Homemade Dog Food Recipe for Active Dogs using Chicken & Sweet 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.

Isn’t​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌ it just great to witness a dog that’s brimming with life and vigor? An energetic dog, no matter if it is running through the meadows or fetching a ball over and over again, has to be properly fed.

Their bodies resemble very well adjusted machines and they have to be provided with the right kind of fuel if they are to keep going.

This recipe is an easy one and a healthy one, for giving them exactly ​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌that.

Recipe Overview

This homemade dog food recipe takes about 45 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s packed with lean protein, complex carbohydrates, and essential vitamins, making it an excellent choice for keeping your active dog energized and healthy.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Serving Size: Makes about 6-8 servings for a medium-sized active dog (approx. 40-60 lbs)

Understanding the Needs of an Active Dog

An active dog, bless their hearts, burns through a lot of calories. They’re not just sitting by the fire all day, are they? Their muscles are constantly working, and they need a steady supply of energy to maintain their stamina and recover after a good run. If they don’t get enough of the right stuff, they can become tired more easily. And that’s why it matters to give them food that truly supports their energetic lifestyle.

The Power of Chicken and Sweet Potato

Chicken and sweet potato are a lovely combination for an active dog. Chicken is a lean protein, which is just what their muscles need for repair and growth. And sweet potatoes, well, they’re a grand source of complex carbohydrates. These carbs give a slow, steady release of energy, which is much better than a quick burst that leaves them flagging later.

They also bring a good dose of vitamins and fiber to the bowl. It’s a wholesome, natural pairing that provides a lot of goodness.

Ingredients List

Here’s what you’ll need for this nourishing recipe. All ingredients are dog-safe and readily available.

• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breast or thigh: About $6.00 – $8.00
• 2 large sweet potatoes: About $2.00 – $3.00
• 1 cup green beans (fresh or frozen): About $1.50 – $2.00
• 1/2 cup carrots, chopped: About $0.50 – $1.00
• 1/4 cup olive oil or flaxseed oil: About $1.00 – $1.50
• 1/2 cup water or low-sodium chicken broth: About $0.10
• Optional: 1/4 cup cooked quinoa or brown rice: About $0.75 – $1.00 (for extra carbs)
• Optional: Canine multivitamin/mineral supplement: (Cost varies, consult vet)
• Total Estimated Cost: Approximately $11.85 – $17.60

Substitutions:

• Chicken: Ground turkey or lean ground beef can be used.
• Sweet Potatoes: Pumpkin or butternut squash are good alternatives.
• Green Beans/Carrots: Peas, broccoli florets, or zucchini can be swapped in.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Making this meal is quite straightforward. Just follow these simple steps:

1. Prepare the sweet potatoes. Peel the sweet potatoes and cut them into 1-inch cubes.
2. Cook the sweet potatoes. Place the cubed sweet potatoes in a pot with enough water to cover them. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until they are very tender.
3. Cook the chicken. While the sweet potatoes are cooking, place the chicken breasts or thighs in a separate pot. Cover with water or low-sodium chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is thoroughly cooked through.
4. Prepare the vegetables. Steam or lightly boil the green beans and chopped carrots until they are tender-crisp.
5. Mash the sweet potatoes. Once cooked, drain the sweet potatoes and mash them well with a fork or potato masher.
6. Shred or chop the chicken. Remove the cooked chicken from the pot. Let it cool slightly, then shred it using two forks or chop it into small, bite-sized pieces.
7. Combine all ingredients. In a large bowl, mix the mashed sweet potatoes, shredded chicken, cooked green beans, and carrots. If using, add the cooked quinoa or brown rice.
8. Add the oil and broth. Pour in the olive oil or flaxseed oil and the water or low-sodium chicken broth. Mix everything together thoroughly.
9. Add supplement (if using). If you’re using a canine multivitamin/mineral supplement, mix it in now according to the package directions.

Feeding Guidelines

The amount you feed your active dog will depend on their size, breed, and how much exercise they get. It’s not a one-size-fits-all situation.

• Small Active Dogs (up to 25 lbs): Start with about 1 to 1.5 cups per day, divided into two meals.
• Medium Active Dogs (25-50 lbs): Aim for about 2 to 3 cups per day, divided into two meals.
• Large Active Dogs (50-80 lbs): Consider 3 to 4.5 cups per day, divided into two or three meals.
• Very Large/Highly Active Dogs (over 80 lbs): They might need 5 cups or more per day.

Always keep an eye on your dog’s weight and energy levels. If they seem to be losing weight, increase the portion slightly. If they’re gaining too much, cut back a bit. For puppies, pregnant, or nursing dogs, their needs are much higher, so please consult your veterinarian for precise feeding amounts. They can give you the best personalized advice.

Nutritional Benefits of the Recipe

This recipe is a real boon for an active dog’s health.

• Chicken: Provides high-quality, lean protein essential for muscle growth, repair, and overall body function. It’s also a good source of B vitamins.
• Sweet Potatoes: Offer complex carbohydrates for sustained energy release, beta-carotene (which converts to Vitamin A for healthy skin and vision), and dietary fiber for good digestion.
• Green Beans & Carrots: Add essential vitamins (like C and K), minerals, and fiber without adding too many calories. They’re great for overall health.
• Olive/Flaxseed Oil: Supplies healthy fats, including Omega-3s (especially flaxseed oil), which are excellent for reducing inflammation, supporting joint health, and promoting a shiny coat.
• Overall: This meal supports strong muscles, provides steady energy, aids digestion, and contributes to a healthy immune system.

Storage and Serving Tips

Making a batch of this food can save you time during the week.

• Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Freezing: For longer storage, portion the food into individual servings and freeze them in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 2-3 months.
• Reheating: Thaw frozen portions in the refrigerator overnight. You can serve it at room temperature or gently warm it slightly before serving.
• Serving Ideas: Serve it on its own, or mix it with a small amount of their regular kibble if you’re transitioning their diet. Always ensure the food is not too hot before giving it to your dog.

Common Questions & Troubleshooting (FAQ)

My dog has a sensitive stomach. Is this recipe suitable?

Chicken and sweet potato are generally considered easy to digest. However, introduce it slowly by mixing a small amount with their current food to see how they react.

Can I use chicken with the skin on?

It’s best to use boneless, skinless chicken. The skin adds a lot of extra fat, which can be too rich for some dogs and may lead to digestive upset.

Do I need to add a vitamin supplement?

For a truly complete and balanced diet, especially if this is their primary food source, a canine-specific multivitamin and mineral supplement is often recommended. Always discuss this with your vet.

Wrapping Up

This Chicken & Sweet Potato recipe is a wonderful way to nourish your active dog. It’s wholesome, delicious, and provides all the energy they need for their busy lives.

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