Homemade Dog Food Recipe for Siberian Huskies With Chicken & Brown Rice for Sustained Energy

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.

Sick of squinting at those complicated ingredient lists on pricey dog food? It’s hard to tell if your adventurous Husky is actually getting what they need.

These dogs burn through energy like crazy, so they need real protein and the right nutrients, not just empty fillers.

Here’s a homemade dog food recipe built for Huskies, so you can keep your dog happy, healthy, and ready for anything.

Recipe Overview

This homemade chicken and brown rice recipe is specifically formulated for high-energy breeds like Siberian Huskies, providing the sustained fuel they need without unnecessary additives.

It balances lean protein, complex carbohydrates, and essential fats to support their intense activity levels.

• Purpose: High-energy, sustained fuel for active dog breeds.
• Prep Time: 15 minutes.
• Cook Time: 35 minutes.
• Serving Size: Makes approximately 10 cups (enough for 3–4 days for a standard 50-pound Husky).

Ingredients List

We use simple, affordable ingredients that are easy to find and completely safe for your Husky.

• 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast ($8.00): Excellent source of lean protein.
• 2 cups dry brown rice ($1.50): Provides complex carbohydrates for sustained energy.
• 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth or water ($1.00): Cooking liquid and flavor enhancer.
• 1 cup carrots, finely chopped ($0.75): Source of beta-carotene and fiber.
• 1 cup spinach, chopped ($1.00): Packed with iron and essential vitamins.
• 1/4 cup olive oil or coconut oil ($0.50): Provides essential fatty acids (Omega-6).
• 1 tablespoon powdered canine vitamin/mineral supplement ($2.00): Crucial for meeting AAFCO standards, ensuring nutritional completeness.
• Substitutions: Chicken breast can be swapped with lean ground turkey. Brown rice can be replaced with oatmeal or quinoa if your dog has specific sensitivities.
• Total Estimated Cost: $14.75

Step-by-Step Instructions

This recipe is made using a simple one-pot method, making cleanup quick and easy.

• Step 1: Cook the rice. Add the brown rice and 4 cups of broth or water to a large pot. Bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes until the liquid is absorbed.
• Step 2: Cook the chicken. While the rice cooks, cut the chicken into small, bite-sized cubes (about 1/2 inch).
• Step 3: Add chicken and vegetables. Stir the raw chicken cubes, chopped carrots, and spinach directly into the rice pot. The residual heat from the rice will help cook the chicken evenly.
• Step 4: Continue cooking. Cover the pot again and simmer for another 10 to 15 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked through and the vegetables are tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
• Step 5: Cool and mix in supplements. Remove the pot from the heat and allow the mixture to cool completely—this is very important. Once cooled, stir in the olive oil and the canine vitamin/mineral supplement until everything is evenly combined.

Feeding Guidelines

The amount you feed your Husky depends entirely on their size, age, and how much they exercise.

Always consult your veterinarian before transitioning your dog to a new diet, especially a homemade one, to ensure it meets their specific health requirements.

• Standard Adult Husky (45–60 lbs): Feed approximately 2.5 to 3 cups of this recipe per day, divided into two meals.
• High-Activity/Working Dogs: Huskies that run or pull often may need up to 4 cups daily due to their high caloric burn.
• Seniors/Low Activity Dogs: Reduce the amount to 2 cups per day to prevent unwanted weight gain, as their metabolism slows down.
• Puppies and Pregnant/Nursing Dogs: These life stages require higher fat and calcium. This recipe should be supplemented with specific puppy formulas or higher-fat meats as directed by a vet.

Nutritional Benefits of the Recipe

Every ingredient in this blend serves a vital purpose for your Husky’s health and high energy requirements.

• Chicken Breast: Provides high-quality, easily digestible protein essential for maintaining lean muscle mass, which is crucial for working breeds.
• Brown Rice: Offers complex carbohydrates that release energy slowly, giving your Husky sustained fuel throughout the day without sugar spikes. It also provides essential fiber for digestive regularity.
• Olive/Coconut Oil: These healthy fats supply Omega-6 fatty acids, promoting a shiny coat and healthy skin, common concerns for double-coated Huskies.
• Spinach and Carrots: Deliver vital micronutrients like Vitamin A (from carrots) for vision and immunity, and iron (from spinach) to support healthy blood and stamina.
• Vitamin Supplement: Homemade diets often lack specific trace minerals like Calcium, Zinc, and B Vitamins. The supplement guarantees the diet is nutritionally complete and balanced according to AAFCO standards.

Storage and Serving Tips

Proper storage is key to keeping the food safe and fresh for your dog.

• Refrigeration: This food stays fresh for up to 4 days when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Freezing: You can freeze larger batches in single-serving containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
• Serving Suggestions: Serve the food at room temperature or slightly warmed to enhance the smell and flavor, which can appeal to picky eaters.
• Mixing: Many owners mix this cooked food 50/50 with their Husky’s regular kibble during the transition period or just to add variety.

Common Questions & Troubleshooting

Can I make this recipe in a pressure cooker?

Yes, you can. A pressure cooker or Instant Pot is perfect for homemade dog food. Cook the rice and chicken together for about 10 minutes on high pressure, followed by a natural release. Stir in the vegetables, oil, and supplements after cooling.

Is brown rice better than white rice for dogs?

Brown rice is generally better because it is a whole grain. It retains more fiber and nutrients, providing a more stable, slow-release energy source compared to refined white rice.

Do I really need the vitamin supplement?

Yes, the vitamin/mineral supplement is necessary for dietary completeness. While whole foods are great, they naturally lack the precise ratios of micro-nutrients, like calcium and phosphorus, required by AAFCO for long-term health, especially in working dogs.

Wrapping Up

Making your Husky’s food at home gives you total control over what they eat, providing the clean energy they need to thrive. Feeling inspired? Pin this recipe to your Homemade Dog Food board for easy access and follow us for more pet-friendly tips!