10 Homemade Dog Food Recipes For Large Dogs

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.

As dog owners, we always want the very best for our furry friends, especially when it comes to their food.

But let’s be honest—navigating the world of dog food labels can be downright confusing, and with large dogs, the stakes feel even higher.

That’s why many owners are turning to homemade dog food as a healthier, more transparent option.

Homemade meals let you know exactly what’s going into your dog’s bowl, ensuring they’re getting the nutrition they need without any hidden preservatives or fillers.

Plus, it can be more affordable than buying commercial food, once you get the hang of it.

So, if you’re ready to make the switch or just want to spice up your dog’s diet, here are 10 easy, safe, and nutritious homemade dog food recipes tailored for your large dog.

List of Homemade Dog Food Recipes for Big Dogs

1. Chicken and Rice Recipe

• Ingredients:
  • 2 cups cooked chicken breast (shredded)
  • 1 1/2 cups cooked white rice
  • 1/2 cup cooked carrots (diced)
  • 1/4 cup peas
• Instructions:
  1. Cook the chicken breasts thoroughly (boil or bake) and shred into bite-sized pieces.
  2. Cook the white rice according to package instructions.
  3. Steam or boil the carrots until soft, then dice them into small pieces.
  4. Cook the peas until tender (fresh or frozen).
  5. Combine all the ingredients in a large bowl and mix well.
  6. Serve the mixture at room temperature and store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days.

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2. Beef and Sweet Potato Stew

• Ingredients:
  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 2 large sweet potatoes (cubed)
  • 1/2 cup carrots (diced)
  • 1/4 cup peas
  • 2 cups low-sodium beef broth
• Instructions:
  1. Brown the ground beef in a large pot over medium heat. Drain any excess fat.
  2. Peel and cube the sweet potatoes. Add them to the pot.
  3. Dice the carrots and add them in as well.
  4. Pour in the beef broth and bring to a simmer.
  5. Cook for about 20-25 minutes or until the sweet potatoes and carrots are tender.
  6. Stir in the peas during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
• Let the stew cool completely before serving. Refrigerate leftovers for up to 3 days.

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3. Turkey and Pumpkin Blend

• Ingredients:
  • 1 lb ground turkey
  • 1/2 cup canned pumpkin (unsweetened)
  • 1/2 cup cooked quinoa
  • 1/4 cup spinach (chopped)
• Instructions:
  1. Brown the ground turkey in a skillet over medium heat, breaking it up into small pieces.
  2. While the turkey is cooking, cook the quinoa according to package instructions.
  3. In the last 2-3 minutes of cooking the turkey, add the spinach to wilt it.
  4. Remove from heat and mix in the cooked quinoa and pumpkin until well combined.
  5. Let the blend cool before serving. Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days.

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4. Salmon and Veggie Medley

• Ingredients:
  • 2 fillets of cooked salmon (bones removed)
  • 1/2 cup broccoli (steamed)
  • 1/4 cup carrots (sliced)
  • 1 cup cooked rice
• Instructions:
  1. Bake or grill the salmon fillets until cooked through and flake them into small pieces, ensuring no bones are left.
  2. Steam the broccoli until tender, then chop into small bite-sized pieces.
  3. Slice the carrots into small rounds and steam until soft.
  4. Cook the rice according to the package instructions.
  5. In a large bowl, mix together the salmon, broccoli, carrots, and rice until well combined.
  6. Allow the food to cool before serving. Refrigerate leftovers for up to 3 days.

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5. Chicken, Rice, and Broccoli Power Bowl

• Ingredients:
  • 2 chicken breasts (shredded)
  • 1 cup cooked rice
  • 1 cup steamed broccoli
  • 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
• Instructions:
  1. Boil or bake the chicken breasts, then shred them into bite-sized pieces.
  2. Cook the rice according to package instructions.
  3. Steam the broccoli until tender, then chop it into small pieces.
  4. Mix the shredded chicken, rice, and broccoli in a large bowl.
  5. Stir in the applesauce for a bit of sweetness and moisture.
  6. Let it cool to room temperature before serving. Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Pinterest Image Prompt:
  • Prompt: “”

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6. Beef and Sweet Potato Patties

• Ingredients:
  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 2 cups mashed sweet potatoes
  • 1 egg
• Instructions:
  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a large bowl, mix together the ground beef, mashed sweet potatoes, and egg until well combined.
  3. Form the mixture into small patties, about the size of a golf ball, and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
  4. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the patties are fully cooked through.
  5. Let the patties cool completely before serving. Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days.

