Homemade Dog Food Recipe for Active Dogs using Turkey & Oatmeal

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.

You​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌ dump a bag of kibble and a heap of brown pellets spill out of the bag and down to the floor, each piece the same, smooth, and totally inscrutable.

Your super energetic dog smells it, then looks up as if to say, “Are you serious?” I guess the yard should be a blur of paws and flying grass in a couple of minutes, but instead, he is lying on the rug with his energy fizzling before it gets here.

What should you do then?

Well, I’ve got just the right recipe for your active dog.

Recipe Overview

• This homemade Turkey & Oatmeal dog food recipe is perfect for active dogs.
• It packs high-quality protein, complex carbs, and essential nutrients to keep them energized.
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Serving Size: Makes about 8-10 servings for a medium-sized active dog.

Ingredients List

• 1.5 lbs ground turkey (93% lean): $7.50
• 2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats: $0.80
• 4 cups water (for cooking oats): $0.00
• 1 large sweet potato, peeled and diced (about 2 cups): $1.20
• 1 cup green beans, fresh or frozen (no salt added): $0.90
• 1/2 cup carrots, shredded: $0.40
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: $0.30
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for fresh breath): $0.50
• 1 teaspoon dog-specific multivitamin/mineral supplement (ensure it has calcium and phosphorus in appropriate ratios for homemade food): $0.75 per serving, so about $6.00 for 8 servings.

Total Estimated Cost: $17.80

Substitutions:

• Turkey: You can use ground chicken, lean ground beef, or venison instead.
• Sweet Potato: Butternut squash or pumpkin are good alternatives.
• Green Beans/Carrots: Peas, broccoli florets (steamed), or spinach can be used.
• Oats: Brown rice (cook according to package directions) can replace oats, though oats are often gentler on stomachs.

Step-by-Step Instructions

• 1. Get your sweet potato ready. Peel it and dice it into small, uniform pieces.
• 2. Cook the turkey. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or pot over medium heat. Add the ground turkey and cook it until it’s fully browned, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain any extra fat.
• 3. Add the veggies. Stir in the diced sweet potato, green beans, and shredded carrots with the cooked turkey. Cook for about 8-10 minutes, or until the sweet potato starts to soften.
• 4. Cook the oats. While the turkey and veggies are cooking, bring 4 cups of water to a boil in a separate pot. Add the old-fashioned rolled oats, reduce the heat to low, and simmer for 5-7 minutes until the water is absorbed and the oats are cooked. Stir occasionally so it doesn’t stick.
• 5. Combine everything. Mix the cooked turkey and vegetable mixture with the cooked oatmeal in a large bowl.
• 6. Add the final touches. Let the mixture cool down completely. Once cool, stir in the chopped fresh parsley and the dog-specific multivitamin/mineral supplement. Mix well to make sure the supplement is evenly distributed.

Feeding Guidelines

• Small dogs (10-25 lbs): 1/2 to 1 cup per day, split into two meals.
• Medium dogs (25-50 lbs): 1.5 to 2.5 cups per day, split into two meals.
• Large dogs (50-90 lbs): 3 to 4.5 cups per day, split into two meals.
• Giant breeds (90+ lbs): 5+ cups per day, split into two meals.
• Active dogs, pregnant/nursing dogs, or puppies will generally need more. Increase portions by about 10-25% depending on their energy output and growth stage.
• Senior dogs might need slightly less, especially if their activity slows down.
• It’s a good idea to chat with your vet to figure out the best portion sizes for your dog’s specific needs. They can help tailor it perfectly.

Nutritional Benefits of the Recipe

• Turkey: This is a lean protein source, giving your active dog the essential amino acids they need for strong muscles and sustained energy.
• Oatmeal: A complex carbohydrate that provides steady energy without sugar spikes. It’s also gentle on the stomach and a good source of soluble fiber, which helps with digestion and keeps things moving.
• Sweet Potato: Loaded with fiber, vitamins A and C, and potassium. It supports vision, immune health, and provides natural sweetness and energy.
• Green Beans & Carrots: These add important vitamins (like K and B6), minerals, and more fiber. They are low in calories but high in nutrients, good for overall health.
• Olive Oil: Provides healthy monounsaturated fats and some Omega-6 fatty acids, beneficial for skin and coat health.
• Dog-Specific Multivitamin/Mineral Supplement: Crucial for homemade diets. It makes sure your dog gets all the necessary vitamins (A, D, E, K, B-complex, Choline) and minerals (Calcium, Phosphorus, Magnesium, Iron, Zinc, etc.) to balance the diet.

Storage and Serving Tips

• This food stays good in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4-5 days.
• For longer storage, you can freeze individual portions for up to 2-3 months. Just thaw them in the fridge overnight before serving.
• When reheating, you can warm it slightly in the microwave or on the stovetop. Make sure it’s not too hot before giving it to your dog.
• Serve it at room temperature or slightly warm. Some dogs like it mixed with their regular kibble too, if you’re slowly transitioning them.

Common Questions & Troubleshooting

How can I be sure my dog is getting all the nutrients they need?

Using a high-quality, vet-recommended canine multivitamin and mineral supplement is super important for homemade diets. It fills in any gaps and ensures a balanced meal. Always pick one formulated for dogs and check the nutrient ratios.

My dog has a sensitive stomach, is this recipe okay?

Yes, this recipe is often good for sensitive stomachs because it uses easily digestible ingredients like turkey and oatmeal. But here’s the thing, always introduce new foods slowly and watch for any signs of upset.

Can I make a big batch and freeze it?

Definitely! Making a big batch is smart. Just portion it out into daily servings before freezing. This saves you time during the week. Thaw one portion at a time in the fridge before serving.

Wrapping Up

Making your dog’s food at home means you know exactly what they’re eating. This turkey and oatmeal recipe gives active dogs the good stuff they need to stay happy and full of life.

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