Do you know what DOG ESSENTIALS you are missing out? Find out now!
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.
I know you adore your Golden Retriever puppy and naturally, you want the best for them, especially food that will fuel their fast growth, strong bones, shiny coat, and active life.
A commercial kibble with mystery ingredients or a sensitive stomach? A homemade dog food recipe will solve that.
So here is my “Puppy Power Lamb & Oatmeal” recipe—full of nutrients, easy to digest, specifically made for Goldens. Your pup will surely think that you are a brilliant chef.
Let’s get into it.
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Why Lamb and Oatmeal?
Lamb: A Lean Protein Powerhouse
Lamb is great to give to dogs. Since it’s a novel protein for most dogs, it can be very good for dogs that have a sensitive stomach or are allergic to proteins that are commonly found in chicken or beef.
Besides that, it is full of essential amino acids, iron, and B vitamins that are very important for energy and growth.
On average, it is still a lean meat, but it has just enough fat to help the growth of a puppy without making the puppy overly rich.
Oatmeal: Gentle, Digestible Energy
Oatmeal is also a great alternative, especially for infants. It’s a complex carbohydrate that gives energy for a long time, thus, sugar spikes and crashes are avoided.
Besides that, it is a very gentle product for the digestive system since it is full of soluble fiber that is able to provide healthy bowel movements and calm down upset tummies.
This makes it a far better option than some other grains for a puppy’s developing system.
Puppy Power Lamb & Oatmeal Recipe
Okay, here’s the recipe. Remember, while this is a great start, it’s always a good idea to chat with your vet or a veterinary nutritionist, especially when making significant changes to your puppy’s diet. They can help you ensure it’s perfectly balanced for your specific pup’s needs.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground lamb (lean or regular, depending on your pup’s energy level)
- 1 cup rolled oats (not instant, not steel-cut – just regular rolled oats)
- 3 cups water
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (finely chopped carrots, green beans, peas, or spinach – avoid onions, garlic, mushrooms, grapes, and raisins)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or flaxseed oil (for healthy fats)
- 1 teaspoon calcium carbonate powder (crucial for bone health – check with your vet for exact dosing)
- 1/2 teaspoon dog-specific multivitamin powder (optional, but a good safety net for homemade diets)
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Instructions:
- Cook the Lamb: In a large skillet, cook the ground lamb over medium heat until it’s fully browned. Break it up into small pieces as it cooks. Once cooked, drain any excess fat. This is important to keep the fat content appropriate for a puppy.
- Prepare the Oatmeal: In a separate pot, bring the 3 cups of water to a boil. Add the rolled oats, reduce heat to low, and simmer for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the oats are cooked through and most of the water is absorbed. It should be a soft, porridge-like consistency.
- Add Vegetables: While the oats are cooking, steam or lightly boil your finely chopped vegetables until they are tender. You want them soft enough for easy digestion, but not mushy.
- Combine Everything: In a large bowl, combine the cooked lamb, cooked oatmeal, and cooked vegetables.
- Add Supplements: Once the mixture has cooled slightly (but is still warm), stir in the olive oil or flaxseed oil, the calcium carbonate powder, and the multivitamin powder (if using). Make sure everything is thoroughly mixed so the supplements are evenly distributed.
- Cool and Serve: Let the food cool completely before serving. This recipe makes several servings.
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Feeding Guidelines:
The amount you feed will depend on your puppy’s age, weight, and activity level. As a general rule, puppies need more calories per pound of body weight than adult dogs because they’re growing so rapidly.
Start by feeding about 1/2 cup to 1 cup per 10 pounds of body weight, divided into 2-3 meals per day, and adjust as needed to maintain a healthy weight.
Monitor your puppy’s weight and energy levels closely. If they seem too thin, increase the amount; if they’re getting chubby, reduce it. Always have fresh water available.
Important Considerations and Tips
Balance is Very Important
Vet input is what’s keeping the calcium/phosphorus ratios for proper growth in check. Unless otherwise instructed, use calcium carbonate powder.
Storing
Keep it in the fridge if it’s airtight for up to 3-4 days; freeze the portions and let them thaw overnight.
Gradual Transition
Over 7-10 days, mix it with the current food. If you see diarrhea or vomiting, slow down the transition or call the vet.
Mixing (Carefully)
Slowly rotate the proteins/veggies for the nutrients; puppies should be prioritized for consistency.
Stay Away from Toxins
Do not give dogs onions, garlic, chocolate, grapes, raisins, xylitol, avocado, mac
📖 Don’t Miss This…
Need more ideas on what to cook for your dog? Then you must check out my library of homemade dog food recipes today!
FAQ
What if my puppy doesn’t like the vegetables?
Try pureeing them or mashing them and mixing them thoroughly into the lamb and oatmeal. You can also experiment with different vegetables like sweet potato or pumpkin, which many dogs love. Just make sure they are cooked and in appropriate quantities.
Is this recipe balanced enough for long-term feeding?
For puppies, strict balance is critical. While this recipe is a good base, it’s highly recommended to consult with a vet or a board-certified veterinary nutritionist. They can help you fine-tune the recipe, ensuring all specific nutrient requirements for your growing Golden Retriever puppy are met, especially for minerals like calcium and phosphorus, and essential vitamins.
Can I use other types of meat?
Yes, you can substitute other lean ground meats like turkey or even lean beef. Always ensure the meat is fully cooked and any excess fat is drained. Introduce new meats slowly to ensure your puppy doesn’t have any sensitivities.
How much calcium carbonate should I really use?
The amount of calcium carbonate powder can vary based on your puppy’s weight and the specific diet. The 1 teaspoon in this recipe is a general guideline for a full batch. It’s crucial to confirm the exact dosage with your veterinarian to prevent either deficiency or excess, both of which can be harmful to a growing puppy’s bones.
My puppy has a sensitive stomach; will this help?
Many owners find that homemade diets with simple, wholesome ingredients like lamb and oatmeal can be easier on sensitive stomachs than highly processed commercial foods. Lamb is a novel protein and oatmeal is a gentle carbohydrate. However, every dog is different. Introduce it slowly, and if you notice any digestive upset, stop and consult your vet.
Can I add rice instead of oatmeal?
Yes, cooked white or brown rice can be substituted for oatmeal. White rice is generally easier to digest, while brown rice offers more fiber. If using rice, adjust the water content for cooking accordingly. Ensure it’s fully cooked and soft for easy digestion.
