13 Homemade Food For Belgian Malinois Recipes for Working Dogs

This is the quintessential meal for a hard-working Malinois. Ground beef provides high-quality protein and iron for muscle development and repair, while sweet potatoes offer complex carbohydrates for long-lasting energy. The addition of spinach and carrots provides essential vitamins and antioxidants to support overall health.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb lean ground beef (90/10)
• 1 large sweet potato, peeled and diced
• 2 cups fresh spinach
• 1 large carrot, shredded
• 1 tbsp olive oil or coconut oil
• 1/4 cup water

Instructions:

1. In a large skillet or pot, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon.
2. Drain off most of the excess fat.
3. Add the diced sweet potato, shredded carrot, and water to the skillet. Stir everything together, cover, and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the sweet potato is tender.
4. Turn off the heat and stir in the fresh spinach. The residual heat will wilt it perfectly.
5. Let the mixture cool completely before serving.

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

This is the go-to recipe for Malinois in heavy training or work. It’s perfect for replenishing energy stores and supporting muscle recovery after a long day of activity.

You can’t go wrong with a classic. This recipe is a balanced, easily digestible meal that provides steady energy. Chicken is a lean source of protein, while brown rice is a fantastic complex carb. Peas and green beans add fiber, vitamins, and a touch of color to this wholesome dish.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cubed
• 1 cup cooked brown rice
• 1/2 cup green beans, chopped
• 1/2 cup peas (fresh or frozen)
• 1 tbsp flaxseed oil

Instructions:

1. Boil the chicken breast cubes in water until cooked through. Drain and shred or keep cubed.
2. In a large bowl, combine the cooked chicken, cooked brown rice, green beans, and peas.
3. Drizzle the flaxseed oil over the top and mix thoroughly. Flaxseed oil is a great source of Omega-3s.
4. Allow to cool to room temperature before serving.

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

An excellent all-around maintenance meal for the active Malinois. It’s particularly good for dogs who need a reliable, easy-to-digest source of daily energy without excess fat.

Give your Malinois’s coat and joints a serious boost with this omega-packed meal. Salmon is loaded with Omega-3 fatty acids, which are amazing for reducing inflammation, supporting cognitive function, and promoting a shiny coat. Quinoa is a complete protein and a gluten-free source of carbohydrates, and blueberries add a powerful antioxidant punch.

Ingredients:

• 8 oz salmon fillet, skin removed
• 1 cup cooked quinoa
• 1/2 cup blueberries (fresh or frozen)
• 1/2 cup steamed and chopped asparagus
• 1 tsp coconut oil

Instructions:

1. Bake or pan-sear the salmon fillet until cooked through. Let it cool and then flake it into small pieces with a fork.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the flaked salmon, cooked quinoa, blueberries, and chopped asparagus.
3. Drizzle with a teaspoon of coconut oil for extra healthy fats and mix gently.
4. Serve once cooled.

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

This recipe is ideal for working dogs showing signs of joint stiffness, dogs with dry or flaky skin, or simply as a weekly rotational meal to boost their Omega-3 intake.

If your Malinois has a sensitive stomach or is recovering from a bit of digestive upset, this is the recipe for you. Ground turkey is a very lean protein that’s easy on the gut. Pumpkin is a superstar ingredient, famous for its ability to regulate digestion thanks to its high soluble fiber content.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground turkey
• 1 cup plain pumpkin purée (NOT pie filling)
• 1 cup cooked white rice (easier to digest than brown for upset tummies)
• 1/2 cup boiled and mashed carrots

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, mix the cooked turkey, pumpkin purée, cooked white rice, and mashed carrots.
3. Combine until it forms a consistent, mushy texture.
4. Serve warm (not hot) or at room temperature.

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

Perfect for dogs experiencing temporary digestive issues or for those with chronic sensitivities. It’s a bland diet that’s still nutritious and appealing.

Lamb is a fantastic protein source for dogs who may have sensitivities to chicken or beef. It’s rich in flavor and packed with essential amino acids. Oatmeal provides soluble fiber for digestive health and a slow, steady release of energy, making this a wonderfully warming and satisfying meal.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground lamb
• 1 cup cooked oatmeal (cooked with water, no sugar or salt)
• 1 apple, cored and finely chopped
• 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley

Instructions:

1. Cook the ground lamb in a skillet over medium heat until browned. Drain the excess fat.
2. Prepare the oatmeal according to package directions, using only water.
3. In a large bowl, combine the cooked lamb, oatmeal, and finely chopped apple. The apple provides fiber and vitamins.
4. Sprinkle with fresh parsley, which can help freshen breath, and mix well.
5. Serve once cooled to a safe temperature.

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

A great option for Malinois with suspected food allergies to more common proteins. The combination of lamb and oats makes for a robust meal ideal for colder weather or for dogs needing to maintain weight.

Don’t sleep on sardines! These little fish are one of the most concentrated sources of Omega-3s, Vitamin D, and Vitamin B12. Paired with protein-rich eggs and nutrient-dense kale, this scramble is a true superfood breakfast or dinner that supports brain health, bone strength, and overall vitality.

