Affordable Homemade Dog Food with Oatmeal and Yogurt

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.

Are you fed up with having to guess what your dog’s food really is? A lot of commercial brands use ingredients that can cause the development of stomach issues or allergies.

If your dog is sensitive to food, it is going to be a chain reaction that you will be the final sufferer since you do not know what is causing these problems.

It sucks, but what if you were able to prepare a healthy and tasty meal from the comfort of your home which would be extremely friendly for their stomach and your budget?

We are going to let you in on that secret.

Recipe Overview

This easy, homemade dog food recipe uses oatmeal and yogurt to create a wholesome, affordable meal. It’s gentle on sensitive stomachs and provides essential nutrients your dog needs.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
• Serving Size: Approximately 6-8 cups (enough for a medium dog for 3-4 days)
• Key Benefits: Great for sensitive stomachs, packed with probiotics, fiber, and lean protein, supports healthy digestion and skin.

Ingredients List

Here’s everything you’ll need to make this budget-friendly, healthy meal for your dog.

• 1 cup Rolled Oats (not instant): About $0.50.
  These provide excellent fiber for digestion and sustained energy.
• 4 cups Water or Low-Sodium Chicken Broth: About $0.20 (for water) or $1.00 (for broth).
  Use broth for added flavor if your dog isn’t sensitive to sodium.
• 1 lb Ground Turkey (93% lean or higher): About $5.00.
  A lean protein source that’s easy to digest. You can substitute with ground chicken or beef.
• 1 cup Plain Greek Yogurt (low-fat, unsweetened): About $1.50.
  Packed with probiotics for gut health. Make sure it has live active cultures and no artificial sweeteners like xylitol (which is toxic to dogs).
• 1 cup Mixed Vegetables (peas, carrots, green beans – fresh or frozen): About $1.00.
  Provides vitamins, minerals, and fiber. Ensure they are plain, without added salt or sauces.
• 1 tablespoon Coconut Oil: About $0.20.
  Great for skin and coat health. Olive oil is also a good option.
• 1 large Egg (cooked, optional): About $0.25.
  Adds extra protein and healthy fats.

Estimated Total Cost: Around $8.65 – $9.45.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Making this dog food is straightforward, and you’ll have it ready in under an hour.

• Step 1: Cook the Oats. In a large pot, bring 4 cups of water or low-sodium chicken broth to a boil.
  Add the 1 cup of rolled oats, reduce heat to low, and simmer for about 10-15 minutes, or until the oats are soft and have absorbed most of the liquid.
  Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
• Step 2: Cook the Turkey. While the oats are cooking, heat the 1 tablespoon of coconut oil in a separate skillet over medium heat.
  Add the ground turkey and cook until it’s fully browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
  Drain any excess fat.
• Step 3: Add Vegetables. Stir the mixed vegetables into the cooked turkey.
  Cook for another 5-7 minutes until they are tender.
  If using frozen veggies, they might take a bit longer.
• Step 4: Combine Everything. Once the oats are cooked, remove them from the heat.
  Add the cooked turkey and vegetable mixture directly into the pot with the oats.
  Stir well to combine all ingredients evenly.
• Step 5: Cool and Add Yogurt. Let the entire mixture cool down completely.
  This is super important before adding the yogurt, as heat can kill the beneficial probiotics.
  Once cooled, stir in the 1 cup of plain Greek yogurt until it’s well incorporated.
• Step 6: Optional Egg Addition. If you’re adding an egg, scramble it lightly and cook it thoroughly in the same skillet you used for the turkey.
  Let it cool, then crumble it into the dog food mixture and stir.
• Step 7: Serve and Store. Dish out a portion for your dog and store the rest as directed below.

Feeding Guidelines

Knowing how much to feed your dog is key to their health.

