Author: DogsBlogSS Team
⚠️ Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for consulting a veterinarian.
dog food recipes
If you’ve ever watched your dog tilt its head at a bowl of kibble and wondered whether something homemade might warm their belly and soul more — you’re not alone. Making your own dog food can feel like an act of love: the chance to craft meals from fresh, whole ingredients you pick out yourself, tailored to your dog’s tastes and needs. Maybe you’ve heard stories of dogs refusing kibble, of skin problems fading, of dull eyes brightening… and part of you wants to try it.
But before you rush to the kitchen and start chopping carrots and chicken, there are important questions to ask. Because while home-cooked meals can bring joy (to you and your dog), they also carry risks — nutritional imbalances, food-safety issues, and more. In this article, I’ll walk you through what experts say, what to watch out for, and how to do homemade dog food right.
Let’s dive in — starting with the big, honest questions many dog owners face first.
Safety & Validity: Is Homemade Right for Your Dog?
Is homemade dog food actually better/healthier than kibble?
According to PetMD,There’s a romantic appeal to home-cooked meals for dogs: fresh ingredients, no mysterious fillers or preservatives, and the satisfaction of knowing exactly what your pup is eating. Indeed, proponents note several potential benefits. For example, home cooking lets you choose “whole foods” — meats, veggies, grains — much like you would for yourself.
According to PetMD Some dogs clearly enjoy these meals more — the smell, the texture, the variety can make mealtime more exciting.
However, experts stress that home-cooked doesn’t automatically equal healthier. According to a veterinarian on PetMD, “not enough or too many of any given nutrient can lead to diseases, malnutrition, obesity, and even death.” Commercial dog foods — especially high-quality ones — are formulated to be “complete,” covering all nutritional bases, which isn’t easy to replicate at home.
In short: homemade meals can be great — but only when carefully planned and balanced.
What are the risks of cooking for my dog?
There are several potential pitfalls when you cook for your dog:
- According to American Kennel Club,Nutritional imbalance: If the recipe misses some essential nutrients (or gives too much of others), your dog could end up deficient — or worse.
- According to PetMD and PetMD ,Unsafe ingredients: Some human foods are dangerous to dogs (more on this below).
- According to PetMD,Food-safety hazards: Raw meat or improper cooking/storage can invite bacteria or parasites, putting your dog (and you) at risk.
- According to PetMD, Time and commitment: Cooking, measuring, portioning, storing — it all takes time. A lot of dog owners underestimate that
Because of these risks, many veterinarians and pet-nutrition experts recommend caution if you’re considering a homemade diet.
Do vets recommend homemade dog food?
According to petscare, The short answer: most are cautious. According to a summary from a pet-care site citing veterinary guidance, many vets do not recommend homemade diets unless they are “properly formulated.”
According to petscare, For example, while homemade meals offer control over ingredients and the flexibility to accommodate allergies or preferences, the same sources warn strongly: “Unbalanced nutrition” and “unsafe ingredients” are among the greatest dangers.
According to petscare,In particular, a board-certified veterinary nutritionist is often recommended to design a properly balanced homemade diet — one tailored to your dog’s age, weight, activity level, and health status.
That’s not to say homemade food is off the table, but switching to it should be a well-considered, informed decision — not a spontaneous whim.
Is it cheaper to make your own dog food compared to buying premium brands?
Cost is one of the major motivations behind homemade dog food. After all, high-quality commercial dog food can be expensive — especially premium or specialty formulas. When you cook at home, you control where ingredients come from, how much you buy, and how you store them.
Homemade meals can indeed be less expensive per serving, especially if you buy in bulk, choose budget-friendly protein and grains, and use leftovers wisely. You also avoid paying for packaging, brand-name markups, or fillers that add little nutritional value.
But — and it’s a big but — cost savings don’t automatically justify homemade meals unless you account for the hidden costs: supplements, potentially wasted food if improperly stored or portioned, and time spent cooking and planning. If your homemade diet isn’t nutritionally complete, you might end up paying more down the line (vet visits, supplements, corrective diet changes).
So yes — making meals at home can be cheaper, but only if you approach it thoughtfully and intentionally.
Nutrition & Balance: The Science of the Bowl
This is where things get serious. Dogs — like humans — need a balanced diet to thrive. When you cook for them yourself, that balance becomes your responsibility.
