Homemade Dog Dood Recipe for Active Dogs using Pork & Potato

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.

Your dog gets the usual brown pellets, you know, the same shape, the same smell, and your dog’s same indifferent reaction.

Even after a five mile run, they sniff, nibble, and then walk away, their energy tank still half, empty.

That “complete” kibble feels like the furthest thing from it.

So you take a skillet instead. Ten minutes later the bowl is licked clean and your dog is at the door, leash in mouth, eyes screaming “let’s GO.” Same dog, just finally fed like the athlete they are.

Recipe Overview

• This homemade pork and potato dog food recipe is designed for active dogs, providing sustained energy and essential nutrients.
• It’s packed with high-quality protein, complex carbohydrates, and beneficial fats to support muscle health and endurance.
• Prep time: About 20 minutes
• Cook time: Approximately 45-50 minutes
• Serving size: Makes about 8-10 servings for a medium-sized active dog.

Ingredients List

• 1.5 lbs ground pork (80/20 lean): ~$7.50 (High-quality protein, essential fats)
• 2 large sweet potatoes (about 1.5 lbs), peeled and diced: ~$3.00 (Complex carbohydrates, fiber, vitamins A & C)
• 1 cup green beans, trimmed and chopped: ~$2.00 (Fiber, vitamins K & C)
• 1 cup carrots, peeled and diced: ~$1.50 (Beta-carotene, fiber)
• 1/2 cup rolled oats: ~$0.75 (Complex carbohydrates, soluble fiber)
• 1/4 cup bone broth (low sodium, dog-safe): ~$1.00 (Hydration, joint support, minerals)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil: ~$0.25 (Healthy fats, Vitamin E)
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley: ~$0.10 (Antioxidants, anti-inflammatory properties)
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder: ~$0.05 (Anti-inflammatory benefits)
• Optional: 1 canine multi-vitamin supplement (crushed or mixed in at feeding) for complete nutritional balance: ~$0.50 per dose
• Total Estimated Cost: ~$16.90

Substitutions:

• Ground pork: Ground turkey or lean ground beef work well.
• Sweet potatoes: White potatoes (like Yukon Gold) or brown rice can be used.
• Green beans: Peas or spinach are good alternatives.
• Carrots: Zucchini or butternut squash are great too.

Step-by-Step Instructions

• Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
• Add the ground pork and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until it’s browned and cooked through. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
• Stir in the diced sweet potatoes, carrots, and green beans.
• Pour in the bone broth and add 1/2 cup of water.
• Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for 20-25 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
• Add the rolled oats, dried parsley, and turmeric powder. Stir well.
• Continue to cook, covered, for another 10-15 minutes, until the oats are fully cooked and most of the liquid has been absorbed. The mixture should be thick.
• Remove from heat and let it cool completely before serving or storing.
• If using a canine multi-vitamin, add it to your dog’s portion right before serving.

Feeding Guidelines

• These are general recommendations; always consult your vet for precise amounts.
• Small Dogs (under 20 lbs, e.g., Terriers): 1/2 to 1 cup per day, divided into two meals.
• Medium Dogs (20-50 lbs, e.g., Beagles, Border Collies): 1.5 to 2.5 cups per day, divided into two meals.
• Large Dogs (50-90 lbs, e.g., Labs, German Shepherds): 3 to 4.5 cups per day, divided into two meals.
• Giant Breeds (90+ lbs, e.g., Great Danes): 5+ cups per day, divided into two or three meals.

Activity Level Adjustments:

• Highly active dogs (working dogs, long-distance runners) may need 20-50% more food.
• Less active or senior dogs may need 10-20% less to prevent weight gain.
• Puppies and pregnant/nursing dogs have higher caloric needs; discuss this with your vet.

Nutritional Benefits of the Recipe

• Ground Pork: Excellent source of high-quality protein for muscle maintenance and growth. It also provides essential amino acids and B vitamins like B12.
• Sweet Potatoes: A fantastic source of complex carbohydrates for sustained energy. They’re also rich in dietary fiber for digestive health, and packed with Vitamins A and C.
• Green Beans & Carrots: Provide essential vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber. Carrots offer beta-carotene, important for vision.
• Rolled Oats: Another great complex carbohydrate source, offering sustained energy. They also contain soluble fiber, which can aid digestion and help maintain stable blood sugar.
• Olive Oil: A healthy fat source, providing Omega-6 fatty acids and Vitamin E, which is an antioxidant. It helps with nutrient absorption.
• Bone Broth: Supports hydration, provides collagen for joint health, and a variety of minerals.
• Parsley & Turmeric: These aren’t just for flavor. Parsley has antioxidants, and turmeric is known for its anti-inflammatory properties, which can be beneficial for active dogs’ joints.

Storage and Serving Tips

• Once completely cooled, store the dog food in airtight containers in the refrigerator.
• It stays fresh for 3-4 days in the fridge.
• For longer storage, portion the food into freezer-safe bags or containers and freeze.
• It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.
• Thaw frozen portions in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
• You can serve the food at room temperature or slightly warmed. Just a few seconds in the microwave can make it more appealing.
• Mix it with a small amount of your dog’s regular kibble if you’re transitioning them to homemade food, or to add variety.

Common Questions & Troubleshooting

How do I know if this recipe is balanced for my dog?

This recipe provides a good base of protein, carbs, and fats. For complete, long-term nutritional balance, especially for puppies or dogs with specific health needs, a canine multi-vitamin supplement is highly recommended. Always talk to your vet or a veterinary nutritionist.

Can I make a big batch and freeze it?

Absolutely! Batch cooking and freezing is a great way to save time. Just make sure to portion it out correctly before freezing so you can thaw what you need easily.

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

That’s fine. You can refer to the substitutions list for alternatives. For example, if your dog isn’t keen on green beans, try peas or spinach instead. Always introduce new foods slowly.

Is this recipe suitable for overweight dogs?

While healthy, active dogs burn a lot of calories. For overweight dogs, you’d need to carefully control portion sizes and potentially reduce the fat content slightly, or increase the lean protein and fiber. Always consult your vet to tailor the diet for weight management.

Wrapping Up

Giving your active dog this homemade pork and potato meal isn’t just about feeding them; it’s about fueling their adventures with love. It’s easy, nutritious, and they’ll feel the difference.

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