Homemade Dog Food with Natural Probiotics using Chicken Liver & Kombucha

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.

At home, you serve your own dinner: roasted chicken, a scoop of rice, and a few carrots. Same ingredients, different species, and no mystery.

And then you see your dog having kibble and it struck you: how’s that good for them?

Well, things are gonna change. You can make your very own homemade dog food easily and quickly with this recipe.

Recipe Overview

• This homemade dog food recipe features natural probiotics for gut health.
• It uses wholesome chicken liver and a touch of kombucha.
• Prep time is about 20 minutes.
• Cook time is around 25 minutes.
• This recipe yields roughly 8-10 servings for a medium-sized dog.

Ingredients List

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs ($5.00)
• 8 oz chicken liver ($2.50)
• 1 cup cooked brown rice ($0.50)
• 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, green beans, peas), fresh or frozen ($1.50)
• 1/4 cup plain, unsweetened kombucha (ensure no xylitol) ($1.00)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil or coconut oil ($0.20)
• 1/2 cup bone broth (low sodium, dog-safe) ($0.75)
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped ($0.50)
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder ($0.10)
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper ($0.05)
• 1 canine multi-vitamin and mineral supplement (powdered or crushed, optional but recommended for completeness) ($1.00 per dose)

Total Estimated Cost: $13.10

Substitutions: You can swap chicken for turkey or lean ground beef. If kombucha is hard to find, a small amount of plain, unsweetened kefir can be used. Any dog-safe vegetables work here; just avoid onions, garlic, and corn.

Step-by-Step Instructions

• Cook the rice: Get your brown rice cooking according to package directions. You want it tender.
• Prepare the chicken: While the rice cooks, cut the chicken breasts and chicken liver into small, bite-sized pieces.
• Sauté the chicken: Heat the olive or coconut oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the chicken breast and liver. Cook until the chicken is no longer pink and the liver is cooked through, about 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally so nothing sticks.
• Add vegetables: Toss in the mixed vegetables. Cook for another 5-7 minutes until they are tender.
• Mix it up: In a large bowl, combine the cooked chicken and liver mixture, the cooked brown rice, bone broth, chopped parsley, turmeric, and black pepper. Stir it all together really well.
• Cool it down: Let the mixture cool completely to room temperature. This is important before adding the kombucha.
• Add the kombucha: Once cooled, gently stir in the plain, unsweetened kombucha. Make sure it’s mixed in evenly.
• Supplement (optional): If you’re using a multi-vitamin and mineral supplement, mix it in now.

Feeding Guidelines

• Small dogs (under 20 lbs): Feed about 1/2 to 1 cup per day, divided into two meals.
• Medium dogs (20-50 lbs): Give them about 1.5 to 2.5 cups per day, split into two meals.
• Large dogs (over 50 lbs): They’ll need around 3 to 4 cups per day, again, in two meals.
• Puppies and active dogs might need more calories. Pregnant or nursing dogs also have higher demands.
• Senior dogs or less active dogs might need a bit less to maintain a healthy weight.
• It’s always a good idea to talk to your vet. They can give you the best advice for your dog’s specific needs, breed, and health status.

Nutritional Benefits of the Recipe

• Chicken liver is a powerhouse. It’s packed with protein, iron, Vitamin A, B vitamins, and essential fatty acids. This supports muscle growth and keeps their coat shiny.
• Chicken breast or thighs offer high-quality lean protein. This is crucial for muscle repair and overall energy.
• Brown rice provides complex carbohydrates. These are a great energy source and give them sustained energy throughout the day.
• Mixed vegetables bring in important vitamins, minerals, and fiber. Things like carrots offer Vitamin A for vision, and green beans add fiber for digestion.
• Kombucha, when plain and unsweetened, contains natural probiotics. These good bacteria help support a healthy gut microbiome and boost the immune system.
• Bone broth adds moisture and flavor. It also offers collagen for joint health and amino acids for gut healing.
• Turmeric is known for its anti-inflammatory properties. Black pepper helps your dog absorb the turmeric better.
• Olive or coconut oil provides healthy fats. These are important for skin and coat health, and also for nutrient absorption.

Storage and Serving Tips

• Refrigerate leftover food in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
• For longer storage, freeze individual portions in freezer-safe bags or containers. It stays fresh in the freezer for up to 3 months.
• To reheat, simply thaw frozen portions in the fridge overnight. Then, warm slightly in the microwave or on the stovetop until it’s lukewarm.
• Serve this food warm or at room temperature.
• You can mix it with a small amount of their regular kibble to help transition them to the new food or just to add variety.

Common Questions & Troubleshooting

Can I use other types of meat?

Yes, absolutely. Turkey, lean ground beef, or even lamb can be great alternatives. Just make sure the meat is cooked thoroughly and any bones are removed.

Is kombucha safe for dogs?

Plain, unsweetened kombucha can be safe for dogs in small amounts. It offers probiotics. Always check the label to make sure it doesn’t contain xylitol or too much sugar, as these are harmful.

My dog has allergies. What should I substitute?

If your dog has chicken allergies, try turkey or venison. For grain allergies, sweet potatoes or oats can replace brown rice. Always introduce new ingredients slowly and watch for any reactions.

How do I know if my dog is getting all the nutrients they need?

While this recipe is nutritionally sound, homemade diets can sometimes lack certain micronutrients over the long term. Using a veterinarian-approved canine multi-vitamin and mineral supplement is a good way to ensure complete nutrition. Regular vet check-ups are also key.

Wrapping Up

Making your dog’s food at home means you know exactly what’s going into their bowl. This recipe is simple, nutritious, and boosts their gut health. Your dog will love it, and you’ll love seeing them thrive.

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