How do I ensure my homemade dog food is nutritionally balanced?
According toPetMD,Ensuring balance starts with using a verified and reliable recipe — ideally one designed or reviewed by a veterinary nutritionist.
According to PetMD,What’s more, you need to follow the recipe precisely: measure ingredients correctly, cook them properly, and avoid random substitutions. Swapping chicken for beef or increasing the amount of rice might seem harmless — but it can throw the nutritional profile off-course.
According to PetMD,Some people use online services or tools developed by veterinary nutritionists (for instance, a recipe-builder from a trusted site) to ensure the diet includes all required macro- and micronutrients: proteins, essential fatty acids, vitamins, minerals, etc.
According to Canine Cancer Foundation,That said — even with careful planning — homemade diets carry more risk than commercial “complete” diets. According to one source, about 95% of homemade dog diets are deficient in at least one essential nutrient.
Bottom line: if you choose homemade, consider working with a veterinary nutritionist — especially long-term.
What is the ideal ratio of protein, vegetables, and grains for dogs?
You’ll often see guidance recommending a balanced mix of protein, vegetables, and carbohydrates (grains or starches). One commonly suggested ratio — though not universally agreed upon — is approximately 40% protein, 30% vegetables, and 30% grains or starches. For certain dogs, especially active or working dogs, some owners prefer a ratio closer to 50% protein, 25% vegetables, 25% grains/starch.
That said — these are rough guidelines, not hard rules. The ideal ratio depends heavily on your dog’s age, breed, activity level, weight, and health conditions. A puppy needs different proportions than a senior dog; a sedentary small-breed pet has different needs than a high-energy large breed.
According to American Kennel Club, Because of this, many veterinarians caution against treating ratios as a “one size fits all.” A diet formulated for your dog specifically — preferably by or with input from a veterinary nutritionist — is the safest route.
Do I need to add supplements (calcium, vitamins) to homemade meals?
According to American Kennel Club,Yes — almost always. Homemade diets frequently lack one or more essential nutrients, especially minerals and vitamins like calcium, phosphorus, vitamin D, vitamin A, or various B vitamins.
According to Canine Cancer Foundation,Particularly for growing puppies, mineral balance (for example calcium-to-phosphorus ratio) is critical — an imbalance can lead to skeletal issues.
According to PetMD,Because it’s so easy to miss something, a common recommendation is to use a supplement formulated for dogs — but only on the advice of a veterinarian or certified nutritionist. Blindly “adding a bit of this and a bit of that” can do more harm than good.
What are the signs of nutritional deficiency in dogs on a homemade diet?
If a homemade diet isn’t well balanced, dogs may show a range of symptoms over time:
- Dull or brittle coat, hair loss, flaky skin
- Low energy or lethargy
- Poor growth in puppies; skeletal problems or joint issues in growing dogs
- Digestive problems — diarrhea, irregular stools, poor appetite
- Weakness or other signs of poor muscle development
- If mineral or vitamin levels are significantly off, more serious systemic issues
Because these signs can develop slowly and subtly, some owners might not even realize the food is the cause until the dog’s health deteriorates noticeably. That’s why regular vet check-Ups and possibly bloodwork are wise when feeding homemade diets.
Approved & Forbidden Ingredients
One of the great things about homemade dog food is you can choose fresh, wholesome ingredients — but you also need to know exactly which foods are safe and which are dangerous.
What human foods are strictly toxic or dangerous for dogs?
According to,There are several human foods that should never be included in any homemade dog food recipe. According to a veterinarian article from PetMD: chocolate, caffeine, xylitol (a common artificial sweetener), grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, macadamia nuts, and certain yeast dough are dangerous. PetMD+2PetMD+2
Some of the main risks:
- According to PetMD,Onions, garlic, and all Allium family — these can damage red blood cells, leading to anemia. That’s true even if the foods are cooked or powdered.
- According to PetMD,Grapes and raisins — even small amounts can trigger kidney failure in dogs.
- According to PetMD,Xylitol (found in sugar-free gums, candies, baked goods, some peanut butters, toothpaste): highly toxic — it can cause rapid hypoglycemia and even liver failure.
- According to PetMD,Macadamia nuts — can cause weakness, vomiting, tremors, hyperthermia.
- According to PetMD,Alcohol, caffeine, raw yeast dough — also dangerous.
