Homemade Dog Food Recipe for Senior Bernedoodle 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.

Is your senior Bernedoodle starting to turn up their nose at mealtime? It is tough watching them lose interest in food or deal with new digestive issues as they get older. Aging dogs often need easier-to-digest food that is still packed with the nutrients to keep their joints and minds sharp. We are sharing the perfect, gentle recipe built specifically for senior dogs.

Recipe Overview

This senior Bernedoodle lamb and oats recipe is gentle on sensitive stomachs and easy to chew. It is high in quality protein for muscle maintenance and uses whole grains for sustained energy.

• Purpose: Complete, balanced meal for senior dogs, focusing on digestibility and joint health.
• Prep Time: 10 minutes.
• Cook Time: 35 minutes.
• Serving Size: Approximately 10 cups (enough for 3–5 days for a 70 lb dog).

Ingredients List

We chose lamb because it is a novel protein source that is often easier for dogs with beef or chicken sensitivities. Oats add the perfect fiber boost.

• 1.5 lbs Ground Lamb (90% lean) – Est. Cost: $10.00
• 2 cups Rolled Oats (uncooked) – Est. Cost: $0.80
• 1 cup Carrots (finely chopped) – Est. Cost: $0.50
• 1 cup Green Beans (finely chopped or small cut) – Est. Cost: $0.75
• 1 cup Sweet Potato (diced small) – Est. Cost: $1.00
• 4 cups Low-Sodium Bone Broth or Water – Est. Cost: $1.50
• 2 tbsp Olive Oil or Coconut Oil – Est. Cost: $0.25
• 1 tsp Turmeric (for anti-inflammatory benefits) – Est. Cost: $0.10
• 1/2 cup Plain Greek Yogurt (optional, post-cooking) – Est. Cost: $0.70
• Complete Canine Vitamin/Mineral Supplement (as directed on package) – Est. Cost: $1.50
• Substitutions: Turkey or salmon can replace lamb. Brown rice can replace rolled oats if needed.
• Total Estimated Cost: $17.10

Step-by-Step Instructions

This recipe uses a simple one-pot method, making cleanup quick and easy. Do not add the supplement or yogurt until the food has cooled completely.

• 1. Brown the Lamb: In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the ground lamb over medium heat. Break up the meat into small pieces as it cooks. Drain any excess fat once cooked through.
• 2. Add Vegetables: Stir in the chopped carrots, green beans, and sweet potato with the lamb. Cook for about 5 minutes until the vegetables start to soften slightly.
• 3. Introduce Liquids and Spices: Pour in the bone broth (or water) and add the turmeric. Bring the mixture to a boil.
• 4. Cook the Oats: Once boiling, stir in the rolled oats. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for 15 to 20 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent the oats and vegetables from sticking to the bottom.
• 5. Cool and Finish: Remove the pot from the heat and let the mixture cool completely—this is very important. Once cooled, stir in the olive or coconut oil and the recommended dosage of the canine vitamin/mineral supplement.
• 6. Mix in Yogurt: If using, stir in the plain Greek yogurt for added probiotics right before serving or when portioning out meals.

Feeding Guidelines

Senior dogs often have slightly lower caloric needs but higher protein quality needs to maintain muscle mass. Always measure food accurately.

• Small Senior Dogs (20–30 lbs): 1.5 to 2 cups per day, split into two meals.
• Medium Senior Dogs (40–60 lbs): 2.5 to 3.5 cups per day, split into two meals.
• Large Senior Bernedoodles (70–100 lbs): 4 to 5 cups per day, split into two meals.
• Puppies and Pregnant/Nursing Dogs: This recipe is not suitable as a sole source of nutrition for puppies or pregnant dogs unless specifically balanced for them by a veterinary nutritionist. They need higher fat and calcium levels.
• Low Activity vs. High Activity: Reduce the total amount by 10% for very sedentary dogs. Increase the amount by 15% for dogs who are still highly active.
• Consultation is Key: We recommend discussing any homemade diet changes with your veterinarian to ensure it meets your Bernedoodle’s exact health profile and nutritional needs.

Nutritional Benefits of the Recipe

Every ingredient was chosen to support the specific needs of an aging dog, from joint health to brain function.

• Lamb: Provides high-quality, easily digestible protein and essential amino acids vital for maintaining muscle mass, which declines as dogs age.
• Rolled Oats: An excellent source of complex carbohydrates for steady energy and fermentable fiber, supporting healthy gut flora and consistent bowel movements.
• Sweet Potatoes and Carrots: Supply Vitamin A for vision and immune health, and they are rich in antioxidants.
• Olive/Coconut Oil: Offers Omega-6 and Omega-3 fatty acids, crucial for skin health, coat shine, and brain function.
• Turmeric: Contains curcumin, a potent anti-inflammatory compound that helps reduce joint pain and stiffness common in senior dogs.
• Canine Supplement: Ensures the diet contains essential micronutrients like Calcium, Phosphorus, B-vitamins, Iron, and Zinc, making the homemade meal complete and balanced.

Storage and Serving Tips

Proper storage prevents bacterial growth and keeps the food fresh. Always use airtight containers.

• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: The batch size is large, so freezing is recommended. Divide the cooled food into daily serving sizes (e.g., in freezer bags or muffin tins), then freeze for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: Thaw frozen portions overnight in the fridge. Serve at room temperature or slightly warmed in the microwave or on the stovetop to release the scent and encourage eating.
• Serving Suggestions: Many senior dogs enjoy this recipe slightly warm. You can mix it with a little low-sodium bone broth to make it softer and easier to lap up, especially for dogs with dental issues.

Common Questions & Troubleshooting (FAQ)

Is this recipe suitable for puppies?

No. Puppies have specific growth needs, including higher fat and precise calcium-to-phosphorus ratios that this general senior recipe does not meet. You should use a diet specifically formulated for puppy growth.

Do I really need the vitamin supplement?

Yes, absolutely. Homemade diets cooked this way are often lacking in essential minerals like calcium, iodine, and crucial vitamins. The supplement turns a “food topping” into a nutritionally complete meal. Never skip the supplement.

My Bernedoodle is overweight; how should I adjust this?

Focus on portion control first, making sure you are not overfeeding based on their current weight. You can slightly reduce the oats (carbs) by 1/4 cup and increase the green beans for added low-calorie bulk and fiber.

Can I cook this in an Instant Pot?

Yes, you can. Brown the lamb on the sauté setting first, then add the remaining ingredients (reduce the broth by 1 cup). Pressure cook on high for 8 minutes, then allow a natural pressure release for 10 minutes before cooling.

Wrapping Up

Giving your senior Bernedoodle homemade food ensures they get wholesome, digestible ingredients tailored for their golden years. This lamb and oats recipe is a wonderful way to keep them happy and healthy. Feeling inspired? Pin this recipe to your Homemade Dog Food board for easy access and follow us for more pet-friendly tips!