Ingredients:

• 1 can (3.75 oz) sardines packed in water, no salt added
• 3 large eggs
• 1 cup finely chopped kale, stems removed
• A splash of water

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, whisk the eggs with a splash of water.
2. Gently heat a non-stick skillet over medium-low heat. Add the chopped kale and let it wilt for 1-2 minutes.
3. Pour the whisked eggs over the kale. Scramble gently with a spatula.
4. When the eggs are almost set, add the entire can of sardines (including the water) and break them up gently.
5. Continue to cook for another 30 seconds until the eggs are fully cooked.
6. Let it cool completely before serving.

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

This is a fantastic supplemental meal to be fed once or twice a week. It’s perfect for boosting cognitive function in training and providing a potent dose of anti-inflammatory nutrients.

Venison is a wonderfully lean, novel protein that’s lower in fat and cholesterol than beef but higher in iron and B vitamins. It’s an excellent choice for building strong, lean muscle. Barley is a low-glycemic grain that provides sustained energy, and the root vegetables create a savory, hearty stew.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground venison or venison stew meat
• 1/2 cup pearled barley, rinsed
• 1 large parsnip, peeled and diced
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 4 cups low-sodium beef or vegetable broth

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, brown the venison over medium-high heat. Drain any fat.
2. Add the broth, barley, parsnip, and celery to the pot.
3. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 40-50 minutes, or until the barley is tender and the stew has thickened.
4. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
5. Remove from heat and let it cool to a safe temperature before serving.

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

This stew is perfect for the highly athletic Malinois that needs to build and maintain lean muscle without a high fat content. It’s also a fantastic choice for dogs with common protein allergies.

Duck is another fantastic novel protein that’s rich in iron and amino acids. It’s a bit fattier than chicken or turkey, providing extra energy and flavor. Lentils are a powerhouse of plant-based protein, fiber, and iron. Baked into a loaf, this meal is easy to portion and serve.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground duck
• 1 cup cooked brown or green lentils
• 1 egg, beaten
• 1/2 cup grated zucchini
• 1/4 cup rolled oats (to bind)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, use your hands to combine the ground duck, cooked lentils, beaten egg, grated zucchini, and rolled oats. Mix until just combined.
3. Press the mixture into a lightly greased loaf pan.
4. Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the loaf is cooked through and browned on top.
5. Let the loaf cool completely in the pan before slicing and serving.

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

An excellent choice for dogs with multiple food sensitivities who need a calorie-dense, flavorful meal. The loaf format makes it great for meal prepping for the week.

Organ meats are nature’s multivitamins. Beef liver and heart are incredibly rich in Vitamin A, B vitamins (especially B12), iron, and taurine. This is not an everyday meal, but rather a potent nutritional powerhouse to be served occasionally to fill any potential nutrient gaps.

Ingredients:

• 8 oz beef liver, chopped
• 8 oz beef heart, chopped
• 1 cup cooked wild rice
• 1/2 cup chopped broccoli florets, steamed

Instructions:

1. In a skillet with a little water or oil, lightly sear the chopped liver and heart for just a few minutes until cooked on the outside but still tender. Overcooking can destroy nutrients.
2. In a bowl, combine the cooked organ meats with the cooked wild rice and steamed broccoli.
3. Mix everything together and serve once cooled.

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

Serve this meal once a week or as a ‘topper’ over other meals to provide a massive boost of natural vitamins and minerals. It’s especially beneficial for highly active dogs or those needing extra iron.

This simple recipe provides a great boost of calcium and protein, essential for the strong bones and joints a Malinois relies on. Cottage cheese is packed with protein and calcium, while the chicken provides the main protein source. The finely crushed eggshells are a natural and easily absorbable calcium supplement.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb boiled and shredded chicken breast
• 1/2 cup low-fat cottage cheese
• 1/2 cup steamed and mashed cauliflower
• 1/2 tsp finely crushed eggshell (from a boiled egg, membrane removed)

Instructions:

1. Ensure the chicken is cooked and shredded, and the cauliflower is steamed until very soft.
2. In a bowl, mash the cauliflower.
3. Add the shredded chicken, cottage cheese, and finely crushed eggshell powder to the mashed cauliflower.
4. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well-incorporated.
5. Serve at room temperature.

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

This is a fantastic recovery meal for after a particularly strenuous day of training or work. It’s also great for growing Malinois puppies (with vet approval) who need extra calcium for developing bones.

For less active days or for a Malinois that needs to watch its weight, this light and healthy recipe is perfect. White fish like cod or haddock is very low in fat but still high in protein. Zucchini and bell peppers provide hydration and vitamins without adding a lot of calories.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb cod or haddock fillets
• 1 cup chopped zucchini
• 1/2 red bell pepper, chopped
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• A sprinkle of dried dill (optional)

Instructions:

1. Steam or bake the fish fillets until they are opaque and flake easily with a fork.
2. While the fish is cooking, lightly sauté the zucchini and red bell pepper in olive oil until just tender-crisp.
3. In a bowl, flake the cooked fish and combine it with the sautéed vegetables.
4. Sprinkle with a little dill if desired and mix gently.
5. Serve once cooled.

