Homemade Dry Dog Food Recipe using Lentil & Veggie Discs

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.

Do you think your dog is getting tired of the boring food you keep giving them, or may it be that it causes some kind of mysterious health issues?

The problem is, many commercial products do not provide fresh nutrition and clear ingredients, but there’s a solution.

Let me show you the way to prepare a tasty and healthy homemade dry dog food that is beneficial for your dog from day one.

Recipe Overview

• This homemade dry dog food recipe makes nutritious lentil and veggie discs.
• It’s packed with plant-based protein, fiber, and essential nutrients.
• Great for dogs with food sensitivities or those needing a boost in their diet.
• Prep time: 25 minutes.
• Cook time: 30-40 minutes (plus cooling).
• Serving size: Makes about 20-25 small discs, enough for a few days for a medium dog.

Ingredients List

• 1 cup cooked brown lentils (about $1.50)
• 1/2 cup finely chopped carrots (about $0.50)
• 1/2 cup finely chopped green beans (about $0.75)
• 1/4 cup rolled oats (about $0.20)
• 1 large egg (about $0.30)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (about $0.20)
• 1 tablespoon nutritional yeast (optional, for B vitamins and flavor) (about $0.30)
• 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder (about $0.05)
• Pinch of black pepper (enhances turmeric absorption) (about $0.01)
• Dog-specific multivitamin supplement (powdered or crushed, consult your vet for dosage) (about $0.50 per serving)

Total Estimated Cost: $4.31

Substitutions: You can swap lentils for chickpeas, or carrots for sweet potato. Green beans can be replaced with peas. Any lean meat (cooked and shredded) can be added for extra protein if your dog isn’t plant-based.

Step-by-Step Instructions

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
• In a large bowl, mash the cooked brown lentils thoroughly with a fork.
• Add the finely chopped carrots, green beans, rolled oats, egg, olive oil, nutritional yeast (if using), turmeric, and black pepper to the mashed lentils.
• Mix everything together well until it forms a cohesive, firm dough.
• If using a multivitamin supplement, mix it in now according to your vet’s recommended dosage.
• Take small portions of the mixture, about one tablespoon each, and roll them into small balls.
• Flatten each ball into a disc shape, about 1/4 inch thick and 1.5 inches in diameter.
• Place the discs onto the prepared baking sheet.
• Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the discs are firm, lightly browned, and dry to the touch.
• Let the discs cool completely on a wire rack before storing. This helps them get a bit crispy.

Feeding Guidelines

• Small dogs (under 20 lbs): 2-3 discs per day, mixed with their regular food.
• Medium dogs (20-50 lbs): 4-6 discs per day, as a meal topper or snack.
• Large dogs (over 50 lbs): 7-10 discs per day, as part of their main meal.
• Puppies and highly active dogs might need slightly more, while senior or less active dogs may need less.
• Always introduce new foods slowly to avoid stomach upset.
• For a complete and balanced diet, these discs should ideally be part of a larger, vet-approved meal plan, especially for puppies or pregnant dogs.
• It’s always best to chat with your vet to tailor feeding to your dog’s specific needs and health status.

Nutritional Benefits of the Recipe

• Lentils: Provide high-quality plant-based protein, crucial for muscle maintenance and overall cell health. They also offer excellent fiber for digestive regularity and satiety.
• Carrots: Packed with Beta-carotene, which converts to Vitamin A, supporting vision and immune function. They also provide fiber and antioxidants.
• Green Beans: Low in calories and a good source of vitamins K, C, and A, as well as manganese and fiber for digestive health.
• Rolled Oats: A great source of complex carbohydrates for sustained energy, plus soluble fiber which can aid in digestion and help regulate blood sugar.
• Egg: Adds extra protein, essential amino acids, and choline, which is vital for brain and liver function.
• Olive Oil: Supplies healthy monounsaturated fats and some Omega-6 fatty acids, beneficial for skin, coat, and overall health.
• Nutritional Yeast: (If used) A rich source of B vitamins, which are important for metabolism, nerve function, and red blood cell production.
• Turmeric & Black Pepper: Turmeric is known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, while black pepper helps its absorption.
• Multivitamin Supplement: Ensures your dog gets all essential vitamins and minerals (A, D, E, K, B-complex, Calcium, Phosphorus, Zinc, etc.) that might be lacking in a homemade diet.

Storage and Serving Tips

• Store the cooled lentil and veggie discs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to 2-3 months.
• To serve from frozen, let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight or warm them slightly in the microwave for a few seconds.
• Serve them at room temperature or slightly warm.
• You can mix these discs with your dog’s regular kibble, use them as training treats, or offer them as a standalone snack.

Common Questions & Troubleshooting

Can I make these discs completely gluten-free?

Yes, just ensure your rolled oats are certified gluten-free. All other ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

My dog has allergies, what substitutions are safe?

If your dog is allergic to egg, you can try a flax egg (1 tbsp ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tbsp water, let sit 5 mins). For specific veggie allergies, swap with other dog-safe vegetables like pumpkin or zucchini.

How do I know if my dog is getting enough nutrients with homemade food?

This is really important. Always include a vet-approved canine multivitamin supplement designed to complement homemade diets. Regular vet check-ups and blood tests can also help monitor your dog’s nutritional status.

Can I dehydrate these instead of baking them?

Yes, you can. After baking them until firm, you can dehydrate them at a low temperature (around 140°F/60°C) for several hours until they are completely dry and crispy. This can extend shelf life significantly.

Wrapping Up

Making these lentil and veggie discs is a simple, loving way to boost your dog’s diet.

It gives them fresh, wholesome ingredients you can trust.

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