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7. Lamb and Spinach Delight

• Ingredients:
  • 1 lb ground lamb
  • 1 cup cooked spinach (chopped)
  • 1/2 cup pumpkin
  • 1/2 cup peas
• Instructions:
  1. Brown the ground lamb in a skillet over medium heat until fully cooked.
  2. Steam or cook the spinach, then chop it into small pieces.
  3. Stir the spinach, pumpkin, and peas into the cooked lamb.
  4. Allow the mixture to cool before serving.
  5. Refrigerate leftovers for up to 3 days.

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8. Pork and Apple Stew

• Ingredients:
  • 1 lb lean pork (cubed)
  • 1 apple (chopped, no seeds)
  • 2 cups carrots (diced)
  • 1 cup cooked rice
• Instructions:
  1. Brown the cubed pork in a large pot over medium heat.
  2. Dice the carrots and chop the apple, removing the seeds, and add them to the pot.
  3. Pour in enough water to cover the ingredients, and simmer for 20-25 minutes.
  4. Stir in the cooked rice, and continue to cook for another 5 minutes.
  5. Let it cool to room temperature before serving.

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9. Chicken and Green Bean Casserole

• Ingredients:
  • 1 lb chicken breast (cubed)
  • 1 1/2 cups green beans (steamed)
  • 1/2 cup sweet potato (cubed)
  • 1/4 cup peas
• Instructions:
  1. Cook the chicken breasts until fully cooked, then cube into bite-sized pieces.
  2. Steam the green beans until tender, then chop them into smaller pieces.
  3. Cube the sweet potatoes and steam or boil them until soft.
  4. Combine all the ingredients in a large bowl and mix well.
  5. Allow the casserole to cool before serving.
  6. Refrigerate leftovers for up to 3 days.

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10. Tuna and Carrot Salad

• Ingredients:
  • 1 can of tuna in water (drained)
  • 1 cup carrots (shredded)
  • 1/4 cup peas
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Instructions:
  1. Drain the tuna and place it in a large bowl.
  2. Shred the carrots and add them to the bowl.
  3. Stir in the peas and olive oil until the mixture is evenly combined.
  4. Serve at room temperature.
  5. Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Useful Tips for Making Homemade Dog Food

• Storing Homemade Food: Store portions in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can freeze meals for up to 2 months.
• Portion Control: Large dogs need more food, but don’t overdo it. Follow the recommended serving sizes based on your dog’s weight, and always consult with your vet if you’re unsure.
• Supplements: You may need to add vitamins and minerals to ensure your dog’s diet is complete. Consult with a vet to figure out if you need to supplement.

Nutritional Needs of Large Dogs

Large dogs have unique nutritional needs that are different from smaller breeds, as their size, metabolism, and energy requirements are significantly higher.

Proper nutrition is essential to support their overall health, growth, and well-being throughout their life stages.

Here’s a breakdown of key nutritional considerations for large dogs:

1. Protein

Protein is the foundation of a healthy diet for large dogs. It helps in muscle development, tissue repair, and immune system support. Large dogs, especially puppies, need higher levels of protein to fuel their growth. Adult large dogs should still have adequate protein levels to maintain muscle mass and energy.

• Recommended protein content: Look for foods with at least 18-30% protein, depending on the dog’s age and activity level.

2. Fats

Fats provide a concentrated source of energy for large dogs, and they are essential for absorbing fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, and K). Healthy fats, like omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, are also beneficial for skin health, coat shine, and joint function.

• Recommended fat content: For large dogs, aim for about 8-15% fat in their diet. Working or highly active breeds may need slightly higher levels of fat to meet their energy needs.

3. Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates provide an easily digestible source of energy for large dogs, but they should be carefully balanced. Too many carbs can lead to weight gain, which is a concern for larger dogs prone to joint problems.

• Recommended carbohydrate content: Look for moderate carbohydrate levels, ideally from high-quality sources like sweet potatoes, brown rice, and oats. Ensure that carbs are well-balanced with protein and fats.

4. Vitamins and Minerals

Large dogs require a balanced mix of vitamins and minerals to support their immune system, bone health, and metabolic functions. For instance, calcium and phosphorus play an important role in bone development, while magnesium helps muscle function.

• Key minerals: Calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, potassium, and sodium.
• Key vitamins: Vitamin E, Vitamin A, Vitamin B complex, and Vitamin D.

5. Joint Health

Due to their size, large dogs are more prone to joint problems such as hip dysplasia and arthritis. Providing foods that support joint health is important. Nutrients like glucosamine, chondroitin, and omega fatty acids help maintain joint flexibility and reduce inflammation.

• Glucosamine & Chondroitin: Supplements or foods rich in these nutrients can help prevent or alleviate joint issues in large dogs.

