Healthy Dog Food Recipe

Easily Found and Inexpensive Ingredients

• 16 cups water: Essential for hydration and helps blend all the ingredients together.
• 5 cups rice: A great source of easily digestible carbohydrates that provide steady energy.
• 2 lbs ground meat: High-quality protein that supports muscle development and overall health.
• 2-4 eggs: Offers additional protein, vitamins, and minerals to promote skin and coat vitality.
• 2 cups peas and carrots mix: Packed with vitamins, minerals, fiber, and antioxidants to boost your dog’s immune system.
• 1-2 cups oats: Provides soluble fiber to aid in digestion and help maintain stable blood sugar levels.
• Optional Ingredients:
  • 2-3 tablespoons olive oil: Adds healthy fats and Omega-3 fatty acids for a shiny coat and reduced inflammation.
  • 1 teaspoon rosemary: A natural antioxidant that may support digestive health and keep the food fresh.
  • A pinch of salt: Enhances flavor without adding too much sodium.
  • 1/4 to 1/2 cup flax seed: Supplies extra Omega-3s and fiber, promoting better skin and digestive health.

Instructions

1. Boil the Water: In a very large pot, boil 16 cups of water. If you are adding olive oil and/or salt, do it now.
2. Add the Ingredients: Stir in the rice, ground meat, eggs, peas and carrots, oats, and any of the optional ingredients. It's helpful if you break up the ground meat before adding it, otherwise it tends to not break apart and even out in the mix.
3. Simmer: Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer for approximately 20 minutes. This slow cooking method softens the ingredients, making them easier to digest and ensuring that their nutrients remain intact.
4. Cool the Mixture: Remove the pot from heat and let the food cool down completely. It will take quite a while to cool down, it stays hot for quite a while. Cooling the food is important to ensure it is safe for your dog to eat.
5. Portion and Freeze: Once the food has cooled, use an ice cream scooper or similar sized scooper (sprayed lightly with olive oil to prevent sticking) to portion out the food. Two-three scoops per bag are a good average size (Our Frenchie Joey was good with two scoops, otherwise it started to show on his tummy!) Place each portion into Zip Loc bags and store them in the freezer.
6. Thaw Before Serving: The day before you plan to feed your puppy dog, transfer the required number of bags from the freezer to the refrigerator to allow them to thaw gradually. We usually take out two to three days worth at a time. This method helps preserve the food’s texture and nutritional value.

Why This Healthy Dog Recipe Works

• Balanced Nutrition and Easy Digestion: The mix of rice, oats, meat, and eggs provides a balanced combination of carbohydrates and proteins that are gentle on your dog’s stomach.
• Muscle Building and Energy Boost: High-quality proteins from the meat and eggs help build strong muscles and provide the energy your dog needs for an active lifestyle.
• Improved Skin and Coat Health: Healthy fats from olive oil and flax seed contribute to a shiny coat and help reduce issues like dry or irritated skin.
• Overall Well-being: The blend of vegetables, herbs, and grains supplies essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, which support the immune system and promote a calm, balanced temperament.
• Cost-Effective Meal Preparation: With inexpensive ingredients, this recipe is an affordable alternative to commercial dog foods, allowing you to control the quality and freshness of your dog’s meals.

This homemade dog food recipe offers a nutritious and budget-friendly way to care for your pet, and it's the best we've found and have stuck with it. By preparing your dog’s meals at home, you not only ensure quality ingredients but also create a meal that supports your dog’s overall health and well-being. Give this recipe a try and see how your best friend thrives on a diet made with love and care!