13 Homemade Food For Vizslas Recipes to Burn Energy

This is the quintessential homemade dog food recipe for a reason. It’s simple, gentle on the stomach, and packed with the lean protein and complex carbs your Vizsla needs for daily adventures. It’s a fantastic starting point for any aspiring canine chef.

Ingredients:

• 3 lbs ground chicken or boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cooked and shredded
• 2 cups brown rice, cooked
• 1 cup chopped carrots
• 1 cup green beans, chopped
• 1/2 cup peas (frozen or fresh)
• 4 tablespoons coconut oil
• 1/4 cup chopped parsley (for fresh breath!)

Instructions:

1. If using whole chicken breasts, boil or bake them until cooked through, then shred. If using ground chicken, cook it in a large skillet until browned, breaking it up as you go.
2. In a large pot, bring 4 cups of water to a boil and add the brown rice. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until the water is absorbed.
3. While the rice is cooking, steam or lightly boil the carrots, green beans, and peas until they are tender-crisp.
4. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, brown rice, and vegetables.
5. Drizzle the coconut oil over the mixture and sprinkle with parsley. Stir everything together until well combined.
6. Allow the food to cool completely before serving.

Nutritional Spotlight:

Chicken provides essential amino acids for muscle maintenance, while brown rice offers slow-release energy. Carrots are rich in Vitamin A for eye health, and coconut oil provides healthy fats for skin and coat.

Pros & Cons:

Verdict:

This is the perfect, well-rounded daily meal for most active Vizslas. It’s easy to make in big batches and provides a solid foundation for your dog’s nutritional needs.

For the Vizsla that goes the extra mile, this grain-free stew is a powerhouse of energy. Rich beef and vitamin-packed sweet potatoes create a hearty meal that supports muscle repair and sustained endurance for long days of hiking or training.

Ingredients:

• 3 lbs lean ground beef (90/10)
• 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1 cup chopped spinach
• 1 cup blueberries (fresh or frozen)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary

Instructions:

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Drain off most of the excess fat.
2. Add the diced sweet potatoes to the pot along with 2 cups of water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes until the sweet potatoes are fork-tender.
3. Remove from heat and stir in the spinach. The residual heat will wilt it perfectly.
4. Let the mixture cool for a few minutes, then stir in the olive oil, blueberries, and rosemary.
5. Serve once completely cooled to room temperature.

Nutritional Spotlight:

Beef is an excellent source of iron and protein for strong muscles. Sweet potatoes provide complex carbohydrates, fiber, and beta-carotene. Blueberries are a superfood packed with antioxidants to combat oxidative stress from exercise.

Pros & Cons:

Verdict:

An ideal recovery meal after a strenuous day of activity or for the hard-working Vizsla engaged in sports like agility or dock diving. The grain-free formula is also great for dogs with sensitivities.

Is your Vizsla’s beautiful red coat looking a little dull? This recipe is the answer. Packed with Omega-3 fatty acids from salmon, it’s designed to promote a shiny coat, healthy skin, and support joint health—crucial for such an active breed.

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs salmon fillets, skin removed
• 1.5 cups quinoa, cooked
• 1 cup chopped zucchini
• 1 cup chopped broccoli florets
• 3 tablespoons flaxseed oil
• 1 teaspoon dried dill

Instructions:

1. Bake or poach the salmon fillets until cooked through. Let cool slightly, then flake with a fork.
2. Cook the quinoa according to package directions.
3. Lightly steam the zucchini and broccoli until tender-crisp. Avoid overcooking to retain nutrients.
4. In a large bowl, gently combine the flaked salmon, cooked quinoa, and steamed vegetables.
5. Drizzle with flaxseed oil and sprinkle with dill. Toss gently to mix.
6. Ensure the meal is fully cooled before serving.

Nutritional Spotlight:

Salmon is one of the best sources of Omega-3s (EPA and DHA), which are anti-inflammatory and fantastic for skin, coat, and brain health. Quinoa is a complete protein, and flaxseed oil adds another layer of healthy fats.