6. Calories and Portion Control

Large dogs tend to have higher calorie needs, but portion control is vital to avoid obesity. Overfeeding can lead to excess weight, which places additional stress on their joints and overall health. Consult your vet to determine the appropriate calorie count based on your dog’s activity level and health status.

• Active dogs: May require more calories to fuel their activity levels, while less active dogs need fewer calories to maintain a healthy weight.

7. Water

Hydration is crucial for all dogs, but large dogs may require more water due to their larger body size and higher activity levels. Make sure your dog always has access to fresh water, especially during and after exercise.

What Ingredients to Avoid in Homemade Dog Food for Large Dogs

While preparing homemade meals for your large dog is a fantastic way to ensure they’re eating high-quality, nutritious food, it’s equally important to know which ingredients can harm them.

Some common foods that are safe for humans can be toxic to dogs.

Here’s a list of ingredients you should steer clear of:

1. Onions and Garlic

Both onions and garlic, whether raw, cooked, or powdered, can be highly toxic to dogs. They contain compounds (thiosulfates) that can damage a dog’s red blood cells, leading to anemia. Symptoms of onion or garlic poisoning include weakness, lethargy, and vomiting.

• Tip: Even small amounts can be harmful over time, so always avoid these ingredients.

2. Chocolate

Chocolate contains theobromine, which is toxic to dogs. Dark chocolate and unsweetened baking chocolate are particularly dangerous, as they contain higher levels of theobromine. Symptoms of chocolate poisoning include restlessness, rapid breathing, increased heart rate, and even seizures.

• Tip: Always keep chocolate away from your dog’s food, and be cautious of any treats or baked goods that might contain it.

3. Grapes and Raisins

Grapes and raisins are known to cause kidney failure in dogs. While the exact toxic compound is unknown, even a small amount can trigger severe reactions like vomiting, diarrhea, and lethargy.

• Tip: It’s best to avoid any recipes that call for grapes, raisins, or dried fruit in general.

4. Xylitol (Artificial Sweetener)

Xylitol is a common sweetener found in sugar-free gum, candies, and baked goods. It’s extremely toxic to dogs, causing a rapid drop in blood sugar levels and liver damage. Symptoms include vomiting, loss of coordination, and seizures.

• Tip: Be extra cautious with human food ingredients, especially if you’re using sugar substitutes in your dog’s treats.

5. Avocado

Avocados contain a substance called persin, which can cause vomiting and diarrhea in dogs. While small amounts might not be fatal, it’s better to avoid adding avocado to homemade dog food.

• Tip: Always double-check any recipe ingredients and ensure avocado isn’t included, even in small amounts.

6. Alcohol

Alcohol can be very dangerous for dogs. Even small amounts can cause vomiting, diarrhea, difficulty breathing, and in severe cases, coma or death. This includes beer, wine, and anything containing alcohol, like some cooking extracts.

• Tip: Avoid any recipe with alcoholic ingredients or those that are flammable in nature (like extracts).

7. Bones

While bones are often thought to be a natural treat for dogs, cooked bones, in particular, can splinter and cause serious internal injuries. They can break a dog’s teeth, puncture the digestive tract, or cause a blockage in the intestines.

• Tip: Always avoid giving cooked bones to your dog, and stick to safe chew toys and treats instead.

8. Caffeine

Caffeine, found in coffee, tea, and many sodas, can cause restlessness, rapid heart rate, and muscle tremors in dogs. Large amounts can even be fatal.

• Tip: Keep caffeinated drinks well out of your dog’s reach and avoid any recipes with caffeine in the ingredients.

9. Dairy

While not toxic in small amounts, many dogs are lactose intolerant and can experience digestive upset when consuming dairy products like milk, cheese, or yogurt. This can lead to diarrhea and stomach discomfort.

• Tip: If you’re including dairy in a recipe, make sure your dog can tolerate it. If unsure, it’s best to leave it out.

10. Raw Meat and Eggs

Raw meat and eggs can carry harmful bacteria, such as Salmonella or E. coli, that can make your dog sick. Additionally, raw egg whites contain avidin, which can interfere with the absorption of biotin (a B-vitamin important for skin health).

• Tip: Always cook meats thoroughly before including them in your dog’s meals to reduce the risk of foodborne illness.

11. Salt

Too much salt in a dog’s diet can lead to dehydration, kidney problems, and even sodium ion poisoning. Avoid adding excess salt to homemade recipes or using salty ingredients like processed meats.

• Tip: Keep salt to a minimum, and instead rely on fresh, unprocessed ingredients for flavor.