Homemade Dog Food Recipe for Beagles With Chicken & Green Bean for Healthy Sniffers

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 Beagle’s kibble not cutting it anymore? Feeling worried about mystery ingredients and empty calories affecting your furry friend’s health and energy?

You want the best for your dog, and that means nourishing them with real, wholesome food. This recipe is here to help you provide just that.

Recipe Overview

This homemade chicken and green bean blend is designed to be a nutritious and digestible meal for your Beagle, focusing on healthy digestion and optimal energy levels. It’s packed with lean protein and fiber.

• Prep time: 15 minutes
• Cook time: 25 minutes
• Serving size: Varies by dog weight (see feeding guidelines)

Ingredients List

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs (about $4.00)
• 1 cup chopped green beans (fresh or frozen, about $1.00)
• 1/2 cup cooked brown rice (about $0.50)
• 1/4 cup cooked pureed pumpkin (not pie filling, about $0.75)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (about $0.25)
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley (about $0.10)
• Optional: 1/2 teaspoon canine multivitamin supplement (about $0.50)

Total estimated cost: $7.10 (plus optional supplement)

Substitutions: You can swap chicken thighs for boneless, skinless chicken breast or turkey. If your dog doesn’t tolerate rice well, cooked quinoa is an alternative.

Step-by-Step Instructions

• 1. Cook the chicken thighs thoroughly. You can boil them until cooked through or bake them at 375°F (190°C) until no pink remains.
• 2. While the chicken cooks, steam or boil the chopped green beans until tender.
• 3. Once cooked, shred or finely dice the chicken.
• 4. If using brown rice, cook it according to package directions.
• 5. In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cooked green beans, cooked brown rice, and pureed pumpkin.
• 6. Drizzle the olive oil over the mixture.
• 7. Sprinkle in the dried parsley and the optional canine multivitamin supplement.
• 8. Mix everything together until well combined.
• 9. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Feeding Guidelines

• For adult Beagles (around 20-25 lbs): Start with approximately 1.5 to 2 cups of food per day, divided into two meals.
• For puppies: They will need more calories for growth. Consult your veterinarian for puppy-specific portion sizes, as needs vary greatly by age and growth rate.
• For senior dogs: Adjust portion sizes based on their activity level and metabolism, which may slow down.
• For active dogs: If your Beagle is very active, they might need slightly larger portions to fuel their energy needs.
• For overweight dogs: Reduce portion sizes slightly and discuss a weight management plan with your vet.
• For underweight dogs: Increase portion sizes gradually and consult your vet to rule out underlying health issues.
• Always provide fresh, clean water with every meal.
• It’s best to consult your veterinarian to determine the exact portion size tailored to your individual dog’s needs, considering their age, activity level, and any specific health concerns.

Nutritional Benefits of the Recipe

• Chicken provides lean protein, essential for muscle building and repair, and contains amino acids vital for overall health.
• Green beans are a good source of fiber, which aids digestion and helps promote a feeling of fullness, potentially assisting with weight management. They also offer vitamins like K and C.
• Brown rice offers complex carbohydrates for sustained energy release and is a digestible grain for many dogs.
• Pureed pumpkin is rich in fiber and can help regulate digestion, being beneficial for both constipation and diarrhea. It also contains vitamins A and E.
• Olive oil provides healthy monounsaturated fats, including omega-3 fatty acids, which support skin and coat health and can reduce inflammation.
• Parsley can help freshen breath and contains antioxidants.
• A canine multivitamin supplement can help ensure all essential vitamins and minerals are met, especially if the diet isn’t perfectly balanced on its own.

Storage and Serving Tips

• Store the prepared food in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• For longer storage, portion the food into freezer-safe bags or containers. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.
• To serve frozen food, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator or warm it gently in the microwave or on the stovetop until just lukewarm.
• This food can be served warm, at room temperature, or mixed with your dog’s regular kibble to make mealtime more appealing.

Common Questions & Troubleshooting (FAQ)

What if my dog has allergies?

If your dog has known allergies, carefully review each ingredient. For example, if they are sensitive to chicken, you can substitute it with turkey or lean beef. If they have grain sensitivities, replace the brown rice with quinoa or a cooked sweet potato.

How much water should I add?

The recipe includes moist ingredients like pumpkin and green beans. If your dog prefers a softer consistency, you can add a tablespoon or two of warm water or low-sodium chicken broth when serving.

Can I add other vegetables?

Yes, you can add other dog-safe vegetables like carrots, sweet potatoes, or peas in moderation. Ensure they are cooked and pureed or finely chopped. Always introduce new ingredients one at a time to monitor for any adverse reactions.

My dog is a picky eater, will they like this?

Many dogs find homemade food more appealing than kibble due to the fresh ingredients and aroma. The combination of savory chicken, nutrient-rich vegetables, and easily digestible rice is usually well-received. You can also try warming it slightly to enhance its scent.

Wrapping Up

Nourish your Beagle with this simple, wholesome chicken and green bean blend for a healthier, happier pup. Try it today!