Budget-Friendly Homemade Dog Food featuring Turkey Gizzards and Sweet Potato

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 dog food prices that have gone through the roof skyrocketing your expenses and worse, you have no idea what is in the food?

Most commercial products are priced very high. Plus they are packed with fillers and additives that you probably don’t recognize the names of.

It makes you question what your pet is consuming. However, there is a straightforward and budget-friendly solution if you want to prepare healthy meals for your pet in your home.

Recipe Overview

This homemade dog food recipe focuses on budget-friendly ingredients. It features nutrient-dense turkey gizzards and wholesome sweet potatoes. This meal is great for providing balanced nutrition without breaking the bank.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
• Serving Size: Approximately 10-12 cups (enough for a medium dog for 5-7 days)
• Key Benefits: High in lean protein, rich in fiber, packed with essential vitamins and minerals, and supports digestion.

Ingredients List

Here’s what you’ll need for this wholesome, budget-friendly meal. These costs are estimates and can vary by store and location.

• 1.5 lbs Turkey Gizzards, raw, chopped (approx. $4.50 – $6.00)
• 2 large Sweet Potatoes, peeled and diced (approx. $2.00 – $3.00)
• 1 cup Brown Rice (approx. $0.50 – $0.75)
• 4 cups Water (for cooking rice and sweet potatoes)
• 1 cup Carrots, chopped (approx. $0.50 – $0.75)
• 1 cup Green Beans, fresh or frozen (approx. $1.00 – $1.50)
• 2 tbsp Olive Oil or Coconut Oil (approx. $0.20 – $0.30)
• 1/2 cup Bone Broth (low sodium, dog-safe) (optional, for added flavor/nutrients) (approx. $0.50 – $1.00)

Total Estimated Cost: $9.20 – $13.30

Substitutions:

• Turkey Gizzards: Chicken gizzards, chicken hearts, or lean ground turkey are good alternatives.
• Sweet Potatoes: Pumpkin (canned, plain), butternut squash, or regular potatoes (cooked, no green parts) can work.
• Brown Rice: White rice, quinoa, or oats can be used. Adjust cooking liquid as needed.
• Carrots/Green Beans: Broccoli, peas, spinach, or zucchini are all dog-safe and nutritious additions.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Making this dog food is super easy. Just follow these steps.

1. Rinse the turkey gizzards well under cold water. Pat them dry with a paper towel.
2. Chop the gizzards into small, bite-sized pieces. This makes them easier for your dog to eat and digest.
3. In a large pot, combine the brown rice with 4 cups of water. Bring it to a boil.
4. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 20 minutes.
5. After 20 minutes, add the diced sweet potatoes, chopped carrots, and green beans to the pot with the rice. Stir everything together.
6. Cover the pot again and continue to simmer for another 15-20 minutes. Keep cooking until the rice is tender and the vegetables are soft.
7. While the rice and veggies cook, heat the olive oil or coconut oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
8. Add the chopped turkey gizzards to the skillet. Cook them, stirring occasionally, until they are thoroughly browned and cooked through. This usually takes about 7-10 minutes.
9. Once the gizzards are cooked, remove them from the heat.
10. When the rice and vegetables are fully cooked, take the pot off the stove. Let it cool for a few minutes.
11. Drain any excess liquid from the rice and vegetable mixture.
12. Combine the cooked turkey gizzards with the rice and vegetable mixture in a large bowl. If using, stir in the bone broth now.
13. Mix everything really well to ensure even distribution of ingredients.
14. Let the entire batch cool completely before storing or serving. This is important to prevent spoilage.

Feeding Guidelines

How much your dog eats depends on a few things. Consider their weight, age, and how active they are.

