Economical Homemade Dog Food with Pork Liver and Brussels Sprouts

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.

Do you ever think that feeding your dog high-quality food has to cost a fortune? Unfortunately, many commercial foods are expensive and filled with fillers.

You want to give your dog the best of the best, and yet your grocery bills are getting bigger and bigger.

The truth is that for your dog, you can make an easy healthy and cheap meal right at home which will be absolutely loved.

This recipe is a straightforward, inexpensive way to give your dog the good and safe food without the health of your budget being compromised.

Recipe Overview

Purpose: Provide a highly nutritious, budget-friendly homemade meal for dogs, focusing on organ meat and vegetables.

Benefits: Rich in protein, essential vitamins (especially A and B), iron, and fiber. This recipe supports energy, healthy vision, digestion, and a strong immune system.

Key Details:

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35-40 minutes

Serving Size: Approximately 6-8 cups (adjusts based on ingredient sizes and how finely you chop)

Ingredients List

Here’s what you’ll need to make this nourishing meal for your furry friend. I’ve included estimated costs based on typical USA supermarket prices. Prices can vary depending on your location and store sales, so these are just a guide.

• 1 lb Pork Liver: ($3.00 – $5.00) This is a powerhouse of Vitamin A, B vitamins, and iron, crucial for energy and eye health.
• 2 lbs Ground Turkey (90/10 lean): ($6.00 – $8.00) A lean, affordable protein source that’s easy on digestion. You can use ground beef or chicken if you prefer.
• 1 lb Brussels Sprouts: ($3.00 – $4.00) Packed with fiber, antioxidants, and vitamins K and C for immune support and gut health.
• 2 cups Cooked Brown Rice: ($0.50 – $1.00 for uncooked rice) Provides essential carbohydrates for energy and dietary fiber. You can use white rice or cooked oatmeal as a substitute.
• 1 cup Carrots (chopped): ($0.50 – $1.00) Offers beta-carotene for vision and a natural sweetness dogs enjoy.
• 1/2 cup Green Beans (chopped): ($0.50 – $0.75) Another great source of fiber and vitamins.
• 1/4 cup Olive Oil or Coconut Oil: ($0.75 – $1.00) For healthy fats, coat health, and to help cook the ingredients.
• 1/2 cup Water or Low-Sodium Broth: ($0.10 – $0.20) Helps keep the mixture moist and flavorful.

Estimated Total Cost: $14.85 – $22.95

Step-by-Step Instructions

Making this dog food is super simple, just follow these steps. Take your time, and soon your dog will be enjoying a home-cooked meal.

• Step 1: Prep the Liver and Veggies. First, rinse the pork liver thoroughly and pat it dry. Then, chop it into small, bite-sized pieces. Set that aside. Next, wash and trim your Brussels sprouts, then quarter them or chop them finely. Peel and chop the carrots and green beans into small pieces, too. Remember, smaller pieces are easier for your dog to digest.
• Step 2: Cook the Ground Meat. Heat the olive oil or coconut oil in a large pot or skillet over medium heat. Add the ground turkey and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until it’s fully browned. Drain any excess fat. This step is important to ensure the meat is cooked through.
• Step 3: Add Liver and Veggies. Now, add the chopped pork liver to the pot with the cooked ground turkey. Stir everything together and cook for about 5-7 minutes, until the liver is lightly browned and cooked through. After that, add the chopped Brussels sprouts, carrots, and green beans to the pot. Stir well to combine.
• Step 4: Simmer and Mix. Pour in the water or low-sodium broth. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender. Stir occasionally to prevent anything from sticking to the bottom.
• Step 5: Combine with Rice. Once the vegetables are tender, remove the pot from the heat. Stir in the cooked brown rice until it’s evenly distributed throughout the mixture. Let the food cool completely before serving it to your dog. This ensures it’s at a safe temperature.

Feeding Guidelines

Knowing how much to feed your dog is key. Here are some general recommendations, but every dog is different.

