Cheap Homemade Dog Food Recipe Using Leftover Veggies & Broth

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.

That​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌ tossing-out-wilting-vegetables-and-leftover-broth feeling you have is a real guilt trip, isn’t it? The worst part is that besides being wasteful, it’s also a missed opportunity to make your dog a truly nice dish that maybe you’ve never thought of – but now you know.

Feeding them shouldn’t be expensive and you shouldn’t let good food go to waste, that’s for sure, and you also need a straightforward method.

Well, prepare yourself because I’m going to show you how to transform those kitchen scraps into a tasty and healthy meal that your dog will ​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌love.

Recipe Overview

• This homemade dog food recipe transforms your kitchen scraps into a wholesome meal.
• It’s super kind to your wallet and helps cut down on food waste.
• Packed with essential nutrients, it supports your dog’s overall health.
• Prep time: About 15 minutes.
• Cook time: Around 25 minutes.
• Serving size: Makes about 4-6 servings for a medium-sized dog.

Ingredients List

• Cooked Meat Scraps (chicken, beef, turkey, or lamb – about 1.5 cups, shredded): $2.00 (estimated from leftovers)
• Leftover Cooked Rice or Pasta (brown rice is best – about 1 cup): $0.50 (estimated from leftovers)
• Mixed Cooked Veggies (carrots, green beans, peas, sweet potato – about 2 cups, chopped): $1.00 (estimated from leftovers)
• Low-Sodium Broth (chicken or beef – about 1 cup): $0.75 (from a carton or homemade)
• Oatmeal (rolled oats – 1/2 cup, uncooked): $0.20
• Eggs (2 large, scrambled): $0.40
• Coconut Oil (1 tablespoon): $0.15
• Optional: Fresh Parsley (1 tablespoon, chopped): $0.10
• Optional: Canine Multivitamin Supplement (as directed by your vet): $0.50 (per serving)
• Total Estimated Cost: $5.80 (without supplement)

You can swap chicken for turkey, or beef for lamb. If you don’t have rice, cooked quinoa or even more oatmeal works well. Just make sure all veggies are dog-safe; no onions, garlic, or grapes!

Step-by-Step Instructions

• Get a big pot or a large skillet ready.
• Melt the coconut oil over medium heat in the pot.
• Add your cooked meat scraps to the pot and warm them through for a couple of minutes.
• Toss in the mixed cooked veggies. Stir everything together gently.
• Pour in the low-sodium broth. Bring it to a gentle simmer.
• Now, stir in the cooked rice or pasta and the uncooked oatmeal.
• Cook this mixture for about 5-7 minutes, stirring often. The oatmeal should get soft and absorb some liquid.
• While that’s simmering, quickly scramble the two eggs in a separate pan until they are fully cooked.
• Add the scrambled eggs to the pot and mix them in well.
• If you’re using parsley, stir it in now.
• Take the pot off the heat. Let the food cool down completely before serving it to your dog.

Feeding Guidelines

• For small dogs (under 20 lbs): Start with about 1/2 to 3/4 cup per day, divided into two meals.
• For medium dogs (20-50 lbs): Give them about 1 to 1.5 cups per day, split into two meals.
• For large dogs (50-90 lbs): They can have around 2 to 3 cups daily, also divided.
• For giant breeds (over 90 lbs): You might need 3.5 cups or more, depending on their size.
• Remember, very active dogs, growing puppies, or nursing mothers will need more food.
• Less active or older dogs might need a bit less to keep a healthy weight.
• Always talk to your vet first. They can give you the best personalized advice for your dog’s specific needs, especially for puppies, seniors, or dogs with health issues.

Nutritional Benefits of the Recipe

• Cooked Meat Scraps: These are fantastic for high-quality protein, which helps build and repair muscles.
• Leftover Cooked Rice/Pasta: Provides easily digestible carbohydrates for energy.
• Mixed Cooked Veggies: Full of vitamins (like A and C), minerals, and fiber, good for digestion and overall health.
• Low-Sodium Broth: Hydrates and adds flavor, making the meal more appealing.
• Oatmeal: A great source of soluble fiber, which supports healthy digestion and can be gentle on sensitive stomachs.
• Eggs: Packed with protein and essential amino acids, important for skin, coat, and muscle health.
• Coconut Oil: Offers healthy fats, great for skin and coat health, and also has some antimicrobial properties.
• Fresh Parsley (optional): A natural breath freshener and a source of vitamins K and C.
• Canine Multivitamin Supplement (optional): Ensures your homemade meals are nutritionally complete, bridging any gaps.

Storage and Serving Tips

• Once cooked, let the food cool down completely before storing.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• For longer storage, you can freeze individual portions in freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 2-3 months.
• When ready to serve from frozen, thaw it overnight in the fridge.
• You can serve this food warm (microwave for a few seconds) or at room temperature.
• If your dog is used to kibble, try mixing a small amount of this homemade food in with their regular kibble. Gradually increase the homemade portion over a week to help them adjust.

Common Questions & Troubleshooting

Can I use raw meat scraps?

No, always cook meat thoroughly to kill harmful bacteria. Raw meat can pose risks for both you and your dog.

What if my dog doesn’t like a certain veggie?

Just swap it out! As long as it’s a dog-safe vegetable like pumpkin, zucchini, or spinach, you can adjust to your dog’s preferences.

Do I need to add a supplement?

For a truly balanced long-term diet, a veterinary-approved canine multivitamin and mineral supplement is highly recommended. Homemade diets can sometimes miss trace nutrients.

My dog has allergies, what should I do?

Be extra careful with substitutions. If your dog has a known allergy to chicken, use turkey or a novel protein source. Always check with your vet about specific allergens.

Wrapping Up

So, there you have it – an easy, cost-effective way to give your dog a nutritious, homemade meal using what you already have. It’s a win-win: less waste for you, and a happy, healthy pup.

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