Several pet parents prefer to feed their fur babies a combination of homemade and commercial dog food, as both have unique benefits. Sometimes, we miss ordering dog food online and need a healthy, quick fix for our dogs.
If you're looking for easy, healthy, and delicious homemade dog food recipes that even picky pups will love—you've pawed into the right place! Whether your dog loves meat or you're going vegan for the day, these recipes are tail-wagging good.
Recipe #1: For the Turkey Lovin’ Furry
Ingredients & Nutrition
| Ingredient | Quantity | Calories (Approx.) | Nutritional Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| Brown Rice | 1½ cups | 108 kcal | 87% carbs, 8% protein |
| Olive Oil | 1 tbsp | 119 kcal | 13.5g fat |
| Ground Turkey | 1.5 kg | 1560 kcal | 68% protein, 15% fat |
| Baby Spinach | 3 cups | 21 kcal | High in iron, antioxidants |
| Carrots (shredded) | 2 | 45 kcal | Rich in vitamin A |
| Zucchini (shredded) | 1 medium | 33 kcal | Low-calorie, fiber-rich |
| Peas (frozen/canned) | ½ cup | 55 kcal | 26% protein, 69% carbs |
Instructions
- Cook brown rice in 3 cups of water.
- Preheat oven and cook ground turkey until brown.
- Mix spinach, zucchini, carrots, rice, and peas with turkey.
- Cook for 3–5 minutes till spinach wilts.
- Cool and serve!
Recipe #2: For the Doggo Who Loves Salmon
Ingredients & Nutrition
| Ingredient | Quantity | Calories | Nutritional Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| Olive Oil | 2 tbsp | 238 kcal | Heart-healthy fats |
| Salmon | 56g/kg body weight | 208 kcal | 20g protein/100g |
| Squash | 100g | 37 kcal | Vitamins A, C |
| Broccoli | 1 cup | 30 kcal | Fiber, antioxidants |
| Potatoes | 3 | 138 kcal | 30g carbs, 4g protein |
| Carrots | 2 medium | 45 kcal | Beta carotene-rich |
Instructions
- Steam chopped broccoli, squash, and carrots.
- Boil and mash the potatoes with olive oil.
- Pan-cook the salmon (with skin), then flake.
- Combine all ingredients. Cool and serve!
Recipe #3: For the Chickentarian Furry
Ingredients & Nutrition
| Ingredient | Quantity | Calories | Nutritional Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| Brown Rice | 1 cup | 216 kcal | 45g carbs |
| Sweet Potato | 2 cups | 352 kcal | 82g carbs |
| Chicken Breasts | 2 large | 134 kcal | 28g protein |
| Mixed Veggies | 500g | 100 kcal | Peas, French beans, carrots |
Instructions
- Grease a pan and layer it with chicken, veggies, and rice.
- Cook in a microwave or oven.
- Cool, serve, and store leftovers in the freezer.
Recipe #4: For the Wo-Ove of Lamb
Ingredients & Nutrition
| Ingredient | Quantity | Calories | Nutritional Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lamb (chopped) | 200g | 500 kcal | 42g protein, 36g fat |
| Carrots | 1 cup | 41 kcal | Vitamin A |
| Apples | 1 cup | 52 kcal | Natural sweetness |
| Green Peas | ¼ cup | 31 kcal | 2g protein |
| Pumpkin or Squash | 100g | 37 kcal | Digestive benefits |
| Brown Rice | ⅔ cup | 162 kcal | Complex carbs |
| Sunflower Oil | 4 tsp | 240 kcal | Essential fats |
| Fish Oil | 4 tsp | 245 kcal | Omega-3 fatty acids |
Instructions
- Cook pumpkin, rice, and veggies in a pan.
- Sauté lamb in sunflower oil to medium-rare.
- Combine with veggies and mix.
- Cool and serve. Freeze leftovers for up to 2 weeks.
Recipe #5: For the Go-Vegan Days
Ingredients & Nutrition
| Ingredient | Quantity | Calories | Nutritional Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sweet Potato | 1 cup | 180 kcal | 41g carbs, high fiber |
| Black Beans | 2 cups | 397 kcal | 26g protein |
| Brown Rice | ⅔ cup | 162 kcal | 33g carbs |
| Kale Leaves | 6 stems | 35 kcal | High in iron & antioxidants |
Instructions
- Bake sweet potatoes (1 hour at 180°C).
- Cook rice and black beans together in a cooker.
- Chop and add kale and sweet potatoes to the rice mix.
- Cool and divide into 3 portions. Serve fresh!
Important Note
The benefits and serving sizes vary by breed, size, and age. Always consult your veterinarian before starting your dog on a new homemade diet.
For commercial dog food in India, shop top-rated brands at Zigly’s online pet shop — the one-stop destination for all pet nutrition needs.
FAQs About Homemade Dog Food
1. Is homemade dog food better than store-bought food?
Homemade dog food allows control over ingredients and is great when prepared with veterinary guidance. However, commercial food often contains added vitamins your dog may need.
2. Can I switch to homemade food overnight?
No. Always transition slowly over 5–7 days by mixing increasing portions of homemade food with commercial food to avoid digestive issues.
3. How do I know my dog is getting enough nutrition?
Check for energy levels, coat quality, and consult a vet for regular health checks and blood work if feeding home-cooked meals regularly.
4. Can I freeze homemade dog food?
Yes. Homemade dog food can be portioned and frozen for up to 2 weeks. Just thaw in the fridge before serving.
5. Are there any ingredients I should avoid in homemade food?
Avoid onions, garlic, chocolate, grapes, and excessive salt or seasoning. Always cook meat thoroughly and avoid bones.
