21 DIY Farmer’s Dog Food Recipes That Save Money

1. The Classic Chicken & Rice Delight

This recipe is the go-to for a reason. It’s simple, gentle on the stomach, and uses ingredients you probably already have. It’s the perfect starting point for any aspiring dog food chef.

Ingredients:

• 1.5 lbs ground chicken
• 1 cup brown rice
• 1 cup chopped carrots
• 1/2 cup peas
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cups water

Instructions:

1. Cook the brown rice according to package directions.
2. While the rice cooks, heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the ground chicken and cook until browned.
3. Add the chopped carrots and water to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 15 minutes, or until carrots are tender.
4. Stir in the peas and the cooked brown rice. Cook for another 3-5 minutes.
5. Let it cool completely before serving.

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

This is an excellent meal for dogs with sensitive stomachs or those recovering from an upset tummy. It’s also a fantastic, cost-effective base recipe for everyday feeding.

2. Beef & Sweet Potato Power Bowl

A hearty and nutrient-dense meal perfect for active dogs. The sweet potato provides complex carbohydrates for sustained energy, and beef is a favorite for many picky eaters.

Ingredients:

• 1.5 lbs lean ground beef (90/10)
• 1 large sweet potato, peeled and diced
• 1 cup spinach
• 1/2 cup green beans, chopped
• 1 tablespoon coconut oil
• 4 cups water

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, heat coconut oil and cook the ground beef until browned. Drain excess fat.
2. Add the diced sweet potato and water. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 20 minutes until the sweet potato is fork-tender.
3. Stir in the green beans and cook for 5 more minutes.
4. Remove from heat and wilt in the spinach.
5. Allow to cool completely before serving to your pup.

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

Perfect for active dogs, athletic breeds, or underweight dogs who need to pack on a few healthy pounds. The rich flavor is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

3. Turkey & Quinoa Feast

A lean and clean recipe! Turkey is a fantastic, lower-fat alternative to chicken, and quinoa is a complete protein, offering all the essential amino acids your dog needs.

Ingredients:

• 1.5 lbs ground turkey
• 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
• 1 cup chopped zucchini
• 1/2 cup blueberries
• 2 cups water or low-sodium chicken broth

Instructions:

1. In a pot, bring the quinoa and 2 cups of water/broth to a boil. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes.
2. In a separate pan, cook the ground turkey until no longer pink.
3. Once the quinoa is cooked, fluff it with a fork and add the cooked turkey and chopped zucchini.
4. Stir everything together and let it cool. Mix in the blueberries just before serving for a fresh antioxidant boost.

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

This is a great choice for dogs on a weight management plan or those who need a leaner diet. The addition of blueberries provides a fun and healthy twist.

4. Savory Salmon & Veggie Mix

Give your dog’s coat a beautiful shine with this omega-3-rich recipe. Salmon is fantastic for skin and joint health, making this a powerhouse meal for dogs of all ages.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb salmon filet, skin removed
• 1 cup diced carrots
• 1 cup green beans, chopped
• 1/2 cup brown rice
• 1 tablespoon flaxseed oil

Instructions:

1. Cook the brown rice as directed.
2. Bake or poach the salmon until it’s cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
3. Steam or boil the carrots and green beans until tender.
4. In a large bowl, flake the cooked salmon and mix it with the cooked rice and vegetables.
5. Drizzle with flaxseed oil and mix well. Let it cool before serving.

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

Ideal for dogs with dry skin, dull coats, or joint issues. It’s also a wonderful option for dogs with poultry allergies.

5. Hearty Lamb & Barley Stew

Lamb is a novel protein for many dogs, which can be beneficial for those with food sensitivities or allergies to more common proteins like chicken or beef. Barley adds wonderful fiber and texture.

Ingredients:

• 1.5 lbs ground lamb
• 1/2 cup pearl barley
• 1 cup chopped celery
• 1 cup chopped carrots
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 4 cups low-sodium beef broth

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, heat olive oil and brown the ground lamb.
2. Add the barley, celery, carrots, and beef broth.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat, cover, and let it simmer for 45-50 minutes, or until the barley is soft and cooked through.
4. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
5. Let the stew cool to a safe temperature before serving.