Pros & Cons:

Verdict:

This is the go-to recipe for any Vizsla owner wanting to boost their dog’s coat health or provide extra joint support. It’s a fantastic, nutrient-dense meal that targets specific wellness goals.

If you’re looking for a meal that’s easy to portion and store, this ‘meatloaf’ for dogs is a winner. Using lean ground turkey, it’s a lower-fat option that’s still high in protein, making it great for maintaining a healthy, athletic weight.

Ingredients:

• 3 lbs ground turkey
• 2 eggs, lightly beaten
• 1 cup rolled oats (uncooked)
• 1/2 cup grated carrots
• 1/2 cup finely chopped bell peppers (any color)
• 1/4 cup bone broth (no salt added)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, eggs, oats, grated carrots, and chopped bell peppers.
3. Use your hands to mix everything together until just combined. Do not overmix.
4. Stir in the bone broth to add moisture.
5. Press the mixture into a loaf pan or form a free-form loaf on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 45-55 minutes, or until the loaf is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
7. Let the loaf cool completely before slicing and serving.

Nutritional Spotlight:

Turkey is a very lean source of high-quality protein. Oats provide soluble fiber for digestive health, while eggs add extra protein and essential nutrients like biotin and vitamin B12.

Pros & Cons:

Verdict:

Perfect for the busy Vizsla owner who loves to meal prep. This loaf is a convenient, healthy, and delicious way to ensure your pup has a balanced meal ready to go, especially if you’re managing their weight.

For a change of pace from the usual poultry and beef, this lamb stew offers a novel protein source that can be great for dogs with sensitivities. It’s a warming, hearty meal perfect for refueling after a chilly autumn run.

Ingredients:

• 2.5 lbs ground lamb or lamb stew meat, cubed
• 1 cup pearl barley, cooked
• 1 cup chopped celery
• 1 cup chopped butternut squash
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste (ensure no added sugar or salt)
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, brown the ground lamb or stew meat. Drain excess fat.
2. Add the celery, butternut squash, tomato paste, and thyme to the pot, along with 3 cups of water.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and let it simmer for about 30 minutes, or until the squash is tender.
4. While the stew simmers, cook the barley according to package instructions.
5. Once the stew is cooked, stir in the cooked barley.
6. Let it cool to a safe temperature before serving your eager pup.

Nutritional Spotlight:

Lamb is a great source of protein and healthy fats, as well as zinc and iron. Barley is a low-glycemic carbohydrate that provides sustained energy, and butternut squash is loaded with vitamins A, C, and E.

Pros & Cons:

Verdict:

A fantastic rotational recipe to keep mealtime exciting and provide a different array of nutrients. It’s especially good for dogs that may have developed sensitivities to more common proteins like chicken.

Need a quick, protein-packed breakfast or a light recovery meal? This recipe is as easy as it gets. Eggs are a nutritional powerhouse, providing a complete amino acid profile perfect for a quick muscle-building boost.

Ingredients:

• 6 large eggs
• 1 cup fresh spinach
• 1/4 cup cottage cheese (low-fat)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• A pinch of turmeric (for its anti-inflammatory properties)

Instructions:

1. Heat the olive oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the spinach and cook for 1-2 minutes until it has wilted.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs and cottage cheese together.
4. Pour the egg mixture into the skillet with the spinach.
5. Scramble gently until the eggs are cooked through but still moist.
6. Sprinkle with a pinch of turmeric and let it cool completely before serving.

Nutritional Spotlight:

Eggs are considered a ‘perfect protein’. Cottage cheese provides extra calcium and protein, while spinach is rich in iron and vitamins. Turmeric is a natural anti-inflammatory, great for active joints.

Pros & Cons:

Verdict:

This is the ultimate quick-fix meal. Perfect for a morning energy boost before a run, or as a tasty, protein-rich topper to entice a picky eater. It’s not intended as a sole daily meal but is a fantastic supplement.

