Cheap Homemade Dog Food Recipe Using Eggs & Cottage Cheese

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’re filling up the bowl with kibble, and an uneasy, faint idea comes into your mind: What is this stuff really?

The list of ingredients is nothing but unpronounceable chemicals and vague “by products”.

How about everyday staples becoming a tasty, budget friendly meal that gets rid of the mystery, makes the itching stop, and brings back the tail wagging joy without a costly spending?

Let’s do it together!

Recipe Overview

• This homemade dog food recipe is super simple and takes just about 20 minutes to make.
• It uses affordable ingredients like eggs and cottage cheese, which are great sources of protein and calcium.
• It’s perfect for adult dogs, especially those needing a gentle, nutrient-rich meal.
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Serving Size: Makes about 4-5 cups, enough for a medium-sized dog for 2-3 days.

Ingredients List

• 6 large eggs: (Estimated cost: $2.50) – excellent protein source.
• 1 cup cottage cheese (low fat, no sodium added): (Estimated cost: $1.80) – packed with calcium and probiotics.
• 1 cup cooked brown rice (cooled): (Estimated cost: $0.75) – provides complex carbohydrates and fiber. You can cook this ahead.
• 1/2 cup finely chopped carrots: (Estimated cost: $0.30) – good for vitamins A and K.
• 1/2 cup finely chopped green beans: (Estimated cost: $0.40) – adds fiber and vitamins C and K.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil: (Estimated cost: $0.10) – for healthy fats and to aid nutrient absorption.
• 1/4 teaspoon ground turmeric: (Estimated cost: $0.05) – an anti-inflammatory spice.
• Optional: 1/4 teaspoon unflavored canine vitamin/mineral supplement (consult your vet first): (Estimated cost: $0.20 per serving) – ensures complete nutrition.
• Total Estimated Cost: $6.10 (without supplement) or $6.30 (with supplement)

Substitutions:

• Eggs: You can use duck eggs if you have them, just adjust the quantity to roughly the same volume.
• Cottage Cheese: Plain, unsweetened yogurt can work in a pinch, but cottage cheese has more protein.
• Brown Rice: Quinoa or cooked oats are good alternatives for complex carbs.
• Carrots/Green Beans: Sweet potato (cooked and mashed) or peas are also excellent choices for veggies.

Step-by-Step Instructions

• First, heat the olive oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium heat.
• Next, crack the eggs into the skillet.
• Scramble the eggs, breaking them into small pieces as they cook.
• Cook until they are fully set, about 3-5 minutes.
• After that, remove the cooked eggs from the heat and let them cool down for a few minutes.
• In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled scrambled eggs, cottage cheese, cooked brown rice, chopped carrots, and chopped green beans.
• Then, add the turmeric.
• If you’re using a canine vitamin/mineral supplement, add it now.
• Mix everything thoroughly until all the ingredients are well combined.
• And that’s it! Your homemade dog food is ready to serve.

Feeding Guidelines

• These are general guidelines, and it’s always best to check with your vet for personalized advice.
• Small dogs (under 20 lbs): Start with about 1/2 to 1 cup per day, split into two meals.
• Medium dogs (20-50 lbs): Give 1.5 to 2.5 cups per day, split into two meals.
• Large dogs (50-90 lbs): Offer 3 to 4.5 cups per day, split into two meals.
• For puppies, pregnant/nursing dogs, or very active dogs, they might need more calories and a higher protein intake. Your vet can guide you here.
• Dogs who are overweight should have portion control, and underweight dogs might need slightly larger portions.
• It’s a good idea to introduce any new food slowly over 5-7 days to avoid upsetting your dog’s stomach.

Nutritional Benefits of the Recipe

• Eggs: They’re a complete protein, meaning they have all the essential amino acids your dog needs for strong muscles, healthy skin, and a shiny coat. They also provide vitamins A, D, E, K, and B vitamins.
• Cottage Cheese: This is a fantastic source of calcium for strong bones and teeth. It also has probiotics which help with a healthy gut.
• Brown Rice: This complex carbohydrate provides sustained energy for your dog’s daily activities. It’s also a good source of fiber, which helps with digestion.
• Carrots: Packed with beta-carotene, which converts to Vitamin A, crucial for good vision and immune function. They also add a nice crunch and fiber.
• Green Beans: Low in calories but high in vitamins C and K, and fiber. They’re a great way to add bulk without extra calories.
• Olive Oil: This healthy fat provides Omega-6 fatty acids and helps in the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K).
• Turmeric: Known for its anti-inflammatory properties, it can help reduce joint pain and support overall well-being.

Storage and Serving Tips

• You can store this homemade dog food in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• For longer storage, divide the food into single-serving portions and freeze them.
• It freezes well for up to 2 months.
• To reheat, simply thaw a portion in the fridge overnight or gently warm it in the microwave.
• Always make sure the food is at room temperature or slightly warm before serving.
• You can serve it on its own or mix it with a small amount of their regular kibble to add extra flavor and nutrients.

Common Questions & Troubleshooting

Can I feed this recipe to my puppy?

Puppies have different nutritional needs than adult dogs, especially for growth. While the ingredients are safe, this recipe might not be balanced enough on its own for a growing puppy. It’s best to consult your vet before feeding it to a puppy, and they might recommend a specific canine supplement.

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

Yes, this recipe is generally gentle on sensitive stomachs. It uses simple, whole ingredients that are easy to digest. However, every dog is different, so introduce it slowly and watch for any signs of discomfort. Brown rice and cottage cheese are often well-tolerated.

Do I need to add a vitamin supplement?

For a complete and balanced diet over the long term, yes, a canine-specific vitamin and mineral supplement is recommended. While the ingredients are nutritious, ensuring all essential vitamins and minerals are present in the correct ratios can be tricky. Always talk to your vet about the best supplement for your dog.

How can I adjust this for a dog needing to lose weight?

If your dog needs to lose weight, you can reduce the amount of brown rice and slightly increase the green beans. Portion control is key. Your vet can give you specific calorie goals and portion sizes based on your dog’s ideal weight.

Wrapping Up

Making your dog’s food at home doesn’t have to be hard or expensive, and this cheap homemade dog food recipe proves it! You know exactly what they’re eating, and they get a delicious, healthy meal.

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