Homemade Dog Food Recipes for Small Dogs Using Pork & Apple

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.

If​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌ you wish to provide your small dog with the finest, then know that store-bought foods may be full of so much junk and fillers that it becomes difficult to check what you are feeding your fur baby.

And it is quite painful to see them not flourishing. What if you had the option of preparing nutritious and tasty meals right at home?

You can indeed, as I have a very simple recipe that will keep your small dog satisfied and in good ​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌health.

Recipe Overview

• This homemade pork and apple dog food recipe takes about 40 minutes.
• Prep time is 15 minutes, cook time is 25 minutes.
• It’s packed with lean protein, fiber, and essential nutrients.
• This recipe is perfect for small dogs, even those with sensitive tummies.
• It makes about 6 servings for a small dog.

Ingredients List

• 1 lb lean ground pork (90% lean or higher) – $5.00
• 1 cup rolled oats – $0.50
• 2 small apples, cored and diced (no seeds) – $1.00
• 1 cup chopped spinach – $0.75
• 1/2 cup finely diced carrots – $0.50
• 1/4 cup bone broth (low sodium, no onion/garlic) – $1.00
• 1 tbsp olive oil – $0.20
• 1/2 tsp dried parsley – $0.10
• 1/4 tsp calcium carbonate powder (or crushed eggshell powder) – $0.30
• Optional: A good quality canine multivitamin supplement – $0.50 (per serving portion)

Total estimated cost: $9.85

Substitutions: You can use ground turkey or lean ground beef instead of pork. If your dog doesn’t like apples, you can use blueberries or green beans.

Step-by-Step Instructions

• Heat the olive oil in a large pan over medium heat.
• Add the ground pork and cook until it’s browned all over.
• Break up any large pieces with a spoon as it cooks.
• Drain any excess fat from the pan.
• Add the diced apples, spinach, and carrots to the pan.
• Cook for about 5-7 minutes, until the vegetables are slightly soft.
• Pour in the bone broth and bring it to a simmer.
• Stir in the rolled oats and parsley.
• Reduce the heat to low and cover the pan.
• Let it cook for 10-12 minutes, or until the oats have absorbed most of the liquid.
• Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
• Remove the pan from the heat and let it cool completely.
• Once cool, mix in the calcium carbonate powder and the optional canine multivitamin.
• Make sure it’s mixed really well.

Feeding Guidelines

• Small dogs (under 10 lbs): Feed about 1/4 to 1/2 cup per day, divided into two meals.
• Medium-small dogs (10-20 lbs): Feed about 1/2 to 1 cup per day, divided into two meals.
• These are general guidelines. Puppies, pregnant, or nursing dogs need more calories.
• Older dogs might need slightly less, depending on their activity level.
• Active dogs might need a bit more.
• Always talk to your vet to figure out the best portion sizes for your specific dog.

Nutritional Benefits of the Recipe

• Lean Ground Pork: This is a great source of high-quality protein, which helps build and repair muscles. It provides essential amino acids for overall health.
• Rolled Oats: They offer complex carbohydrates for sustained energy and are a good source of soluble fiber. This helps with digestion and can be gentle on sensitive stomachs.
• Apples (cored, no seeds): Apples provide dietary fiber, vitamin A, and vitamin C. They’re good for digestion and offer natural sweetness.
• Spinach: Packed with vitamins K, A, C, and iron, spinach supports bone health, vision, and immunity.
• Carrots: A fantastic source of beta-carotene (which the body converts to vitamin A), fiber, and antioxidants. These are good for vision and skin health.
• Bone Broth: Adds moisture and flavor, and contains collagen and amino acids that support joint health and digestion.
• Olive Oil: Provides healthy fats, including Omega-6, which are important for skin and coat health.
• Calcium Carbonate: Ensures a balanced calcium-to-phosphorus ratio, which is vital for strong bones and teeth. This is especially important in homemade diets.
• Canine Multivitamin: An optional but highly recommended addition to make sure your dog gets all the necessary vitamins and minerals for a complete and balanced diet.

Storage and Serving Tips

• Store the cooled food in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• For longer storage, freeze individual portions in freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 2-3 months.
• Thaw frozen portions in the refrigerator overnight or gently reheat on the stovetop or microwave.
• Serve the food at room temperature or slightly warm.
• You can mix this homemade food with their regular kibble to transition them slowly or just to add variety.

Common Questions & Troubleshooting

Can I make a big batch and freeze it?

Yes, absolutely. This recipe is great for meal prepping. Just divide it into single-serving portions before freezing.

My dog has allergies. What can I substitute?

If your dog is allergic to pork, try lean ground turkey or beef. For apple allergies, sweet potato or blueberries can be good swaps.

Do I really need the calcium supplement?

Yes, calcium is crucial in homemade diets to balance out the phosphorus from the meat. Without it, your dog could develop bone issues over time.

How do I know if my dog likes the new food?

Introduce it slowly over a few days, mixing small amounts with their old food. Watch for enthusiastic eating and normal digestion.

Wrapping Up

So there you have it: a super simple, healthy, and delicious homemade dog food recipe your small dog will love. Making their meals at home means you know exactly what they’re eating, and that’s a great feeling. Feeling inspired? Pin this recipe to your Homemade Dog Food board for easy access and follow us for more pet-friendly tips!