Affordable Homemade Dog Food with Ground Pork and Green Beans

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.

I’m sure your dog means the world to you, but when it comes to their food, it can be a real headache sometimes.

Even the best decisions can become a confusing maze when you hear or read about numerous recalls, unknown ingredients, and rising prices.

All these make it even harder to trust the package and your wallet gets tighter as well.

Truth be told, this formula will teach you how to prepare a wholesome and inexpensive meal for your dog right in your home, so you can quit worrying and feeding them with assurance.

Recipe Overview

• This homemade dog food recipe features ground pork and green beans, providing a balanced meal that’s both economical and packed with goodness.
• It’s simple to make and perfect for keeping your dog healthy without breaking the bank.
• Prep time: 15 minutes
• Cook time: 30 minutes
• Serving size: Approximately 10 cups (enough for a medium dog for about 5 days)

Ingredients List

• 1 lb Ground Pork (80/20 lean): Approx. $4.00 – Provides essential protein and healthy fats for energy and muscle maintenance.
• 2 cups Rolled Oats (uncooked): Approx. $0.50 – A great source of soluble fiber for digestion and sustained energy.
• 4 cups Water: Approx. $0.00 – For cooking the oats and ensuring proper consistency.
• 2 cans (14.5 oz each) Green Beans (no salt added, drained): Approx. $2.00 – Adds fiber, vitamins (like K and C), and minerals, plus it’s low in calories.
• 1 Large Sweet Potato (about 1.5 lbs), peeled and diced: Approx. $1.50 – Rich in vitamins A and C, fiber, and antioxidants, supporting vision and immune health.
• 1/4 cup Olive Oil or Coconut Oil: Approx. $0.75 – Healthy fats for skin, coat, and brain health.
• 1 tbsp Turmeric Powder: Approx. $0.25 – Known for its anti-inflammatory properties, good for joint health.
• 1/2 tsp Black Pepper: Approx. $0.05 – Enhances turmeric’s absorption and adds a tiny bit of flavor.

Total Estimated Cost: $9.05

Substitutions: You can swap ground pork for ground turkey or lean ground beef. If your dog isn’t a fan of green beans, try chopped carrots or peas. Rolled oats can be replaced with brown rice for a different grain option.

Step-by-Step Instructions

• First, peel and dice the sweet potato into small, bite-sized pieces.
• Then, in a large pot, combine the diced sweet potato with enough water to cover it.
• Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the sweet potato is tender.
• Drain the sweet potato and mash it lightly.
• While the sweet potato cooks, brown the ground pork in a large skillet over medium heat.
• Break it up into small pieces as it cooks.
• Once the pork is fully cooked, drain any excess fat.
• In the same skillet, add the rolled oats and 4 cups of water.
• Bring to a gentle simmer and cook until the oats are soft and have absorbed most of the water, about 5-7 minutes.
• Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
• Now, add the mashed sweet potato, drained green beans, cooked ground pork, olive oil, turmeric, and black pepper to the oats mixture.
• Mix everything together thoroughly until all ingredients are well combined.
• Remove from heat and let the mixture cool completely before serving or storing.

Feeding Guidelines

• The right amount of food depends on your dog’s size, age, and activity level.
• A general guideline for homemade food is about 1/2 cup to 1 cup per 20 pounds of body weight, per day.
• For example, a 20lb dog might eat 1/2 to 1 cup daily, while a 40lb dog would need 1 to 2 cups.
• Very active dogs, like Border Collies or Retrievers, might need a bit more.
• Older, less active dogs or toy breeds might need slightly less.
• Always start with a smaller portion and adjust based on your dog’s energy levels and weight over a few weeks.
• It’s always a good idea to talk to your vet for personalized feeding advice, especially if your dog has specific health concerns or is a puppy or senior.

Nutritional Benefits of the Recipe

• Ground Pork: This is a fantastic source of high-quality protein, essential for muscle growth, repair, and overall body function. It also provides B vitamins and iron.
• Rolled Oats: They offer plenty of soluble fiber, which helps keep digestion smooth and can be great for dogs with sensitive tummies. Oats also provide sustained energy.
• Green Beans: Low in calories but high in vitamins K and C, and a good source of fiber, they support bone health and immune function without adding extra weight.
• Sweet Potato: Packed with beta-carotene (which converts to Vitamin A), Vitamin C, and fiber, sweet potatoes boost immunity, support healthy vision, and aid digestion.
• Olive/Coconut Oil: These healthy fats are crucial for a shiny coat, healthy skin, and brain function. Coconut oil also has antibacterial properties.
• Turmeric & Black Pepper: Turmeric is a powerful anti-inflammatory, great for joints and overall health. Black pepper helps your dog absorb the turmeric better.

Storage and Serving Tips

• Once the food is completely cooled, store it in airtight containers in the refrigerator.
• It will stay fresh for up to 4-5 days.
• For longer storage, you can freeze portions in freezer-safe bags or containers.
• It freezes well for up to 3 months.
• To reheat from frozen, thaw it in the fridge overnight or gently warm it in the microwave or on the stovetop.
• Always check that it’s not too hot before serving.
• You can serve this food warm, at room temperature, or even mixed in with your dog’s regular kibble to add extra nutrients and variety.

Common Questions & Troubleshooting

How can I make sure this recipe is balanced for my dog?

While this recipe is nutritionally sound with protein, fats, and carbs, adding a veterinary-approved multivitamin or mineral supplement specifically designed for homemade dog food can ensure it’s completely balanced for long-term feeding. Your vet can recommend one.

Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to add other dog-safe vegetables like carrots, peas, spinach, or broccoli (in moderation). Just make sure they are cooked and chopped small.

What if my dog doesn’t like it?

Dogs can be picky. Try mixing a small amount of the homemade food with their current food and gradually increase the ratio over several days. You can also experiment with different protein sources or vegetables to find what your dog loves.

Is this recipe suitable for puppies?

Puppies have specific nutritional needs for growth. While this recipe is healthy, it might not provide all the necessary nutrients in the right proportions for a growing puppy. Always consult your vet before feeding homemade food to a puppy.

Can I use a different grain instead of oats?

Yes, you can substitute oats with cooked brown rice or quinoa. Just make sure to adjust the water content and cooking time accordingly until the grain is fully cooked and soft.

Wrapping Up

Making your dog’s food at home doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. This recipe offers a simple way to give your pup a wholesome meal, full of flavors they’ll love and nutrients that keep them healthy and happy.

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