- According to Hill’s Pet Nutrition,Bones (especially cooked): they can splinter and cause choking or damage to the gastrointestinal tract.
If a food is known or suspected to be toxic — it’s just not worth the risk.
What are the best protein sources for homemade dog food?
Safe, high-quality protein sources often recommended for homemade dog meals include:
- Cooked chicken (preferably skinless, boneless)
- Cooked turkey, beef, or lean ground meats
- Fish (like cooked salmon — but be mindful about bones)
- Eggs (cooked) — a good source of protein and amino acids when included properly
According to PetMD,These proteins give essential amino acids that dogs need, and when combined with other food groups, contribute to a balanced meal.
Which vegetables and carbohydrates are safe and digestible for dogs?
Some of the safest and most digestible veggies, starches, and carbs you can include:
- According to PetMD, Vegetables: carrots, green beans, peas, cooked pumpkin, cooked zucchini, plain cooked potatoes or sweet potatoes, cooked squash
- According to PetMD,Carbohydrates/starches/grains: plain cooked rice (white or brown), cooked oatmeal, plain cooked pasta, plain cooked potatoes or sweet potatoes — as long as they’re plain, unseasoned and cooked thoroughly.
These plant-based foods provide fiber, vitamins, and digestible energy — helpful for digestion, bowel health, and overall well-being.
Can I use seasonings, salt, or oils in dog food recipes?
In general — no. Seasonings, salt, sauces, garlic/ onion powders, heavy oils or butter should be avoided. They often don’t provide nutritional benefit, and may even irritate your dog’s digestive system.
Moreover, many seasonings hide toxic ingredients (like onion or garlic powder), or contain salt levels that are too high for dogs. A safe rule of thumb: keep homemade dog meals plain — just protein, safe veggies, and starches, with essential supplements as needed.
Recipes & Preparation Methods
Now for the fun part: what can you actually cook? Below are some simple, starter-friendly recipes and guidelines.
What are some simple, “vet-approved” dog food recipes for beginners?
Here’s a basic recipe many dog owners begin with — a simple, balanced meal combining protein, veggies, and grains:
Basic Chicken, Rice & Veggie Meal
- Cooked lean chicken breast (boiled or baked, no seasoning)
- Plain cooked rice (white or brown)
- Steamed or boiled vegetables (e.g., carrots, peas, green beans)
- Optional: a small amount of plain cooked sweet potato or pumpkin for fiber and vitamins
- After cooking: mix chicken, rice, and veggies in roughly a 40/30/30 ratio (protein/veggie/starch) — adjust slightly based on your dog’s needs
- Optional: add a canine multivitamin/mineral supplement if your vet recommends
This simple mix often works well for adult dogs of moderate activity.
For puppies, seniors, or dogs with special needs (weight management, allergies, etc.), it’s wise to consult a vet or nutrition expert to get tailored recipe guidance.
Should I feed my dog cooked meat or a raw diet (BARF)?
According to PetMD, This question often leads to heated debates — but experts tend to favor cooked or gently prepared fresh food over raw diets, especially for homemade meals.
According to PetMD,Why? Raw meat diets carry a real risk of foodborne illness (bacteria like Salmonella or E. coli, parasites) which can affect not only your dog, but also humans in the household.
According to PetMD, Fresh, gently cooked meals achieve many of the perceived benefits of a raw diet — digestibility, whole-food ingredients, better smell/taste — while dramatically reducing the health and safety risks.
Unless you’re working with a veterinary nutritionist trained in raw-food planning and handling, cooking your dog’s meals is the safer, more responsible choice.
Are there specific recipes for dogs with allergies or sensitive stomachs?
Yes — part of the appeal of homemade food is that you can tailor it to your dog’s unique needs. For dogs with allergies, sensitivities, or intolerances, you might try:
- Grain-free recipes: using sweet potatoes, pumpkin, or rice instead of wheat or corn-based grains
- Novel protein recipes: if your dog reacts poorly to chicken or beef, try turkey, fish, or eggs — whichever your vet approves
- Easily digestible veggie mixtures: for sensitive stomachs, stick to gentle vegetables like cooked carrots or pumpkin, avoid heavy starches or high-fiber greens
As always: when switching to a novel diet — especially for a dog with allergies — consult your vet first, and transition slowly.
Can I cook dog food in a slow cooker or Instant Pot?
