Add any necessary supplements recommended by your vet just before serving.
Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Excellent for dogs with common protein allergies | Venison can be difficult to source and is often expensive |
| Pumpkin and chickpeas are great for digestive health and fiber | The gamey flavor of venison might not appeal to all dogs initially |
| Very lean and nutrient-dense | – |
Verdict:
This is the top choice for a Great Dane struggling with food sensitivities or allergies. It’s a simple, limited-ingredient diet that’s still packed with the nutrition they need to thrive, all while giving their immune system a break.
8. Omega-Rich Sardine & Rice Mix
Don’t turn your nose up at this one! Sardines are one of the best-kept secrets in canine nutrition. They are packed with Omega-3 fatty acids (even more than salmon in some cases), are a great source of calcium (if you get the bone-in variety), and are low on the food chain, meaning they have fewer heavy metals. This is a true superfood meal.
Ingredients:
- 2 cans (15 oz each) sardines packed in water, no salt added
- 3 cups cooked brown rice
- 1 cup finely chopped celery
- 1 cup finely chopped parsley
- 1 hard-boiled egg, chopped
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, mash the sardines with a fork (including the soft, edible bones for calcium).
- Add the cooked brown rice, chopped celery, chopped parsley, and chopped hard-boiled egg.
- Mix everything together until all the ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Serve immediately or store in the refrigerator.
Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Incredibly high in anti-inflammatory Omega-3s | A very fishy smell that might linger in your kitchen (and on your dog’s breath!) |
| Economical and easy to prepare—no cooking required! | Should be fed in moderation due to its richness |
| Bone-in sardines are a fantastic natural source of calcium | – |
Verdict:
This is less of an everyday meal and more of a once-or-twice-a-week powerhouse topper or special meal. It’s fantastic for all Great Danes, especially seniors who need extra joint and cognitive support from the high levels of DHA and EPA.
9. Slow Cooker Shredded Pork
For the busy Dane owner, the slow cooker is your best friend. This recipe requires minimal prep time—just dump the ingredients in, set it, and forget it for a few hours. You’ll come back to a tender, delicious, and healthy meal that your dog will adore.
Ingredients:
- 3 lb pork shoulder or loin
- 1 large sweet potato, peeled and cubed
- 2 apples, cored and chopped (no seeds!)
- 1 cup green beans, trimmed
- 1/2 cup water or low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
Instructions:
- Place the pork, sweet potato, apples, and green beans in the slow cooker.
- Pour the water or broth over the top and sprinkle with rosemary.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the pork is fall-apart tender.
- Remove the pork, shred it with two forks, and then return it to the slow cooker.
- Stir everything together, mashing the sweet potato and apples slightly.
- Let it cool to a safe temperature before serving.
Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Extremely easy to make with minimal active cooking time | Requires a slow cooker |
| Makes the house smell amazing! | Pork can be a fattier meat; be sure to trim excess fat |
| Apples and sweet potatoes provide great vitamins and fiber | – |
Verdict:
This recipe is a lifesaver for pet parents with packed schedules. It provides a warm, comforting, and highly palatable meal that’s perfect for any adult Great Dane without any specific dietary restrictions.
10. Powerhouse Bison & Veggie Medley
Bison is another fantastic novel protein that’s even leaner than beef and venison. It’s packed with iron and B vitamins, making it an excellent choice for building and maintaining the lean muscle mass that Great Danes need to support their large frames. This recipe pairs it with a medley of root vegetables for a truly powerful meal.
Ingredients:
- 3 lbs ground bison
- 1 cup cubed butternut squash
- 1 cup cubed parsnips
- 1 cup chopped broccoli florets, lightly steamed
- 2 tablespoons fish oil
- A balanced vitamin/mineral supplement
Instructions:
- In a large pot, cook the ground bison until browned. Drain any fat.
- While the bison cooks, boil or steam the butternut squash and parsnips until tender. Mash them lightly.
- Combine the cooked bison, mashed squash and parsnips, and steamed broccoli in a large bowl.
- Drizzle with the fish oil and mix thoroughly.
- Add any required supplements once the food has cooled.
Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Bison is an incredibly lean, high-protein choice | Can be one of the more expensive protein options |
| Great for dogs with beef or chicken allergies | Some dogs may need time to adjust to the taste |
| Root vegetables provide sustained energy and nutrients | – |
Verdict:
This is the ultimate meal for the athletic or working Great Dane. It provides high-quality, lean protein for peak performance and muscle recovery, making it ideal for dogs who participate in sports or have a very active lifestyle.
11. Picky Eater’s Duck & Pear Delight
Do you have a Dane who turns their nose up at everything? Duck has a rich, enticing flavor that can tempt even the fussiest of eaters. Paired with the subtle sweetness of pear, this recipe is both delicious and unique. Duck is also a novel protein, making it a good option for dogs with some allergies.
Ingredients:
- 3 lbs ground duck
- 2 ripe pears, cored and chopped (no seeds!)
- 1 cup cooked millet
- 1 cup chopped asparagus, steamed
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil
Instructions:
- Cook the ground duck in a large skillet over medium heat. Duck is fatty, so be sure to drain the rendered fat very well.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked duck with the chopped pears, cooked millet, and steamed asparagus.
- Stir in the coconut oil while the mixture is still warm.
- Mix gently and allow to cool completely before serving.
Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Highly palatable flavor that appeals to picky dogs | Duck is a rich protein and should be introduced slowly |
| Novel protein source for dogs with sensitivities | Can be higher in fat and cost than other proteins |
| Pears add a unique sweetness and extra fiber | – |
Verdict:
If you’re at your wit’s end with a picky Great Dane, this recipe is your secret weapon. The rich flavor of duck is often irresistible and can help get a reluctant eater excited about mealtime again.
