If you’ve ever wanted to make homemade food for your dog but felt overwhelmed by the time it takes, this DIY Slow Cooker Dog Food recipe is here to make life easier. It’s perfect for pet parents who want to feed their dogs wholesome, real food without spending hours in the kitchen. You can prep everything in just 10–15 minutes, toss it in your slow cooker, and walk away while it gently cooks into a warm, nutritious meal your dog will love.
This recipe is built with lean protein, fiber-rich vegetables, and easily digestible grains—making it suitable for most dogs, even those with sensitive stomachs. The slow cooker method allows the ingredients to simmer slowly, locking in nutrients and flavors while softening the food for easy chewing and digestion. It’s also a fantastic option for batch cooking, and you can freeze portions to have healthy meals on hand whenever you need them.
One of the best parts? This is a family-friendly kitchen activity. Kids can help add ingredients, stir, and portion the final product—and the anticipation of making something special “just for the dog” is always exciting for little ones.
What You’ll Need
- 2 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
- 1 cup brown rice (uncooked)
- 1 ½ cups chopped carrots
- 1 cup green beans, chopped
- ½ cup green peas (fresh or frozen)
- 1 cup chopped spinach
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 4 cups water or low-sodium chicken broth
Pro Tips
- Use boneless, skinless chicken to avoid extra fat and eliminate the risk of bone splinters.
- Layer smartly: Put grains and hearty vegetables on the bottom of the slow cooker, and add softer veggies on top for even cooking.
- No need to pre-cook rice or chicken—they will cook perfectly in the slow cooker.
- Let it cool fully before serving or storing to keep texture and nutrients intact.
- Portion and freeze to make mealtimes stress-free later on.
Tools Required
- Slow cooker (6-quart or larger)
- Cutting board and knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Large spoon or spatula
- Food storage containers or freezer bags
Substitutions and Variations
- Protein: Use ground turkey, beef, or even canned salmon instead of chicken.
- Grains: Substitute with white rice, quinoa, or barley for variety.
- Veggies: Zucchini, pumpkin, or sweet potato make great alternatives or additions.
- Fats: Swap olive oil for coconut oil or flaxseed oil for coat and skin support.
Make Ahead Tips
Slow cooker meals are naturally great for make-ahead prep. Chop all your veggies the night before and refrigerate. In the morning, add all ingredients to the slow cooker and start cooking. Once done, portion into meal-size servings and refrigerate or freeze.
Instructions
1. Layer ingredients into the slow cooker
Place the chicken at the bottom of the slow cooker. Add uncooked rice, chopped carrots, green beans, peas, and spinach on top. Pour in water or broth and drizzle with olive oil.
2. Cook on low for 6–8 hours
Cover and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours, or until the chicken is fully cooked and vegetables are tender. Stir once halfway through if possible.
3. Shred the chicken
Once cooking is complete, remove the chicken pieces and shred them using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker and stir to combine.
4. Cool and portion
Let the food cool completely before serving. Portion into containers based on your dog’s weight and daily calorie needs.
Leftovers and Storage
Store cooled portions in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For long-term storage, freeze in individual servings for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and warm gently before serving—never serve hot to your dog.
Conclusion
Homemade dog food doesn’t need to be complicated, and this DIY Slow Cooker Dog Food recipe proves just that. With only a few minutes of prep and a slow cooker doing the heavy lifting, you can provide your dog with a meal that’s wholesome, tasty, and made with love.
It’s a perfect way to avoid processed fillers and preservatives while using real, everyday ingredients. Whether you’re new to homemade dog food or looking for a hands-off option that fits your busy schedule, this recipe is one you’ll want to make again and again.
Have you tried this recipe for your pup? I’d love to hear how it went. Leave a comment below with your dog’s review, any substitutions you made, or questions about the process—I’m always happy to help!
