Homemade Dog Food with Natural Probiotics using Lamb & Fermented Berries

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 scooping kibble into the bowl when a faint and disturbing thought crosses your mind: what is this stuff really? The ingredient list is a blur of unpronounceable chemicals and vague “by products.”

You want to give your dog the best, but the world of high quality dog food comes with a high price. What if the secret to a shiny coat, unlimited energy, and a happy digestive system is not in a fancy bag but in the simple, honest ingredients that you already have in your kitchen?

I’m gonna show you a simple and healthy homemade dog food recipe you can make today!

Recipe Overview

• Purpose: This homemade dog food recipe combines lean lamb with fermented berries to support digestive health and boost immunity.
• Benefits: It’s rich in high-quality protein, essential fatty acids, and natural probiotics, making it great for dogs with sensitive guts.
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Serving Size: Approximately 8-10 servings for a medium-sized dog (25-50 lbs).

Ingredients List

• 1.5 lbs ground lamb (lean, 90% or higher) – Estimated Cost: $9.00 – $12.00
• 1 cup rolled oats (uncooked) – Estimated Cost: $0.50
• 2 cups bone broth (unsalted, canine-safe) – Estimated Cost: $3.00 – $5.00
• 1 cup fermented mixed berries (see note below) – Estimated Cost: $2.00 – $4.00
• 1 cup finely chopped carrots – Estimated Cost: $0.75
• 1 cup finely chopped spinach – Estimated Cost: $1.00
• 2 tablespoons coconut oil – Estimated Cost: $0.50
• 1 teaspoon ground turmeric – Estimated Cost: $0.20
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (helps turmeric absorption) – Estimated Cost: $0.05
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (for vitamins and breath) – Estimated Cost: $0.50
• 1 egg (cooked, for extra protein and choline) – Estimated Cost: $0.25

Note on Fermented Mixed Berries: To prepare, simply place 1 cup of mixed berries (blueberries, raspberries, cranberries – all dog-safe) in a clean jar, add 1/4 cup of filtered water and 1 tablespoon of a live culture starter (like kefir grains or a probiotic capsule contents, optional for faster fermentation). Cover loosely and let sit at room temperature for 1-2 days until slightly bubbly and tangy. This boosts their probiotic content. You can also just use fresh berries if you’re short on time.

Substitutions: You can swap lamb for ground turkey or lean ground beef. Rolled oats can be replaced with cooked brown rice or quinoa. Spinach can be swapped for kale (in moderation). Bone broth can be plain water or low-sodium chicken broth.

Total Estimated Cost: $17.75 – $24.25

Step-by-Step Instructions

• 1. Start by heating the coconut oil in a large pot or skillet over medium heat.
• 2. Add the ground lamb to the pot. Cook it until it’s fully browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
• 3. Once the lamb is cooked, drain any excess fat from the pot.
• 4. Pour in the bone broth and bring it to a gentle simmer.
• 5. Stir in the rolled oats, chopped carrots, turmeric, and black pepper.
• 6. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it cook for about 10-15 minutes, or until the oats are soft and have absorbed most of the liquid.
• 7. While the mixture is simmering, gently scramble or hard-boil the egg. Then chop it up.
• 8. After the oats are cooked, remove the pot from the heat.
• 9. Stir in the chopped spinach, fermented mixed berries, chopped parsley, and the cooked chopped egg.
• 10. Mix everything well to make sure all ingredients are evenly distributed.
• 11. Let the food cool completely before serving it to your dog.

Feeding Guidelines

• Small Dogs (up to 20 lbs): Feed about 1/2 to 1 cup per day, divided into two meals.
• Medium Dogs (25-50 lbs): Feed about 1.5 to 2.5 cups per day, divided into two meals.
• Large Dogs (60-100 lbs): Feed about 3 to 4 cups per day, divided into two meals.
• Activity Level: Active dogs might need a bit more, while less active dogs might need less.
• Puppies: Puppies need more calories and specific nutrient ratios. This recipe can be a good base, but talk to your vet about adding a canine growth supplement to meet all their needs.
• Seniors: Older dogs often benefit from higher protein and easily digestible meals. Adjust portions based on their metabolism and activity.
• Pregnant/Nursing Dogs: These dogs have significantly increased caloric and nutrient needs. Consult your vet before feeding this as a primary diet during these stages, as they may need specialized supplements.
• Always talk to your vet before making big changes to your dog’s diet. They can give you personalized advice based on your dog’s specific needs and health conditions.

Nutritional Benefits of the Recipe

• Lamb: This is a fantastic source of high-quality protein, essential for muscle growth and repair. It provides amino acids, zinc, iron, and B vitamins.
• Rolled Oats: A good complex carbohydrate that provides sustained energy and fiber. Fiber helps with digestion and keeps your dog feeling full.
• Bone Broth: Rich in collagen and amino acids, it supports joint health and digestion. It also adds moisture and flavor.
• Fermented Mixed Berries: Berries are packed with antioxidants, which fight free radicals. Fermentation boosts their natural probiotic content, helping to balance gut flora for better digestion and a stronger immune system.
• Carrots: Loaded with beta-carotene, which converts to Vitamin A, crucial for good vision and immune function. They also add fiber.
• Spinach: A nutrient powerhouse, providing Vitamins K, A, C, and folate, as well as iron.
• Coconut Oil: Contains medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs) that can support brain health and provide a readily available energy source. It also helps with skin and coat health.
• Turmeric and Black Pepper: Turmeric is known for its anti-inflammatory properties, and black pepper significantly increases its absorption.
• Parsley: A natural breath freshener and a good source of vitamins K, C, and A.
• Egg: An excellent source of complete protein, choline (great for brain health), and essential vitamins like B12.

Storage and Serving Tips

• Refrigeration: Store the cooled food in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Freezing: For longer storage, portion the food into individual servings or freezer-safe bags and freeze for up to 2-3 months.
• Reheating: Thaw frozen portions in the refrigerator overnight. You can serve the food at room temperature or gently warm it slightly in the microwave or on the stovetop. Make sure it’s not hot before serving.
• Serving Suggestions: Serve as a complete meal, or mix it with your dog’s regular kibble to add extra nutrients and variety.

Common Questions & Troubleshooting

Can I make a big batch of this food?

Yes, absolutely! Making a larger batch and freezing individual portions is a great time-saver. Just follow the freezing instructions.

Is this recipe suitable for puppies?

This recipe can be a good base, but puppies have unique nutritional needs for growth. It’s important to talk to your vet about adding a canine growth supplement to ensure they get all the essential vitamins and minerals for their developing bodies.

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

If your dog is allergic to lamb, you can easily substitute it with ground turkey or lean ground beef. If they react to any specific vegetable, try swapping it for another dog-safe option like green beans or pumpkin. Always introduce new ingredients slowly to watch for reactions.

Do I need to add a supplement?

While this recipe is nutritionally rich, it’s designed as a healthy meal option and not necessarily a complete and balanced diet for every dog long-term without veterinary guidance. For daily feeding as a primary diet, especially for puppies or dogs with specific health needs, your vet might recommend a canine vitamin and mineral supplement to ensure all nutritional bases are covered.

Wrapping Up

Giving your dog homemade food is a fantastic way to boost their health and show them some love. This lamb and fermented berry recipe is packed with goodness, supporting a happy tummy and a strong immune system.

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