Homemade Dog Food Recipe with Chicken and Lentil Soup

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.

When I was a new dog owner, I’ve always found the ingredients listed on dog food to be extremely baffling.

Wait till I started hearing about recalls and artificial additives, you can imagine I was freaking out.

Now imagine the peace of mind knowing exactly what your dog is eating, crafted with love and packed with wholesome goodness.

That’s why I’mhere to share a delicious, nutritious, and easy-to-make homemade solution that will have your dog’s tail wagging with delight.

Recipe Overview

This heartwarming Chicken and Lentil Soup recipe is designed to be a complete, balanced, and highly digestible meal for adult dogs. It’s perfect for adding moisture to their diet, supporting sensitive stomachs, and providing sustained energy.

With a prep time of just 15 minutes and a cook time of 45-50 minutes, you can easily whip up a batch that yields approximately 12-14 cups, making it economical and convenient for busy pet parents.

Ingredients List

• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs ($8-$10) – *Substitution: ground turkey or lean beef*
• 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed well ($1.50-$2)
• 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth (or homemade bone broth) ($4-$6)
• 2 cups chopped carrots ($1.50-$2)
• 2 cups chopped celery ($1-$1.50)
• 1 cup chopped spinach ($2-$3)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil ($0.50-$1)
• 1/2 cup cooked sweet potato, mashed (optional, for extra carbs) ($0.50-$1)
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped ($0.50-$1)

Total Estimated Cost: $19 – $27.50

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs and cook until lightly browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside. If using chicken breast, you can chop it into 1-inch pieces now, or shred it later.
3. Add the chopped carrots and celery to the pot, stirring well to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until they start to soften.
4. Stir in the rinsed lentils and low-sodium chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes.
5. Return the chicken to the pot. Continue to simmer for another 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the lentils are tender.
6. Remove the chicken from the pot and shred it using two forks, or chop it into bite-sized pieces if you haven’t already. Return the shredded chicken to the pot.
7. Stir in the fresh spinach and chopped parsley. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, just until the spinach wilts.
8. If using, stir in the mashed sweet potato until well combined. Allow the soup to cool completely before serving or storing.

Feeding Guidelines

Feeding your dog a homemade diet requires careful portion control to ensure they receive adequate nutrients without overeating. These guidelines are general recommendations; always consult your veterinarian for personalized advice.

For adult dogs, a good starting point is approximately 1/2 to 1 cup of food per 20 pounds of body weight, twice a day. Active dogs, like working breeds or those who regularly hike, may require up to 25% more food to meet their energy demands.

Smaller breeds, such as Chihuahuas or Pomeranians, typically need around 1/4 to 1/2 cup daily, while larger breeds like Golden Retrievers or German Shepherds might consume 2-4 cups per meal. Puppies, pregnant, or lactating dogs have higher caloric and nutritional needs and should be fed smaller, more frequent meals; consult your vet for their specific requirements.

Nutritional Benefits of the Recipe

This Chicken and Lentil Soup is a powerhouse of nutrition, crafted to support your dog’s overall health and vitality. Chicken serves as an excellent source of lean protein, essential for muscle development, repair, and a healthy immune system.

Lentils are incredibly beneficial, providing a fantastic source of plant-based protein, dietary fiber, and a wealth of B vitamins and iron. This fiber content aids in healthy digestion, promotes satiety, and helps regulate blood sugar levels.

Carrots and celery offer vital vitamins (like Vitamin A from carrots), minerals, and antioxidants, contributing to eye health and general well-being. Spinach is packed with Vitamin K, Vitamin A, and iron, supporting bone health and antioxidant defense.

Olive oil adds healthy monounsaturated fats, which are beneficial for skin and coat health. The optional sweet potato provides complex carbohydrates for sustained energy, along with additional vitamins and fiber.

Storage and Serving Tips

Once cooled, transfer the homemade dog food to airtight containers. It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days, making meal prep a breeze.

For longer storage, this soup freezes beautifully. Portion it into individual servings using freezer-safe containers or silicone molds, then transfer the frozen portions to a large freezer bag. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.

To serve, thaw frozen portions in the refrigerator overnight or gently reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave until warm (not hot). Always allow the food to cool to room temperature before serving to prevent burns.

This soup can be served on its own as a complete meal or mixed with your dog’s regular kibble to add moisture, flavor, and extra nutrients. Gradually introduce new homemade foods to your dog’s diet over several days to avoid digestive upset.

Common Questions & Troubleshooting

Can I add other vegetables to this soup?

Absolutely! Dog-safe vegetables like green beans, peas, pumpkin, or zucchini can be added for variety and extra nutrients. Avoid onions, garlic, grapes, and avocados, as these are toxic to dogs.

Is this recipe suitable for puppies?

While the ingredients are safe, puppies have specific and higher nutritional requirements for growth. Consult your veterinarian before feeding this as a primary diet to puppies, especially during critical growth phases.

My dog has a sensitive stomach; will this recipe help?

Many owners find that homemade diets with easily digestible ingredients like chicken and cooked lentils are well-tolerated by sensitive stomachs. Introduce it slowly and observe your dog’s reaction.

Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?

Yes, this recipe is perfect for a slow cooker! Brown the chicken and sauté the aromatics as directed, then combine all ingredients in the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Shred the chicken and stir in spinach at the end.

How do I ensure this is a balanced meal for my dog long-term?

For long-term feeding, it’s crucial to ensure nutritional completeness. While this recipe is balanced for many dogs, consider adding a vet-approved supplement specifically designed for homemade dog food to guarantee all micronutrients are covered. Always discuss long-term homemade feeding with your veterinarian or a board-certified veterinary nutritionist.

Wrapping Up

Ready to nourish your furry friend with a wholesome meal made with love? This Chicken and Lentil Soup recipe is a fantastic way to do just that.

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