Cheap Homemade Dog Food Recipe Using Beef Heart & Barley

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.

You are looking at the grocery receipt and then at the bag of food and the numbers just don’t make sense.

Your dog is worthy of the best, but the world of premium pet food seems like a luxury that you can barely afford. It is a constant tug of war between your heart and your wallet, making you wonder if there is a way to feed them without sacrificing your own budget.

What if the solution is not in another expensive bag but in the quiet hum of your own kitchen? I’m gonna show you how.

Recipe Overview

• This homemade dog food recipe uses beef heart and barley.
• It’s packed with nutrients and super friendly on your wallet.
• Prep time is around 15 minutes.
• Cook time takes about 45 minutes.
• This recipe makes enough for a medium-sized dog for about 3-4 days.

Ingredients List

• Beef Heart (1 lb): $3.00 (rich in protein, B vitamins, and essential minerals like iron and zinc)
• Pearl Barley (1 cup): $0.50 (a complex carbohydrate for sustained energy, good fiber source)
• Carrots (2 large): $0.60 (beta-carotene for eye health, antioxidants)
• Green Beans (1 cup, fresh or frozen): $0.75 (low-calorie, good source of vitamins K, C, and manganese)
• Spinach (1 cup, fresh): $0.70 (iron, vitamin K, antioxidants)
• Olive Oil (1 tbsp): $0.20 (healthy fats for skin and coat)
• Water (4 cups): $0.00
• Supplement
• Total Estimated Cost: $5.75

You can swap beef heart for chicken gizzards or liver for a similar nutritional profile and cost.

Brown rice can be used instead of barley if your dog has a preference, just adjust cooking time.

Step-by-Step Instructions

• Start by rinsing the beef heart thoroughly under cold water.
• Trim away any tough fibrous tissue or large fat deposits.
• Then, cut the heart into small, half-inch pieces that are easy for your dog to eat.
• Next, peel and chop the carrots into small, coin-shaped pieces.
• Wash the green beans and snap them into smaller sections.
• Finely chop the fresh spinach.
• In a large pot, add the beef heart pieces and 4 cups of water.
• Bring this to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer and cook for 15 minutes.
• Skim off any foam that rises to the top.
• After 15 minutes, stir in the pearl barley and chopped carrots.
• Continue to simmer for another 25 minutes, or until the barley is tender.
• You might need to add a little more water if it gets too dry.
• Next, add the green beans and spinach to the pot.
• Cook for another 5 minutes, until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
• Remove the pot from the heat and stir in the olive oil.
• Let the food cool completely before serving it to your dog.

Feeding Guidelines

• For small dogs (10-20 lbs), serve about 1/2 to 1 cup per day.
• Medium dogs (20-50 lbs) can have 1.5 to 2.5 cups daily.
• Large dogs (50-90 lbs) typically need 3 to 4 cups a day.
• Puppies, very active dogs, or pregnant/nursing dogs will need more calories and protein.
• Older or less active dogs might need less to avoid weight gain.
• An example: A very active Border Collie might need more than a sedentary Basset Hound of the same weight.
• It’s best to talk to your vet to get exact portion sizes for your specific dog.

Nutritional Benefits of the Recipe

• Beef heart is a fantastic source of protein, helping build and maintain strong muscles.
• It also has B vitamins for energy metabolism and iron for healthy blood.
• Barley gives your dog complex carbohydrates for sustained energy throughout the day.
• It’s also high in fiber, which helps with digestion and keeps things moving smoothly.
• Carrots provide beta-carotene, which is great for vision and has antioxidant properties.
• Green beans add vitamins K, C, and manganese, supporting bone health and immunity.
• Spinach is packed with iron and vitamin K, promoting healthy blood clotting and bone strength.
• Olive oil contributes essential fatty acids for a shiny coat and healthy skin.
• This combination ensures a good balance of protein, carbs, fats, vitamins, and minerals.
• For complete nutritional balance, consider adding a vet-approved canine multivitamin-mineral supplement.

Storage and Serving Tips

• Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• For longer storage, divide the cooled food into individual serving portions.
• Freeze these portions for up to 2-3 months.
• Thaw frozen food in the refrigerator overnight or use the defrost setting on your microwave.
• You can serve this food warm, at room temperature, or even slightly chilled.
• Some dogs like it mixed with a little warm water to create a gravy-like consistency.
• It also works well mixed with their regular kibble for an added boost of flavor and nutrition.

Common Questions & Troubleshooting

Can I add other vegetables?

Yes, totally. Safe additions include peas, pumpkin, sweet potatoes, and broccoli. Just make sure to avoid onions, garlic, and anything from the nightshade family like raw potatoes.

Is this recipe suitable for puppies?

Puppies have higher energy and protein needs. This recipe can be a part of their diet, but you’ll need to adjust quantities. Talk to your vet to make sure it’s nutritionally complete for growing pups, possibly with a supplement.

What if my dog has allergies?

If your dog is allergic to beef, you can swap the heart for chicken gizzards or turkey. For grain allergies, try using cooked sweet potato or white rice instead of barley.

How do I know if my dog is getting enough nutrients?

The best way is to monitor their weight, coat condition, and energy levels. Regular vet check-ups are key. And, like I said, a good quality canine supplement can help fill any gaps.

Wrapping Up

Making your own dog food doesn’t have to be expensive or complicated.

This beef heart and barley recipe is proof you can give your dog nutritious, delicious meals without breaking the bank.

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