Cheap Homemade Dog Food Recipe Using Kidney Beans & Rice

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 with the fluorescent lights shining, and you are looking closely at a bag whose first three ingredients sound like a science experiment.

You can still feel the vet visit vibe of your dog: itchy skin, loose stool, and a bill that really hurt your wallet.

How about tonight you skip the label, skip the price, and just take a portion of real, colorful food and put it in your dog’s bowl. No chemistry degree is needed, just the confidence that what is good for you is also good for the pup who trusts you the ​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌most.

Recipe Overview

• This homemade dog food recipe uses simple, budget-friendly ingredients like kidney beans and rice.
• It’s designed to be nutritionally balanced for adult dogs, providing essential protein, fiber, and energy.
• Prep time: About 15 minutes.
• Cook time: Approximately 45 minutes.
• Serving size: Makes about 8-10 servings for a medium-sized dog.

Ingredients List

• 1 cup dried kidney beans (about $1.50) – make sure to soak overnight and rinse thoroughly.
• 2 cups brown rice (about $1.00) – provides complex carbohydrates for energy.
• 1 pound lean ground turkey or chicken (about $4.00) – an excellent source of lean protein.
• 4 cups low-sodium chicken or beef broth (about $2.00) – adds flavor and moisture.
• 2 cups mixed vegetables (e.g., carrots, green beans, peas, spinach) (about $2.50) – provides vitamins, minerals, and fiber.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (about $0.50) – for healthy fats and to aid absorption of fat-soluble vitamins.
• 1 teaspoon dog-safe multivitamin/mineral supplement (optional, but recommended for completeness) (about $0.20 per serving).

Total estimated cost: Approximately $11.70. This makes it a very affordable option.

Substitutions: You can use lean ground beef instead of turkey or chicken. Lentils can be substituted for kidney beans if your dog tolerates them well. For vegetables, feel free to use what you have on hand, as long as they are dog-safe (avoid onions, garlic, and grapes).

Step-by-Step Instructions

• First, soak the dried kidney beans overnight in plenty of water. Drain and rinse them very well before cooking. This step is crucial to remove toxins.
• Next, in a large pot, combine the soaked and rinsed kidney beans with 6 cups of fresh water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 45-60 minutes, or until the beans are very soft.
• While the beans are cooking, in a separate large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground turkey or chicken and cook until fully browned, breaking it up with a spoon.
• Drain any excess fat from the meat.
• Add the brown rice, low-sodium broth, and cooked meat to the pot with the kidney beans. Bring everything to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
• Stir in the mixed vegetables and cook for another 5-10 minutes, until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
• Remove the pot from the heat and let it cool completely.
• If you’re using a dog-safe multivitamin/mineral supplement, stir it in once the food has cooled to avoid heat degradation.

Feeding Guidelines

• The amount of food your dog needs depends on their weight, age, activity level, and overall health.
• As a general guide, feed about 1/2 to 1 cup per 20 pounds of body weight, divided into two meals per day.
• For small dogs (under 20 lbs), start with 1/4 to 1/2 cup daily.
• Medium dogs (20-50 lbs) might need 1-2 cups daily.
• Large dogs (over 50 lbs) could eat 2-4 cups daily.
• Puppies and highly active dogs might need more calories, while senior or less active dogs may need less. Pregnant or nursing dogs also have different nutritional needs.
• Always consult your veterinarian for personalized feeding advice to ensure this recipe is appropriate for your dog’s specific needs and to adjust portion sizes.

Nutritional Benefits of the Recipe

• Kidney Beans: A great source of plant-based protein and fiber, which aids digestion and promotes satiety. They also contain B vitamins and iron.
• Brown Rice: Provides complex carbohydrates for sustained energy and is rich in fiber. It’s also a good source of manganese and selenium.
• Ground Turkey/Chicken: Excellent lean protein source for muscle development and repair. It provides essential amino acids.
• Mixed Vegetables (Carrots, Green Beans, Peas, Spinach): Packed with vitamins (like Vitamin A from carrots, Vitamin K from spinach), minerals, and antioxidants. They also add crucial dietary fiber.
• Olive Oil: Supplies healthy monounsaturated fats and helps absorb fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K).
• Overall, this recipe offers a balanced blend of protein, complex carbohydrates, healthy fats, and fiber, contributing to healthy digestion, sustained energy, and a strong immune system.

Storage and Serving Tips

• This homemade dog food can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• For longer storage, divide the cooled food into individual meal portions and freeze them for up to 2-3 months.
• To reheat from frozen, thaw in the refrigerator overnight or gently warm on the stovetop or in the microwave until just warm, not hot.
• You can serve this food warm, at room temperature, or even mixed with a little of their regular kibble during a transition period.
• Always make sure the food is completely cooled before serving to your dog.

Common Questions & Troubleshooting

Are kidney beans safe for dogs?

Yes, cooked kidney beans are safe for dogs. The key is to soak them thoroughly overnight and then cook them completely to remove harmful lectins.

Can I add a multivitamin to this recipe?

It’s a good idea to add a dog-specific multivitamin and mineral supplement to ensure complete nutrition, especially if this is your dog’s primary diet. Talk to your vet about which supplement is best.

How can I tell if my dog likes the food?

Most dogs love homemade food! Look for them eagerly eating their meals and having normal digestion. If they seem hesitant or have digestive upset, consult your vet.

What if my dog has allergies to chicken or turkey?

You can substitute lean ground beef or even a novel protein like lamb or bison if your dog has sensitivities to chicken or turkey. Just ensure it’s lean.

Wrapping Up

Making your dog’s food at home with this Cheap Homemade Dog Food Recipe Using Kidney Beans & Rice is a simple way to show them love with wholesome ingredients. It’s affordable, nutritious, and gives you peace of mind knowing exactly what’s in their bowl.

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