Homemade Dog Food Recipe for French Bulldogs Easy-Digest Turkey & Pumpkin

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 Frenchie having stomach troubles? It’s really tough to see your dog suffer from digestion issues. You must have tried everything, yet no one seems to be able to bring them real comfort.

Their diet needs to be taken care of if only to give them the relief they ​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌deserve.

This homemade dog food recipe made for Frenchies is your solution.

Recipe Overview

This simple homemade turkey and pumpkin dog food recipe is designed for easy digestion and packed with wholesome goodness. It’s gentle on sensitive stomachs and provides balanced nutrition for your Frenchie.

• Prep time: 20 minutes
• Cook time: 40 minutes
• Serving size: Varies by dog weight (see feeding guidelines)

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground turkey (estimated cost: $4.00) – (Substitution: Ground chicken or lean ground beef)
• 1 cup canned pumpkin (plain, not pie filling) (estimated cost: $1.00)
• 1/2 cup cooked brown rice (estimated cost: $0.25) – (Substitution: Cooked quinoa or sweet potato mash)
• 1/2 cup cooked peas (frozen or canned, no salt added) (estimated cost: $0.30) – (Substitution: Green beans or carrots)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (estimated cost: $0.15)
• 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley (optional, for freshness) (estimated cost: $0.05)
• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger (optional, for digestion) (estimated cost: $0.05)
• Canine multivitamin supplement (follow dosage instructions on package) (estimated cost: $0.50/serving)

Total Estimated Cost (per batch, excluding supplement): $5.75

Cooking Instructions

• In a large pot or Dutch oven, add the ground turkey and olive oil. Cook over medium heat, breaking up the meat with a spoon, until it’s browned.
• Drain any excess grease from the pot.
• Add the canned pumpkin, cooked brown rice, and cooked peas to the pot with the turkey.
• Stir everything together until well combined.
• Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low.
• Cover and let it cook for about 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally, so nothing sticks to the bottom.
• Remove from heat and let it cool completely before serving.
• Once cooled, stir in the dried parsley and ground ginger if you are using them.
• Finally, mix in the recommended amount of your canine multivitamin supplement.

Feeding Guidelines

• For adult dogs: Start with approximately 1/2 cup of food per 10 pounds of body weight per day, divided into two meals.
• Example: A 20-pound Frenchie might need about 1 cup of food per day.
• Puppies: Feed 2-3 times the adult amount, divided into multiple smaller meals throughout the day.
• Seniors and less active dogs: Reduce portion size slightly, as their caloric needs are lower.
• Active dogs: You may need to increase portions by 10-20% to meet their higher energy demands.
• Always monitor your dog’s weight and body condition. Adjust portions as needed.
• It’s best to consult your veterinarian to determine the ideal feeding amount and balance for your specific dog.

Nutritional Benefits

• Protein from turkey supports muscle development and repair.
• Pumpkin is an excellent source of fiber, aiding digestion and helping with both constipation and diarrhea.
• Brown rice provides complex carbohydrates for sustained energy.
• Peas offer vitamins (like A and K) and more fiber.
• Olive oil contributes healthy fats for skin and coat health.
• Ginger can help soothe an upset stomach.
• A good canine multivitamin ensures all essential micronutrients are covered, which is vital for homemade diets.

Storage and Serving

• Refrigerate any leftover food in an airtight container. It will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days.
• To freeze portions, use freezer-safe containers or bags. This food can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.
• Thaw frozen portions in the refrigerator overnight or gently reheat small amounts on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through. Avoid overheating.
• You can serve this food warm, at room temperature, or even mixed with a small amount of their regular kibble to make mealtime exciting.

Common Questions & Troubleshooting

Is this recipe complete and balanced?

This recipe provides excellent whole food nutrition, but it’s crucial to add a canine multivitamin supplement as recommended. Commercial dog foods are formulated to be complete and balanced, and ensuring your homemade food has all the necessary vitamins and minerals, especially calcium and phosphorus in the correct ratio, can be tricky without expert guidance or a supplement.

Can I use different meats?

Yes, you can often substitute the ground turkey with other lean proteins like ground chicken, duck, or lean ground beef. Ensure the meat is cooked thoroughly and drained of excess fat. Avoid game meats unless you are familiar with their nutritional profiles for dogs.

What if my dog is allergic to pumpkin?

If your dog has an intolerance or allergy to pumpkin, you can try substituting it with an equal amount of cooked sweet potato mash or finely grated zucchini. Always introduce new ingredients slowly and monitor your dog for any adverse reactions.

How much should I feed my French Bulldog?

French Bulldogs can have varying metabolic rates. A general starting point is 1/2 cup per 10 pounds of body weight daily. However, your vet can give you the most accurate guidance based on your individual dog’s age, activity level, and any health conditions.

Wrapping Up

Give your Frenchie the gift of a happy tummy and vibrant health. This easy-to-digest turkey and pumpkin recipe is a simple way to show your love. Feeling inspired? Pin this recipe for later!