Wholesome Homemade Dog Food for Diabetes: A Recipe to Support Your Furry Friend’s Health

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.

Is your beloved dog struggling with diabetes, leaving you worried about their diet and overall well-being?

It’s heartbreaking to see them face health challenges, and finding the right food can feel like a constant battle.

Many commercial dog foods are packed with ingredients that can spike blood sugar, making it even harder to manage their condition.

But what if you could take control, offering a delicious, nutritious meal that actively supports their health and brings you peace of mind?

I’ve designed this recipe specifically to help manage dog diabetes, giving your furry companion the best chance at a happy, healthy life.

Recipe Overview

This homemade dog food recipe is crafted to help regulate blood sugar levels in diabetic dogs, providing a balanced meal rich in lean protein, complex carbohydrates, and essential nutrients.

It’s designed to be low in glycemic index ingredients, helping to prevent sudden spikes in blood glucose.

The prep time for this recipe is approximately 20 minutes, with a cook time of about 35 minutes.

This recipe yields approximately 8 cups of food, which is suitable for a medium-sized dog for about 3-4 days.

Ingredients List

Here’s what you’ll need to create this blood-sugar-friendly meal for your pup, along with estimated costs:

• 1.5 lbs Lean Ground Turkey (93% lean) – $7.50
  • Substitution: Lean ground chicken or beef can also be used.
• 2 cups Cooked Brown Rice – $0.75
  • Substitution: Quinoa or barley are good alternatives for complex carbohydrates.
• 1 cup Chopped Green Beans – $1.00
• 1 cup Chopped Carrots – $0.75
• 1/2 cup Chopped Spinach – $0.50
• 1/4 cup Canned Pumpkin (plain, unsweetened) – $0.50
• 2 tablespoons Olive Oil – $0.25
• 1 teaspoon Psyllium Husk Powder – $0.10
  • Note: This adds beneficial fiber to help regulate digestion and blood sugar.
• 1/2 teaspoon Turmeric Powder – $0.05
• 1/4 teaspoon Black Pepper – $0.02
• 1/4 cup Water or Low-Sodium Chicken Broth – $0.10

Total Estimated Cost: $11.52

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare a wholesome meal for your diabetic dog:

1. In a large skillet or pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the lean ground turkey and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until it’s fully browned and no longer pink. Drain any excess fat.
2. Stir in the chopped green beans, carrots, and spinach. Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are slightly tender-crisp.
3. Add the cooked brown rice, plain canned pumpkin, psyllium husk powder, turmeric, and black pepper to the skillet. Mix everything thoroughly to combine.
4. Pour in the water or low-sodium chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low.
5. Cover the skillet and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the vegetables to soften further. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
6. Remove from heat and let the food cool completely before serving. This is crucial to prevent burns and ensure the food is safe for your dog.

Feeding Guidelines

Portion sizes will vary based on your dog’s weight, activity level, and individual metabolic needs.

It’s always best to consult with your veterinarian for personalized feeding recommendations.

As a general guideline, a good starting point is to feed approximately 1/2 to 3/4 cup of this homemade food per 10 pounds of body weight, divided into two or three meals per day.

For example, a 30-pound dog might receive 1.5 to 2.25 cups daily.

Highly active dogs or those with higher energy needs may require slightly more, while less active or older dogs might need less.

Always monitor your dog’s weight and adjust portions as needed.

Nutritional Benefits of the Recipe

This recipe is packed with ingredients chosen specifically for their benefits to diabetic dogs.

The lean ground turkey provides high-quality protein essential for muscle maintenance without adding excessive fat.

Brown rice is a complex carbohydrate that offers sustained energy release, helping to prevent blood sugar spikes.

Green beans, carrots, and spinach are excellent sources of vitamins, minerals, and fiber, supporting overall health and digestive regularity.

The psyllium husk powder significantly boosts fiber content, which is crucial for blood sugar management and satiety.

Turmeric and black pepper offer anti-inflammatory properties, which can be beneficial for dogs with chronic conditions like diabetes.

Storage and Serving Tips

Once prepared, this homemade dog food can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

For longer storage, you can freeze individual portions for up to 2-3 months. Thaw frozen portions in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

When serving, you can offer the food at room temperature or slightly warmed.

Some dogs prefer their food a little warm, which can also enhance the aroma.

You can also mix this homemade food with a small amount of their regular diabetic-friendly kibble to help with the transition or to add variety.

Common Questions & Troubleshooting

What if my dog doesn’t like the texture?

You can try blending a portion of the food to create a smoother consistency, or chop the ingredients into smaller pieces. Gradually introduce the new food by mixing small amounts with their current diet.

Can I use other vegetables?

Yes, you can! Dog-safe vegetables like broccoli, peas, or zucchini can be good additions. Always ensure any new vegetables are introduced slowly and in moderation to avoid digestive upset.

How often should I feed this?

For diabetic dogs, it’s often recommended to feed smaller, more frequent meals throughout the day to help maintain stable blood sugar levels. Discuss a feeding schedule with your vet.

Is this recipe complete and balanced?

While this recipe is designed to be nutritious, it’s important to remember that homemade diets can sometimes lack certain essential nutrients if not carefully balanced. For long-term feeding, consult with a veterinary nutritionist to ensure it meets all your dog’s dietary requirements, especially for a dog with diabetes. They may recommend adding a veterinary-approved supplement.

Wrapping Up

Taking charge of your diabetic dog’s diet with this homemade recipe can make a real difference in their health and happiness.

You’re not just feeding them; you’re nurturing them with love and care.

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