Homemade Dog Food with Natural Probiotics using Beef & Probiotic Bone Broth

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.

You​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌ are once again awake at 3 a.m., hearing the sound of the tags as your dog bites at the red, raw skin. Another visit to the vet, another probiotic paste, another bill.

Yet the itching and very soft stools that recurred like clockwork keep coming.

Relief is not in a more expensive prescription. In fact, it’s already in your fridge.

I’m gonna show you how to make your own homemade dog food to end this problem once and for all.

Recipe Overview

• This homemade dog food recipe uses beef and probiotic bone broth to boost gut health.
• It’s designed to be gentle on sensitive stomachs.
• Prep time is about 20 minutes.
• Cook time is around 45 minutes.
• This recipe yields about 6-8 servings for a medium-sized dog.

Ingredients List

• Lean Ground Beef (85/15 or 90/10): 2 lbs – Cost: $10-14 (USA)
• Sweet Potatoes: 2 medium, peeled and diced – Cost: $2-3 (USA)
• Carrots: 3 medium, peeled and diced – Cost: $1-2 (USA)
• Green Beans (fresh or frozen): 1 cup – Cost: $2-3 (USA)
• Probiotic Bone Broth (beef or chicken, unsalted): 2 cups – Cost: $8-12 (USA)
• Brown Rice (uncooked): 1 cup – Cost: $1-2 (USA)
• Spinach (fresh): 1 cup, chopped – Cost: $2-3 (USA)
• Coconut Oil: 1 tablespoon – Cost: $0.50 (USA)
• Ground Turmeric: 1 teaspoon – Cost: $0.25 (USA)
• Optional: High-quality canine multivitamin/mineral supplement (consult vet) – Cost: Varies ($10-30 for a bottle)

Total Estimated Cost: $27.75 – $49.75 (excluding optional supplement)

Substitutions:

• Ground Beef: You can use ground turkey, venison, or lamb.
• Sweet Potatoes: Butternut squash or pumpkin are good alternatives.
• Carrots/Green Beans: Peas, broccoli florets, or zucchini can be swapped in.
• Brown Rice: Quinoa or oats can be used instead, cooked separately.

Step-by-Step Instructions

• First, brown the ground beef in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
• Drain any excess fat.
• Next, add the diced sweet potatoes and carrots to the pot.
• Pour in the probiotic bone broth and 1 cup of water.
• Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes.
• While that simmers, cook the brown rice according to package directions in a separate pot.
• After 20 minutes, stir in the green beans, spinach, coconut oil, and turmeric into the beef and veggie mixture.
• Continue to simmer for another 10-15 minutes, until the vegetables are tender.
• Remove the pot from the heat and let it cool completely.
• Once cooled, mix in the cooked brown rice.
• If using, add the canine multivitamin/mineral supplement according to its package directions.
• And that’s it! Your homemade dog food is ready.

Feeding Guidelines

• Small dogs (under 20 lbs): 1/2 to 1 cup per day.
• Medium dogs (20-50 lbs): 1 to 2 cups per day.
• Large dogs (over 50 lbs): 2 to 4 cups per day.
• Puppies, active dogs, or pregnant/nursing dogs may need more.
• Senior or less active dogs might need less to avoid weight gain.
• Here’s the thing: every dog is different.
• Always consult your veterinarian for specific portion recommendations tailored to your dog’s age, activity level, and health conditions.

Nutritional Benefits of the Recipe

• Lean Ground Beef: This is a great source of high-quality protein, which helps with muscle development and repair. It provides essential amino acids.
• Sweet Potatoes: They are packed with dietary fiber for healthy digestion and also provide vitamins A and C.
• Carrots: Rich in beta-carotene, which is good for vision and immune health. They also add fiber.
• Green Beans & Spinach: These add important vitamins (K, C, A) and minerals, along with fiber.
• Probiotic Bone Broth: This is super beneficial for gut health. It contains collagen, amino acids, and probiotics that support digestion and a strong immune system.
• Brown Rice: A complex carbohydrate that gives sustained energy and provides fiber.
• Coconut Oil: Contains medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs) which can benefit skin, coat, and brain health.
• Ground Turmeric: Known for its anti-inflammatory properties.
• Overall, this recipe provides a balanced mix of protein (around 12-15% of total calories), healthy fats (about 6-8%), and complex carbohydrates (around 40-50%).

Storage and Serving Tips

• Refrigerate: Store the cooked dog food in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Freeze: For longer storage, portion the food into individual servings or meal-sized containers and freeze for up to 2-3 months.
• Reheat: Thaw frozen portions in the refrigerator overnight. You can serve the food cold, at room temperature, or slightly warmed.
• Mixing: If your dog is new to homemade food, introduce it gradually by mixing small amounts with their regular kibble.

Common Questions & Troubleshooting

What if my dog won’t eat it?

Try warming it slightly to release the aromas. You can also mix a small amount with their usual food to help them adjust. Some dogs are just picky, so be patient.

Is this recipe balanced for long-term feeding?

While this recipe is nutritionally sound, homemade diets can sometimes lack certain micronutrients over time. Here’s the thing: it’s best to consult your vet to ensure it meets all your dog’s specific needs and consider adding a vet-recommended canine multivitamin and mineral supplement, especially if this is their primary diet.

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. It’s really convenient.

Wrapping Up

Making your dog’s food at home can really make a difference for their health and happiness. This recipe is simple, packed with goodness, and helps support a healthy gut. So here’s what happened: your dog will love it, and you’ll feel great knowing what they’re eating.

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