Budget-Friendly Homemade Dog Food featuring Ground Lamb and Millet

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 sick of buying expensive dog food that you don’t even understand the contents of?

Finding an affordable healthy diet is quite a challenge. A lot of commercial food products are stuffed with fillers and are packed with additives which are not good for our little friends.

But imagine if you were able to cook a healthy and cheap meal for your dog at home. That is exactly what I am going to show you in today’s recipe.

Recipe Overview

• This homemade dog food recipe is a game-changer for your wallet and your dog’s health.
• It focuses on quality ingredients without the hefty price tag.
• We’re talking about a meal packed with lean protein, complex carbohydrates, and essential vitamins.
• Perfect for everyday feeding, especially if you’re watching your budget.
• Prep Time: 20 minutes.
• Cook Time: 35 minutes.
• Serving Size: Approximately 10-12 cups, enough for a medium dog for several days.

Ingredients List

• 1.5 lbs Ground Lamb (85/15 or leaner) – Approx. $8.00 – $10.00
• 2 cups Dry Millet – Approx. $1.50 – $2.50
• 4 cups Water (for millet) – Approx. $0.00
• 1 cup Chopped Carrots – Approx. $0.75 – $1.25
• 1 cup Chopped Green Beans (fresh or frozen) – Approx. $0.75 – $1.25
• 1 tbsp Olive Oil or Coconut Oil – Approx. $0.20
• 1/2 cup Finely Chopped Spinach – Approx. $0.50
• 2 Hard-Boiled Eggs (crushed, including shell for calcium) – Approx. $0.50 – $0.75
• 1 tsp Ground Turmeric (optional, for anti-inflammatory benefits) – Approx. $0.10
• 1 tbsp Flaxseed Oil (added after cooking) – Approx. $0.30

Total Estimated Cost: $12.60 – $16.80

Substitutions:

• Ground Lamb: You can easily swap ground lamb for ground turkey, lean ground beef, or even ground chicken.
• Millet: Quinoa or brown rice are great alternatives if your dog tolerates them. Adjust water ratios accordingly.
• Vegetables: Feel free to use other dog-safe vegetables like sweet potatoes, peas, or broccoli florets. Avoid onions, garlic, and grapes.

Step-by-Step Instructions

• 1. Prepare the Millet: Rinse the dry millet thoroughly under cold water. Combine 2 cups of millet with 4 cups of water in a medium saucepan. Bring it to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 20-25 minutes.
• Make sure all the water is absorbed and the millet is fluffy. Turn off the heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes.
• 2. Cook the Lamb: While the millet cooks, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil or coconut oil in a large skillet or pot over medium heat. Add the ground lamb and break it up with a spoon.
• Cook until it’s fully browned, making sure there’s no pink left. Drain off any excess fat from the lamb.
• 3. Add Vegetables: Stir the chopped carrots and green beans into the cooked lamb. Cook for another 5-7 minutes, until the vegetables are slightly tender.
• If you’re using frozen vegetables, you might need an extra minute or two.
• 4. Combine Ingredients: Add the cooked millet, finely chopped spinach, and ground turmeric (if using) to the skillet with the lamb and vegetables. Stir everything well to combine.
• Cook for another 2-3 minutes to warm through the spinach.
• 5. Add Final Touches: Remove the mixture from the heat. Allow it to cool down significantly before adding the crushed hard-boiled eggs (including shells) and flaxseed oil.
• It’s important to add flaxseed oil after cooking to preserve its beneficial omega-3 fatty acids.
• 6. Cool and Serve: Let the entire batch cool completely before portioning it out. This ensures it’s safe for your dog to eat.
• Stir occasionally while cooling to help it cool faster.

Feeding Guidelines

• The amount of food your dog needs depends on several factors. These include their weight, age, activity level, and metabolism.
• As a general starting point, aim for about 1/2 to 1 cup of food per 20 pounds of body weight, given twice a day.
• Small Dogs (up to 20 lbs): May need around 1/2 to 1 cup per day, divided into two meals.
• Medium Dogs (20-50 lbs): Roughly 1-2.5 cups per day.
• Large Dogs (50+ lbs): Around 2.5-4+ cups per day.
• For very active dogs or puppies, they might need more calories. Less active senior dogs might need less.
• Always consult with your veterinarian before making significant changes to your dog’s diet. They can provide personalized advice tailored to your dog’s specific health needs.

Nutritional Benefits of the Recipe

• Ground Lamb: This is a fantastic source of high-quality protein. It’s rich in essential amino acids, which are crucial for muscle development, tissue repair, and overall body function.
• Millet: A gluten-free grain, millet offers complex carbohydrates for sustained energy. It’s also a good source of fiber, magnesium, and phosphorus, supporting digestion and bone health.
• Carrots: Packed with beta-carotene, carrots are great for vision and immune health. They also provide a crunchy texture dogs love.
• Green Beans: These low-calorie veggies provide vitamins K, C, and A, as well as folate. They add bulk and fiber without excessive calories.
• Spinach: A nutrient powerhouse, spinach offers vitamins K, A, C, and iron. It supports bone health and boosts the immune system.
• Eggs (with shell): Eggs are a complete protein source, and the crushed shells provide a natural and highly absorbable form of calcium. Calcium is vital for strong bones and teeth.
• Flaxseed Oil: An excellent source of Omega-3 fatty acids, flaxseed oil supports healthy skin and a shiny coat. It also has anti-inflammatory properties.

Storage and Serving Tips

• Refrigeration: This homemade dog food stays fresh in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days. Make sure it’s completely cooled before storing.
• Freezing: For longer storage, portion out the cooled food into individual servings or freezer-safe bags. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.
• Reheating: When ready to serve from frozen, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight. You can gently warm it in the microwave or on the stovetop.
• Make sure it’s just warm, not hot, before serving.
• Serving Ideas: Serve the food at room temperature or slightly warmed. You can mix it with a little warm water to create a gravy-like consistency.
• Some owners like to mix a smaller portion with their dog’s regular kibble to add extra nutrients and variety.

Common Questions & Troubleshooting

Can I use different types of meat?

Yes, absolutely. Ground turkey, lean ground beef, or ground chicken are all excellent and budget-friendly alternatives to lamb. Just ensure the meat is cooked thoroughly and any excess fat is drained.

Is this recipe nutritionally complete for my dog?

This recipe provides a good balance of protein, carbs, and essential nutrients. However, for long-term feeding, especially for puppies or dogs with specific health conditions, it’s always best to consult with your veterinarian or a canine nutritionist. They might recommend adding a dog-specific vitamin and mineral supplement to ensure full dietary completeness.

My dog has a sensitive stomach. Is this recipe suitable?

This recipe uses easily digestible ingredients like lamb and millet, which are generally well-tolerated. It’s free from common allergens like wheat and corn. However, every dog is different. Introduce any new food gradually to monitor for any adverse reactions.

How can I tell if my dog is getting enough food?

Monitor your dog’s weight and energy levels. They should maintain a healthy weight (you should be able to feel their ribs without seeing them prominently) and have good energy. Adjust portion sizes up or down as needed, always under veterinary guidance.

Wrapping Up

Making your dog’s food at home doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. This lamb and millet recipe is a simple, nutritious way to show your furry friend some extra love.

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