Cheap Homemade Dog Food Recipe Using Lentils & Veggies

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 scoop the same brown pellets into the bowl, a faint worry nagging at you. That vet bill from last time when the dog had an upset stomach is still very unpleasant, and the ingredient list on the bag looks like a chemical formula.

Not good at all.

What if the way to a healthier, happier dog and a wallet that isn’t so heavy is not in another expensive bag, but in the simple, honest ingredients simmering on your stovetop?

I’ll show you how.

Recipe Overview

• This homemade dog food recipe is budget-friendly and super nutritious.
• It uses lentils and fresh veggies to give your dog a protein-packed, fiber-rich meal.
• Great for dogs needing a wholesome diet or those with sensitive tummies.
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Serving Size: Makes about 8-10 servings for a medium-sized dog.

Ingredients List

• 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed (approx. $0.50)
• 4 cups water or low-sodium chicken broth (approx. $0.20 for water, $1.50 for broth)
• 1 large sweet potato, peeled and diced (approx. $1.00)
• 2 cups chopped spinach (approx. $1.50)
• 1 cup chopped carrots (approx. $0.75)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (approx. $0.10)
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for fresh breath and vitamins) (approx. $0.50)
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder (optional, for anti-inflammatory benefits) (approx. $0.20)
• Supplement
• Total Estimated Cost: $4.75 – $6.05

Substitutions: You can swap lentils for chickpeas or split peas. Instead of sweet potato, try pumpkin or butternut squash. Other dog-safe veggies like green beans or peas work well too. If you don’t have spinach, kale is a good alternative.

Step-by-Step Instructions

• Rinse the lentils well under cold water. This helps remove any dust or debris.
• In a large pot, combine the rinsed lentils with 4 cups of water or low-sodium chicken broth.
• Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low.
• Cover the pot and simmer for 15 minutes.
• While the lentils are simmering, prepare your vegetables. Peel and dice the sweet potato into small, bite-sized pieces. Chop the spinach and carrots.
• After 15 minutes, add the diced sweet potato and chopped carrots to the pot with the lentils.
• Stir everything together.
• Continue to simmer, covered, for another 15-20 minutes, or until the lentils are tender and the sweet potato is soft.
• If the mixture gets too dry, add a little more water or broth.
• Stir in the chopped spinach, olive oil, and optional parsley and turmeric.
• Cook for just 2-3 more minutes, or until the spinach wilts.
• Remove from heat and let it cool completely before serving to your dog.

Feeding Guidelines

• Portion sizes depend on your dog’s weight, age, and activity level.
• For a small dog (up to 20 lbs), start with 1/2 to 1 cup per day, divided into two meals.
• Medium dogs (20-50 lbs) might need 1.5 to 2.5 cups per day, split.
• Large dogs (50-90 lbs) could eat 3 to 4 cups daily.
• Very active dogs or puppies often need more calories, while senior dogs might need less.
• Always introduce new foods gradually over a week to avoid stomach upset.
• Talk to your vet for exact personalized feeding advice. They can help you figure out the perfect amount for your unique dog.

Nutritional Benefits of the Recipe

• Lentils: A fantastic source of plant-based protein and fiber. This helps with muscle maintenance and keeps digestion running smoothly. They also provide iron, folate, and manganese.
• Sweet Potato: Packed with vitamins A and C, which are great for vision and immune health. They also offer dietary fiber.
• Spinach: A powerhouse of vitamins K, A, C, and B vitamins, plus iron and antioxidants. Good for bone health and fighting inflammation.
• Carrots: Another great source of Vitamin A (from beta-carotene), essential for good vision. They also provide fiber.
• Olive Oil: Supplies healthy monounsaturated fats and antioxidants, good for skin, coat, and overall heart health.
• Parsley: Offers vitamins K and C, plus antioxidants. Can also help with bad breath.
• Turmeric: Known for its anti-inflammatory properties, which can be helpful for joint health.
• This recipe offers a good balance of complex carbohydrates, quality protein, and essential fats. It’s rich in vitamins, minerals, and fiber, contributing to a healthy gut, strong immune system, and good energy levels. For complete nutrition over the long term, adding a vet-approved canine multivitamin supplement is a good idea.

Storage and Serving Tips

• This homemade dog food stays fresh in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• For longer storage, divide the cooled food into individual meal portions and freeze. It can last in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.
• To serve from frozen, thaw it in the fridge overnight or gently reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave.
• Always check that the food is not too hot before giving it to your dog. Room temperature or slightly warm is best.
• You can serve this as a stand-alone meal, or mix it with their regular kibble for an added nutritional boost and variety.

Common Questions & Troubleshooting

Can I use dried lentils instead of canned?

Yes, absolutely. This recipe uses dried lentils. Just make sure to rinse them well before cooking.

Is this recipe suitable for puppies?

While the ingredients are safe, puppies have higher protein and fat needs for growth. This recipe might be okay as an occasional meal, but it’s not complete for a growing puppy. Always talk to your vet about a puppy’s specific dietary requirements.

My dog has allergies. How can I adapt this?

This recipe is great for many common allergies as it avoids typical allergens like chicken or wheat. If your dog is sensitive to a specific vegetable, simply swap it out for another dog-safe option like green beans or pumpkin.

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

The best way is to monitor their energy levels, coat condition, and stool quality. For long-term feeding of homemade food, always work with your vet or a veterinary nutritionist to ensure it’s balanced and complete for your dog’s specific needs. They might recommend a multivitamin or mineral supplement.

Wrapping Up

Making your own dog food doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. This lentil and veggie recipe is a simple way to give your dog a nutritious, delicious meal that you can feel good about.

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