Easy Homemade Dog Food Recipe for Chihuahuas With Turkey & Sweet Potato

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.

Is​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌ your chihuahua a fussy eater, or does it look like they have a sensitive stomach?

Are you concerned that they might not be getting all the necessary nutrients from their current food?

It is hard to watch your little one having a hard time with their meals or not feeling well.

So, why not make your own homemade dog food for your Chihuahua and take control now?

Recipe Overview

• This simple Homemade Dog Food Recipe for Chihuahuas features tiny turkey and sweet potato bites, perfect for small breeds.
• It’s packed with lean protein and easily digestible carbohydrates, making it gentle on sensitive stomachs.
• Prep time: 15 minutes
• Cook time: 25 minutes
• Serving size: Approximately 4-6 small portions (adjust based on your chihuahua’s specific needs)

Ingredients List

• 1 lb ground turkey (estimated cost: $4.00). You can also use ground chicken or lean ground beef.
• 1 medium sweet potato (about 8 oz), peeled and diced (estimated cost: $0.75). Pumpkin is a good alternative.
• 1/2 cup cooked white rice (estimated cost: $0.25). Brown rice can also be used.
• 1/4 cup finely chopped spinach (estimated cost: $0.15). Kale is another option, but feed in moderation.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (estimated cost: $0.10). Coconut oil is a suitable substitute.
• 1/4 teaspoon dried parsley (optional, for freshness) (estimated cost: $0.05).
• 1/2 teaspoon canine-specific multivitamin and mineral supplement (estimated cost: $0.20). Essential for balanced nutrition.
• Total estimated cost: $5.50

Step-by-Step Instructions

• 1. Cook the ground turkey in a skillet over medium heat until it’s browned and no pink remains. Drain off any excess fat.
• 2. While the turkey cooks, steam or boil the diced sweet potato until it’s tender enough to mash easily.
• 3. Mash the cooked sweet potato in a bowl until smooth.
• 4. Add the cooked, drained turkey to the mashed sweet potato.
• 5. Stir in the cooked white rice and finely chopped spinach.
• 6. Drizzle in the olive oil and sprinkle with parsley, if using.
• 7. Finally, mix in the canine multivitamin and mineral supplement. Ensure it’s evenly distributed.
• 8. Let the mixture cool completely before serving.

Feeding Guidelines

• For most adult Chihuahuas, start with about 1/4 to 1/3 cup of this food per feeding, twice a day.
• This is a general guideline; your dog’s specific needs will vary based on age, activity level, metabolism, and overall health.
• Puppies will need more frequent, smaller meals, and their portions should be adjusted as they grow.
• Senior dogs or those with lower activity levels might require slightly less food.
• If your dog is very active, you may need to increase the portion size or frequency.
• Always monitor your dog’s weight and body condition. Adjust portions as needed.
• It’s always a good idea to talk to your veterinarian about the best feeding plan for your individual chihuahua.

Nutritional Benefits of the Recipe

• Turkey provides high-quality protein, essential for muscle development and repair, and is generally easy to digest.
• Sweet potatoes are an excellent source of complex carbohydrates for energy, along with fiber to aid digestion. They are also rich in vitamins A and C.
• White rice offers easily digestible carbohydrates, a good choice for dogs with sensitive stomachs.
• Spinach is a good source of vitamins A, C, and K, as well as iron and calcium.
• Olive oil contributes healthy monounsaturated fats, which are good for skin and coat health and aid in nutrient absorption.
• The canine-specific multivitamin and mineral supplement ensures that your dog receives a full spectrum of essential nutrients often missing in homemade diets.

Storage and Serving Tips

• Store the cooled homemade dog food in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• For longer storage, portion the food into small, freezer-safe containers or bags and freeze for up to 2-3 months.
• To serve frozen portions, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator.
• You can serve this food warm (gently heated), at room temperature, or even cold directly from the fridge.
• Some owners like to mix a small amount of this homemade food with their dog’s regular kibble to make mealtime more exciting.

Common Questions & Troubleshooting

Is this recipe suitable for all dog breeds?

This specific recipe is formulated for small breeds like Chihuahuas due to portion size and ingredient density. For larger breeds, the recipe can be scaled up significantly, but you’ll need to adjust ingredient ratios and ensure it meets their specific nutritional requirements, potentially with veterinary guidance.

Can I add other vegetables or proteins?

Yes, you can introduce other dog-safe vegetables like carrots, peas, or green beans. You can also substitute turkey with chicken or lean beef. However, always introduce new ingredients slowly and in small amounts to monitor for any adverse reactions. Avoid toxic ingredients like onions, garlic, grapes, and avocado.

My dog is a very picky eater. Will they like this?

Many dogs find homemade food much more appealing than kibble due to the fresh ingredients and aromas. The combination of turkey, sweet potato, and a touch of olive oil is generally very palatable. You can try warming it slightly to enhance the scent, which often encourages picky eaters.

How do I know if my dog has a sensitive stomach?

Signs of a sensitive stomach can include vomiting, diarrhea, gas, or loss of appetite after eating. If your dog exhibits these symptoms, it’s important to consult your veterinarian. This recipe uses easily digestible ingredients like turkey and sweet potato, which are often well-tolerated by dogs with digestive issues.

Wrapping Up

Give your chihuahua the best with these delicious and nutritious Tiny Turkey & Sweet Potato Bites! Feel inspired? Pin this recipe for later and follow us for more helpful pet tips!