10 Homemade Dog Food Recipes for Small Dogs

When it comes to nutrition, homemade dog food can be a game-changer for your small canine companion.

By preparing meals at home, you have complete control over the ingredients, ensuring your pup gets the highest quality nutrients tailored to their specific needs.

Making homemade dog food isn’t just about pampering your pooch; it’s about providing them with a balanced, nutritious diet that can contribute to their overall health and longevity.

By using fresh, wholesome ingredients, you can avoid the preservatives and fillers often found in commercial dog foods.

What You’ll Learn

Ready to start making Homemade dog food that’ll have your small dog’s tail wagging with delight?

Continue scrolling to see ten mouthwatering recipes, expert tips, and essential nutritional insights that’ll transform you into a master chef for your furry friend!

Best Homemade Dog Food Recipes You Haven’t heard about.

Recipe 1: Ground Turkey and Sweet Potato Dog Food

This hearty recipe is packed with lean protein and complex carbohydrates, perfect for keeping your small dog energized throughout the day.

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 pound ground turkey
• 2 medium Fresh sweet potatoes, diced
• 2 carrots, chopped
• 1 zucchini, diced
• 1 cup broccoli florets
• 2 cups low-sodium chicken stock
• 1 cup macaroni noodles (whole wheat if possible):

Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add ground turkey and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Toss in sweet potatoes, carrots, zucchini, and broccoli.
4. Pour in chicken stock and bring to a boil.
5. Reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes until vegetables are tender.
6. Meanwhile, cook macaroni noodles according to package instructions. keep in mind that dogs need just a small amount of this so 1 cup should be ok.
7. Drain noodles and add to the pot with turkey and vegetables.
8. Stir well to combine and let cool before serving.

Feeding Dosage: For small dogs, start with 1/2 to 1 cup per meal, adjusting based on your dog’s weight and activity level.

Storage Tips: Refrigerate in airtight containers for up to 5 days, or freeze portions for up to 3 months.

Recipe 2: Chicken and Rice Dog Food

This simple yet nutritious recipe is easy on sensitive stomachs and provides a good balance of protein and carbohydrates.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken (poached or baked)
• 1 cup cooked brown rice
• 1/2 cup shredded carrots

Instructions:

1. Cook chicken thoroughly, either by poaching in water or baking in the oven until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
2. While chicken is cooking, prepare brown rice according to package instructions.
3. Shred cooked chicken using two forks or chop finely.
4. In a large bowl, combine shredded chicken, cooked brown rice, and shredded carrots.
5. Mix well and allow to cool before serving.

Feeding Dosage: Typically, 1/2 cup per meal for small dogs, but adjust based on your dog’s needs.

Storage Tips: Store in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Recipe 3: Beef and Brown Rice Dog Food

This recipe offers a rich source of protein and fiber, ideal for maintaining your small dog’s muscle mass and digestive health.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound lean ground beef
• 1 cup brown rice
• 1 cup chopped carrots
• 1/2 cup frozen peas

Instructions:

1. In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked.
2. Drain excess fat and set aside.
3. Cook brown rice according to package instructions.
4. Steam carrots until tender, about 5-7 minutes.
5. In a large bowl, combine cooked beef, rice, carrots, and frozen peas.
6. Mix thoroughly and let cool before serving.

Feeding Dosage: About 1/2 cup per meal, adjusting based on your dog’s activity level and weight.

Storage Tips: Refrigerate in sealed containers for up to 5 days.

Recipe 4: Easy Homemade Dog Food with Eggs

This protein-packed recipe incorporates eggs, an excellent source of essential amino acids and fatty acids for your small dog.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup cooked brown rice
• 1/2 pound ground beef
• 2 hard-boiled eggs, diced
• 1/2 cup grated carrots
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley or Dried parsley

Instructions:

1. Cook brown rice according to package instructions and set aside to cool.
2. In a skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked. Drain excess fat.
3. While beef is cooking, hard-boil the eggs, then peel and dice them.
4. In a large bowl, combine cooked rice, ground beef, diced eggs, grated carrots, and chopped parsley.
5. Mix all ingredients thoroughly and allow to cool before serving.

Feeding Dosage: Approximately 1/2 cup per meal for small dogs.

Storage Tips: Refrigerate in airtight containers for up to a week.

Recipe 5: Healthy Homemade Dog Food with Organ Meats

This nutrient-dense recipe incorporates organ meats, which are rich in vitamins and minerals essential for your small dog’s health.

Ingredients:

• 1/2 pound ground beef
• 1/4 pound organ meats (such as liver or kidney), finely chopped
• 1 cup cooked butternut squash, mashed
• 2 Good quality sardines, packed in water and drained

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef and chopped organ meats.
3. Mix in mashed butternut squash and flaked sardines.
4. Transfer mixture to a baking dish and spread evenly.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until beef is fully cooked.
6. Allow to cool completely before serving.

Feeding Dosage: About 1/2 cup per meal, adjusting based on your dog’s size and energy needs.