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

A fantastic choice for dogs with chicken or beef allergies. This rich, stew-like meal feels like a special treat and is perfect for cooler weather.

6. Budget-Friendly Lentil & Turkey Bake

Stretch your dollar without skimping on nutrition. Lentils are a cheap and excellent source of protein and fiber, and when mixed with turkey, they create a balanced and affordable meal.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground turkey
• 1 cup red lentils, rinsed
• 1 cup shredded carrots
• 1 cup spinach
• 3 cups water or low-sodium broth

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, rinsed lentils, shredded carrots, spinach, and water/broth. Mix thoroughly.
3. Pour the mixture into a 9×13 inch baking dish.
4. Bake for 45-55 minutes, until the liquid is absorbed and the turkey is cooked through.
5. Let it cool, then cut into serving-sized squares.

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

This is the ultimate recipe for pet parents on a tight budget. The casserole style makes it incredibly easy to portion and store for the week.

7. Pork & Apple Mash

A touch of sweetness from the apple makes this pork-based recipe irresistible. Pork is a highly digestible protein that many dogs love, and apples provide vitamins and fiber.

Ingredients:

• 1.5 lbs ground pork
• 1 sweet potato, peeled and cubed
• 1 apple, cored and chopped (no seeds!)
• 1/2 cup peas
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions:

1. Boil or steam the sweet potato cubes until they are very tender. Mash them in a large bowl.
2. While the potato cooks, heat olive oil in a skillet and cook the ground pork until browned.
3. Add the chopped apple and peas to the skillet with the pork and cook for 5 minutes until the apple softens.
4. Combine the pork mixture with the mashed sweet potato.
5. Mix well and let it cool before serving.

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

A great rotational recipe to add variety to your dog’s diet. It’s perfect for picky eaters who are drawn to sweeter flavors.

8. Sardine & Egg Scramble

Talk about a nutrient-packed breakfast (or dinner)! Sardines are an omega-3 powerhouse, and eggs are a perfect source of protein. This is a quick, easy, and incredibly healthy meal.

Ingredients:

• 1 can (3.75 oz) sardines packed in water, no salt added
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup chopped spinach
• 1 teaspoon coconut oil

Instructions:

1. Heat coconut oil in a small non-stick skillet over medium heat.
2. Whisk the eggs in a bowl. Pour them into the skillet and scramble until just set.
3. Add the spinach and cook until wilted.
4. Remove from heat. Mash the entire can of sardines (including bones for calcium!) and mix them into the scramble.
5. Let it cool completely. This is a smaller recipe, perfect for small dogs or as a meal topper.

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

This is less of a batch-cooking recipe and more of a special, high-value meal or supplement. It’s perfect for adding a massive nutritional boost a few times a week.

9. Crockpot Beef & Barley

Set it and forget it! This recipe is perfect for busy pet parents. Just toss everything in the slow cooker in the morning, and you’ll have a week’s worth of delicious dog food by the evening.

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs stewing beef, cut into small cubes
• 1 cup pearl barley
• 2 large carrots, chopped
• 1 cup green beans, chopped
• 6 cups water or low-sodium beef broth

Instructions:

1. Place all ingredients into the slow cooker.
2. Stir to combine.
3. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the beef is tender and the barley is cooked.
4. Stir the mixture, breaking up any large chunks of beef.
5. Let it cool before portioning and storing.

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

The ultimate time-saver for anyone who wants to meal prep for their pup. The slow cooking process makes the meat incredibly tender and the flavors well-melded.

10. Chicken & Pumpkin Puree

Another fantastic recipe for sensitive tummies. Pumpkin is a superfood for dogs, known for its ability to help with both constipation and diarrhea. It’s a digestive regulator!