• Small Dogs (under 20 lbs): Start with 1/2 to 1 cup per day, divided into two meals.
• Medium Dogs (20-50 lbs): Give them 1 to 2 cups per day, split into two meals.
• Large Dogs (50-90 lbs): They might need 2 to 3 cups per day, also divided.
• Giant Breeds (over 90 lbs): These dogs could eat 3-4+ cups daily, split into multiple feedings.
• Puppies, pregnant, or very active dogs might need more food. Senior or less active dogs may need less to maintain a healthy weight.
• Always introduce new foods slowly over 7-10 days. Mix increasing amounts of the homemade food with their old food.
• Remember, these are general guidelines. It’s always best to talk to your vet. They can help you figure out the best feeding plan for your specific dog.

Nutritional Benefits of the Recipe

This recipe isn’t just tasty, it’s packed with good stuff for your dog. Here’s why these ingredients are so great.

• Turkey Gizzards: These are a fantastic source of lean protein. Protein helps build and repair muscles, and it keeps your dog feeling full. Gizzards also provide essential vitamins like B12 and minerals like iron, which are important for energy and blood health.
• Sweet Potatoes: They are loaded with fiber, which is awesome for healthy digestion. This helps prevent constipation and supports gut health. Sweet potatoes also have tons of Vitamin A (for vision and immune function) and Vitamin C (an antioxidant).
• Brown Rice: This is a good complex carbohydrate. It gives your dog sustained energy. It also offers some fiber and important minerals like manganese and selenium.
• Carrots: Full of beta-carotene, which converts to Vitamin A, carrots are great for eye health. They also provide fiber and antioxidants.
• Green Beans: These low-calorie veggies are a good source of vitamins K, C, and A. They also add more fiber to the meal, helping with satiety without adding too many calories.
• Olive/Coconut Oil: A small amount provides healthy fats. These fats are good for skin and coat health, and they help with nutrient absorption.

Storage and Serving Tips

Proper storage is key to keeping this homemade food fresh and safe.

• Refrigeration: Store the cooled food in airtight containers in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 5-7 days.
• Freezing: For longer storage, portion out the cooled food into individual meal sizes. You can use freezer-safe bags or containers. This food freezes well for up to 2-3 months.
• Reheating: If frozen, thaw a portion in the refrigerator overnight. You can serve it cold, at room temperature, or gently warmed in the microwave. Make sure it’s not too hot before giving it to your dog.
• Serving Ideas: Serve this meal on its own. Or you can mix it with a small amount of their regular kibble to add variety and extra nutrients. Always have fresh water available for your dog.

Common Questions & Troubleshooting

Can I use other meats instead of turkey gizzards?

Yes, absolutely! Chicken gizzards, chicken hearts, lean ground turkey, or even cooked lean ground beef can be great substitutes. Just make sure the meat is cooked thoroughly and plain, without any seasonings. Avoid anything with onions or garlic.

My dog has a sensitive stomach, is this recipe safe?

This recipe uses whole, easily digestible ingredients. It’s generally good for sensitive stomachs. The fiber in sweet potatoes and brown rice can be very soothing. However, every dog is different. Introduce it slowly to see how your dog reacts. Always consult your vet if you have concerns.

How do I know if my dog is getting enough nutrients?

For short-term feeding, this recipe offers a good range of nutrients. For long-term or exclusive feeding, it’s a good idea to chat with a veterinary nutritionist. They can ensure the diet is completely balanced for your dog’s specific needs. Sometimes, a vet might suggest a supplement.

Can I make a big batch and freeze it?

Yes, that’s actually recommended! Cooking a large batch saves time during the week. Just portion it out into individual servings once it’s completely cooled. Then freeze it in airtight containers.

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

You can easily swap out vegetables your dog isn’t a fan of. Try peas, spinach, or zucchini instead of carrots or green beans.

Just make sure any substitutions are dog-safe and in appropriate amounts.

Wrapping Up

Making homemade dog food is a rewarding way to nourish your best friend with wholesome ingredients. This budget-friendly recipe offers a tasty, nutritious meal your dog will love, and you’ll love how easy it is.

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