• Small Dogs (under 20 lbs): Start with about ½ to 1 cup per day, divided into two meals.
  Think a Chihuahua or a Poodle.
• Medium Dogs (20-50 lbs): Around 1.5 to 2.5 cups per day, split into two meals.
  This might be a Beagle or a Border Collie.
• Large Dogs (50-90 lbs): Roughly 3 to 4 cups per day, divided into two meals.
  Consider a Labrador or a German Shepherd.
• Giant Breeds (over 90 lbs): They might need 4.5 to 6 cups or more, spread across two to three meals.
• Adjust for Activity: Very active dogs will need more, while less active or older dogs might need less.
  Puppies have higher energy demands and typically need more food, while senior dogs might benefit from smaller, more frequent meals.
• Always Consult Your Vet: These are general guidelines.
  For personalized advice, especially for puppies, seniors, or dogs with specific health conditions, always check with your veterinarian.

Nutritional Benefits of the Recipe

This recipe isn’t just tasty; it’s packed with goodness for your dog.

• Lean Protein (Turkey): Helps build and repair muscle, essential for energy and overall body function.
  It’s a great choice for dogs needing easily digestible protein.
• Fiber (Oatmeal & Vegetables): Supports healthy digestion, helps regulate bowel movements, and can make your dog feel full longer.
  Oatmeal is especially good for soothing sensitive stomachs.
• Probiotics (Yogurt): The live active cultures in Greek yogurt promote a healthy gut microbiome.
  This can boost immunity and improve nutrient absorption.
• Healthy Fats (Coconut Oil & Egg): Contribute to a shiny coat, healthy skin, and provide concentrated energy.
  Coconut oil also has anti-inflammatory properties.
• Vitamins & Minerals (Vegetables): Carrots offer Vitamin A for vision, peas provide Vitamin K for blood clotting, and green beans are full of Vitamin C and fiber.
  Together, they offer a broad spectrum of micronutrients.

Storage and Serving Tips

Make sure your homemade dog food stays fresh and safe to eat.

• Refrigeration: Store the cooled food in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
  Always check for any unusual smells or discoloration before serving.
• Freezing: For longer storage, divide the cooled food into individual meal portions using freezer-safe bags or containers.
  It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.
• Reheating: Thaw frozen portions in the refrigerator overnight.
  You can serve the food cold, at room temperature, or slightly warmed in the microwave or on the stovetop.
  Always ensure it’s not too hot before giving it to your dog.
• Serving Ideas: This food can be served on its own as a complete meal.
  Some owners like to mix it with their dog’s regular kibble to add extra flavor and nutrients.
  It also works great as a special treat or a meal topper.

Common Questions & Troubleshooting

Can I use instant oats instead of rolled oats?

It’s better to stick with rolled oats. Instant oats are more processed and can have a higher glycemic index. Rolled oats offer more fiber and a slower release of energy, which is better for your dog’s digestion.

What if my dog doesn’t like a specific vegetable?

That’s totally fine! Just swap it out for another dog-safe vegetable your pup enjoys. Good options include sweet potato (cooked and mashed), pumpkin (plain, canned), spinach, or bell peppers.

Is Greek yogurt safe for dogs?

Yes, plain, unsweetened Greek yogurt with live active cultures is generally safe and beneficial for dogs. It’s a great source of probiotics. The key is to avoid any yogurt with artificial sweeteners, especially xylitol, which is highly toxic to dogs.

How do I know if my dog is allergic to an ingredient?

Introduce new homemade foods slowly. Watch for signs like vomiting, diarrhea, excessive itching, or lethargy. If you notice any of these, stop feeding the new food and consult your vet. It’s smart to introduce one new ingredient at a time if your dog has known sensitivities.

Can I add supplements to this recipe?

You can, but always talk to your vet first. They can help you figure out if your dog needs specific supplements and what the correct dosage should be, ensuring you don’t overdo it.

Wrapping Up

Making your dog’s food at home means knowing exactly what goes into their bowl, giving you peace of mind and your pup a happy, healthy tummy. This recipe is simple, affordable, and full of good stuff, making mealtime a joy for everyone.

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