Homemade Dog Food with Natural Probiotics using Quinoa & Pickled Beetroot

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.

Does dog food mystery make you crazy? Unfortunately, many commercial brands are full of fillers and artificial stuff, and a few can cause an upset stomach in your dog.

They may also cause issues such as allergies, lack of shiny coats, and low energy levels.

However, feeding your dog shouldn’t be a problem. Homemade dog food meals is the solution, and in a moment, I’ll tell you how to prepare a tasty and nutritious meal in your kitchen.

Recipe Overview

• This homemade dog food recipe features quinoa and pickled beetroot, perfect for sensitive stomachs.
• It’s packed with natural probiotics to boost gut health and essential nutrients.
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Serving Size: Makes about 8-10 servings for a medium-sized dog.

Ingredients List

• 1 pound ground turkey (lean): $5.00 – $7.00 (or use ground chicken or beef)
• 1 cup quinoa, rinsed: $1.50 – $2.50 (or use brown rice or oats)
• 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth: $1.00 – $2.00
• 1 medium sweet potato, peeled and diced: $0.75 – $1.25
• 1 cup fresh spinach: $0.50 – $1.00
• 1/2 cup pickled beetroot (fermented, no sugar added, finely chopped): $2.00 – $3.00 (ensure it’s plain, fermented beetroot, not sweetened or spiced for human consumption)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: $0.20 – $0.40
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped: $0.50 – $0.75
• 1 canine multivitamin supplement (optional, but recommended for completeness): $0.50 per serving

Total estimated cost: $11.95 – $18.60

Step-by-Step Instructions

• First, rinse the quinoa under cold water using a fine-mesh sieve. This helps remove saponins and bitterness.
• Next, in a large pot, combine the rinsed quinoa and chicken broth. Bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes.
• While the quinoa cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
• Add the ground turkey to the skillet and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until it’s fully browned. This takes about 8-10 minutes.
• Drain any excess fat from the turkey.
• Add the diced sweet potato to the skillet with the cooked turkey. Stir everything together and cook for another 10-12 minutes, or until the sweet potato is tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
• Once the quinoa is cooked, fluff it with a fork.
• Now, add the cooked quinoa, spinach, and finely chopped pickled beetroot to the skillet with the turkey and sweet potato.
• Stir everything well until the spinach wilts. This takes just a couple of minutes.
• Remove the skillet from the heat.
• Stir in the fresh parsley.
• If using, mix in the canine multivitamin supplement according to package directions once the food has cooled a bit.

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+ lbs): 2 to 4 cups per day, divided into two meals.
• Puppies and pregnant/nursing dogs may need more calories and nutrients. Consult your vet for precise amounts.
• Active dogs will generally need more food than less active dogs.
• Always talk to your veterinarian to get personalized feeding advice for your dog’s specific needs and health conditions.

Nutritional Benefits of the Recipe

• Ground Turkey: A great source of lean protein, essential for muscle maintenance and repair. It provides necessary amino acids.
• Quinoa: A complete protein and complex carbohydrate, offering sustained energy and fiber for healthy digestion. It’s also gluten-free.
• Sweet Potato: Rich in dietary fiber, vitamins (A, C, B6), and minerals like potassium. Supports vision and immune function.
• Spinach: Packed with vitamins (K, A, C), iron, and antioxidants. Helps support bone health and immunity.
• Pickled Beetroot: The star for natural probiotics. Fermented beetroot introduces beneficial bacteria to the gut, promoting a healthy microbiome and aiding digestion. It also provides fiber and antioxidants.
• Olive Oil: A good source of monounsaturated fats and Omega-6 fatty acids, beneficial for skin, coat, and overall cellular health.
• Parsley: Contains vitamins K and C, and acts as a natural breath freshener and antioxidant.
• Canine Multivitamin Supplement: Ensures your dog gets a complete balance of essential vitamins and minerals (A, D, E, K, B-complex, Choline, Calcium, Phosphorus, Magnesium, Sodium, Potassium, Chlorine, Iron, Copper, Zinc, Manganese, Selenium, Iodine) that might be lacking in a homemade diet.

Storage and Serving Tips

• Store leftover food in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• For longer storage, freeze portions in individual containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months.
• Thaw frozen food in the refrigerator overnight or gently reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.
• Always make sure the food is cooled to a safe temperature before serving.
• You can serve this food warm, at room temperature, or mixed with a little bit of their regular kibble during a transition period.

Common Questions & Troubleshooting

Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can. Brown the turkey first, then add all ingredients (except spinach, parsley, and beetroot) to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 4-6 hours or high for 2-3 hours. Stir in the remaining ingredients at the end.

My dog has a sensitive stomach, is this recipe suitable?

This recipe is designed with sensitive stomachs in mind, thanks to easily digestible quinoa and probiotic-rich pickled beetroot. However, always introduce new foods slowly and monitor your dog for any adverse reactions.

Do I really need a canine multivitamin?

While this recipe is nutritionally sound with whole ingredients, a canine multivitamin supplement is highly recommended to ensure your dog gets all the essential vitamins and minerals needed for a complete and balanced diet, especially long-term.

What if my dog doesn’t like pickled beetroot?

If your dog is picky, you can start with a smaller amount of pickled beetroot and gradually increase it. You can also try finely grating it and mixing it very thoroughly into the food.

Wrapping Up

Making your dog’s food at home gives you control over what they eat, helping them feel great from the inside out. This recipe with quinoa and pickled beetroot is a fantastic way to boost their gut health and overall well-being.

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