13 Savory Dog Friendly Grits Recipes for Breakfast

You can’t go wrong with a classic! This simple recipe combines lean protein with creamy grits for a breakfast that’s both comforting and nourishing. It’s a fantastic starting point if you’re new to making grits for your dog.

Ingredients:

• 1/4 cup plain, stone-ground grits
• 1 cup water or unsalted chicken broth
• 1/4 cup cooked, shredded, unseasoned chicken breast
• 1 teaspoon fresh parsley, chopped (for fresh breath!)

Instructions:

1. In a small saucepan, bring the water or broth to a boil.
2. Slowly whisk in the grits to prevent clumps.
3. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the grits are thick and creamy.
4. Remove from heat and let it cool to a safe, lukewarm temperature.
5. Stir in the shredded chicken and top with fresh parsley before serving.

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

This recipe is a perfect, all-around breakfast for most dogs. It’s especially good for pups who need a simple, high-protein meal to start their day.

For the active pup who needs sustained energy, this beef and carrot grits bowl is a winner. The hearty beef provides iron and protein, while the carrots add a touch of sweetness and a healthy dose of Vitamin A for eye health.

Ingredients:

• 1/4 cup plain, stone-ground grits
• 1 cup water or unsalted beef broth
• 1/4 cup cooked, lean ground beef (drained of all fat)
• 2 tablespoons finely grated carrot

Instructions:

1. Bring the water or beef broth to a boil in a saucepan.
2. Gradually whisk in the grits.
3. Lower the heat, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Once the grits are cooked and have started to cool, stir in the cooked ground beef and grated carrot.
5. Ensure the mixture is completely cool before serving.

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

Ideal for working dogs, highly active breeds, or any pup who has a big day of hiking or playing ahead of them. This is a true power breakfast.

If your dog has a sensitive tummy, this gentle recipe is a fantastic choice. Turkey is a lean protein that’s often easier to digest than chicken or beef, and sweet potato is a superstar for digestive health.

Ingredients:

• 1/4 cup plain, stone-ground grits
• 1 cup water
• 1/4 cup cooked, ground turkey
• 2 tablespoons mashed, cooked sweet potato (plain, no butter or sugar)

Instructions:

1. Cook the grits with water according to the standard method (boil water, whisk in grits, simmer).
2. While the grits are cooking, ensure your ground turkey is cooked through and your sweet potato is cooked and mashed.
3. Let the grits cool to a safe temperature.
4. Gently fold in the ground turkey and mashed sweet potato until well combined. The texture will be thick and satisfying for your pup.

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

This is the go-to recipe for senior dogs, pups with digestive issues, or those transitioning to a homemade diet. It’s gentle, nourishing, and delicious.

Want to give your dog’s coat an extra-glossy shine? This recipe is packed with Omega-3 fatty acids from salmon, which are amazing for skin and coat health, as well as joint support. The spinach adds a boost of iron and vitamins.

Ingredients:

• 1/4 cup plain, stone-ground grits
• 1 cup water
• 2 tablespoons cooked, flaked salmon (canned in water, no salt added, or cooked fresh)
• 1 tablespoon finely chopped spinach (steamed or fresh)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the grits with water as directed.
2. Let the grits cool down significantly.
3. Gently flake the cooked salmon, ensuring there are absolutely no bones.
4. Stir the flaked salmon and chopped spinach into the lukewarm grits. Serve immediately.

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

Perfect for breeds prone to skin issues like Westies or Bulldogs, as well as senior dogs who could benefit from the anti-inflammatory properties of Omega-3s.

Have a picky eater on your hands? A little bit of egg and cheese can entice even the fussiest of pooches. Eggs are a complete protein source, and a tiny sprinkle of cheese makes this breakfast feel like a truly special treat.

Ingredients:

• 1/4 cup plain, stone-ground grits
• 1 cup water
• 1 egg, scrambled (cooked plain, no oil or butter)
• 1 teaspoon grated cheddar or mozzarella cheese (low-fat if possible)

Instructions:

1. Cook the grits with water until creamy and thick.
2. While the grits are cooling, scramble one egg in a non-stick pan without any oil or seasoning.
3. Stir the scrambled egg into the cooled grits.
4. Sprinkle the grated cheese on top and serve.

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

This is the ultimate temptation for the dog who turns their nose up at everything. It’s also a great way to add a protein boost to a meal for a recovering or underweight pup.

This recipe is a tummy-soother in a bowl. Plain, canned pumpkin is famous for its ability to regulate digestion (it helps with both constipation and diarrhea!), and a tiny pinch of ginger can help soothe an upset stomach.

