Homemade Dog Food with Natural Probiotics using Sardines & Cultured Buttermilk

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​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌’re in the pet food aisle, the fluorescent lights are buzzing above you, and you are looking with difficulty at a bag whose first three components sound like a scientific experiment.

The realization comes to you gently: you can skip the label today, you can skip the price that is higher than it should be, and you can just make a real, homemade dog food for your dog’s bowl.

No chemistry degree is necessary, just the assurance that what keeps you healthy can keep the dog who is most loyal to ​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌you.

Recipe Overview

• This homemade dog food recipe features natural probiotics for gut health, using affordable sardines and cultured buttermilk.
• It’s designed to be gentle on sensitive stomachs and boost overall immunity.
• Prep time: 15 minutes
• Cook time: 20 minutes
• Serving size: Approximately 5-7 servings for a medium-sized dog (adjust based on caloric needs).

Ingredients List

• 1 can (3.75 oz) sardines in water, no salt added (approx. $1.50)
• 1 cup cultured buttermilk (approx. $0.50)
• 1.5 cups cooked brown rice (approx. $0.75)
• 1 cup finely chopped carrots (approx. $0.30)
• 1 cup finely chopped spinach (approx. $0.40)
• 0.5 cup chopped chicken liver (or other organ meat like beef liver), lightly cooked (approx. $1.00)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (approx. $0.20)
• 1/4 teaspoon ground turmeric (optional, for anti-inflammatory benefits) (approx. $0.05)
• 1/4 cup unsalted, unroasted pumpkin seeds, ground (approx. $0.50)
• 1/4 teaspoon kelp powder (for iodine and trace minerals) (approx. $0.10)
• Optional: 1/2 teaspoon calcium carbonate powder (if not supplementing with bone meal) (approx. $0.15)

Total Estimated Cost: $5.45

Substitutions:

• Sardines: Mackerel or salmon are good alternatives, ensuring they are packed in water and unsalted.
• Brown Rice: Quinoa or cooked oats can be used for different carbohydrate sources.
• Carrots/Spinach: Green beans, peas, or sweet potato are also excellent, dog-safe vegetable options.
• Chicken Liver: Other lean protein sources like cooked ground chicken, turkey, or beef can replace the liver, though liver offers unique nutrient density.
• Cultured Buttermilk: Plain, unsweetened kefir can be used for similar probiotic benefits.

Step-by-Step Instructions

• Prepare the Rice: Cook brown rice according to package directions. You want it soft. Set it aside to cool.
• Cook the Liver: Lightly cook the chopped chicken liver in a small pan until just browned. You don’t need to cook it through completely.
• Chop Vegetables: Finely chop the carrots and spinach. Make sure the pieces are small enough for easy digestion.
• Combine Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, open the can of sardines. Drain the water and mash the sardines with a fork. Pour in the cultured buttermilk and olive oil. Stir well to combine.
• Add Solids: Add the cooled brown rice, cooked liver, chopped carrots, and spinach to the sardine and buttermilk mixture.
• Add Supplements: Sprinkle in the ground pumpkin seeds, turmeric (if using), kelp powder, and calcium carbonate (if using).
• Mix Thoroughly: Mix everything together thoroughly. You want to ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed.
• Cool: Allow the mixture to cool completely before serving or storing.

Feeding Guidelines

• Small Dogs (under 20 lbs): 1/2 to 1 cup per day, divided into two meals.
• Medium Dogs (20-50 lbs): 1.5 to 2.5 cups per day, divided into two meals.
• Large Dogs (over 50 lbs): 3 to 4.5 cups per day, divided into two meals.
• Puppies: Growing puppies need more calories. Consult your vet for precise amounts. They may need up to double an adult portion per pound of body weight.
• Active Dogs: Highly active dogs might need 25-50% more food.
• Senior Dogs: Older dogs often have lower caloric needs but benefit from the highly digestible proteins and gut support. Reduce portion sizes if they are less active.
• Pregnant/Nursing Dogs: These dogs have significantly increased nutritional demands. Consult your vet for specific feeding plans.
• Always consult your veterinarian for personalized feeding advice, especially for dogs with specific health conditions, weight concerns, or during different life stages. This ensures your dog gets the right balance of nutrients.

Nutritional Benefits of the Recipe

• Sardines: Packed with Omega-3 fatty acids (EPA and DHA) for skin, coat, joint health, and brain function. Also a great source of protein, Vitamin D, and B vitamins.
• Cultured Buttermilk: Provides beneficial probiotics that support a healthy gut microbiome, aid digestion, and boost the immune system. It also contains calcium and protein.
• Brown Rice: A complex carbohydrate that offers sustained energy and fiber for digestive health. It’s gentle on the stomach.
• Carrots: Rich in Vitamin A (from beta-carotene) for vision and immune support, plus fiber.
• Spinach: High in vitamins K, A, and C, as well as iron and antioxidants, supporting bone health and immunity.
• Chicken Liver: An excellent source of high-quality protein, Vitamin A, B vitamins (especially B12), iron, and copper, which are vital for energy and red blood cell production.
• Olive Oil: A healthy fat source providing monounsaturated fats and antioxidants, beneficial for skin and coat.
• Pumpkin Seeds (ground): Good source of magnesium, zinc, and healthy fats, plus natural deworming properties.
• Kelp Powder: Provides iodine for thyroid health and essential trace minerals.
• Turmeric: A natural anti-inflammatory, great for joint health and general well-being.

Storage and Serving Tips

• Refrigeration: Store the food in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Freezing: For longer storage, divide the cooled food into individual serving portions in freezer-safe bags or containers. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.
• Reheating: Thaw frozen portions in the refrigerator overnight. You can serve it cold, at room temperature, or slightly warmed in the microwave.
• Serving Ideas: Serve this meal on its own or mix it with your dog’s regular kibble to transition them or to add a nutritional boost. Make sure it’s not too hot if you warm it.

Common Questions & Troubleshooting

Can I feed this recipe to my puppy?

Yes, puppies can generally eat this food, but their nutritional needs are higher. You might need to adjust portion sizes and consider adding a veterinary-approved puppy supplement for complete nutrition during growth. Always check with your vet first.

What if my dog doesn’t like sardines?

If your dog is picky about sardines, try finely mashing them into the mixture so they blend in more. You can also substitute with cooked, flaked salmon or mackerel, which offer similar benefits.

Is this recipe nutritionally complete for long-term feeding?

While this recipe is rich in many essential nutrients, for long-term feeding as a primary diet, it’s a good idea to rotate ingredients and consider adding a balanced canine vitamin and mineral supplement. Always consult your vet or a veterinary nutritionist to ensure it meets all your dog’s specific needs.

Can I use cow’s milk instead of buttermilk?

No, cow’s milk contains lactose, which many adult dogs are intolerant to and can cause digestive upset. Cultured buttermilk has much less lactose and offers beneficial probiotics, making it a safer and healthier choice.

Wrapping Up

Making your dog’s food at home means knowing exactly what goes into their bowl, giving you peace of mind and your dog a happy, healthy gut. It’s a simple way to show them extra love.

Feeling inspired? Pin this recipe to your Homemade Dog Food board for easy access and follow us for more pet-friendly tips!