Homemade Dog Food Recipe for Active 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.

Are you tired of trying to decipher the ingredient list that seems like a chemistry lesson? Most dry food is made for a long shelf life and not for a short life of your pet.

As a result, your furry friend gets a dull coat, low energy, and an upset stomach from time to time.

The solution is actually very simple: just one pan, ten minutes, and a little bit of real food, just imagine ground turkey, smooth sweet potato, and a drop of salmon oil.

After one serving, the tail is spinning, the coat is shining, and your dog is at the door again, holding the leash in his mouth, ready to take the backyard for a new round of the race.

Recipe Overview

• This homemade Lamb & Barley dog food recipe is made specifically for active dogs.
• It takes about 45 minutes to prepare and cook.
• It’s packed with quality protein, complex carbs, and essential nutrients.
• This recipe is designed to support sustained energy and muscle health.
• Serving size: Approximately 8 cups of food.

Ingredients List

• 1.5 lbs ground lamb (80/20 lean) – estimated cost: $9.00 – $12.00
• 1 cup pearled barley – estimated cost: $0.75 – $1.00
• 4 cups water (for cooking barley) – estimated cost: $0.00
• 2 cups chopped carrots – estimated cost: $0.50 – $0.75
• 1.5 cups chopped green beans – estimated cost: $0.75 – $1.00
• 1 cup chopped sweet potato – estimated cost: $0.70 – $1.00
• 1/2 cup chopped spinach – estimated cost: $0.40 – $0.60
• 2 tablespoons olive oil – estimated cost: $0.20 – $0.30
• 1/4 teaspoon ground turmeric (optional, for anti-inflammatory benefits) – estimated cost: $0.05
• 1/4 teaspoon dried parsley (for fresh breath and vitamins) – estimated cost: $0.05
• 1 multivitamin and mineral supplement for dogs (ensure it’s appropriate for homemade diets) – estimated cost: $0.50 – $1.00 per serving (adjust based on product)

Total estimated cost: $12.85 – $17.70

Substitutions:

• Lamb can be swapped with ground beef (lean) or ground turkey for varied protein sources.
• Barley can be replaced with brown rice or quinoa, adjusting cooking times as needed.
• Carrots, green beans, sweet potato, and spinach can be interchanged with other dog-safe vegetables like peas, broccoli (in moderation), or zucchini.

Step-by-Step Instructions

• Cook the barley first. Put the pearled barley and 4 cups of water in a pot.
• Bring it to a boil, then lower the heat.
• Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 30-35 minutes until the barley is tender and the water is absorbed.
• While the barley cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat.
• Add the ground lamb to the skillet.
• Break it up with a spoon as it cooks.
• Cook the lamb until it’s fully browned. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes.
• Once the lamb is cooked, drain off any excess fat.
• Add the chopped carrots, green beans, and sweet potato to the skillet with the lamb.
• Stir everything together.
• Cook for about 10-15 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
• Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
• Now, add the chopped spinach, turmeric (if using), and dried parsley to the skillet.
• Cook for another 2-3 minutes, just until the spinach wilts.
• Once the barley is cooked, add it to the skillet with the lamb and vegetables.
• Mix everything really well, making sure all the ingredients are evenly distributed.
• Turn off the heat and let the food cool completely before serving or storing.
• Once cooled, mix in the recommended dose of your dog’s multivitamin and mineral supplement according to the product’s instructions. This is important for a balanced diet.

Feeding Guidelines

• Portion sizes depend on your dog’s weight, age, and activity level.
• As a general guide, a typical active adult dog needs about 2-3% of their ideal body weight in food per day.
• For example, a 50 lb active dog might need roughly 1 to 1.5 lbs (about 2-3 cups) of this food daily, split into two meals.
• Puppies and very active working dogs may need more food, sometimes up to 4-5% of their body weight.
• Older, less active dogs might need less to prevent weight gain.
• Always monitor your dog’s weight and adjust portions as needed.
• It’s a good idea to chat with your vet. They can help you figure out the exact right portion for your specific dog.

Nutritional Benefits of the Recipe

• Lamb is a fantastic source of high-quality protein. It helps build and repair muscle for active dogs.
• It also provides essential amino acids and B vitamins for energy metabolism.
• Barley is a complex carbohydrate. It offers sustained energy release, perfect for active dogs.
• It’s also a great source of fiber. This supports healthy digestion and keeps your dog feeling full.
• Carrots are packed with Vitamin A from beta-carotene. This is good for vision and immune health.
• Green beans provide vitamins K and C, plus fiber, for overall well-being.
• Sweet potatoes offer complex carbs, beta-carotene, and dietary fiber. They support energy and digestion.
• Spinach is a superfood for dogs, rich in iron, vitamins K and A, and antioxidants. These help with bone health and fight inflammation.
• Olive oil provides healthy monounsaturated fats. These are good for skin, coat health, and also help with vitamin absorption.
• The multivitamin supplement ensures a complete and balanced diet. It covers any gaps in vitamins and minerals that homemade food might miss.

Storage and Serving Tips

• Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It stays fresh for up to 3-4 days.
• For longer storage, divide the cooled food into individual meal portions.
• Freeze these portions in freezer-safe bags or containers.
• It will last in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.
• When you’re ready to serve, thaw frozen portions in the refrigerator overnight.
• You can also gently warm it in the microwave or on the stovetop. Just make sure it’s not too hot before serving.
• Serve the food at room temperature or slightly warm. This can make it more appealing to your dog.
• You can also mix this homemade food with their regular kibble. This is a good way to transition them or just add some variety.

Common Questions & Troubleshooting

Can I make a big batch and freeze it?

Yes, absolutely. This recipe is great for meal prepping. Just divide it into daily portions and freeze for up to 2-3 months.

Is this recipe suitable for puppies?

While the ingredients are safe, puppies have different nutritional needs. This recipe alone might not be balanced enough for growing pups. It’s best to consult your vet for specific puppy feeding guidance and perhaps add a puppy-specific supplement.

My dog has a sensitive stomach. Is this recipe okay?

Lamb is often well-tolerated, and barley is a gentle grain. However, all dogs are different. Introduce new foods slowly and watch for any digestive upset. You might start with smaller portions mixed with their current food.

Do I really need the supplement?

Yes, for a complete and balanced homemade diet, a good quality canine multivitamin and mineral supplement is essential. It fills in any nutritional gaps to ensure your dog gets all necessary vitamins and minerals they need long-term.

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

Feel free to substitute dog-safe vegetables that your dog enjoys. Just make sure to keep a good variety to ensure a broad spectrum of nutrients.

Wrapping Up

Feeding your active dog a homemade meal like this Lamb & Barley recipe is a great way to boost their health and energy naturally. It’s a labor of love that truly pays off in their vitality and happiness.

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