If you’re considering making your dog’s food at home, one of the most important goals is creating balance—meals that provide all the nutrients your dog needs without relying on synthetic additives or fillers. This Balanced Dog Food Recipe is a great starting point for pet parents who want to feed their dog wholesome, nourishing food without the guesswork.
Many homemade dog food recipes are simple but not always complete. Dogs, like people, need a combination of protein, healthy fats, fiber, and essential vitamins and minerals. This recipe brings those together in a way that’s easy to prepare and easy for your dog to digest. It includes lean protein, complex carbs, vegetables, and a small amount of oil and supplement powder to round out the nutrient profile.
Whether you’re transitioning your dog off commercial food or supplementing with fresh meals a few days a week, this recipe fits beautifully into your routine. It also stores and freezes well, making it ideal for batch cooking. Even better? It’s a fun recipe to make with your kids—especially when they get to serve it and see how excited your dog gets.
What You’ll Need
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
- 1 cup brown rice (uncooked)
- 1 cup carrots, peeled and chopped
- 1 cup green beans, chopped
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or flaxseed oil
- 1 teaspoon ground eggshell powder or canine multivitamin supplement
- 3 ½ cups water or low-sodium chicken broth
Pro Tips
- Cook ingredients gently to preserve nutrients—simmering works best for meat and vegetables.
- Use a supplement to ensure nutritional completeness, especially if feeding this daily.
- Finely chop vegetables for easier digestion, especially for smaller dogs.
- Store in individual portions to make feeding time fast and convenient.
- Let it cool fully before serving or storing to keep texture and nutrients intact.
Tools Required
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cutting board and knife
- Spatula or mixing spoon
- Food storage containers or freezer bags
Substitutions and Variations
- Protein: Swap chicken with lean ground turkey, beef, or fish (like salmon).
- Grains: Replace rice with quinoa, oats, or cooked sweet potato.
- Veggies: Try peas, zucchini, pumpkin, or spinach—just avoid onions, garlic, and leeks.
- Oil: Use flaxseed, salmon, or coconut oil for added Omega-3s.
- Supplements: If not using eggshell powder, choose a vet-approved canine multivitamin.
Make Ahead Tips
You can chop vegetables and trim meat the night before to save time. Cook the full batch on the weekend, then portion into single servings to refrigerate or freeze. It’s ideal for busy weekdays, travel, or sending with your dog to daycare.
Instructions
1. Cook the rice
Add rice and 2 cups of water to a pot. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 25–30 minutes until soft. Set aside to cool.
2. Cook the chicken
Place the chicken in a large pot with 1½ cups of water or broth. Simmer over medium heat for 15–20 minutes until fully cooked. Remove and chop into small bite-sized pieces.
3. Cook the vegetables
In the same pot, add chopped carrots and green beans. Simmer for 8–10 minutes until fork-tender but not mushy. Drain if needed.
4. Combine everything
In a large mixing bowl or pot, combine the cooked rice, chopped chicken, and vegetables. Drizzle with oil and sprinkle in the supplement powder. Stir thoroughly to mix.
5. Cool and portion
Let the mixture cool completely before serving. Portion into containers based on your dog’s size and feeding schedule.
Leftovers and Storage
Store cooled food in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 4–5 days. Freeze in meal-sized portions for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before feeding, and serve at room temperature or slightly warmed—never hot.
Conclusion
Feeding your dog a balanced homemade meal doesn’t have to be complicated. With a few staple ingredients and a little planning, you can create a complete, nutritious dish that supports your dog’s health, digestion, and energy levels. This recipe is designed to be both satisfying and safe, giving you peace of mind with every bite your dog enjoys.
As always, it’s best to check with your vet before switching your dog to a fully homemade diet, especially if your dog has allergies or medical conditions. But for many families, this kind of fresh, balanced food is a simple and joyful way to care for their furry companions.
Have you made this for your pup? I’d love to hear how it turned out! Share your dog’s review or ask a question in the comments below—I’m here to help make homemade feeding easy and rewarding.
