We’ve all been there. You reach for the bag of dog food only to find a few crumbs at the bottom, or perhaps you're looking for a healthier, more affordable way to feed your pups. Whatever the reason, making your own dog food can be a simple, rewarding, and incredibly tasty solution for your furry friends.
As you can see in our video, our four French Bulldogs absolutely devour this meal every single time. It's packed with fresh ingredients, is gentle on the wallet, and makes a huge batch that will see you through the week.
Here’s how you can make it at home!
The Ultimate DIY Dog Food Recipe
This recipe is all about wholesome ingredients and simplicity. It's a flexible recipe, so feel free to use up whatever dog-safe veggies you have in the fridge!
Ingredients:
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Protein Base: A mix of cooked chicken pieces and lean mince (like turkey, chicken, or beef).
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Grains: Cooked rice (brown or white).
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Vegetables: A generous portion of finely chopped, dog-safe vegetables. We used Savoy cabbage and other leftover veggies from the fridge. Carrots, peas, and green beans are also fantastic choices.
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The Secret Ingredient: The Honest Dog Co. Chicken Bone Broth for a powerful boost of flavor and nutrients.
Instructions:
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Cook Your Proteins: In a large pan or wok, thoroughly cook the minced meat and chicken pieces until no pink remains.
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Add Veggies and Rice: Add your chopped vegetables and cooked rice to the pan. Stir everything together until the veggies are slightly tender.
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The Flavor & Nutrient Boost: This is where the magic happens! Prepare The Honest Dog Co. Chicken Bone Broth by mixing the powder with a little warm water. Pour the liquid into the pan and give it all a final, thorough mix. The broth not only adds a delicious taste that dogs can't resist but also infuses the meal with essential nutrients.
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Cool and Serve: Let the food cool down completely before dishing it up for your eager pups. As you can see from our pack, they absolutely love it!
One of the best things about this recipe is how far it goes. This one batch made five massive meals for our dogs, with plenty left over!
The "Secret Ingredient": Why We Swear By Bone Broth
You might be wondering what makes the bone broth so special. For us, it’s a non-negotiable part of our dogs' diet.
The Honest Dog Co.'s Bone Broth is a tasty food topper that is packed with protein and collagen, which are fantastic for supporting your dog's joints, skin, and coat.
It’s an easy way to give their immune system a boost and ensure they're getting the goodness they need to thrive.
Here are a few reasons why we add it to this homemade meal:
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Joint and Bone Health: Bone broth is a natural source of glucosamine, chondroitin, and collagen, which help strengthen joints and keep bones healthy.
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Amazing for Picky Eaters: If your dog sometimes turns their nose up at their food, a splash of this savory broth can make their meal irresistible.
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Hydration Boost: Mixing the bone broth powder with water is a great way to get more moisture into your dog's diet, which is essential for their overall health.
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Packed with Protein: With a guaranteed 90% protein, it helps with muscle maintenance and repair.
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It's a simple addition that makes a huge difference in turning a simple meal into a superfood feast.
When preparing homemade food for your dogs, it's important to use ingredients that are safe for them.
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Safe Veggies: Cabbage, carrots, peas, green beans, sweet potatoes (cooked), and broccoli (in moderation) are all great options.
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Veggies to Avoid: Never use onions, garlic, leeks, chives, or unripe tomatoes, as these are toxic to dogs.
If you're ever unsure, it's always best to consult with your vet before introducing new foods into your dog's diet.
Ready to give it a try?
Make a batch of this simple, healthy dog food and supercharge it with a scoop of The Honest Dog Co. Chicken Bone Broth.
