Homemade Dry Dog Food Recipe using Egg & Whole Wheat Pellets

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.

So, it seems like your dog food bowl is a little… dull. Maybe you’re bored of weird ingredients, or your pet has a sensitive stomach.

The truth is, pre packed dry food can be quite a puzzle, which makes you uncomfortable about what your dog is really eating.

And that is the reason why it is so important: their health, energy, and joy depend on what they eat.

However, the issue is that discovering a real healthy, inexpensive option may seem like a stunt.

The great news is that you are able to prepare a tasty, healthy homemade dry dog food in your kitchen.

Recipe Overview

• This homemade dry dog food recipe uses simple ingredients like egg and whole wheat.
• It’s a great option for owners looking for a natural alternative to commercial kibble.
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 2 hours (dehydrating)
• Serving Size: Makes about 4-5 cups of dry food

Ingredients List

• 2 large eggs (about $0.50)
• 1 cup whole wheat flour (about $0.20)
• 1/2 cup rolled oats (about $0.10)
• 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce (about $0.15)
• 1/4 cup water (free)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (about $0.10)
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder (about $0.05)
• 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger (about $0.05)
• Optional: 1/2 teaspoon dog-specific multivitamin/mineral supplement powder (about $0.20 – consult your vet first)

Total Estimated Cost: $1.35

Substitutions: You can use oat flour instead of whole wheat flour if your dog has a wheat sensitivity. For eggs, duck eggs work too. If you don’t have applesauce, pureed pumpkin (canned, plain) is a good alternative.

Step-by-Step Instructions

• Preheat your oven to its lowest setting, usually around 150-170°F (65-75°C). Or, set up your food dehydrator.
• In a large bowl, whisk the eggs until they are well beaten.
• Add the whole wheat flour, rolled oats, applesauce, water, olive oil, turmeric, and ginger to the bowl.
• If you’re using a dog-specific multivitamin supplement, add it now.
• Mix everything together thoroughly until a stiff, uniform dough forms. It should be firm enough to roll.
• On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/4 inch thickness.
• Use a knife or pizza cutter to cut the dough into small, kibble-sized pieces (about 1/2 inch squares or diamonds).
• Arrange the pieces in a single layer on baking sheets lined with parchment paper, or on your dehydrator trays. Make sure they aren’t touching.
• Bake in the preheated oven for about 2 hours, or until the pellets are completely dry and hard. If using a dehydrator, follow its instructions for dog treats, usually 8-12 hours.
• Flip them halfway through the drying process to ensure even crispiness.
• Once they are completely dry and hard, turn off the oven or dehydrator and let them cool completely inside. This helps them crisp up even more.

Feeding Guidelines

• These pellets are a supplementary food, not a complete and balanced meal on their own, unless a vet-approved supplement is added.
• For small dogs (up to 20 lbs): Offer 1/4 to 1/2 cup per day, possibly mixed with their regular food.
• For medium dogs (21-50 lbs): Give 1/2 to 1 cup per day.
• For large dogs (over 50 lbs): Provide 1 to 2 cups per day.
• Puppies and very active dogs might need a bit more, but always introduce new foods slowly.
• Older or less active dogs might need less to prevent weight gain.
• Always talk to your veterinarian before making significant changes to your dog’s diet. They can give you personalized advice based on your dog’s specific needs and health.

Nutritional Benefits of the Recipe

• Eggs: A fantastic source of high-quality protein, providing essential amino acids for muscle growth and repair. They also contain vital vitamins like A, D, E, and B vitamins.
• Whole Wheat Flour: Provides complex carbohydrates for sustained energy and good fiber for digestion. It’s also a source of B vitamins and iron.
• Rolled Oats: A great source of soluble fiber, which helps with digestion and can be gentle on sensitive stomachs. They also offer B vitamins and some minerals.
• Applesauce: Adds natural sweetness and moisture without added sugar, plus some dietary fiber and vitamin C.
• Olive Oil: Supplies healthy fats, including monounsaturated fatty acids, which are good for skin and coat health.
• Turmeric: Known for its anti-inflammatory properties, which can help with joint health.
• Ginger: Can aid in digestion and help soothe an upset stomach.

Storage and Serving Tips

• Once completely cool, store the dry pellets in an airtight container at room temperature.
• They will stay fresh for up to 2-3 weeks.
• For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
• Serve them as a dry meal, or mix them with a little warm water to soften them up.
• You can also mix these pellets with your dog’s regular kibble to add variety and a nutritional boost.

Common Questions & Troubleshooting

Are these pellets a complete meal for my dog?

No, not typically. While packed with nutrients, this recipe isn’t balanced to meet all of a dog’s nutritional requirements on its own. It’s best used as a supplement or treat, or made complete with a vet-approved vitamin/mineral supplement.

My dog has allergies. What substitutions can I make?

If your dog is sensitive to wheat, use oat flour. For egg allergies, you could try a flax egg (1 tbsp ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tbsp water, let sit for 5 minutes) as a binder, but the protein content will change.

How do I know if the pellets are dry enough?

They should be hard and crunchy, without any chewiness or moisture when broken in half. If they are soft, they will mold quickly. Continue drying until fully firm.

Wrapping Up

Making homemade dry dog food is a great way to control what your furry friend eats. This recipe is simple, healthy, and a fantastic addition to their diet.

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