Grain Free Homemade Dog Food Recipe for Senior Dogs with Allergies

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.

If your senior dog struggles with allergies or a sensitive stomach, finding commercial dog food that truly nourishes them without triggering discomfort can feel like an impossible quest.

I totally dislike store bought ones, which is why I decided to formulate my own homemade recipe.

In this article, you’re gonna find a recipe tailored to their specific needs, free from irritating ingredients, and packed with everything they need to thrive.

Recipe Overview

This homemade grain-free dog food recipe is specially crafted for senior dogs prone to allergies and sensitivities.

It’s a gentle, nutrient-dense meal designed to support their aging bodies, promote healthy digestion, and alleviate common allergic reactions.

Packed with lean protein, beneficial fats, and easily digestible carbohydrates, this recipe avoids common irritants like grains, soy, and dairy.

It’s perfect for dogs with sensitive stomachs, skin allergies, or those simply needing a limited-ingredient diet.

Prep time is approximately 20 minutes, cook time is around 35 minutes, and this recipe yields approximately 8-10 servings for a medium-sized dog.

Ingredients List

Crafting this allergy-friendly meal starts with selecting high-quality, dog-safe ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need to create a wholesome, grain-free feast for your senior pup, along with estimated costs in the USA.

• 1.5 lbs Ground Turkey (93% lean) – ~$7.00. Lean protein source, highly digestible. (Substitution: Ground lamb or white fish for different protein sources).
• 2 medium Sweet Potatoes (peeled and diced) – ~$2.50. Excellent source of vitamins, fiber, and gentle carbohydrates.
• 1 cup Green Beans (trimmed, fresh or frozen) – ~$2.00. Packed with vitamins and fiber, low in calories.
• 1 cup Carrots (peeled and diced) – ~$1.50. Rich in beta-carotene and antioxidants.
• 1/2 cup Spinach (fresh, chopped) – ~$1.50. Nutrient-dense, provides essential vitamins and minerals. (Substitution: Kale, sparingly).
• 1/4 cup Coconut Oil (organic, unrefined) – ~$3.00 (from a larger container). Healthy fats for skin, coat, and brain health. (Substitution: Olive oil, unrefined).
• 1/4 cup Bone Broth (low sodium, unsalted) – ~$1.00 (from a larger carton). Supports joint health and digestion, adds flavor.
• 1 tsp Turmeric Powder – ~$0.50 (from a larger container). Natural anti-inflammatory, good for aging joints.

Total Estimated Cost: ~$19.00

Step-by-Step Instructions

Creating this nutritious meal is straightforward and rewarding. Follow these steps to prepare a delicious, allergy-friendly food for your senior dog.

1. Prepare the vegetables. Peel and dice the sweet potatoes, carrots, and green beans into small, uniform pieces to ensure even cooking and easy digestion for senior dogs.

2. Cook the sweet potatoes. In a large pot, boil the diced sweet potatoes until very tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain thoroughly and set aside.

3. Brown the turkey. In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat the coconut oil over medium heat. Add the ground turkey, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until it is fully browned, about 8-10 minutes.

4. Add vegetables and spices. Once the turkey is cooked, drain any excess fat. Stir in the diced carrots, green beans, and turmeric powder. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften.

5. Combine ingredients. Add the cooked sweet potatoes and chopped spinach to the skillet with the turkey and vegetables. Pour in the bone broth.

6. Mash and mix. Use a potato masher or the back of a spoon to gently mash some of the sweet potatoes and vegetables, creating a softer consistency ideal for senior dogs. Stir everything together thoroughly to combine all ingredients.

7. Simmer. Reduce heat to low, cover, and let the mixture simmer for another 5-10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the remaining vegetables to become tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

8. Cool completely. Remove from heat and allow the food to cool completely before serving or storing. This is crucial for your dog’s safety and enjoyment.

Feeding Guidelines

Portion control is key to ensuring your senior dog receives optimal nutrition without overfeeding. Their metabolism may have slowed, and their activity levels might have decreased.

As a general guideline, offer about 1/2 to 1 cup per 20 pounds of body weight per day, divided into two meals. For instance, a 40-pound senior Labrador might eat 1-2 cups daily, while a 10-pound senior Chihuahua might need 1/4 to 1/2 cup.

Smaller, less active senior breeds like a Basset Hound might require less, whereas a more active senior Border Collie could need slightly more. Always monitor your dog’s weight and adjust portions as needed.

Senior dogs, especially those with allergies, often benefit from smaller, more frequent meals to aid digestion. Always consult your veterinarian to determine the precise feeding amounts tailored to your dog’s specific age, activity level, health conditions, and individual metabolic needs.

Nutritional Benefits of the Recipe

This grain-free recipe provides a powerful punch of health benefits specifically designed for senior dogs with allergies. Every ingredient plays a vital role in supporting their well-being.

Ground turkey offers a lean, easily digestible protein source, essential for maintaining muscle mass in aging dogs without causing digestive upset. Sweet potatoes are a fantastic, grain-free carbohydrate, rich in dietary fiber for healthy digestion and packed with vitamins A and C, crucial for immune function and vision.

Green beans and carrots provide essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, supporting overall health and cellular repair. Spinach adds a boost of iron and Vitamin K, contributing to bone health and energy levels. Coconut oil is a source of healthy medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), known to support brain health, skin, and coat, and provide an easily utilized energy source, which is especially beneficial for seniors.

Bone broth further enhances joint health, aids digestion, and provides beneficial amino acids and collagen. Finally, turmeric acts as a natural anti-inflammatory, which can significantly help manage joint pain and reduce allergic inflammatory responses often seen in older dogs.

Storage and Serving Tips

Proper storage ensures the freshness and safety of your homemade dog food. Always allow the food to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers.

Refrigerate the food for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, this recipe freezes beautifully. Divide it into individual or daily serving portions using freezer-safe containers or silicone molds, then freeze for up to 2-3 months.

When ready to serve, thaw frozen portions in the refrigerator overnight or gently reheat them on the stovetop or in the microwave until just warm, never hot. Some dogs prefer their food slightly warmed as it enhances the aroma and palatability, which can be particularly appealing to senior dogs with a diminished sense of smell. You can also mix it with a small amount of their regular kibble if you’re transitioning them to homemade food.

Common Questions & Troubleshooting

How can I tell if my dog has food allergies?

Common signs include chronic itching, skin rashes, ear infections, paw licking, vomiting, diarrhea, or excessive gas. If you notice these symptoms, consult your vet for diagnosis and guidance on an elimination diet.

Can I use other vegetables?

Yes, many vegetables are safe. Broccoli, cauliflower (in moderation), pumpkin, or zucchini are good options. Always avoid onions, garlic, grapes, and avocados, which are toxic to dogs.

Is this recipe complete and balanced for long-term feeding?

While this recipe is highly nutritious, for long-term, exclusive feeding, it’s always best to consult a board-certified veterinary nutritionist. They can ensure it meets all the specific dietary requirements for your dog’s life stage, activity, and health needs, possibly recommending a supplement.

My senior dog is a picky eater, how can I encourage them to eat this?

Senior dogs can be picky. Try warming the food slightly, adding a little extra bone broth for flavor, or mixing it with a small amount of their current food to transition them gradually. Patience is key!

Wrapping Up

This homemade grain-free recipe is a testament to the love you have for your senior dog, providing them with comfort and nourishment. Say goodbye to allergy woes and hello to wagging tails and renewed vitality!

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