Another excellent novel protein, venison is lean, rich, and a great choice for dogs with food allergies. Paired with pumpkin, this recipe is also a superstar for digestive health, helping to keep everything running smoothly.

Ingredients:

• 2.5 lbs ground venison
• 1 (15-ounce) can of pure pumpkin puree (NOT pie filling)
• 1 cup lentils, cooked
• 1 cup chopped kale, stems removed
• 2 tablespoons sunflower oil

Instructions:

1. In a large skillet, cook the ground venison until browned. Drain any excess fat.
2. Stir in the pumpkin puree and cooked lentils, mixing until well combined.
3. Add the chopped kale and continue to cook for another 3-5 minutes, allowing the kale to wilt into the mixture.
4. Remove from heat and stir in the sunflower oil.
5. Let the meal cool completely before serving.

Nutritional Spotlight:

Venison is a lean, high-protein meat that is lower in cholesterol and fat than beef. Pumpkin is famous for its fiber content, which aids in digestion. Lentils provide plant-based protein, fiber, and iron.

Pros & Cons:

Verdict:

A top-tier choice for Vizslas with sensitive stomachs or known allergies to common proteins. The combination of lean venison and soothing pumpkin makes this a gentle yet powerful fuel source.

Don’t turn your nose up at this one! Sardines are tiny nutritional bombs, loaded with Omega-3s and calcium. This recipe is fantastic for joint support, making it perfect for the Vizsla who loves to swim, run, and leap.

Ingredients:

• 2 cans (approx. 4 oz each) of sardines packed in water, no salt added
• 2 cups rolled oats, cooked into a thick porridge
• 1/2 cup grated zucchini
• 1 hard-boiled egg, chopped
• 1 tablespoon of kelp powder (optional, for minerals)

Instructions:

1. Cook the rolled oats with water until you have a thick, creamy porridge. Let it cool down significantly.
2. In a bowl, mash the sardines (bones and all – they are soft and full of calcium!) with a fork.
3. Stir the mashed sardines, grated zucchini, and chopped hard-boiled egg into the cooled oatmeal.
4. If using, sprinkle in the kelp powder and mix well.
5. Serve this nutrient-rich meal to your happy pup.

Nutritional Spotlight:

Sardines provide an incredible amount of Omega-3s for their size, plus Vitamin D and calcium from their edible bones. Oatmeal is a gentle source of fiber, and kelp offers a wide range of trace minerals.

Pros & Cons:

Verdict:

The ultimate joint-support meal. If your Vizsla is highly active, an older athlete, or just needs an extra boost for their joints and coat, this stinky-but-stellar recipe is a must-try.

Organ meats are like nature’s multivitamins for dogs. This recipe uses chicken liver to deliver a concentrated dose of essential vitamins and minerals that support everything from vision to energy metabolism.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb chicken livers
• 2 lbs ground chicken
• 1 cup chopped kale
• 1 cup diced apples (seeds and core removed)
• 1.5 cups cooked barley
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions:

1. In a large skillet, lightly cook the chicken livers until they are just firmed up. Remove from the pan and chop them into small, bite-sized pieces.
2. In the same skillet, cook the ground chicken until browned.
3. Return the chopped livers to the skillet. Add the kale and diced apples, cooking for 5-7 minutes until the kale is wilted and the apple is slightly softened.
4. Stir in the cooked barley and olive oil.
5. Mix everything together and allow it to cool completely before serving.

Nutritional Spotlight:

Chicken liver is incredibly rich in Vitamin A, iron, and B vitamins (especially B12). Kale adds vitamins K and C, while apples provide fiber and a touch of natural sweetness.

Pros & Cons:

Verdict:

This is a ‘superfood’ meal that should be rotated into your Vizsla’s diet once or twice a week. It’s too rich for everyday feeding but provides an unparalleled boost of vitamins and minerals.

