Homemade Dog Food Recipe for Beagles With Beef & Brown Rice for Active Pups

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.

Got a Beagle who’s basically a four-legged tornado, always hungry and way too hyped for whatever’s in their bowl?

I feel you. And don’t even get me started on those sketchy ingredient lists on store-bought kibble. Half the time I’m squinting at the bag like, “Is this even food?”

Honestly, if you want your furball to chow down on something that actually matches their zoomies, I’ve got a no-nonsense, healthy homemade dog food recipe that’ll have your Beagle begging for seconds. Trust me, they’ll be wagging like crazy.

This beef and brown rice recipe is designed for active Beagles, providing balanced nutrition to fuel their playful days. It’s packed with protein for muscle support and complex carbohydrates for sustained energy.

• Prep time: 25 minutes
• Cook time: 45 minutes
• Serving size: Varies by dog (see feeding guidelines)

Ingredients List

• 2 lbs lean ground beef (approx. $7.00)
• 2 cups cooked brown rice (approx. $1.00)
• 1 cup cooked sweet potato, mashed (approx. $0.75)
• 1/2 cup cooked peas (frozen or fresh) (approx. $0.30)
• 1/2 cup cooked carrots, diced (approx. $0.25)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (approx. $0.10)
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley (optional, for freshness) (approx. $0.05)
• 1/2 teaspoon ground flaxseed (for Omega-3s) (approx. $0.10)
• Canine multivitamin and mineral supplement (as directed by your vet) (approx. $0.50 per day if needed)

Estimated total cost for one batch (approx. 4-5 days for a medium Beagle): $10.05 (plus supplement cost)

Substitutions: Ground turkey or chicken can replace ground beef. Quinoa can be used instead of brown rice.

Step-by-Step Instructions

• 1. Cook the ground beef in a large pot over medium heat until browned. Drain off any excess fat.
• 2. While the beef is cooking, prepare your brown rice, sweet potato, peas, and carrots according to package directions or your preferred method. Mash the sweet potato.
• 3. Add the cooked brown rice, mashed sweet potato, peas, and carrots to the pot with the beef.
• 4. Stir in the olive oil and dried parsley, if using.
• 5. Add the ground flaxseed and stir to combine.
• 6. Cook for another 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until everything is heated through and well mixed.
• 7. Let the mixture cool completely before serving.

Feeding Guidelines

• For an active Beagle weighing 20-25 lbs, start with approximately 1.5 to 2 cups of food per day, divided into two meals.
• Puppies will need more food relative to their size, and senior dogs may require less. Adjust portions based on your dog’s activity level; very energetic dogs will need more.
• Always observe your dog’s body condition. If they are gaining too much weight, reduce the portion. If they seem too thin, increase it slightly.
• It’s a good idea to talk to your veterinarian. They can help you figure out the exact amount your specific Beagle needs, especially if they have any health concerns or unique energy requirements.

Nutritional Benefits of the Recipe

• Beef: Provides high-quality protein essential for building and repairing muscles, plus iron for energy.
• Brown Rice: A good source of complex carbohydrates for sustained energy release and dietary fiber, which aids digestion.
• Sweet Potato: Rich in vitamins A and C, plus fiber for gut health and antioxidants.
• Peas and Carrots: Offer additional vitamins, minerals, and fiber.
• Flaxseed: A great source of Omega-3 fatty acids, which support skin and coat health, and brain function.
• Olive Oil: Contributes healthy monounsaturated fats for energy and nutrient absorption.

Storage and Serving Tips

• Store the cooked food in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• For longer storage, portion the food into individual servings and freeze. Frozen food will last for up to 2-3 months.
• To serve, thaw frozen portions in the refrigerator overnight. You can serve the food warm or at room temperature.
• If your dog is used to kibble, you can mix a small amount of this homemade food with their regular dry food to make it more appealing and add extra nutrition.

Common Questions & Troubleshooting (FAQ

Is this recipe suitable for all dogs, not just Beagles?

This recipe is a good base, but specific dietary needs vary by breed, age, and health. While generally safe, it’s always best to consult your vet to ensure it’s perfect for your individual dog.

What if my dog is a picky eater?

The appealing smell and taste of beef and sweet potato are usually a hit. You can also try adding a sprinkle of nutritional yeast (dog-safe) or a tiny bit of plain, cooked chicken broth to enhance flavor.

How do I know if I’m feeding the right amount?

Monitor your dog’s weight and energy levels. You should be able to feel their ribs easily but not see them sticking out. If you’re unsure, a vet check is the best way to confirm correct portion sizes.

Wrapping Up

Give your active Beagle the delicious, wholesome meal they deserve. This beef and brown rice recipe is easy to make and packed with goodness.

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