Ingredients:

• 1/4 cup plain, stone-ground grits
• 1 cup water or unsalted chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons 100% pure canned pumpkin (not pie filling!)
• A tiny pinch (less than 1/8 teaspoon) of ground ginger

Instructions:

1. Prepare the grits with water or broth as usual.
2. Once cooked, remove from heat and let cool.
3. Stir in the pure canned pumpkin and the pinch of ginger until everything is a uniform, light orange color.
4. Serve once it has reached a safe temperature.

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

A must-try for any dog prone to tummy troubles. It’s a bland, gentle, and effective meal to help get their digestive system back on track.

Get ready for a flavor punch that your dog will love! Sardines are tiny powerhouses of Omega-3 fatty acids, which are fantastic for brain function, joint health, and reducing inflammation. Paired with kale, this is a nutrient-dense feast.

Ingredients:

• 1/4 cup plain, stone-ground grits
• 1 cup water
• 1-2 canned sardines (packed in water, no salt added), mashed
• 1 tablespoon finely chopped, steamed kale

Instructions:

1. Cook the grits with water and let them cool.
2. In a separate small bowl, mash the sardines with a fork.
3. Stir the mashed sardines and the steamed, chopped kale into the lukewarm grits.
4. Mix well and prepare for a happy dance from your pup!

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

This is an amazing meal for senior dogs needing joint support or any dog needing a major boost in skin and coat health. The potent aroma makes it irresistible to most canines.

Lamb is a fantastic novel protein, making it a great choice for dogs who have allergies to more common meats like chicken or beef. Paired with the gentle fiber and sweetness of peas, this recipe is both unique and highly digestible.

Ingredients:

• 1/4 cup plain, stone-ground grits
• 1 cup unsalted beef or lamb broth (or water)
• 1/4 cup cooked, ground lamb (fat drained)
• 2 tablespoons steamed or boiled green peas, lightly mashed

Instructions:

1. Cook the grits in the broth or water until creamy.
2. Allow the grits to cool to a safe temperature for your dog.
3. Stir in the pre-cooked ground lamb.
4. Fold in the lightly mashed peas and serve.

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

The perfect breakfast for the allergic pup who deserves a delicious, warm meal without the worry of an adverse reaction. It’s a gourmet treat they can safely enjoy.

Here’s a slightly different take on savory! The mild tang of cottage cheese provides protein and calcium, while the blueberries offer a burst of antioxidants. It’s a creamy, textured breakfast with a hint of natural sweetness.

Ingredients:

• 1/4 cup plain, stone-ground grits
• 1 cup water
• 2 tablespoons low-fat cottage cheese
• 1 tablespoon fresh or frozen blueberries

Instructions:

1. Prepare the grits with water and let them cool completely. This is important, as hot grits can make the cottage cheese separate.
2. Once the grits are at room temperature, gently stir in the cottage cheese.
3. Fold in the blueberries just before serving. You can lightly mash them for smaller dogs.

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

A great option for a lighter breakfast or for dogs who enjoy varied textures. The antioxidant boost from blueberries makes it a healthy choice for dogs of all ages.

Organ meats like liver are incredibly nutritious for dogs, packed with Vitamin A, B vitamins, iron, and other essential minerals. A little goes a long way, making this a powerful addition to your dog’s breakfast rotation.

Ingredients:

• 1/4 cup plain, stone-ground grits
• 1 cup unsalted beef broth or water
• 1 tablespoon cooked, finely chopped chicken or beef liver
• 2 tablespoons grated zucchini

Instructions:

1. Cook the grits in broth or water until creamy.
2. Ensure the liver is cooked through (boiling is a great method) and chopped into very small pieces.
3. Let the grits cool to lukewarm.
4. Stir in the chopped liver and the grated zucchini. The zucchini adds moisture and fiber.

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

This is a ‘special occasion’ breakfast, perfect for once or twice a week to give your dog a major nutritional boost. It’s especially good for active or working dogs who need those extra nutrients.

Another fantastic option for dogs with food sensitivities, duck is a rich, flavorful novel protein. The addition of dried cranberries (unsweetened!) can help support urinary tract health, making this a thoughtful and delicious meal.

Ingredients:

• 1/4 cup plain, stone-ground grits
• 1 cup water
• 1/4 cup cooked, shredded duck meat (no skin or fat)
• 1 teaspoon dried, unsweetened cranberries, chopped

Instructions:

1. Cook the grits with water and allow to cool.
2. Ensure the duck meat is cooked and shredded, with all fat and skin removed.
3. Stir the shredded duck and chopped dried cranberries into the cooled grits.
4. Serve this gourmet meal to your deserving pup!

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

This is a luxurious breakfast for the dog with a discerning palate or specific dietary needs. It’s particularly well-suited for breeds that can be prone to urinary issues.