12. Calcium-Boost Cottage Cheese Scramble
Growing Great Dane puppies and aging seniors have higher calcium needs to support bone development and maintenance. This cottage cheese-based meal is an excellent supplemental meal or topper to provide an extra boost of calcium and easy-to-digest protein.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups low-fat cottage cheese
- 2 hard-boiled eggs, chopped
- 1/2 cup finely grated carrots
- 1/2 cup finely chopped spinach
- 1/4 cup rolled oats (uncooked)
Instructions:
- This is a no-cook recipe! Simply combine all the ingredients—cottage cheese, chopped eggs, grated carrots, chopped spinach, and rolled oats—in a bowl.
- Stir until everything is well-mixed.
- Serve immediately. This recipe is best made fresh.
Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Great natural source of calcium and protein | Not a complete meal; should be used as a topper or special treat |
| No cooking required, very fast to assemble | Dairy can cause digestive upset in some lactose-intolerant dogs |
| Soft texture is great for puppies and seniors with sensitive mouths | – |
Verdict:
This is not a standalone diet, but it’s a fantastic addition for Great Dane puppies needing extra calcium for their growing bones or for seniors who can benefit from an easily digestible, bone-supporting meal. Always consult your vet about appropriate calcium levels for your dog’s age.
13. Nutrient-Dense Liver & Kale Power Mix
Organ meats like liver are incredibly nutrient-dense, packed with Vitamin A, iron, and B vitamins. A little goes a long way! This ‘power mix’ is designed to be added to your dog’s regular meal as a nutrient-boosting topper, not as a full meal on its own.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb beef liver, rinsed and patted dry
- 2 cups kale, stems removed
- 1 cup cooked lentils
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
- Cut the beef liver into small, bite-sized pieces.
- Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Lightly pan-fry the liver pieces for 3-4 minutes until just cooked through. Don’t overcook, as it can become tough.
- While the liver cools, lightly steam the kale until it’s wilted and bright green. Chop it finely.
- In a bowl, combine the cooked liver, chopped kale, and cooked lentils. Mix well.
Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Extremely high in essential vitamins and minerals | Must be fed in small quantities; too much Vitamin A can be toxic |
| Affordable and highly palatable for most dogs | Liver is very rich and can cause loose stools if too much is given |
| A great way to boost the nutritional value of any meal | – |
Verdict:
This is the ultimate meal topper for any Great Dane. Use a few spoonfuls to mix into their regular food a few times a week to provide a huge boost of natural vitamins and minerals that can support everything from their eyesight to their energy levels.
Conclusion
Your Guide to Homemade Great Dane Nutrition
Cooking for your Great Dane is a rewarding journey, but it’s important to do it right. Their giant size comes with a giant list of nutritional needs. Here are a few key things to keep in mind:
- Protein is Paramount: Great Danes need high-quality animal protein to maintain their lean muscle mass. Aim for recipes where protein is the star.
- Calcium & Phosphorus Balance: Especially during their puppyhood, the ratio of calcium to phosphorus is critical for proper bone growth. Too much or too little can lead to serious developmental orthopedic diseases. This is a key area where a vet’s guidance is non-negotiable.
- Joint Support Superstars: Their large frame puts a lot of stress on their joints. Ingredients rich in natural glucosamine and chondroitin (like bone broth) or Omega-3s (like salmon and sardines) are fantastic additions to their diet.
- The Bloat Factor: Great Danes are highly susceptible to Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus (GDV), or bloat, which is a life-threatening condition. To help minimize risk, feed 2-3 smaller meals a day instead of one large one, use a slow-feeder bowl, avoid raised food bowls (as current research suggests they may increase risk), and prevent vigorous exercise for at least an hour after eating. Ensure all homemade food is served at room temperature, not too hot or cold.
- Don’t Forget the Supplements: It is nearly impossible to create a complete and balanced diet for long-term feeding without the use of supplements. A high-quality multivitamin and mineral supplement designed for dogs on homemade diets is essential. Your vet or a veterinary nutritionist is the best resource for choosing one.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How much homemade food should I feed my Great Dane?
This varies greatly depending on your dog’s age, weight, and activity level. A general guideline is to feed 2-3% of their ideal body weight in total food per day. For a 150lb Great Dane, this would be 3 to 4.5 pounds of food daily, split into at least two meals. Start on the lower end and adjust based on their body condition. Your vet can give you a more precise recommendation.
2. Can I make these recipes in large batches and freeze them?
Absolutely! Most of these recipes are perfect for batch cooking. You can prepare a week’s worth of food, portion it out into daily servings in freezer-safe containers or bags, and simply thaw a portion in the refrigerator the night before you need it. This is a huge time-saver!
3. What specific supplements do I need to add?
This is the most critical question to ask your veterinarian. At a minimum, most homemade diets will lack sufficient calcium, B vitamins, vitamin D, and certain trace minerals like zinc. A balanced supplement like Balance IT or Just Food For Dogs’ DIY Nutrient Blends can be used, but you must follow their instructions precisely. Never add human supplements without veterinary approval.
The Final Lick
Switching to a homemade diet can be a wonderful way to connect with your Great Dane and provide them with fresh, wholesome nutrition. It gives you peace of mind knowing every single ingredient that goes into their body. Remember, the journey to the perfect homemade diet is a partnership between you, your dog, and your vet. Happy cooking, and here’s to the health and happiness of your gentle giant!
