Homemade Dog Food Recipe for Senior Australian Shepherds With Lamb & Oats

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.

Does your senior Aussie turn up their nose at dinner or have a tough time with digestion?

Figuring out what to feed them gets pretty tricky as they get older, especially when they start having special needs.

And I know you want to make sure they’re eating well and actually enjoying their food.

Here’s some good news: you can whip up a tasty, healthy meal at home.

This homemade dog food recipe is easy on sensitive stomachs and full of the good stuff they need.

Recipe Overview

• This homemade lamb and oat recipe is designed for senior Australian Shepherds, focusing on easy digestion and joint support.
• Prep time: 20 minutes
• Cook time: 45 minutes
• Serving size: Varies based on dog weight (see feeding guidelines)

Ingredients List

• 1 lb ground lamb (approx. $5.99/lb) – Excellent source of protein and iron. Can substitute with ground turkey.
• 1 cup rolled oats (approx. $2.99/lb, so about $0.75 for 1 cup) – Provides fiber for digestion and sustained energy. Ensure they are plain, not instant flavored.
• 1 cup cooked sweet potato, mashed (approx. $0.99/lb, so about $0.75 for 1 cup) – Rich in Vitamin A and fiber.
• 1/2 cup cooked green beans, chopped (approx. $1.99/lb, so about $0.30 for 1/2 cup) – Good source of vitamins and fiber.
• 1/4 cup cooked carrots, diced (approx. $0.99/lb, so about $0.15 for 1/4 cup) – Another source of Vitamin A and antioxidants.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (approx. $10.99/gallon, so about $0.10) – For healthy fats and palatability.
• 1 teaspoon salmon oil (approx. $15.99 for 8oz bottle, so about $0.50) – Rich in Omega-3 fatty acids for joint and coat health.
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (approx. $3.99/jar, so about $0.05) – May offer anti-inflammatory benefits.
• Optional: 1/4 teaspoon of a high-quality canine multivitamin and mineral supplement (e.g., ~$20 for a 30-day supply, so about $0.67) – To ensure complete nutritional balance, especially for seniors.

Estimated total cost: $9.09 (before optional supplement)

Step-by-Step Instructions

• 1. Cook the ground lamb in a large skillet over medium heat. Break it up as it cooks. Drain off any excess fat.
• 2. While the lamb cooks, prepare your oats. You can cook them according to package directions, using water or unsalted chicken broth, until tender.
• 3. In a large bowl, combine the cooked lamb, cooked oats, mashed sweet potato, chopped green beans, and diced carrots.
• 4. Add the olive oil, salmon oil, and ground cinnamon to the mixture.
• 5. Stir everything together until well combined.
• 6. If you are using a canine multivitamin and mineral supplement, mix it in thoroughly at this stage.
• 7. Let the food cool completely before serving.

Feeding Guidelines

• These are general guidelines and should be adjusted based on your dog’s individual metabolism, activity level, and health.
• For a 30-40 lb senior dog, start with about 1.5 to 2 cups per day, divided into two meals.
• For a 40-50 lb senior dog, offer around 2 to 2.5 cups per day, also split into two meals.
• If your Aussie is very active, you may need to increase portions slightly. For less active seniors, you might reduce them.
• Puppies and very active adults will require significantly more food, but this recipe is optimized for seniors.
• Always ensure fresh water is available.
• It’s best to transition slowly to any new food over 7-10 days to avoid digestive upset.
• Consult your veterinarian to determine the perfect portion size for your specific dog’s needs.

Nutritional Benefits of the Recipe

• Protein from lamb is essential for maintaining muscle mass, which is important for aging dogs. It also provides key amino acids.
• Oats are a fantastic source of soluble fiber, aiding digestion and promoting a healthy gut microbiome. They can also help regulate blood sugar.
• Sweet potatoes offer beta-carotene, which the body converts to Vitamin A, important for vision and immune function. They are also a good source of fiber.
• Green beans and carrots contribute vitamins, minerals, and additional fiber, supporting overall health and well-being.
• Salmon oil is packed with EPA and DHA, Omega-3 fatty acids that are crucial for reducing inflammation, supporting joint health, and maintaining a healthy coat.
• Cinnamon may have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
• A balanced canine supplement ensures that all essential micronutrients are met, especially vital for senior dogs whose absorption or needs might change.

Common Questions & Troubleshooting (FAQ)

Can I use different meats?

Yes, you can substitute the ground lamb with other dog-safe options like ground turkey, chicken, or lean beef. Just ensure they are plain and not seasoned.

What if my dog has allergies?

If your dog has common allergies to lamb, you can try turkey or chicken. For grain allergies, you might explore options like quinoa or rice instead of oats, but consult your vet first.

How long does this homemade food last?

Refrigerated, this food should be good for about 3-4 days. Always store it in an airtight container.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Absolutely. Portion the cooled food into freezer-safe containers or bags. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

My dog is a picky eater. How can I make this more appealing?

You can try warming the food slightly, as this often enhances aroma and palatability. Mixing a small amount with their current kibble can also encourage them to try it.

Wrapping Up

Give your senior Aussie the gift of a healthy, homemade meal that’s easy to digest and packed with flavor. Feeling inspired? Pin this recipe to your Homemade Dog Food board for easy access and follow us for more pet-friendly tips!