Similar to our turkey loaf, this beef and lentil version is designed for slow-release energy. The combination of protein from beef and the complex, fibrous carbohydrates from lentils makes for a meal that sticks to the ribs and fuels your dog for hours.

Ingredients:

• 3 lbs lean ground beef
• 1 cup red lentils, rinsed
• 2 eggs
• 1 cup finely chopped celery
• 1/2 cup parsley, chopped
• 1/4 cup water or no-salt-added beef broth

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine all ingredients: ground beef, lentils, eggs, celery, parsley, and broth.
3. Mix gently with your hands until everything is evenly distributed.
4. Press the mixture into two loaf pans.
5. Bake for 60-75 minutes, or until the center is no longer pink and the loaf is cooked through.
6. Let it cool completely in the pan before slicing. This helps it hold its shape.

Nutritional Spotlight:

The combination of beef and lentils provides a powerful one-two punch of protein and fiber. This pairing helps regulate blood sugar levels and provides long-lasting, steady energy rather than a quick spike and crash.

Pros & Cons:

Verdict:

The perfect meal to feed your Vizsla on a day you know will be filled with long, steady activity, like an all-day hike. It provides the kind of fuel that lasts for hours.

This festive-feeling meal isn’t just for the holidays! Cranberries are packed with antioxidants and are known to support urinary tract health. It’s a light, healthy, and beneficial recipe your Vizsla will gobble up.

Ingredients:

• 3 lbs ground turkey
• 1.5 cups cooked quinoa
• 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
• 1 cup green beans, chopped
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint
• 2 tablespoons coconut oil

Instructions:

1. Cook the ground turkey in a skillet until browned. Drain the fat.
2. If using fresh cranberries, add them to the skillet with a splash of water and cook for 5-7 minutes until they begin to pop. If using frozen, add them for the last few minutes of cooking the turkey.
3. Stir in the cooked quinoa and chopped green beans.
4. Remove from heat and mix in the coconut oil and fresh mint.
5. Let it cool before serving this refreshing meal.

Nutritional Spotlight:

Cranberries provide Vitamin C and powerful antioxidants that help combat inflammation and support a healthy immune system. Mint can aid in digestion and freshens breath.

Pros & Cons:

Verdict:

A wonderful, light meal that offers unique health benefits. It’s a great recipe to add to your rotation, especially for female dogs or any Vizsla that could use an immune system boost.

Bison is another fantastic, lean red meat that’s high in protein and iron but lower in fat than beef. Paired with hearty root vegetables, this recipe is the ultimate fuel for a long day on the trails.

Ingredients:

• 2.5 lbs ground bison
• 1 large carrot, diced
• 1 large parsnip, diced
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 1/4 cup bone broth
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, brown the ground bison.
2. Add the diced carrot, parsnip, and bone broth. Bring to a simmer, cover, and cook for 15-20 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
3. Stir in the frozen peas and oregano, and cook for another 2 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and let the mixture cool down completely.

Nutritional Spotlight:

Bison is a nutrient-dense, lean protein. Root vegetables like carrots and parsnips are excellent sources of fiber and complex carbohydrates, providing the steady energy needed for endurance activities.

Pros & Cons:

Verdict:

This is premium fuel for the elite canine athlete. If you’re preparing for a big hike, a competition, or just a very active weekend, this bison recipe will give your Vizsla the power they need to perform.

After a long, exciting day, sometimes your Vizsla needs a lighter, soothing snack to help them wind down. This simple, no-cook bowl is perfect as a small meal, a treat, or a topper that aids in muscle recovery and provides a gentle source of protein.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup low-fat cottage cheese
• 1/2 cup mixed berries (blueberries, raspberries, strawberries – chopped)
• 1 tablespoon chia seeds
• 1 tablespoon raw honey (optional, in moderation)

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, simply combine the cottage cheese, mixed berries, and chia seeds.
2. If using, drizzle the honey over the top.
3. Stir gently and serve immediately.