• Small Dogs (up to 20 lbs): Start with 1/2 to 1 cup per day, split into two meals. A tiny Chihuahua might need less, a Terrier more.
• Medium Dogs (21-50 lbs): Offer 1.5 to 2.5 cups per day, divided into two meals. Think a Bulldog or a Beagle here.
• Large Dogs (51-90 lbs): Feed 3 to 4 cups per day, split across two meals. This is good for a Labrador or a Golden Retriever.
• Giant Breeds (90+ lbs): They might need 4.5 to 6 cups or more, depending on their size and activity.
• Activity Level: Active dogs will generally need more food than less active ones. Adjust portions based on how much exercise your dog gets.
• Life Stage: Puppies, pregnant, or nursing dogs have higher caloric needs. Senior dogs might need slightly less.
• Veterinarian Advice: It’s always best to chat with your vet about the right portion sizes for your specific dog. They know your dog’s health history best and can give personalized advice.

Nutritional Benefits of the Recipe

This recipe isn’t just tasty, it’s packed with good stuff for your dog. Every ingredient plays a part in keeping them healthy and happy.

• Pork Liver:
  • This organ meat is a superfood for dogs. It’s an excellent source of Vitamin A, which supports healthy vision and immune function. It also provides essential B vitamins (like B12) for energy metabolism and iron, crucial for preventing anemia.
• Ground Turkey:
  • A lean protein choice, turkey provides amino acids vital for muscle development and repair. It’s generally well-tolerated by dogs, even those with sensitive stomachs.
• Brussels Sprouts:
  • These little green powerhouses are rich in fiber, promoting healthy digestion and regular bowel movements. They also offer Vitamin K for blood clotting and Vitamin C, an antioxidant that boosts the immune system.
• Brown Rice:
  • A complex carbohydrate that delivers sustained energy. It’s also a good source of fiber, which aids digestion and can help dogs feel full.
• Carrots:
  • Full of beta-carotene, which converts to Vitamin A in the body, supporting eye health and immune function. They also provide natural sweetness and a satisfying crunch.
• Green Beans:
  • Low in calories but high in fiber and vitamins C and K. They’re a great way to add bulk and nutrients without extra fat.
• Olive/Coconut Oil:
  • Provides healthy fats (monounsaturated in olive oil, medium-chain triglycerides in coconut oil) that support skin and coat health, provide energy, and aid in nutrient absorption.

Storage and Serving Tips

You’ll want to make sure you store this food properly so it stays fresh. And how you serve it can make a difference, too.

• Refrigeration:
  • Store the cooked dog food in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. This keeps it fresh and prevents spoilage.
• Freezing:
  • For longer storage, divide the cooled food into individual serving portions or freezer-safe bags/containers. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Label with the date for best practice.
• Reheating:
  • When ready to serve from the freezer, thaw a portion in the refrigerator overnight. You can serve it chilled, at room temperature, or slightly warmed. If warming, a quick microwave zap or a gentle stovetop warm-up is fine. Just make sure it’s not too hot.
• Serving Ideas:
  • Serve this recipe on its own as a complete meal. You can also mix it with your dog’s regular kibble to add extra nutrition and flavor. Some dogs enjoy it slightly warmed, which can release the aromas and make it even more appealing.

Common Questions & Troubleshooting

How can I make sure this recipe is balanced for my dog long-term?

This recipe provides good foundational nutrition. For long-term, exclusive feeding, it’s a good idea to rotate ingredients or consult with a vet or a veterinary nutritionist. They can help ensure all micronutrient needs are met, especially if your dog has specific health conditions.

Can I use different vegetables?

Absolutely! Most dog-safe vegetables work well. Try spinach, pumpkin, sweet potatoes, or peas. Always avoid onions, garlic, grapes, and xylitol, as these are toxic to dogs.

My dog is a picky eater, how can I introduce new food?

Start by mixing a small amount of the homemade food with their current kibble. Gradually increase the homemade portion over several days or a week. This slow introduction helps their digestive system adjust and makes them more likely to accept the new food.

What if my dog has an allergy to one of these ingredients?

That’s where substitutions come in handy! If your dog is allergic to turkey, use ground chicken or beef. If they can’t have rice, try cooked oats or quinoa. Always double-check ingredient safety with your vet if you’re unsure.

Is this recipe suitable for puppies?

Yes, but puppies have specific nutritional needs for growth. While the ingredients are safe, ensure the food is chopped very finely, and discuss appropriate portion sizes and any necessary supplements with your vet to support their rapid development.

Wrapping Up

Making your dog’s food at home doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. This pork liver and Brussels sprouts recipe is a simple, economical way to provide a healthy, delicious meal.

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