Homemade Dog Food Recipe for Australian Shepherds With Chicken & Quinoa for Muscle Recovery

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 Aussie dragging their paws after a long day running around, herding, jumping, chasing? Maybe you look at their food and wonder if it’s really doing enough for their muscles and health.

You care about what goes into their bowl, and you want something homemade, something you can trust to keep up with their energy.

I’ve been there too, and I’ve got an answer for you. Let’s make this homemade Aussie Shepherd dog food today!

Recipe Overview

• This chicken and quinoa recipe is designed for active dogs, especially Australian Shepherds, aiding in muscle recovery and providing sustained energy.
• Prep time: 20 minutes
• Cook time: 30 minutes
• Serving size: Varies by dog size (see feeding guidelines)

Ingredients List

• 2 cups cooked quinoa (about 2/3 cup dry quinoa) – $1.50
• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts – $4.00
• 1 cup chopped sweet potato (peeled) – $0.75
• 1/2 cup chopped carrots – $0.30
• 1/4 cup chopped green beans – $0.20
• 1 tablespoon olive oil – $0.25
• 1/4 cup low-sodium chicken broth (ensure no onion or garlic) – $0.50
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley (optional, for freshness) – $0.10
• 1/2 teaspoon canine multivitamin/mineral supplement (if recommended by vet) – $0.50 (estimated)
• Total Estimated Cost: $8.10

Substitutions: Turkey can be used instead of chicken. Brown rice or barley can replace quinoa if your dog tolerates them well.

Step-by-Step Instructions

• Cook the quinoa according to package directions. Let it cool slightly.
• While the quinoa cooks, dice the chicken into small, bite-sized pieces.
• Chop the sweet potato, carrots, and green beans into small, manageable pieces.
• Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or pot over medium heat.
• Add the diced chicken and cook until browned on all sides.
• Stir in the chopped sweet potato and carrots. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they start to soften.
• Add the chopped green beans and cook for another 3-5 minutes until they are tender-crisp.
• Pour in the low-sodium chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
• Reduce heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 10-15 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender.
• Stir in the cooked quinoa and dried parsley (if using). Mix well to combine all ingredients.
• If using a canine supplement, stir it in thoroughly at the end of cooking.
• Let the mixture cool completely before serving.

Feeding Guidelines

• For a 20-30 lb Australian Shepherd, start with about 1.5 to 2 cups per day, divided into two meals.
• For a 40-50 lb Australian Shepherd, offer about 2.5 to 3.5 cups per day.
• Puppies will need more per pound of body weight than adult dogs.
• Senior dogs or those with lower activity levels may need slightly less.
• Highly active dogs or those in training might require more.
• Always monitor your dog’s weight and body condition. Adjust portion sizes as needed.
• It’s best to consult your veterinarian to determine the exact feeding amount for your individual dog based on their age, weight, activity level, and overall health.

Nutritional Benefits of the Recipe

• Chicken provides high-quality protein essential for muscle repair and growth.
• Quinoa is a complete protein source and offers complex carbohydrates for sustained energy. It’s also a good source of fiber.
• Sweet potatoes are rich in beta-carotene, which the body converts to Vitamin A, important for vision and immune function. They also provide fiber.
• Carrots are packed with Vitamin A and antioxidants.
• Green beans add fiber and essential vitamins and minerals like Vitamin K and C.
• Olive oil contributes healthy monounsaturated fats, beneficial for skin and coat health.
• The optional canine supplement helps ensure a balanced intake of all necessary vitamins and minerals, especially important in homemade diets.

Storage and Serving Tips

• This homemade dog food can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days.
• For longer storage, divide into single-serving portions and freeze. It will last up to 2-3 months in the freezer.
• To serve frozen portions, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator.
• You can serve the food slightly warmed, at room temperature, or even cold. Some dogs prefer it warm.
• You can mix it with a small amount of their regular kibble to make it more appealing or to transition slowly.

Common Questions & Troubleshooting

Is this recipe balanced for all nutrients?

While this recipe uses nutritious ingredients, homemade diets can sometimes lack specific micronutrients. It’s strongly recommended to consult with your veterinarian or a board-certified veterinary nutritionist to ensure it’s a complete and balanced diet for your dog’s specific needs. Often, a good quality canine multivitamin and mineral supplement is advised.

Can I add other vegetables?

Yes, you can add other dog-safe vegetables like broccoli, peas, or spinach in moderation. Always introduce new ingredients slowly and in small amounts to observe your dog’s reaction. Avoid onions, garlic, grapes, and raisins, as they are toxic to dogs.

My dog is a picky eater. Will they like this?

Many dogs enjoy the taste of chicken and vegetables. You can try warming the food slightly or mixing it with a small amount of their current food to encourage acceptance. The texture can also be adjusted by how finely you chop the ingredients.

How do I transition my dog to this new food?

It’s important to transition your dog gradually to avoid digestive upset. Start by mixing about 25% of the homemade food with 75% of their old food for a few days. Then, increase the homemade food to 50% for a few more days, followed by 75% and finally 100% over about a week to 10 days.

Wrapping Up

Give your Aussie the gift of wholesome nutrition for peak performance and recovery. This simple, homemade recipe is packed with goodness they’ll love.

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