Homemade Dog Food Recipe for French Bulldogs Beef & Green Bean Blend for Brachycephalic Breeds

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.

Are​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌ you fed up with secret ingredients in your dog’s food and concerned about their sensitive stomachs? Does your Frenchie go through a hard time eating and have troubles with digestion?

I know you wish the best for your dog, but the commercial products seem to confuse you and cost a lot of money.

There is a way that is much better to feed your loyal ​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌friend.

Let’s make this homemade dog food recipe for your French Bulldog today.

Recipe Overview

• This recipe is designed to be gentle on digestion, packed with vital nutrients, and easy for brachycephalic breeds like French Bulldogs to eat.
• Prep time: 20 minutes
• Cook time: 30 minutes
• Serving size: Approximately 2 cups per batch (adjust based on dog’s needs)

Ingredients

• 1 pound lean ground beef (approx. $4.99)
• 2 cups fresh green beans, trimmed and chopped (approx. $1.99)
• 1 cup cooked brown rice (approx. $0.50)
• 1/2 cup cooked sweet potato, mashed (approx. $0.75)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (approx. $0.20)
• 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley (optional, for freshness) (approx. $0.10)
• Substitution: Ground turkey or chicken can be used instead of beef.
• Estimated total ingredient cost: $8.53

Instructions

• 1. Brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat. Break it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain off any excess fat.
• 2. Add the chopped green beans to the skillet with the beef. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the beans are tender-crisp.
• 3. Stir in the cooked brown rice and mashed sweet potato. Mix everything well.
• 4. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, just to heat through.
• 5. Remove from heat. Stir in the olive oil and parsley, if using.
• 6. Let the mixture cool completely before serving.

Feeding Guidelines

• For adult dogs, start with about 2% of their ideal body weight per day, divided into two meals.
• A 20-pound French Bulldog might need around 1/2 to 3/4 cup per meal.
• Adjust based on your dog’s activity level, age, and metabolism.
• Puppies need more calories and nutrients; seniors might need fewer.
• Always consult your veterinarian for precise portion sizes tailored to your individual dog’s needs.

Nutritional Benefits

• Beef provides high-quality protein, essential for muscle maintenance and repair.
• Green beans are a great source of fiber, aiding digestion, and contain vitamins K and C.
• Brown rice offers complex carbohydrates for sustained energy and is generally well-tolerated.
• Sweet potatoes are rich in beta-carotene (which converts to Vitamin A) for eye health and antioxidants.
• Olive oil contributes healthy monounsaturated fats, supporting skin and coat health.
• This blend is lower in fat and easy to digest, which is beneficial for brachycephalic breeds.

Storage and Serving

• Refrigerate the cooked food in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
• To freeze, portion the food into individual servings in freezer-safe containers or bags. It will last for up to 3 months.
• Thaw frozen portions in the refrigerator overnight or gently reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop.
• Serve the food warm or at room temperature.
• You can mix it with a small amount of their regular kibble to transition slowly or for added texture.

Common Questions & Troubleshooting

Is this recipe complete and balanced for all dogs?

This recipe provides a good foundation, but for long-term feeding, it’s best to consult with a veterinary nutritionist. They can help ensure all micronutrient needs are met, possibly recommending a canine multivitamin and mineral supplement for complete balance.

Can I use different vegetables?

Yes, you can swap green beans for other dog-safe vegetables like peas, carrots, or zucchini. Ensure they are cooked until tender.

My dog is a picky eater. How can I introduce this?

Start by mixing a small amount of the homemade food with your dog’s current food. Gradually increase the proportion of homemade food over a week or two.

Is this suitable for dogs with allergies?

This recipe uses common ingredients. If your dog has specific allergies, you’ll need to make substitutions accordingly. For instance, if beef is an issue, try chicken or turkey. Always introduce new ingredients one at a time.

Wrapping Up

Nourish your Frenchie with this simple, wholesome beef and green bean blend for a happy, healthy pup.