Economical Homemade Dog Food with Chickpeas and Butternut Squash

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.

Have you ever thought that the price of dog food keeps going up and you don’t really know what are the ingredients?

It’s not an easy task to keep your dog’s health at a good level and not spend a lot of money, but it doesn’t mean it can’t be done.

In this post, I’m gonna show you a recipe that most pet owners would love.

It’s quality homemade dog food but the price and hidden ingredients are not gonna be a problem this time. Let’s do this!

Recipe Overview

• Purpose: A wholesome, budget-friendly meal providing essential nutrients.
• Benefits: Rich in protein and fiber, great for digestive health, and gentle on sensitive stomachs.
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Serving Size: Approximately 10-12 cups (enough for a medium dog for several days, or multiple small dogs).

Ingredients List

Here’s what you’ll need to make this nourishing meal for your dog. All ingredients are safe and picked for their nutritional value.

• 1 pound lean ground chicken or turkey: About $5.00 – $7.00. This is a great source of lean protein for muscle health.
• 1 (15-ounce) can chickpeas (garbanzo beans), rinsed and drained: About $1.50 – $2.00. Chickpeas add plant-based protein and fiber.
• 1 medium butternut squash (about 2 cups diced): About $2.50 – $4.00. This brings vitamins A and C, plus beneficial fiber.
• 1 cup rolled oats (uncooked): About $0.50. Oats are gentle on tummies and provide energy and fiber.
• 4 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth: About $1.50 – $2.50. This adds moisture and flavor without extra salt.
• 2 cups fresh spinach: About $2.00. Spinach is packed with vitamins K, A, and C, and iron.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil or flaxseed oil: About $0.20. Provides healthy fats for skin and coat.

Estimated Total Cost: $13.20 – $18.20

Substitutions:

• Ground Meat: You can use lean ground beef instead of chicken or turkey. Just make sure it’s at least 90% lean.
• Butternut Squash: Sweet potatoes or pumpkin are excellent alternatives. Just be sure they are cooked and pureed or mashed.
• Spinach: Kale or chopped green beans can be swapped in for similar nutritional benefits.
• Oats: Brown rice can be used, but it will require a longer cooking time.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Making this recipe is straightforward. Just follow these steps, and you’ll have a delicious meal for your dog in no time.

• Step 1: Cook the Meat. In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the ground chicken or turkey over medium heat. Make sure to break it up into small pieces as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
• Step 2: Prepare the Squash. While the meat cooks, peel and dice the butternut squash into small, ½-inch cubes. If you find peeling tough, you can microwave the whole squash for a few minutes to soften the skin first.
• Step 3: Combine Ingredients (Part 1). Add the diced butternut squash, rinsed chickpeas, rolled oats, and low-sodium broth to the pot with the cooked meat. Stir everything well to combine.
• Step 4: Simmer. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer, covered, for about 20 minutes. Stir it occasionally to prevent anything from sticking to the bottom.
• Step 5: Add Greens. After 20 minutes, stir in the fresh spinach. Continue to simmer, uncovered, for another 5 minutes, or until the squash is tender and the spinach has wilted. The oats should also be fully cooked and the mixture will have thickened.
• Step 6: Cool and Add Oil. Remove the pot from the heat and let the food cool completely. Once it’s cool, stir in the olive oil or flaxseed oil. This keeps the beneficial fats from breaking down with heat.

Feeding Guidelines

Knowing how much to feed your dog is important for their health. These are general recommendations, but every dog is different.

• Small Dogs (under 20 lbs): Start with ½ to 1 cup per day, divided into two meals.
• Medium Dogs (20-50 lbs): Offer 1 to 2 cups per day, divided.
• Large Dogs (50-90 lbs): Provide 2 to 3 cups per day, split into meals.
• Extra-Large Dogs (over 90 lbs): They may need 3 to 4+ cups per day.

Remember that activity level plays a big role. Very active dogs might need more, while less active dogs need less.

Puppies, senior dogs, and pregnant or nursing dogs also have different nutritional needs.

It’s always best to talk to your veterinarian before making big changes to your dog’s diet.

They can give you personalized advice based on your dog’s specific health and lifestyle.

Nutritional Benefits of the Recipe

This recipe isn’t just economical; it’s packed with goodness for your canine companion. Every ingredient serves a purpose.

• Lean Ground Chicken/Turkey: This provides high-quality protein, which is essential for building and repairing muscles. It also helps with a healthy immune system.
• Chickpeas: A fantastic source of both protein and dietary fiber. Fiber is crucial for good digestion and helps keep your dog feeling full.
• Butternut Squash: Loaded with vitamins A and C, which support vision, immune function, and skin health. It also contains fiber, aiding in regular bowel movements.
• Rolled Oats: A gentle source of complex carbohydrates, providing sustained energy. They are also rich in soluble fiber, which can be great for sensitive stomachs.
• Spinach: This leafy green is a powerhouse of vitamins (K, A, C), iron, and antioxidants. These help with bone health, immune support, and overall cellular health.
• Olive/Flaxseed Oil: Provides essential omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. These are vital for a shiny coat, healthy skin, and reducing inflammation.

Storage and Serving Tips

Proper storage makes sure your homemade dog food stays fresh and safe. And there are easy ways to serve it up.

• Refrigeration: Store the cooled food in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Freezing: For longer storage, divide the cooled food into individual serving portions in freezer-safe bags or containers. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Thaw frozen portions in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
• Reheating: You can serve this food at room temperature or slightly warmed. If reheating from the fridge, a quick warm-up in the microwave or on the stovetop is fine. Just make sure it’s not too hot before giving it to your dog.
• Serving Ideas: This recipe can be served on its own as a complete meal. Or, you can mix it with your dog’s regular kibble to add extra nutrients and variety to their diet.

Common Questions & Troubleshooting

Can I use canned butternut squash or pumpkin?

Yes, you can. Just be sure to choose plain, unsweetened canned squash or pumpkin, not pie filling. Drain any excess liquid if present.

Is this recipe a complete and balanced diet?

This recipe is very nutritious and provides many essential nutrients. However, it’s designed as a supplementary meal or a rotation option. For it to be a complete and balanced daily diet long-term, you would need to add specific vitamins and minerals, often under veterinary nutritionist guidance. Always consult your vet for tailored advice if you plan to feed homemade food exclusively.

Can puppies eat this food?

Puppies can eat many of these ingredients, but they have higher caloric and specific nutrient needs for growth. This recipe can be offered in moderation as a treat or mixed with their puppy food. Discuss with your vet to ensure it fits into their overall dietary plan.

My dog has allergies. What substitutions are safe?

If your dog has allergies to chicken, swap for ground turkey or lean beef. For grain sensitivities, you can replace oats with cooked brown rice (ensure it’s well-cooked). Always introduce new ingredients slowly and watch for any reactions.

Wrapping Up

Making your dog’s food at home doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. This recipe is a simple way to give them a healthy, delicious meal they’ll love.

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