Ingredients:

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breast, cubed
• 1 cup pumpkin puree (100% pure pumpkin, not pie filling)
• 1 cup cooked oatmeal
• 1/2 cup chopped kale

Instructions:

1. Boil the chicken cubes until cooked through. Drain and shred the chicken with two forks.
2. Prepare the oatmeal according to package directions.
3. In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, pumpkin puree, and cooked oatmeal.
4. Stir in the chopped kale until well-distributed.
5. Serve once cooled to room temperature.

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

A must-have recipe for any dog prone to digestive upset. The fiber from the pumpkin and oatmeal provides excellent support for a healthy gut.

11. Fish & Sweet Potato Patties

This recipe uses canned tuna or mackerel for an affordable fish option. Baking them into patties makes for easy, mess-free serving and portion control.

Ingredients:

• 2 cans (5 oz each) tuna or mackerel in water, drained
• 1 large sweet potato, cooked and mashed
• 1 egg
• 1/4 cup rolled oats
• 1/4 cup chopped parsley

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, combine the drained fish, mashed sweet potato, egg, oats, and parsley. Mix well.
3. Form the mixture into small, palm-sized patties and place them on the baking sheet.
4. Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until firm and lightly golden.
5. Let them cool completely.

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

A fun and different way to serve a fish-based meal. The patties are great for freezing and can even be used as high-value training treats if made small enough.

12. Liver & Greens Blend

Organ meats like liver are incredibly nutrient-dense, packed with vitamins A, B, iron, and zinc. A little goes a long way, making this a great supplemental meal to mix into your dog’s rotation.

Ingredients:

• 1/2 lb chicken or beef liver
• 1 lb ground turkey or beef
• 1 cup chopped kale or spinach
• 1/2 cup cooked brown rice
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions:

1. In a skillet, heat olive oil and cook the liver until firm, about 5-7 minutes. Remove and chop finely.
2. In the same skillet, cook the ground meat until browned.
3. Return the chopped liver to the skillet. Add the greens and cook until wilted.
4. Stir in the cooked brown rice.
5. Mix everything together and allow it to cool.

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

This is a fantastic ‘booster’ meal. Due to its richness, it’s best served once or twice a week, mixed with another recipe, to provide a powerful nutrient boost.

13. Cottage Cheese & Veggie Bowl (Meatless)

Perfect for a light meal or for dogs who need a temporary break from meat. Cottage cheese is a great source of protein and calcium, and it’s gentle on the stomach.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup low-fat cottage cheese
• 1/2 cup cooked quinoa
• 1/4 cup shredded carrots
• 1/4 cup chopped cucumber
• 1 hard-boiled egg, chopped

Instructions:

1. This one is super easy! In a bowl, simply combine the cottage cheese, cooked quinoa, shredded carrots, chopped cucumber, and chopped hard-boiled egg.
2. Mix gently and serve immediately.
3. This recipe is best made fresh and not stored for long periods.

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

A great option for a quick, light lunch or for a dog recovering from a stomach bug who needs something bland but nutritious. Use it as a temporary meal, not a permanent diet.

14. Bison & Butternut Squash Stew

For the adventurous pup! Bison is a lean, novel protein that’s lower in fat and cholesterol than beef. Butternut squash adds a sweet flavor and a healthy dose of vitamins.

Ingredients:

• 1.5 lbs ground bison
• 2 cups cubed butternut squash
• 1/2 cup cranberries (unsweetened)
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 4 cups water

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, brown the ground bison. Drain any excess fat.
2. Add the butternut squash, cranberries, rosemary, and water.
3. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 25-30 minutes, until the squash is very tender.
4. Mash some of the squash with a spoon to thicken the stew.
5. Let it cool before serving this gourmet meal.

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

A fantastic gourmet option for dogs with beef or chicken allergies. The flavor is rich and unique, making it a special treat for any dog.

15. Simple Turkey & Rice Soup

When your dog is feeling under the weather, this soupy, hydrating meal is perfect. It’s easy to eat, easy to digest, and helps ensure they get enough fluids.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground turkey
• 1/2 cup white rice
• 1 cup chopped celery
• 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, combine the ground turkey, white rice, celery, and chicken broth.
2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer.
3. Cover and cook for 25-30 minutes, until the rice is fully cooked and the turkey is no longer pink.
4. The consistency should be like a thick soup.
5. Allow it to cool to a lukewarm temperature before serving.

