Homemade Dog Food with Natural Probiotics using Lentils & Raw Goat Milk

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 felt bad when you think about the things that are really in your dog’s dry food? Most dog owners are concerned about mysterious ingredients and fillers in the foods made for their pets.

These can cause digestive problems, dull the fur, and even make your dog have low energy.

I have an easy, extremely healthy solution though: a homemade dog food recipe that is healthy and easy to make.

Recipe Overview

• This homemade dog food recipe focuses on natural probiotics and takes about 45 minutes to make.
• It’s packed with digestible protein, gut-friendly fiber, and beneficial enzymes.
• Ideal for boosting your dog’s immune system and promoting healthy digestion.
• Prep time: 15 minutes
• Cook time: 30 minutes
• Serving size: Approximately 8-10 servings for a medium-sized dog.

Ingredients List

• 1 cup red lentils (dried): $1.50 (Excellent source of plant-based protein and fiber)
• 2 cups water (for cooking lentils): negligible
• 1 lb lean ground turkey: $5.00 (High-quality, easily digestible protein)
• 1 cup chopped carrots: $0.75 (Good for vision, rich in beta-carotene)
• 1 cup chopped spinach: $1.00 (Packed with vitamins K, A, C, and iron)
• 1/2 cup organic raw goat milk: $3.00 (Natural probiotics, enzymes, and easily digestible nutrients)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil: $0.20 (Healthy fats for skin and coat)
• 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder: $0.10 (Anti-inflammatory properties)
• 1/4 teaspoon dried parsley: $0.05 (Natural breath freshener, rich in vitamins)
• Optional: 1/2 teaspoon calcium carbonate powder or crushed eggshell powder: $0.15 (Essential for bone health; consult vet for exact dosage)

Total Estimated Cost: $11.95

Suitable Substitutions:

• Ground turkey can be swapped for lean ground beef or chicken.
• Red lentils can be replaced with green lentils, though cooking time might vary slightly.
• Carrots and spinach can be exchanged for other dog-safe vegetables like green beans or pumpkin.

Step-by-Step Instructions

• Rinse the lentils: Place 1 cup of red lentils in a fine-mesh sieve and rinse under cold water until the water runs clear.
• Cook the lentils: In a medium pot, combine the rinsed lentils with 2 cups of water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the lentils are tender and most of the water has been absorbed.
• Brown the turkey: While the lentils cook, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground turkey and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until it’s fully browned. Drain any excess fat.
• Add vegetables and spices: Stir the chopped carrots and spinach into the cooked turkey. Cook for another 5-7 minutes, until the vegetables are tender-crisp. Add the turmeric powder and dried parsley, stirring to combine.
• Combine everything: Once the lentils are cooked, add them to the skillet with the turkey and vegetables. Mix well.
• Cool and add raw goat milk: Remove the skillet from the heat and let the mixture cool completely. This is important because heat can destroy the beneficial probiotics in raw goat milk.
• Stir in goat milk and supplement: Once cooled, stir in the 1/2 cup of organic raw goat milk and the optional calcium carbonate powder or crushed eggshell powder. Mix thoroughly.

Feeding Guidelines

• Small dogs (under 20 lbs): 1/2 to 1 cup per day, divided into two meals.
• Medium dogs (20-50 lbs): 1 to 2 cups per day, divided into two meals.
• Large dogs (50-90 lbs): 2 to 3.5 cups per day, divided into two meals.
• Giant breeds (over 90 lbs): 3.5 to 5 cups per day, divided into two meals.
• These are general guidelines; a highly active dog might need more, while a less active or older dog might need less.
• Puppies and pregnant or nursing dogs have higher caloric and nutrient needs; consult your vet for specific portion sizes.
• Always consult your veterinarian for personalized feeding advice tailored to your dog’s specific health, age, weight, and activity level.

Nutritional Benefits of the Recipe

• Red Lentils: An excellent source of plant-based protein and dietary fiber, which aids digestion and promotes satiety. They also provide essential minerals like iron, potassium, and B vitamins.
• Ground Turkey: A lean, easily digestible protein source that supplies essential amino acids for muscle maintenance and overall health. It’s often a good choice for dogs with sensitivities to other proteins.
• Carrots: Rich in beta-carotene, an antioxidant that converts to Vitamin A, crucial for good vision, immune function, and skin health. They also provide fiber.
• Spinach: Packed with vitamins K, A, and C, and minerals like iron and manganese. Spinach supports bone health, vision, and has anti-inflammatory properties.
• Raw Goat Milk: A powerhouse of natural probiotics, enzymes, and easily digestible vitamins and minerals. It supports a healthy gut microbiome, which is vital for immunity, nutrient absorption, and reducing inflammation.
• Olive Oil: Provides monounsaturated fats and antioxidants, contributing to healthy skin and a shiny coat, and supporting cardiovascular health.
• Turmeric: Contains curcumin, a compound known for its potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help with joint health and overall cellular protection.
• Parsley: A natural breath freshener and a good source of vitamins K, C, and A, as well as iron.

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 for up to 2-3 months.
• Thaw frozen portions in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
• Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave if your dog prefers warm food, but always ensure it’s not too hot before serving.
• Serve at room temperature for optimal palatability and to preserve probiotic activity.
• You can serve this food on its own or mix it with your dog’s regular kibble to transition them or add a nutritional boost.

Common Questions & Troubleshooting

Is raw goat milk safe for all dogs?

Generally, yes. Raw goat milk is often easier for dogs to digest than cow’s milk because it has smaller fat globules and less lactose. But it’s always smart to start with a small amount to see how your dog reacts, especially if they have a sensitive stomach. If you’re unsure, ask your vet.

Do I need to add a calcium supplement?

Lentils, turkey, and vegetables provide some minerals, but a homemade diet often lacks sufficient calcium and phosphorus in the correct ratio. Adding a calcium supplement like calcium carbonate powder or crushed eggshell powder is important for bone health. Always discuss the right dosage with your veterinarian to avoid imbalances.

Can I make a big batch and freeze it?

Absolutely! Making a larger batch and freezing individual portions is a great way to save time. Just make sure the food is completely cooled before adding the raw goat milk and then freezing. Thaw thoroughly in the fridge before serving.

My dog has allergies, what can I substitute?

If your dog has common protein allergies, you can use novel proteins like ground duck or venison instead of turkey. For vegetable allergies, swap carrots and spinach for dog-safe alternatives like green beans, peas, or zucchini. Just confirm any new ingredient is safe for your dog with your vet.

Wrapping Up

Making your dog’s food at home lets you control what goes into their bowl. This recipe, packed with natural probiotics, is a simple way to boost their health and happiness.

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