Looking for a lighter, low-fat option? This veggie-packed grits bowl is full of fiber and vitamins without the heavy protein. It’s a great choice for dogs who need to watch their weight but still deserve a tasty, warm breakfast.

Ingredients:

• 1/4 cup plain, stone-ground grits
• 1 cup unsalted vegetable broth or water
• 3 tablespoons of a dog-safe vegetable mix (e.g., steamed and chopped carrots, green beans, and peas)
• Optional: 1 scrambled egg for a protein boost.

Instructions:

1. Cook the grits in the vegetable broth or water.
2. Let the grits cool to a safe temperature.
3. Stir in the medley of steamed, chopped vegetables.
4. If you’re adding an egg, scramble it separately and fold it in.

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

This is the perfect breakfast for the pup on a diet. It’s filling and nutritious, helping them feel full and satisfied without packing on the pounds. It’s also a great base to which you can add any protein your dog prefers.

Let’s end with a truly decadent treat! A tiny bit of bacon can make any meal irresistible. Paired with the fibrous crunch of broccoli, this is a breakfast reserved for special occasions like birthdays or ‘gotcha’ days.

Ingredients:

• 1/4 cup plain, stone-ground grits
• 1 cup water
• 1 slice of low-sodium bacon, cooked crispy and crumbled into tiny bits
• 2 tablespoons steamed, finely chopped broccoli florets

Instructions:

1. Cook the grits with water until thick and creamy.
2. Cook one slice of low-sodium bacon until crisp. Place it on a paper towel to drain as much grease as possible.
3. Let the grits cool, then stir in the chopped broccoli.
4. Crumble the crispy bacon over the top as a special garnish.

Pros & Cons

Verdict:

This is the ultimate special occasion breakfast. It’s not for everyday feeding, but for those times you want to give your best friend a safe, savory, and utterly delicious treat, this is the one.

Making grits for your dog is easy, but there are a few golden rules to follow to ensure it’s a safe and healthy treat. Keep this guide handy!

What to Buy:

• Plain, Stone-Ground Grits: Look for grits where the only ingredient is corn. Yellow or white corn is fine. Stone-ground is generally less processed.
• Avoid Instant Grits: These packets are often loaded with sodium, sugar, butter flavorings, and preservatives that are not good for your dog.

What to Avoid (The No-No List):

• Salt: Dogs have a much lower sodium requirement than humans. Never add salt to their food.
• Butter & Oil: The high fat content can lead to pancreatitis, a serious and painful condition.
• Sugar & Syrups: Unnecessary calories that can lead to weight gain and dental problems.
• Onions & Garlic: These are toxic to dogs, whether fresh, powdered, or cooked.
• Spicy Seasonings: Spices like pepper, chili powder, or paprika can cause severe stomach upset.

Cooking Tips for Canine Perfection:

1. Liquid is Key: Always cook grits in plain water or a no-salt-added, onion-and-garlic-free bone broth.
2. Cook Thoroughly: Undercooked grits can be hard to digest. They should be soft, creamy, and thick with no hard bits.
3. Cool It Down: This is critical! Hot food can burn your dog’s mouth and esophagus. Always serve grits lukewarm or at room temperature.
4. Portion Control: Grits should be a treat or a supplement to a balanced diet, not the entire meal every day. A few spoonfuls mixed with their regular food or as a special breakfast is plenty.

Can dogs eat grits every day?

While safe as a treat, grits shouldn’t be a daily staple that replaces your dog’s balanced commercial or vet-approved diet. They are primarily carbohydrates and lack the full spectrum of vitamins, minerals, and proteins your dog needs to thrive. Think of them as a fun breakfast treat once or twice a week.

My dog has a corn allergy. Can they eat grits?

No. Grits are made from corn, so if your dog has a known corn allergy or sensitivity, you should avoid feeding them grits entirely. Look for other grain-free breakfast alternatives like a plain egg scramble or a meal made with quinoa or oatmeal (if your dog tolerates those).

What’s the difference between grits and polenta?

They are very similar! Both are made from ground corn. Generally, grits are made from a specific type of corn called dent corn and are often more finely ground, while polenta is made from flint corn and can be a bit coarser. For your dog, plain, well-cooked versions of either are safe, as long as you follow the ‘no additives’ rule.

How much grits can I give my dog?

Portion size depends on the size of your dog. For a small dog (under 20 lbs), a tablespoon or two mixed into their food is plenty. For a medium dog (20-50 lbs), a 1/4 cup serving is appropriate. For large dogs (over 50 lbs), you could go up to 1/2 cup. Always start with a small amount to see how your dog’s stomach handles it.