Homemade Dog Food with Natural Probiotics using Turkey & Fermented Veggies

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.

If​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌ you are fed up with dog food labels that are hard to understand and ingredients that are a mystery, then you will be glad to know that there is a solution.

It’s hard to understand what is really best for your pet’s gut health. This can cause your dog to have digestive upset, dull coats, and even low energy.

But don’t worry, I have a homemade dog food recipe that is both healthy and simple to prepare at ​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌home.

Recipe Overview

• This Homemade Dog Food with Natural Probiotics using Turkey & Fermented Veggies recipe takes about 45 minutes of prep and 30 minutes to cook.
• It’s packed with lean protein, gut-friendly fiber, and natural probiotics to boost your dog’s digestion and immune system.
• This recipe yields about 8-10 servings, perfect for a week’s worth of meals for a medium-sized dog.
• It’s great for dogs needing a digestive boost, those with sensitive stomachs, or just wanting a healthier diet.

Ingredients List

• Ground Turkey (93% lean): 2 lbs – $8.00 – $10.00
• Sweet Potatoes: 2 medium – $1.50 – $2.00
• Carrots: 2 large – $0.75 – $1.00
• Green Beans: 1 cup (fresh or frozen) – $1.00 – $1.50
• Fermented Vegetables (e.g., sauerkraut, kimchi – plain, no spices/garlic/onions): 1/2 cup – $3.00 – $5.00
• Filtered Water: 1 cup – $0.00
• Flaxseed Oil (cold-pressed): 1 tablespoon – $0.50 – $1.00
• Optional: High-quality canine multivitamin/mineral supplement (consult vet) – $0.50 – $1.00 per serving if used daily.

Total estimated cost: $15.25 – $21.50

Substitutions: You can use ground chicken or lean beef instead of turkey. For vegetables, feel free to swap green beans with peas or spinach. Just make sure all substitutions are dog-safe.

Step-by-Step Instructions

• First, wash and peel the sweet potatoes and carrots.
• Then, chop them into small, bite-sized pieces. Aim for about 1/2 inch cubes so they cook evenly and are easy for your dog to eat.
• Next, in a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the ground turkey over medium heat. Break it up with a spoon as it cooks.
• Once the turkey is fully cooked and no longer pink, drain any excess fat. This keeps the meal lean and healthy for your dog.
• After that, add the chopped sweet potatoes and carrots to the pot with the turkey.
• Pour in the filtered water. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
• Cover the pot and let it cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes and carrots are tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking, and check for tenderness with a fork.
• Now, add the green beans to the pot. Cook for another 5 minutes, until they are bright green and slightly tender.
• Remove the pot from the heat and let the mixture cool down completely. This is important before adding the fermented veggies to preserve their probiotic benefits.
• Once cool, stir in the plain fermented vegetables. Do not cook the fermented vegetables, as heat kills the beneficial bacteria.
• Finally, mix in the flaxseed oil and any optional canine multivitamin/mineral supplement according to your vet’s recommendation.

Feeding Guidelines

• Generally, a good starting point is to feed your dog about 1/2 cup to 1 cup of this food per 20 pounds of body weight, twice a day.
• For smaller breeds (under 20 lbs), start with about 1/4 to 1/2 cup daily. For example, a 10 lb dog might get 1/4 cup twice a day.
• Medium breeds (20-50 lbs) like a Border Collie or Bulldog might need 1/2 to 1 cup twice daily.
• Large breeds (50-90 lbs) such as a German Shepherd or Golden Retriever could eat 1 to 1.5 cups twice daily.
• Very large breeds (over 90 lbs) like a Great Dane or Mastiff might require 1.5 to 2 cups or more, twice a day.
• Active dogs or puppies will often need more food to support their higher energy demands and growth. They might need up to 50% more than a less active adult dog.
• Senior dogs or less active dogs may need slightly less to prevent weight gain.
• Always consult your veterinarian for personalized feeding advice, especially for puppies, pregnant or nursing dogs, or dogs with specific health conditions. They can help tailor the portion size to your dog’s exact needs.

Nutritional Benefits of the Recipe

• Ground Turkey: This is a lean protein source, giving your dog essential amino acids for strong muscles and tissue repair. It’s usually easier on sensitive stomachs than beef or chicken for some dogs.
• Sweet Potatoes: Packed with dietary fiber, which helps digestion and promotes healthy bowel movements. They also provide vital vitamins like A (for vision and immune function) and C, plus minerals like potassium.
• Carrots: Another great source of fiber and beta-carotene, which converts to Vitamin A in the body. This supports eye health and immune function.
• Green Beans: Low in calories and high in fiber, vitamins K and C, and manganese. They add bulk to the diet without extra calories, which is good for weight management.
• Fermented Vegetables (Plain Sauerkraut): The star of the show for gut health! These natural probiotics introduce beneficial bacteria to your dog’s digestive system. This can improve digestion, nutrient absorption, and boost the immune system.
• Flaxseed Oil: Provides essential Omega-3 fatty acids, important for a shiny coat, healthy skin, and reducing inflammation. It also supports brain and heart health.
• Overall: This recipe delivers a good balance of protein, complex carbohydrates, healthy fats, and fiber. The combination of ingredients supports a healthy gut microbiome, which is crucial for overall health and vitality.

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, you can freeze portions in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 2-3 months.
• When ready to serve from frozen, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight or gently reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave until warm. Make sure it’s not hot before serving.
• You can serve this food warm, at room temperature, or even mixed with your dog’s regular kibble to help them transition or just add a boost of freshness.

Common Questions & Troubleshooting

Can I make a big batch and freeze it?

Yes, absolutely! Freezing in individual portions is a great way to save time. Just make sure to thaw it properly before serving.

What if my dog doesn’t like fermented vegetables?

Start with a very small amount and gradually increase it. Some dogs might need time to adjust to new tastes and textures. You can also try other dog-safe fermented foods like plain kefir.

Do I really need to add a supplement?

Homemade diets can sometimes lack certain essential vitamins and minerals. It’s highly recommended to discuss a canine multivitamin/mineral supplement with your vet to ensure your dog gets all necessary nutrients.

Is this recipe suitable for puppies?

While the ingredients are safe, puppies have different nutritional needs for growth. You should definitely talk to your vet to ensure this recipe, possibly with adjustments or supplements, is appropriate for your puppy’s stage of development.

Wrapping Up

Giving your dog homemade, probiotic-rich food like this means a happier gut and a healthier, more vibrant life. It’s a simple way to show them love and care, knowing exactly what they’re eating.

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