Nutritional Spotlight:

Cottage cheese is high in casein protein, a slow-digesting protein that’s great for muscle repair overnight. Berries are packed with antioxidants, and chia seeds provide fiber and Omega-3s.

Pros & Cons:

Verdict:

The perfect bedtime snack or post-workout treat. It’s a delicious, healthy way to give your Vizsla a protein boost for recovery without a heavy meal right before sleep.

Switching to homemade food is an exciting journey, but it’s important to do it right. Your Vizsla’s health depends on a balanced diet. Here are some key things to keep in mind before you start cooking.

Talk to Your Vet First!

This is the most critical step. Before making any significant changes to your dog’s diet, consult your veterinarian or a board-certified veterinary nutritionist. They can help you formulate a diet that is complete and balanced for your specific dog’s age, weight, and activity level. They can also recommend essential supplements, like calcium, that are often missing from homemade diets.

The Nutritional Building Blocks for a Vizsla

• High-Quality Protein: As you’ve seen in our recipes, protein is king. It’s vital for muscle development and repair. Aim for lean sources like chicken, turkey, beef, fish, and eggs. Protein should make up a significant portion of their diet.
• Healthy Fats: Active dogs need fat for energy and for absorbing vitamins. Sources like salmon, coconut oil, flaxseed oil, and even the fat from meats provide essential fatty acids (like Omega-3 and Omega-6) for joint health, brain function, and a shiny coat.
• Complex Carbohydrates: Carbs provide readily available energy. Opt for complex carbs that offer sustained fuel, like sweet potatoes, brown rice, quinoa, barley, and rolled oats. They also provide essential fiber for digestive health.
• Vitamins & Minerals: This is where fruits and vegetables shine. Leafy greens (spinach, kale), colorful veggies (carrots, bell peppers), and fruits (blueberries, apples) provide a spectrum of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.

Foods to ALWAYS Avoid

Many human foods are toxic to dogs. Never 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 and caffeine
• Cooked bones (they can splinter)

Batch Cooking and Storage

To make life easier, cook large batches of food once or twice a week. You can portion out the meals into individual containers. Homemade food will typically last 3-4 days in the refrigerator. For longer storage, freeze the portions and thaw them as needed. The loaf recipes are especially great for freezing!

How much homemade food should I feed my Vizsla?

This is a question best answered by your vet, as it depends on your dog’s specific weight, age, metabolism, and daily activity level. A general guideline is to feed about 2-3% of their ideal body weight per day, split into two meals. For a 50-pound Vizsla, this would be 1 to 1.5 pounds of food daily. Monitor their body condition and adjust the amount as needed. If you can’t easily feel their ribs, you may be overfeeding; if their ribs are too prominent, you may be underfeeding.

Can I make these recipes in large batches and freeze them?

Absolutely! Batch cooking is a lifesaver. Most of these recipes freeze beautifully. The stews, loaves, and basic meat/grain/veggie mixes can be portioned into freezer-safe containers or bags and stored for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to use one, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight. The only recipe that doesn’t freeze well is the cottage cheese bowl, which is best made fresh.

Are supplements necessary with a homemade diet?

Most likely, yes. It is very difficult to create a perfectly balanced diet that meets 100% of AAFCO (Association of American Feed Control Officials) standards without some supplementation. The most common deficiency in homemade diets is calcium. Never add human supplements without veterinary guidance. A vet or canine nutritionist can recommend a specific multivitamin or supplement blend (like Balance IT or Just Food For Dogs’ DIY Nutrient Blends) designed to complete and balance homemade recipes.

Is a raw diet (BARF) better for a Vizsla?

Raw diets are a popular but controversial topic. Proponents believe they are more ‘natural’ and offer health benefits, while opponents (including many veterinary organizations) raise concerns about nutritional imbalances and the risk of bacterial contamination (like Salmonella and E. coli) to both pets and humans. All the recipes provided here are cooked to eliminate that risk. If you are interested in a raw diet, it is absolutely crucial to do so under the strict guidance of a veterinary nutritionist to ensure it is safe and balanced.