7 Tuna And Egg Dog Food Mixes Using Pantry Staples

Let’s start with the easiest recipe of them all! This two-ingredient scramble is perfect when you’re short on time but still want to give your dog a special, protein-packed treat. It’s a fantastic topper for their regular kibble to make mealtime more exciting.

Recipe & Instructions

Ingredients:

• 1 large egg
• 1/4 can of tuna in water (no salt added), drained
• Optional: 1 teaspoon of olive oil or coconut oil

Steps:

1. Crack the egg into a small bowl and whisk it lightly.
2. Heat a small non-stick skillet over medium heat. If using, add the oil.
3. Pour the whisked egg into the pan. As it starts to cook, gently stir it with a spatula to create soft curds.
4. When the egg is about halfway cooked, flake the drained tuna into the pan.
5. Continue to stir and cook until the egg is fully cooked through (no runny parts!).
6. Remove from heat and let it cool completely before serving it to your dog on its own or mixed with their food.

Pros & Cons

Verdict

This is the perfect go-to recipe for a quick meal enhancer. It’s ideal for pet owners who want to add a burst of flavor and protein to their dog’s diet without any fuss. Best served as a special treat or topper, not a daily meal replacement.

For our more active canine companions, this power bowl combines the protein of tuna and egg with the complex carbohydrates of brown rice for sustained energy. A few dog-friendly veggies add some extra vitamins and fiber to the mix.

Recipe & Instructions

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup cooked brown rice, cooled
• 1 hard-boiled egg, chopped
• 1/4 can of tuna in water (no salt added), drained
• 2 tablespoons of finely chopped carrots

Steps:

1. In a bowl, combine the cooked brown rice, chopped hard-boiled egg, drained tuna, and chopped carrots.
2. Gently mix everything together until well-combined.
3. That’s it! You can serve this as a standalone meal (check with your vet on portion size) or a hearty addition to their regular food.

Pros & Cons

Verdict

The Tuna & Rice Power Bowl is an excellent choice for dogs who have had a big day of hiking, playing, or training. It helps replenish their energy stores while providing high-quality nutrients for muscle recovery. It’s a substantial, satisfying meal supplement.

If your pup has a bit of a sensitive tummy, this gentle mash is a fantastic option. Sweet potato is a great source of dietary fiber and is known to be easy on the digestive system. Combined with the simple proteins from tuna and egg, it’s a comforting and nutritious meal.

Recipe & Instructions

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup cooked and mashed sweet potato, cooled
• 1 hard-boiled egg, mashed
• 1/4 can of tuna in water (no salt added), drained

Steps:

1. Ensure the cooked sweet potato is completely cooled and has no skin.
2. In a bowl, add the mashed sweet potato, mashed hard-boiled egg, and the drained tuna.
3. Use a fork to mix and mash all the ingredients together until you have a consistent, soft texture.
4. Serve as a special meal. This soft texture is also great for senior dogs who may have trouble chewing.

Pros & Cons

Verdict

This mash is the perfect comfort food for your canine. It’s especially suited for dogs with sensitive stomachs, senior dogs, or any pup who could use a little extra fiber in their diet. It’s a wholesome and delicious treat they’ll gobble up.

Need a healthy, homemade treat for training or for taking on the go? These baked oatmeal tuna patties are perfect! They hold their shape well, are easy to break into smaller pieces, and are packed with wholesome goodness.

Recipe & Instructions

Ingredients:

• 1/2 can of tuna in water (no salt added), drained well
• 1 large egg
• 1 cup of rolled oats (not instant)
• 1/4 cup water or unsalted chicken broth

Steps:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, combine the drained tuna, egg, rolled oats, and water/broth. Mix until it forms a thick, sticky dough.
3. Take small spoonfuls of the mixture and roll them into balls, then flatten them into small patties on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the patties are firm and lightly golden on the bottom.
5. Let them cool completely before serving. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Pros & Cons

Verdict

These patties are a game-changer for pet parents who love to use high-value treats for training. They are far healthier and more affordable than most store-bought options and are perfect for rewarding good behavior or for a special snack on an adventure.

This recipe is more of a complete meal than a simple topper. By baking the ingredients into a loaf, you create an easy-to-slice meal that’s loaded with protein and vitamins from dog-safe veggies. It’s like a healthy meatloaf for your pup!

Recipe & Instructions

Ingredients:

• 1 can of tuna in water (no salt added), drained
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup rolled oats
• 1/4 cup finely chopped carrots
• 1/4 cup peas (fresh or frozen and thawed)
• Optional: 1 tablespoon of chopped parsley for fresh breath

Steps:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a mini loaf pan or a few muffin cups.
2. In a large bowl, flake the tuna with a fork.
3. Add the eggs, oats, carrots, peas, and parsley (if using). Mix everything together thoroughly.
4. Press the mixture firmly into your prepared pan(s).
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes for a mini loaf, or 15-20 minutes for muffins, until the center is cooked through and firm to the touch.
6. Let the loaf cool completely in the pan before slicing and serving. Store in the fridge.

Pros & Cons

Verdict

The Veggie-Packed Tuna Loaf is for the pet parent who loves to meal prep. It’s a fantastic, hearty meal that can be served on special occasions or as a supplement throughout the week. It’s a great way to sneak some extra veggies into your dog’s diet.

