Homemade Dog Food Recipes for Small Dogs Using Lamb & Barley

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.

Commercial​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌ dog foods are usually filled with ingredients that are not quite clear and they are also expensive.

It is difficult to know what is really going into our dog’s bowl, and this can cause concerns about their health and happiness.

But what if it were very simple for you to prepare a fresh, nutritious meal that is just the right portion for them?

I’m gonna show you with a straightforward, tasty recipe that is full of ​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌nutrients.

Recipe Overview

• Purpose: This recipe gives your small dog a balanced, homemade meal.
• Benefits: It’s great for sensitive tummies and provides tailored nutrition.
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 45-50 minutes
• Serving Size: Makes about 8-10 servings for a 10-15 lb dog.

Ingredients List

• 1 lb lean ground lamb (about $7.00)
• 1 cup pearled barley (about $1.00)
• 3 cups water (free)
• 1 medium sweet potato, peeled and diced (about $0.80)
• 1 cup green beans, fresh or frozen (about $1.50)
• 1/2 cup carrots, shredded (about $0.50)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (about $0.30)
• 1 teaspoon dried kelp powder (for iodine and trace minerals) (about $0.20)
• 1/2 teaspoon finely crushed eggshell powder (for calcium) (about $0.10)
• 1,000 mg fish oil capsule (for Omega-3s, added after cooking) (about $0.25)

Total Estimated Cost: Approximately $13.65

You can swap lamb for ground turkey or lean ground beef if your dog prefers. Chicken works too. For barley, brown rice is a good alternative.

Step-by-Step Instructions

• Get a large pot and put it over medium heat.
• Add the olive oil.
• Brown the ground lamb in the pot, breaking it up with a spoon.
• Cook until it’s no longer pink.
• Drain any extra fat from the pot.
• Add the pearled barley, diced sweet potato, green beans, shredded carrots, and 3 cups of water to the pot with the lamb.
• Stir everything together well.
• Bring the mixture to a boil.
• Once it boils, turn the heat down to low.
• Cover the pot and let it simmer for 30-35 minutes.
• Stir occasionally to prevent anything from sticking to the bottom.
• Cook until the barley is tender and has soaked up most of the water.
• The vegetables should be soft too.
• Take the pot off the heat and let the food cool down completely.
• Once it’s cool, stir in the dried kelp powder and eggshell powder.
• Add one fish oil capsule per serving right before you feed your dog.

Feeding Guidelines

• Small dogs need different amounts of food depending on their size and how active they are.
• A dog weighing 5-10 lbs might need about 1/2 to 3/4 cup per day.
• A dog weighing 10-20 lbs could eat about 1 to 1.5 cups per day.
• For puppies, split their daily portion into 3-4 smaller meals, and they often need more calories.
• Older dogs might need slightly less food if they are less active, but still need good protein.
• Always talk to your vet to figure out the perfect serving size for your dog’s specific needs.
• They can help you adjust for things like pregnancy or if your dog needs to lose or gain weight.

Nutritional Benefits of the Recipe

• Lamb: This is a fantastic source of protein, which helps build and fix muscles. It’s also rich in B vitamins and iron, giving your dog energy and supporting healthy blood.
• Barley: It provides complex carbohydrates for lasting energy and lots of fiber. This fiber helps with good digestion and keeps blood sugar stable.
• Sweet Potato: These are packed with Vitamin A for vision, and Vitamin C for a strong immune system. They also add more fiber to the meal.
• Green Beans & Carrots: These veggies offer extra vitamins, minerals, and fiber. They’re low in calories, so they add bulk without too much extra energy.
• Olive Oil: A healthy fat source, it gives a nice flavor and helps absorb fat-soluble vitamins. It contributes to skin and coat health.
• Kelp Powder: This natural supplement provides essential trace minerals, especially iodine, which supports thyroid function.
• Eggshell Powder: It’s a natural and easily absorbed source of calcium, crucial for strong bones and teeth.
• Fish Oil: Super important for Omega-3 fatty acids. These are great for reducing inflammation, boosting brain health, and keeping skin and coats shiny.

Storage and Serving Tips

• Once cooled, store the food in airtight containers in the fridge.
• It stays fresh for about 3-4 days.
• For longer storage, freeze individual portions in freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 2-3 months.
• Thaw frozen portions in the fridge overnight before serving.
• You can warm the food slightly in the microwave or on the stovetop before giving it to your dog.
• Always check that it’s not too hot before serving.
• It can also be served at room temperature, or mixed with a small amount of their regular kibble to help them transition.

Common Questions & Troubleshooting

Can I make a big batch of this food?

Yes, you can easily double or triple the recipe. Just make sure your pot is big enough.

My dog has allergies. What can I change?

If your dog is allergic to lamb, try turkey or venison. If barley is an issue, brown rice or quinoa can be good swaps.

Do I need to add any other supplements?

This recipe aims to be balanced, but a vet-approved canine multivitamin can ensure all nutritional bases are covered. Always check with your vet first.

What if my dog doesn’t like it?

Introduce the new food slowly by mixing small amounts with their current food. Gradually increase the homemade food over a week or so.

Wrapping Up

Giving your small dog this homemade lamb and barley recipe means you’re feeding them love and good health. It’s a simple way to boost their well-being with food you trust.

Feeling inspired? Pin this recipe to your Homemade Dog Food board for easy access and follow us for more pet-friendly tips!