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

Ideal for senior Malinois, dogs on a weight management plan, or as a lighter meal on rest days. It provides essential nutrients without packing on extra pounds.

Start a training day off right with this quick, protein-packed breakfast. Eggs are a complete protein source, providing all the essential amino acids. Spinach adds iron and vitamins, and a small amount of cheese adds flavor and extra protein. It’s a simple way to fuel their morning.

Ingredients:

• 3 eggs
• 1 cup fresh spinach
• 1 oz shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese
• 1 tsp coconut oil

Instructions:

1. Heat the coconut oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the spinach and cook until wilted, about 1-2 minutes.
3. Whisk the eggs in a separate bowl and pour them over the spinach.
4. Scramble the eggs and spinach together until the eggs are almost cooked.
5. Sprinkle the cheese over the top and cook for another 30 seconds until the cheese is melted and the eggs are set.
6. Let cool completely before serving.

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

This is not a fully balanced meal for long-term feeding but serves as an excellent high-protein breakfast or a special treat to fuel a morning training session.

This recipe provides a delicious meal with a built-in dental benefit. Raw or lightly cooked turkey necks (NEVER fully cooked and brittle) act as a natural toothbrush, helping to scrape away plaque. The slow-cooked goulash tenderizes the meat on the bone and creates a savory broth with the vegetables.

Ingredients:

• 2-3 raw turkey necks
• 2 carrots, roughly chopped
• 1 sweet potato, roughly chopped
• 4 cups of water or low-sodium broth
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar

Instructions:

1. Place the turkey necks, carrots, sweet potato, and apple cider vinegar in a slow cooker. The vinegar helps draw minerals from the bones into the broth.
2. Add enough water or broth to cover the ingredients.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours. The meat should be fall-off-the-bone tender.
4. Let it cool completely. You can shred some of the meat off the bones and mix it with the vegetables and broth to serve. The soft bones can be fed under supervision. Important: Never feed cooked, brittle bones. The slow cooking process makes them soft and digestible.

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

A fantastic weekly meal for joint and dental health. It’s an enriching eating experience for your Malinois but requires responsible supervision from the owner.

Switching to a homemade diet is empowering, but it’s also a big responsibility. Unlike commercial foods that are formulated to be complete and balanced, homemade diets require careful planning. Here’s what you need to focus on for your athletic Malinois:

High-Quality Protein

Protein is the cornerstone of a working dog’s diet. It’s essential for building and repairing muscle tissue. Aim for lean protein sources to make up the bulk of the meal. Great options include beef, chicken, turkey, fish, lamb, and eggs.

Complex Carbohydrates

Your Malinois is an endurance athlete. They need slow-burning fuel, not quick sugar rushes. Complex carbs like sweet potatoes, brown rice, quinoa, barley, and oatmeal provide sustained energy that will last through long training sessions or work days.

Healthy Fats

Fat is not the enemy! It’s a concentrated source of energy and crucial for brain function, skin health, and absorbing fat-soluble vitamins. Focus on healthy fats like Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids found in salmon, sardines, flaxseed oil, and coconut oil.

Vitamins and Minerals

This is where homemade diets can fall short. While fresh ingredients provide many vitamins, it’s difficult to ensure you’re hitting every single micronutrient target. This is why consulting with a veterinarian or a certified canine nutritionist is non-negotiable. They will likely recommend a high-quality vitamin and mineral supplement designed for homemade diets to fill any gaps and ensure the meals are complete and balanced.

Foods to Always Avoid

Be vigilant about keeping toxic foods out of your dog’s bowl. This includes onions, garlic, grapes, raisins, chocolate, xylitol (an artificial sweetener), macadamia nuts, and avocado.

How much homemade food should I feed my Belgian Malinois?

This varies greatly based on your dog’s age, weight, metabolism, and activity level. A general rule of thumb is to feed 2-3% of their ideal body weight per day. For a 60-pound Malinois, this would be 1.2 to 1.8 pounds of food daily, split into two meals. However, this is just a starting point. Monitor your dog’s body condition and adjust amounts accordingly. Your vet can provide the most accurate recommendation.

Do I absolutely need to add supplements to these recipes?

For long-term feeding, yes. While these recipes are nutrient-rich, they may not provide 100% of every single vitamin and mineral your dog needs over time, particularly things like calcium, zinc, and vitamin D. To ensure the diet is complete and balanced, a veterinarian-approved multivitamin/mineral supplement specifically for homemade diets is strongly recommended. Think of it as nutritional insurance for your canine athlete.

Can I make these recipes in bulk and freeze them?

Absolutely! Meal prepping is a fantastic way to make a homemade diet manageable. Most of these recipes freeze beautifully. You can cook a large batch, portion it into individual meal-sized containers or freezer bags, and freeze them. Just be sure to thaw them safely in the refrigerator overnight before serving. This can save you a ton of time during a busy week.