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

The perfect meal for a sick day. It’s the doggy equivalent of chicken noodle soup, providing comfort, hydration, and gentle nutrition when they need it most.

16. Duck & Pear Delight

Another excellent novel protein, duck is rich in flavor and a great choice for dogs with allergies. The pear adds a touch of natural sweetness and fiber.

Ingredients:

• 1.5 lbs ground duck
• 1 ripe pear, cored and chopped (no seeds)
• 1 cup cooked lentils
• 1 cup chopped broccoli florets (steamed)

Instructions:

1. In a large skillet, cook the ground duck over medium heat until browned. Duck is fatty, so be sure to drain the excess fat thoroughly.
2. In a large bowl, combine the cooked duck, chopped pear, cooked lentils, and steamed broccoli.
3. Mix gently to combine all the ingredients.
4. Serve once the mixture has cooled.

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

A gourmet meal for the dog with a sophisticated palate or, more practically, for the dog with multiple food allergies who needs a new protein to try.

17. Weight Management Turkey & Veggie Loaf

This ‘meatloaf’ for dogs is packed with low-calorie vegetables to help your pup feel full and satisfied while managing their weight. It’s easy to slice and portion perfectly.

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs ground turkey (99% lean)
• 2 eggs
• 1 cup rolled oats
• 1 cup finely chopped green beans
• 1 cup shredded zucchini
• 1/2 cup shredded carrots

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, use your hands to mix all ingredients together until just combined. Don’t overmix.
3. Press the mixture into a standard loaf pan.
4. Bake for 60-75 minutes, or until the center is cooked through.
5. Let the loaf cool completely before slicing and serving.

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

This is the perfect recipe for dogs who need to lose a few pounds. It’s hearty, delicious, and packed with veggies to keep them from feeling hungry between meals.

18. Beef Heart & Carrot Chop

Beef heart is a fantastic, budget-friendly organ meat. It’s technically a muscle, so it’s leaner than other organs but packed with taurine, which is vital for your dog’s heart health.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb beef heart, trimmed and finely chopped
• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 2 cups shredded carrots
• 1 cup peas
• 1/2 cup cooked oatmeal

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, cook the finely chopped beef heart and ground beef until browned.
2. Add the shredded carrots and peas, and cook for another 5-7 minutes until the carrots are tender.
3. Stir in the cooked oatmeal to bind the mixture.
4. Let it cool completely before serving.

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

An incredibly nutritious and cost-effective meal. It’s especially beneficial for breeds prone to heart conditions, but it’s a healthy choice for any adult dog.

19. Minimalist Chicken & Broccoli

When you’re short on time and ingredients, this three-ingredient recipe is a lifesaver. It’s a simple, grain-free meal that provides the basics your dog needs.

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cubed
• 2 cups broccoli florets, chopped
• 1 tablespoon coconut oil

Instructions:

1. Heat coconut oil in a large skillet or pot.
2. Add the cubed chicken and cook until browned on all sides.
3. Add the chopped broccoli and a splash of water. Cover and steam for 5-7 minutes, until the broccoli is tender and the chicken is cooked through.
4. Chop or shred the mixture to your dog’s preferred consistency.
5. Let it cool before serving.

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

This is the perfect recipe for when you’re in a pinch. While not intended for an exclusive long-term diet without added supplements, it’s a fantastic, healthy meal to get you through a busy day.

20. Senior Dog’s Soft Salmon Mash

Designed with older dogs in mind, this recipe is soft, easy to chew, and packed with joint-supporting omega-3s from salmon and anti-inflammatory turmeric.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb salmon filet, skinless
• 1 large sweet potato, cooked and mashed
• 1/2 cup peas
• 1/4 teaspoon turmeric
• 1 tablespoon fish oil

Instructions:

1. Bake or poach the salmon until cooked through. Flake it with a fork.
2. In a bowl, combine the flaked salmon with the mashed sweet potato.
3. Stir in the peas, turmeric, and fish oil until everything is well incorporated.
4. The texture should be very soft and easy for a senior dog to eat.
5. Serve warm (not hot).