Yes — slow cookers or Instant Pots can make homemade dog food more convenient. They allow you to cook large batches with minimal effort, and the gentle cooking process helps retain nutrients while making meat, veggies and grains easy to digest.
Batch-cooking once or twice a week and dividing into daily portions — then refrigerating or freezing — can make the whole process far more manageable. Just make sure to cool the food properly before storing; avoid leaving portions out at room temperature for too long.
Feeding, Storage, & Logistics
Even with a great recipe, proper feeding and storage matter just as much.
How much homemade food should I feed my dog based on their weight? (Calorie counting and portion control)
Because homemade food doesn’t come with a guaranteed calorie label (like commercial kibble), portioning can be tricky. A couple of helpful guidelines:
- Start by estimating your dog’s daily calorie requirement based on weight, age, and activity level. Many vets or online calculators can help.
- Divide the total daily calories into two or more meals. Homemade food tends to be more calorie-dense (especially if you include proteins and fats), so less often goes further.
- Observe your dog: if they’re gaining too much weight, reduce portion sizes; if they remain underweight or seem hungry, increase slightly — but always gradually.
- Monitor body condition: your dog’s ribs should be easy to feel (with a light layer of fat), but not protruding — that’s a good sign you’re in the right range.
Because of varying energy needs (puppy vs. adult vs. senior; sedentary vs. active), this is one area where “eyeballing it” often fails — especially long term.
How long does homemade dog food last in the fridge, and can I freeze it? (Meal prepping)
One advantage of cooking your dog’s meals in batches is convenience. But storage needs care:
- In the fridge: homemade dog food typically lasts 2–3 days — no more. After that, moisture content, nutrient balance, and food-safety issues can degrade.
- In the freezer: yes — if you safely portion and store meals in freezer-safe containers or bags, homemade dog food can last several weeks to a few months. When you’re ready to serve, thaw in the fridge, then gently warm (if appropriate), and ensure the food is evenly heated.
- Always cool food before refrigerating or freezing. Never leave at room temperature for more than 1–2 hours (especially in warm climates).
Batch-cooking and freezing can cut down cooking time — but make sure each portion is handled and stored safely to avoid spoilage or bacterial growth.
How do I safely transition my dog from kibble to homemade food? (Preventing digestive upset)
Switching diets abruptly is rarely a good idea — for humans or dogs. A sudden change can upset your dog’s stomach, leading to diarrhea, gas, or refusal to eat. Experts advise a gradual transition over 5–7 days (or more):
- Start by mixing a small portion of homemade food with your dog’s regular kibble — for example, 25% homemade to 75% kibble for the first 2–3 days.
- Gradually increase the homemade portion, while decreasing the kibble, over the next several days.
- Watch your dog’s stool, appetite, energy, and behavior. If things seem off — go slower, or pause the transition.
- According to PetMD, Once fully switched, monitor weight, coat condition, and overall health. If you see any concerning signs (digestive problems, lethargy, allergies), consult your vet immediately.
Final Thoughts: Is Homemade Right for Your Dog?
Making your dog’s food from scratch can be a beautiful act of care: fresh ingredients, full control, and the joy of cooking something with your own hands. For some dogs — especially picky eaters, those with allergies, or owners willing to take the time and care — it works wonderfully.
But: homemade dog food isn’t a casual hobby. It demands knowledge, care, planning, and often professional guidance. Without a balanced recipe and careful preparation, you may inadvertently do more harm than good — from nutritional deficits to serious health risks.
If you go this route, I’d suggest these best practices:
- Start with recipes designed or reviewed by a qualified veterinary nutritionist
- Be honest about the time and effort required (shopping, cooking, storage)
- Supplement thoughtfully, under vet guidance
- Transition slowly — don’t rush from kibble to full homemade meals overnight
- Monitor your dog’s health (coat, energy, stool, weight) regularly
With care, homemade dog food can become a rewarding, wholesome part of your dog’s life. And with your love behind the spoon, that fresh meal might just taste a bit extra like home.
I hope I have answered the most important question: vet approved homemade dog food recipes
Notice : The DogsBlogSS editorial team is dedicated to providing accurate, research-based information about dog health, behavior, and care. All our articles are fact-checked using trusted veterinary sources such as VCA Hospitals, Merck Vet Manual, and the AKC.
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