Storage Tips: Store in the refrigerator for up to a week or freeze portions for longer storage.

Recipe 6: Pumpkin and Yogurt Bowl

This light and nutritious recipe is perfect for dogs with sensitive stomachs or as a healthy breakfast option.

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup fat-free Greek yogurt
• 1/4 cup pure pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)

Instructions:

1. In a small bowl, mix Greek yogurt and pumpkin puree until well combined.
2. Serve immediately or chill before offering to your dog.

Feeding Dosage: Serve about 1/4 cup as a treat or meal supplement.

Storage Tips: Keep refrigerated and consume within 3 days.

Recipe 7: Crockpot Dog Food

This set-it-and-forget-it recipe is perfect for busy pet parents who want to provide a nutritious meal with minimal effort.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 cup brown rice
• 1 can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup butternut squash, diced
• 2 cups water

Instructions:

1. Place all ingredients in a slow cooker.
2. Stir to combine.
3. Cook on HIGH for about 2 hours or LOW for 2-4 hours. it all depends on your cooker.
4. Allow to cool before serving.

Feeding Dosage: Approximately 1/2 cup per meal based on your dog’s weight.

Storage Tips: Refrigerate leftovers for up to a week or freeze in portions.

Recipe 8: Sardine and Vegetable Mix

This omega-3 rich recipe is excellent for maintaining your small dog’s coat health and reducing inflammation.

Ingredients:

• 1 can quality sardines in water, drained
• 1 cup mixed leafy greens (spinach, kale, or chard), finely chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh cranberries, chopped

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, mash sardines with a fork.
2. Add chopped leafy greens and cranberries.
3. Mix thoroughly until well combined.

Feeding Dosage: About 1/4 cup per serving as a supplement or meal.

Storage Tips: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.

Recipe 9: Ginger-Infused Dog Food

This recipe incorporates ginger, known for its anti-inflammatory properties and ability to soothe upset stomachs.

Ingredients:

• 1/2 pound ground beef or turkey
• 1 cup chopped leafy greens (such as Swiss chard)
• 1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a bowl, mix ground meat, chopped greens, and grated ginger.
3. Spread mixture evenly in a baking dish.
4. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until meat is fully cooked.
5. Let cool before serving.

Feeding Dosage: Approximately 1/2 cup per meal depending on size and activity level.

Storage Tips: Refrigerate for up to a week in airtight containers.

Recipe 10: Custom Seasoning Blend

This versatile seasoning blend can be sprinkled on your dog’s food to enhance flavor and provide additional health benefits.

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon dried basil
• 1 tablespoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary

Instructions:

1. In a small bowl, mix all dried herbs together.
2. Transfer to an airtight container or spice jar.
3. Sprinkle lightly over your dog’s food before serving.

Feeding Dosage: Use sparingly; about a teaspoon per serving is sufficient.

Storage Tips: Store the dry blend in an airtight container in a cool, dry place.

Nutritional Considerations

Unique Ingredients for Small Dogs

When preparing homemade dog food for your small canine companion, consider incorporating these nutrient-rich ingredients:

• Pumpkin: High in fiber and great for digestive health
• Blueberries: Packed with antioxidants to support overall wellness
• Flaxseed: Excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids for coat health

Ensuring Nutritional Balance

To create a well-rounded diet for your small dog, focus on:

• Protein sources: Lean meats like chicken, turkey, and fish
• Healthy fats: Incorporate sources like fish oil or coconut oil
• Carbohydrates: Whole grains and vegetables for energy and fiber
• Vitamins and minerals: Include a variety of colorful vegetables

Beneficial Vegetables for Small Dogs

Some vegetables that are particularly nutritious for small dogs include:

• Carrots: Rich in beta-carotene and fiber
• Spinach: High in iron and vitamins A, B, C, and K
• Peas: Good source of protein, fiber, and various vitamins

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing homemade dog food, be mindful of these potential pitfalls:

• Over-seasoning: Avoid using salt, sugar, or spices that may be harmful to dogs
• Lack of variety: Rotate ingredients to ensure a wide range of nutrients
• Imbalanced nutrition: Consult with a veterinarian to ensure your recipes meet all of your dog’s nutritional needs

Cooking Methods

Using a Slow Cooker for Homemade Dog Food

A slow cooker can be an excellent tool for preparing homemade dog food:

• Convenience: Set it and forget it, perfect for busy pet parents
• Flavor retention: Slow cooking helps preserve nutrients and enhance flavors
• Batch cooking: Easily prepare large portions for freezing and future use

The End…

I encourage you to try out one or more of the recipes listed above and witness the positive impact on your furry friend’s health and happiness. Remember, while these recipes are designed with small dogs in mind, every dog is unique.

Before making any significant changes to your dog’s diet, it’s crucial to consult with your veterinarian. They can provide personalized advice based on your dog’s age, weight, activity level, and any existing health conditions.

By taking the time to prepare nutritious, homemade meals for your small dog, you’re investing in their long-term health and well-being. So roll up your sleeves, grab your apron, and get ready to become your pup’s favorite chef!