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

A loving and thoughtful meal for your golden-aged companion. It provides targeted nutrition to support their joints, brain, and overall health in their senior years.

21. The ‘Everything’ Kitchen Sink Stew

This recipe is designed to use up leftover veggies and protein from your week. It reduces food waste and provides a varied, nutrient-rich meal for your dog.

Ingredients:

• 1.5 lbs of any ground meat (chicken, turkey, beef)
• 3-4 cups of dog-safe leftover vegetables, chopped (e.g., carrots, green beans, zucchini, bell peppers)
• 1/2 cup of a cooked grain or legume (e.g., rice, quinoa, lentils)
• 4 cups water or broth

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, brown the ground meat.
2. Add the chopped vegetables and cook for 5 minutes.
3. Stir in the cooked grain/legume and the water or broth.
4. Bring to a simmer and cook for 15-20 minutes, until all the vegetables are tender.
5. Let it cool. The beauty is that it’s different every time!

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

The perfect end-of-the-week meal. It’s a practical, affordable, and easy way to clean out the fridge while giving your dog a delicious and varied dinner.

Your Guide to Safe & Nutritious DIY Dog Food

Switching to homemade dog food is an amazing step, but it’s more than just mixing meat and veggies in a bowl. To ensure your dog gets everything they need to thrive, keep these key points in mind.

Talk to Your Vet First!

This is the most important step. Before you make any major changes to your dog’s diet, have a conversation with your veterinarian or a board-certified veterinary nutritionist. They can help you formulate a diet that is complete and balanced for your dog’s specific age, breed, size, and health condition. They can also recommend essential supplements.

Achieving Nutritional Balance

A balanced canine diet needs a careful mix of several components:

• Protein: (Chicken, beef, lamb, fish) The foundation for strong muscles.
• Fat: (From protein, oils) Essential for energy, brain function, and a healthy coat.
• Carbohydrates: (Sweet potatoes, rice, quinoa) Provide energy and fiber.
• Fiber: (Veggies, grains) Crucial for digestive health.
• Essential Nutrients: This is the tricky part. Commercial dog foods are fortified with a precise blend of vitamins and minerals. For a DIY diet, you’ll likely need to add a supplement to provide things like Calcium, Phosphorus, and B vitamins. A vet nutritionist can recommend a good multi-vitamin powder for homemade diets.

Foods to ALWAYS Avoid

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

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

Batch Cooking & Storage

To make life easier, cook in large batches. Once the food has cooled completely, you can portion it into individual containers. Homemade dog food will typically last 3-4 days in the refrigerator. For longer storage, freeze the portions in freezer-safe bags or containers. They can last for up to 3 months in the freezer. Simply thaw a portion in the fridge the night before you need it.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

This varies greatly depending on your dog’s weight, age, and activity level. A general rule of thumb 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. It’s best to consult your vet for a more precise recommendation and monitor your dog’s weight and body condition.

2. Is homemade dog food really cheaper than The Farmer’s Dog?

Yes, in most cases, it is significantly cheaper. While premium ingredients like salmon or bison can be pricey, using more affordable proteins like chicken, turkey, and lentils can drastically reduce the cost. Buying ingredients in bulk and cooking large batches will maximize your savings compared to a fresh food subscription service.

3. Can I swap ingredients in these recipes?

Absolutely! That’s one of the benefits of DIY. If your dog doesn’t like carrots, try green beans. If brown rice doesn’t agree with them, try quinoa or sweet potato. The key is to maintain the general ratio of protein, carbs, and vegetables. Just be sure that any new ingredient you introduce is safe for dogs.

4. Do I need to add supplements?

For long-term feeding, it is highly recommended. While these recipes are healthy, they may not provide 100% of every single micronutrient your dog needs over a lifetime. A calcium supplement is especially important. A general canine multivitamin or a supplement mix specifically designed for homemade food (often called a ‘balancer’) is the best way to ensure your dog’s diet is complete. Always discuss supplements with your vet before adding them.