Homemade Dog Food with Natural Probiotics using Beef Heart & Yogurt Gravy

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.

Have​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌ you ever been concerned about what is actually included in your dog’s dry food? Ingredient lists are hard to trust, particularly when there are recalls and unclear labels.

The good news is, you are totally capable of providing your beloved dog a tasty, healthy, homemade dog food meal that you have prepared by yourself, full of natural goodness.

This formula is a total, digestive system-friendly ​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌way.

Recipe Overview

• This homemade dog food recipe uses beef heart and a creamy yogurt gravy.
• It’s packed with natural probiotics, high-quality protein, and essential nutrients.
• Great for boosting gut health, digestion, and overall vitality.
• Prep time: About 20 minutes
• Cook time: About 45 minutes
• Serving size: Approximately 7-10 servings for a medium-sized dog (25-50 lbs)

Ingredients List

• 1.5 lbs Beef Heart, trimmed and cut into 1/2-inch cubes – Estimated Cost: $7.50 (for grass-fed, roughly $5/lb)
• 1 cup Brown Rice, uncooked – Estimated Cost: $0.75 (for organic, roughly $0.30/cup)
• 3 cups Water (for cooking rice)
• 1 large Sweet Potato, peeled and diced into 1/2-inch cubes – Estimated Cost: $1.00
• 1 cup Carrots, chopped – Estimated Cost: $0.50
• 1 cup Green Beans, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces – Estimated Cost: $0.75
• 1/2 cup Plain, Unsweetened Greek Yogurt (full-fat) – Estimated Cost: $1.00
• 1/4 cup Bone Broth (low sodium, dog-safe) – Estimated Cost: $0.50
• 1 tablespoon Olive Oil – Estimated Cost: $0.10
• 1/2 teaspoon Dried Parsley – Estimated Cost: $0.05
• Optional: 1/2 teaspoon Canine Multivitamin/Mineral Supplement (ensure it’s vet-approved) – Estimated Cost: $0.20 (per serving, if using a good quality supplement)

Total Estimated Cost: $12.35

Substitutions: You can swap beef heart for chicken gizzards or turkey hearts for different protein sources. Brown rice can be replaced with quinoa or oats. Feel free to use other dog-safe vegetables like pumpkin or peas instead of sweet potato or green beans.

Step-by-Step Instructions

• Cook the Rice: In a medium pot, combine brown rice and 3 cups of water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 35-40 minutes until all water is absorbed and rice is tender. Once cooked, fluff with a fork and set aside to cool.
• Prepare the Beef Heart: While the rice cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet or pot over medium heat. Add the beef heart cubes and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned on all sides.
• Add Vegetables: Stir in the diced sweet potato, carrots, and green beans with the beef heart. Pour in about 1/2 cup of water or bone broth. Bring to a simmer, then cover and cook for 10-15 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
• Combine Ingredients: Once the vegetables are tender and the beef heart is cooked through, remove the skillet from heat. Let it cool for a few minutes. Then, stir in the cooked brown rice and dried parsley.
• Make the Yogurt Gravy: In a separate small bowl, whisk together the plain Greek yogurt and bone broth until smooth. This makes a creamy, probiotic-rich gravy.
• Mix and Serve: Pour the yogurt gravy over the beef heart and rice mixture. Stir everything together gently until well combined. If you are using a canine multivitamin supplement, mix it in now according to the product’s directions.

Feeding Guidelines

• Small Dogs (up to 20 lbs): Feed about 1/2 to 1 cup per day, divided into two meals.
• Medium Dogs (20-50 lbs): Feed about 1.5 to 2.5 cups per day, divided into two meals.
• Large Dogs (50-90 lbs): Feed about 3 to 4.5 cups per day, divided into two meals.
• Giant Breeds (90+ lbs): Feed about 5 to 7 cups per day, divided into two meals.
• Puppies and active dogs might need more calories. For example, a growing Labrador puppy might need 3-4 cups daily, while a senior Pug might only need 3/4 cup.
• Pregnant or nursing dogs also have higher caloric needs; consult your vet for specific amounts.
• Here’s the thing: these are just starting points. It’s always best to watch your dog’s weight and adjust accordingly.
• And that’s why it matters: talk to your veterinarian for personalized feeding advice, especially if your dog has specific health conditions or dietary needs.

Nutritional Benefits of the Recipe

• Beef Heart: This is a powerhouse of lean protein, essential amino acids, and vital nutrients like B vitamins (B12, riboflavin, niacin), iron, zinc, and taurine. It supports muscle development, energy, and heart health. It’s a fantastic organ meat for dogs.
• Brown Rice: A complex carbohydrate that provides sustained energy. It’s rich in fiber, which helps with healthy digestion and keeps your dog feeling full.
• Sweet Potato: Packed with dietary fiber, vitamins (A, C, B6), and minerals. Vitamin A is great for vision and skin, and fiber aids digestion.
• Carrots: A good source of beta-carotene, which converts to Vitamin A, supporting eye health and immune function. They also provide fiber.
• Green Beans: Low in calories and high in fiber, vitamins (K, C, A), and minerals. They contribute to a feeling of fullness without adding excessive calories.
• Plain Greek Yogurt: This is where the natural probiotics come in. It introduces beneficial bacteria to your dog’s gut, supporting a healthy digestive system, boosting immunity, and helping with nutrient absorption. It also provides calcium and protein.
• Olive Oil: A healthy fat that provides Omega-6 fatty acids. It promotes a shiny coat and healthy skin.
• Dried Parsley: More than just a garnish, parsley contains vitamins K, C, and A, and has mild anti-inflammatory properties and can help with bad breath.

Storage and Serving Tips

• This homemade dog food stays fresh in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• For longer storage, divide the cooled food into individual serving portions and freeze them. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.
• When ready to serve from frozen, thaw a portion in the refrigerator overnight or gently reheat in a microwave or on the stovetop. Make sure it’s completely thawed and warmed through.
• Serve the food at room temperature or slightly warm.
• You can mix this homemade food with your dog’s regular kibble to transition them or to add extra flavor and nutrients to their existing diet.
• Just make sure to reduce the kibble portion to avoid overfeeding.

Common Questions & Troubleshooting

Can I make a big batch and freeze it?

Yes, absolutely! Making a large batch and freezing individual portions is a great way to save time. Just make sure to cool it completely before freezing.

Is this recipe suitable for puppies?

This recipe provides good nutrition, but puppies have higher caloric and specific nutrient needs for growth. Talk to your vet about adding a puppy-specific multivitamin supplement or adjusting portion sizes for a growing pup.

My dog has a sensitive stomach, will the yogurt be okay?

Plain, unsweetened Greek yogurt is generally well-tolerated and beneficial for gut health due to probiotics. But, some dogs can be sensitive to dairy. Start with a very small amount to see how your dog reacts. If they show any signs of upset, skip the yogurt gravy.

What if my dog doesn’t like beef heart?

If your dog isn’t keen on beef heart, you can easily substitute it with other cooked, lean protein sources like chicken, turkey, or even ground beef. Just make sure the meat is plain and unseasoned.

Wrapping Up

Making your dog’s food at home means knowing exactly what goes into their bowl. This beef heart and yogurt gravy recipe is a simple way to boost their gut health and give them delicious, wholesome meals. It’s a tasty step towards a happier, healthier pup.

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