Homemade Slow Cooker Dog Food Recipe Using Pork And Apple With Carrots

Zack Keithy, our author, is a certified veterinarian technician (UC Blue Ash) for over 6 years (contact him here). The articles written here are based on his expertise and experience, combined with a review by our expert vet reviewers including Dr M. Tarantino. Learn more about us here.

Feeling overwhelmed by commercial dog food options? Many pet parents worry about mysterious ingredients or high costs. It’s tough to know if your furry friend is getting the best nutrition. But what if you could make healthy, delicious meals right in your own kitchen? This recipe is your easy solution.

Recipe Overview

• Purpose: A wholesome, easy-to-digest meal ideal for picky eaters or dogs needing gentle nutrition.
• Benefits: Packed with lean protein, fiber, and essential vitamins for overall health.
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 4-6 hours (on high) or 6-8 hours (on low) in a slow cooker
• Serving Size: Approximately 10-12 cups of cooked food, depending on water content

Ingredients List

• Pork Shoulder (Boneless): 2 pounds, lean, trimmed of excess fat. (~$8-12) This offers high-quality protein and is often well-tolerated by dogs. Suitable substitutions: boneless chicken breast or turkey thigh.
• Apples: 2 large, cored and chopped (peel on or off, your choice). (~$1-2) A great source of fiber and vitamins A and C. Always remove seeds as they contain small amounts of cyanide. Suitable substitutions: pears (cored, no seeds).
• Carrots: 4-5 medium, peeled and chopped. (~$0.50-1) Packed with beta-carotene for eye health and immunity. Suitable substitutions: sweet potatoes (peeled and diced).
• Green Beans: 1 cup, fresh or frozen, trimmed. (~$1.50-2.50) Low in calories but high in vitamins K, C, and manganese. Suitable substitutions: peas or broccoli florets (small amounts).
• Rolled Oats (Old-fashioned): 1 cup, uncooked. (~$0.75-1) Provides complex carbohydrates for sustained energy and soluble fiber for digestion. Suitable substitutions: brown rice or quinoa (cooked separately and added at the end).
• Water or Low-Sodium Broth: 4-6 cups (ensure it’s dog-safe, no onions/garlic). (~$0.25-0.50 for broth) Essential for cooking and moisture.
• Optional: Turmeric Powder: 1/2 teaspoon. (~$0.10) An anti-inflammatory spice.
• Optional: Parsley: 1 tablespoon, fresh, chopped. (~$0.25) A natural breath freshener and source of vitamins.

Estimated Total Cost: $12-20

Step-by-Step Instructions

• Step 1: Prep the Ingredients. Start by trimming any excess fat from the pork shoulder. Cut the pork into 1-inch cubes.
• Step 2: Chop Produce. Core and chop the apples. Peel and chop the carrots. Trim the green beans.
• Step 3: Combine in Slow Cooker. Place the cubed pork, chopped apples, carrots, and green beans into your slow cooker.
• Step 4: Add Oats and Liquid. Stir in the rolled oats. Pour in 4 cups of water or low-sodium broth. If you’re using turmeric, add it now.
• Step 5: Cook. Cover your slow cooker. Cook on high for 4-6 hours, or on low for 6-8 hours. The pork should be very tender and easily shreddable.
• Step 6: Shred and Mash. Once cooked, remove the pork pieces from the slow cooker and shred them with two forks. For a softer consistency, you can lightly mash some of the apples and carrots with the back of a spoon.
• Step 7: Final Mix. Return the shredded pork to the slow cooker. Stir everything together well. If adding fresh parsley, stir it in now.
• Step 8: Cool. Let the mixture cool completely before serving or storing. It will thicken as it cools.

Feeding Guidelines

• Small Dogs (under 20 lbs): Start with 1/2 to 1 cup per day, divided into two meals.
• Medium Dogs (20-50 lbs): Offer 1.5 to 2.5 cups per day, split into two meals.
• Large Dogs (50-90 lbs): Provide 3 to 4.5 cups per day, divided into two meals.
• Giant Breeds (over 90 lbs): They might need 5+ cups daily.
• Activity Level: Active dogs, like a Border Collie that runs daily, will need more calories than a less active dog, such as an English Bulldog. Adjust portion sizes based on your dog’s energy expenditure.
• Life Stage: Puppies and nursing mothers have higher caloric and nutritional needs. Senior dogs or those trying to lose weight might need less.
• Consult Your Vet: Every dog is unique. Always talk to your veterinarian before making significant changes to your dog’s diet. They can give you personalized advice based on your dog’s specific health needs and activity level.

Nutritional Benefits of the Recipe

• Pork: This lean meat provides high-quality protein. Protein is essential for muscle development, tissue repair, and a healthy immune system.
• Apples: A fantastic source of dietary fiber. Fiber helps with digestion, promotes healthy bowel movements, and can make your dog feel full. They also contain vitamins A and C.
• Carrots: Loaded with beta-carotene, which converts to vitamin A in the body. This supports healthy vision, skin, and coat. They also provide antioxidants.
• Green Beans: Low in calories and fat, but high in vitamins K, C, and manganese. They add bulk and fiber to the meal without adding excess calories.
• Rolled Oats: A gentle source of complex carbohydrates. They provide sustained energy and soluble fiber, which can be particularly good for dogs with sensitive stomachs.
• Turmeric (Optional): Known for its anti-inflammatory properties. This can help with joint health and overall well-being.

Storage and Serving Tips

• Refrigeration: The homemade dog food will stay fresh in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Freezing: For longer storage, portion out the cooled food into individual servings or freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: Thaw frozen portions in the refrigerator overnight. You can warm the food slightly in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving. Always check the temperature to ensure it’s not too hot.
• Serving Ideas: Serve it at room temperature or slightly warm. You can mix it with your dog’s regular kibble to help them transition or just offer it as a stand-alone meal.

FAQs

What if my dog has allergies to pork?

If your dog is allergic to pork, you can easily substitute it with boneless chicken breast or turkey thigh. Just make sure the meat is lean and trimmed of fat.

Can I add other vegetables?

Yes, absolutely! Dog-safe vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or pumpkin are great additions. Always ensure any new ingredients are introduced slowly to watch for digestive upset.

Do I need to add a calcium supplement?

For a meal intended as an occasional treat or supplement to a balanced diet, a separate calcium supplement isn’t typically needed. However, if this recipe is going to be your dog’s primary food source long-term, you should consult your veterinarian. They can help you formulate a nutritionally complete diet and advise on necessary supplements like calcium.

How can I make this recipe more budget-friendly?

Look for pork shoulder on sale. You can also buy vegetables in bulk when they’re in season. Using generic brands for oats and checking local produce markets can also help save money.

Wrapping Up

Ready to give your dog a tail-wagging meal made with love? This slow cooker recipe is simple, nutritious, and a real crowd-pleaser for pups. Feeling inspired? Pin this recipe to your Homemade Dog Food board for easy access and follow us for more pet-friendly tips!