On a hot summer day, nothing beats a cool treat. These ‘pupsicles’ are incredibly easy to make and provide a refreshing, protein-rich snack that will help your dog cool down. The addition of yogurt adds beneficial probiotics for gut health.

Recipe & Instructions

Ingredients:

• 1/4 can of tuna in water (no salt added), with the water
• 1 hard-boiled egg, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup plain, unsweetened yogurt (ensure it contains no xylitol)

Steps:

1. In a small bowl or blender, combine the tuna (with its water), the chopped egg, and the plain yogurt.
2. Mix or blend until smooth or slightly chunky, depending on your dog’s preference.
3. Pour the mixture into an ice cube tray or silicone molds.
4. Freeze for at least 4 hours, or until solid.
5. Pop one out and let your dog enjoy a cooling, tasty treat!

Pros & Cons

Verdict

These pupsicles are a must-have for the summer months. They are a healthy, fun, and engaging way to help your dog beat the heat. It’s an ideal recipe for any dog owner looking for a creative and beneficial frozen treat.

We all have those moments where we have a few leftover veggies that need to be used up. This frittata recipe is the perfect solution! It’s a versatile dish where you can toss in any dog-safe vegetables you have on hand, creating a new and exciting meal every time.

Recipe & Instructions

Ingredients:

• 3 large eggs
• 1/2 can of tuna in water (no salt added), drained
• 1/2 cup of chopped, dog-safe leftover veggies (e.g., spinach, bell peppers, zucchini, broccoli florets)
• A splash of water or unsalted broth

Steps:

Pros & Cons

Verdict

This frittata is for the resourceful and creative pet owner. It’s a fantastic way to ensure nothing goes to waste while providing your dog with a delicious, nutrient-dense meal. Just be sure to double-check that all your add-ins are safe for canine consumption!

Whipping up these recipes is fun and easy, but it’s important to keep a few key principles in mind to ensure you’re doing it safely and healthily for your beloved pet. Think of this as your ‘chef’s notes’ for canine cooking!

Choosing the Right Tuna

Not all canned tuna is created equal. When shopping, always reach for tuna packed in water, not oil. The oil adds unnecessary fat and calories that your dog doesn’t need. Most importantly, look for options with no salt added or low sodium. Dogs are much more sensitive to sodium than we are, and too much can be harmful.

Cooking Eggs Properly

While some debate exists around raw eggs, the safest and most recommended approach is to always cook them. Cooking eliminates the risk of bacteria like Salmonella and E. coli. It also prevents a potential biotin deficiency that can arise from a protein in raw egg whites. Scrambled, hard-boiled, or baked—just make sure they’re cooked through!

Safe & Healthy Add-Ins

Tuna and egg are a great base, but adding vegetables and healthy grains can round out the nutritional profile. Great options include:

• Veggies: Carrots, peas, green beans, sweet potatoes, spinach, zucchini, and broccoli (in moderation).
• Grains/Carbs: Cooked brown rice, quinoa, and rolled oats. These provide fiber and energy.
• Healthy Fats: A small drizzle of olive oil, coconut oil, or flaxseed oil can be beneficial for their coat.

Ingredients to ALWAYS Avoid

This is critical. Many human foods are toxic to dogs. Never include the following in your dog’s food:

• Onions, garlic, chives, and leeks
• Chocolate, coffee, or caffeine
• Grapes and raisins
• Xylitol (an artificial sweetener found in many products)
• Macadamia nuts
• Excessive salt, spices, and seasonings

Portion Control is Key

Remember, these homemade mixes should be treated as a supplement, a topper, or a special treat, not a complete replacement for their regular, nutritionally-balanced dog food unless specifically advised by a veterinarian or canine nutritionist. A good rule of thumb is that treats and toppers should not make up more than 10% of your dog’s daily caloric intake. Always start with a small amount to see how your dog’s system handles the new food.

Always Chat With Your Vet

Before making any significant changes to your dog’s diet, it’s always a great idea to have a conversation with your veterinarian. They know your dog’s specific health history and can provide the best advice on what’s appropriate for their age, breed, and activity level.

1. How often can I give my dog tuna?

Due to the mercury content in tuna, it should be given in moderation. It’s not an ‘everyday’ food. For a medium-sized dog, a small amount (like a quarter of a can) once or twice a week is a safe guideline. Smaller dogs should have less. Think of it as a special treat rather than a dietary staple.

2. Are raw eggs okay for dogs?

It’s best to stick with cooked eggs. While some proponents of raw diets include raw eggs, they carry the risk of salmonella and can interfere with biotin absorption. Cooking the egg neutralizes these risks, making it a safer and healthier option for your pet.

3. Can I use tuna packed in oil if it’s all I have?

If you’re in a pinch, you can, but you should drain as much of the oil as humanly possible and rinse the tuna lightly. Tuna in oil is much higher in fat and calories, which can lead to weight gain or even pancreatitis in sensitive dogs. Tuna in water is always the superior choice.

4. My dog is a puppy. Can they eat these mixes?

Puppies have very specific nutritional requirements for their growth and development. While a tiny taste of scrambled egg is usually fine, it’s best to stick to their specially formulated puppy food. Before adding any new foods to a puppy’s diet, you should absolutely consult your veterinarian.