Cheap Homemade Dog Food Recipe Using Sardines & Oatmeal

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.

You are in the pet food aisle looking at the label of a product which lists “meat by products” and “BHA” that are the words you can barely understand.

The premium brands are too expensive for your eyes to bear, and the affordable choices are like a betrayal to your dog.

But what if the answer is not at any store? I’m gonna show you how to make a nutritious yet budget friendly meal that will not only satisfy your dog but will also bring you peace of mind.

Recipe Overview

• This homemade dog food recipe uses simple ingredients like sardines and oatmeal.
• It’s budget-friendly and packed with Omega-3s, protein, and fiber.
• Prep time: About 10 minutes.
• Cook time: Around 20 minutes.
• Serving size: Makes about 6-8 servings for a medium-sized dog.

Ingredients List

• Canned Sardines in Water (no salt added): 2 (3.75 oz) cans – estimated cost $3.00 – $4.00
• Rolled Oats (uncooked): 1 cup – estimated cost $0.50 – $0.75
• Water: 3 cups – estimated cost $0.00
• Carrots (peeled and finely diced): 2 medium – estimated cost $0.75 – $1.00
• Frozen Green Beans (chopped): 1 cup – estimated cost $1.00 – $1.50
• Eggs: 2 large – estimated cost $0.50 – $0.75
• Flaxseed Oil: 1 tablespoon – estimated cost $0.25 – $0.40
• Optional: High-quality canine multivitamin/mineral supplement (check with your vet) – estimated cost (variable, not included in total)

Suitable Substitutions:

• For sardines: Canned mackerel (in water, no salt) or cooked, deboned salmon can work.
• For carrots: Sweet potato (cooked and mashed) is a good alternative.
• For green beans: Peas or chopped spinach are fine too.

Total Estimated Cost: $6.00 – $8.40

Step-by-Step Instructions

• Start by adding 3 cups of water to a large pot.
• Bring the water to a boil over medium-high heat.
• Once boiling, stir in the 1 cup of rolled oats.
• Reduce the heat to low and simmer for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
• Add the finely diced carrots and chopped green beans to the pot.
• Continue to cook for another 5-7 minutes, until the oats are soft and the vegetables are tender.
• While the oats and veggies are cooking, drain the water from the canned sardines.
• Gently mash the sardines with a fork in a separate bowl.
• In another small bowl, whisk the 2 eggs.
• Once the oats and vegetables are cooked, remove the pot from the heat.
• Stir in the mashed sardines and whisked eggs.
• The residual heat will cook the eggs. Keep stirring until the eggs are fully cooked and mixed throughout.
• Finally, stir in the 1 tablespoon of flaxseed oil.
• Let the mixture cool completely before serving.

Feeding Guidelines

• Small dogs (under 20 lbs): Feed about 1/2 to 1 cup per day.
• Medium dogs (20-50 lbs): Give 1.5 to 2.5 cups daily.
• Large dogs (50-90 lbs): Offer 3 to 4 cups per day.
• For very active dogs or working breeds, you might need to increase portions slightly.
• Puppies and pregnant or nursing dogs have higher caloric and nutritional needs; this recipe alone might not be sufficient. Talk to your vet about adding a specific puppy or reproductive supplement.
• Dogs who are overweight should have reduced portions, and underweight dogs might need more.
• Always consult your veterinarian for personalized feeding advice, especially if your dog has any health conditions or allergies.

Nutritional Benefits of the Recipe

• Sardines: These tiny fish are packed with Omega-3 fatty acids (EPA and DHA), which support brain function, joint health, and a shiny coat. They also provide high-quality protein and essential vitamins like D and B12.
• Rolled Oats: A great source of complex carbohydrates for sustained energy and soluble fiber. Fiber helps with digestion and can be soothing for sensitive stomachs.
• Carrots: Full of beta-carotene, which converts to Vitamin A, good for vision and immune health. They also provide fiber and antioxidants.
• Green Beans: Low in calories and offer vitamins K, C, and A, along with some fiber. They are a good source of manganese.
• Eggs: A complete protein source, providing all essential amino acids. They contain vitamins D, E, and B complex, and choline, which is good for liver and brain function.
• Flaxseed Oil: Another excellent source of Omega-3 fatty acids, complementing the sardines for optimal skin and coat health and anti-inflammatory benefits.
• Together, these ingredients offer a good balance of protein (around 20% of calories), healthy fats (over 10%), and complex carbohydrates (around 40-50%), with ample fiber for adult dogs.

Storage and Serving Tips

• Once cooled, store the homemade dog food in airtight containers in the refrigerator.
• It stays fresh for up to 3-4 days.
• For longer storage, divide the cooled food into individual serving portions and freeze them.
• Frozen portions can last for up to 2-3 months.
• When ready to serve from frozen, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight or gently reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave.
• Make sure it’s cooled to a safe, lukewarm, or room temperature before feeding.
• You can serve this recipe on its own or mix it with your dog’s regular kibble for an added boost of nutrients and flavor.

Common Questions & Troubleshooting

Can I make a big batch and freeze it?

Yes, absolutely! Freezing in individual portions is a great way to save time. Just thaw what you need.

My dog has allergies. How can I adapt this recipe?

If your dog is allergic to fish, you’d need a different protein source entirely. For other allergies, like to specific vegetables, you can usually swap them out with dog-safe alternatives mentioned in the ingredients list.

Is this recipe nutritionally complete for all dogs?

While this recipe provides many essential nutrients, it’s always best to discuss with your vet if you plan to feed it exclusively long-term. They might recommend a canine multivitamin and mineral supplement to ensure complete and balanced nutrition for your dog’s specific needs and life stage.

How do I know if my dog likes the food?

Most dogs love it! But here’s the thing: introduce it slowly by mixing a small amount with their regular food. Watch for enthusiastic eating and no digestive upset.

What if my dog doesn’t like sardines?

Some dogs can be picky. You can try mashing the sardines very finely so they blend into the oatmeal and veggies, making them less noticeable. Or, consider substituting with another cooked, deboned fish like mackerel.

Wrapping Up

Making your dog’s food at home doesn’t have to be hard or expensive. This cheap homemade dog food recipe using sardines and oatmeal is a simple way to give your dog healthy, delicious meals.

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