Homemade Dry Dog Food Recipe using Mixed Meat & Vegetable Dehydrated Mix

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.

Your​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌ dog deserves the best, yet deciding on what to feed them can be quite confusing. Most of the time, commercial dog food are packed with fillers and some substances whose names you cannot even pronounce.

That makes it very hard for regular folks like you and me to be sure if they are getting what they really need.

But suppose you could prepare something healthy, delicious, and natural in your own kitchen? This homemade dry dog food recipe is going to be your guide.

Recipe Overview

• This homemade dehydrated dog food mix takes about 30 minutes to prep and then dehydrates for 8-12 hours.
• It’s packed with quality protein, healthy fats, and vital nutrients, perfect for a balanced diet.
• Yields approximately 6 cups of dry mix, enough for a medium-sized dog for a few days when rehydrated.
• Great for picky eaters or dogs with food sensitivities.

Ingredients List

• 1 lb Lean Ground Turkey (85/15 or 90/10) – Estimated Cost: $5.00
• 1 lb Beef Liver, chopped finely – Estimated Cost: $3.50
• 1 cup Carrots, shredded – Estimated Cost: $0.75
• 1 cup Green Beans, finely chopped – Estimated Cost: $1.00
• 1/2 cup Spinach, finely chopped – Estimated Cost: $0.50
• 1/4 cup Rolled Oats (not instant) – Estimated Cost: $0.20
• 2 tablespoons Olive Oil or Coconut Oil – Estimated Cost: $0.40
• 1 teaspoon Ground Turmeric – Estimated Cost: $0.15
• 1/2 teaspoon Dried Rosemary – Estimated Cost: $0.10
• 1/4 teaspoon Kelp Powder (for minerals) – Estimated Cost: $0.30
• Optional: 1/2 cup Sweet Potato, grated (ensure fully cooked before dehydrating) – Estimated Cost: $0.60
• Total Estimated Cost: $12.90 (approx.)

Substitutions: You can swap ground turkey for lean ground chicken or beef. Beef liver can be replaced with chicken liver. Feel free to use other dog-safe vegetables like peas or broccoli in moderation. Just make sure all veggies are finely chopped and fully cooked if needed before dehydrating to help with digestion and safety.

Step-by-Step Instructions

• Cook the Meats: In a large skillet, cook the ground turkey and beef liver over medium heat until fully browned.
• Drain Excess Fat: Carefully drain any excess fat from the cooked meat mixture.
• Add Vegetables: Stir in the shredded carrots, chopped green beans, and finely chopped spinach. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are slightly softened. If using sweet potato, make sure it’s cooked and mashed before adding it here.
• Mix in Oats and Seasonings: Remove from heat. Add the rolled oats, olive oil (or coconut oil), turmeric, rosemary, and kelp powder. Mix everything really well until evenly combined.
• Spread on Dehydrator Trays: Spread the mixture thinly and evenly onto your dehydrator trays, making sure there are no large clumps. This helps it dry properly.
• Dehydrate: Dehydrate at 145°F (63°C) for 8-12 hours, or until the mixture is completely dry and brittle. It should snap cleanly, not bend.
• Check for Doneness: Periodically check for any moist spots, especially in thicker areas. If you find any, break them up and continue dehydrating.
• Cool and Store: Once completely dry, let the mix cool down to room temperature before storing.

Feeding Guidelines

• Small Dogs (up to 20 lbs): Rehydrate about 1/4 – 1/2 cup of dry mix per day, split into two meals.
• Medium Dogs (20-50 lbs): Rehydrate about 1/2 – 1 cup of dry mix per day, split into two meals.
• Large Dogs (50+ lbs): Rehydrate about 1 – 2 cups of dry mix per day, split into two meals.
• Rehydration: Mix 1 part dry food with 1 part warm water and let it sit for 10-15 minutes until softened.
• Activity Levels: Active dogs may need slightly more, while less active or senior dogs might need a bit less.
• Puppies and Seniors: Puppies need more calories and protein for growth, while seniors might benefit from softer, easily digestible food. Always check with your vet for precise recommendations.
• Veterinary Advice: Always consult your veterinarian before making significant changes to your dog’s diet, especially for puppies, pregnant/nursing dogs, or those with underlying health conditions. They can help ensure nutritional completeness.

Nutritional Benefits of the Recipe

• Lean Ground Turkey & Beef Liver: Provides high-quality protein for muscle maintenance and essential amino acids. Beef liver is a powerhouse of Vitamin A, B vitamins, and iron, crucial for energy and overall health.
• Carrots & Green Beans: Good sources of fiber for healthy digestion and prebiotics. Carrots offer Vitamin A (beta-carotene) for vision and immunity, while green beans provide Vitamin K, C, and manganese.
• Spinach: Packed with vitamins K, A, and C, and iron. It supports bone health and boosts the immune system.
• Rolled Oats: A complex carbohydrate source for sustained energy and dietary fiber, which aids in digestion and can be gentle on sensitive stomachs.
• Olive Oil/Coconut Oil: Provides healthy fats (Omega-6 and potentially some Omega-3 in olive oil) important for skin, coat health, and nutrient absorption. Coconut oil can also offer medium-chain triglycerides for brain health.
• Turmeric: A natural anti-inflammatory, great for joint health and overall well-being.
• Rosemary: An antioxidant that can help preserve the food and offers anti-inflammatory properties.
• Kelp Powder: A natural source of essential minerals like iodine, which supports thyroid function, and other trace minerals.
• Overall Balance: This recipe aims for a good balance of protein, fats, and complex carbohydrates, along with essential vitamins and minerals through its whole food ingredients. Consider adding a veterinarian-approved canine multivitamin if you’re making this as a regular, sole diet, to cover all micronutrient bases.

Storage and Serving Tips

• Storage: Once completely dry and cooled, store the dehydrated mix in an airtight container in a cool, dark place for up to 2-3 months.
• Refrigeration: For longer storage, you can keep it in the refrigerator for up to 6 months.
• Freezing: The dehydrated mix can be frozen for up to a year. Just make sure it’s in a freezer-safe, airtight bag or container to prevent freezer burn.
• Reheating: When ready to serve, rehydrate a portion with warm water as described in the feeding guidelines. You can also rehydrate it overnight in the fridge with cold water.
• Serving Temperature: Serve at room temperature or slightly warm after rehydration.
• Mixing with Kibble: You can mix the rehydrated food with your dog’s regular kibble to transition them or to add a nutritious boost to their current diet.

Common Questions & Troubleshooting

Can I add a canine supplement to this recipe?

Yes, absolutely. In fact, for a complete and balanced long-term diet, adding a veterinarian-approved canine multivitamin and mineral supplement is highly recommended to ensure all nutritional needs are met.

What if my dog doesn’t like a specific ingredient?

No problem! This recipe is flexible. You can substitute ingredients with other dog-safe options. For instance, if your dog isn’t keen on green beans, try finely chopped peas or broccoli instead.

How do I know if the food is fully dehydrated?

The mixture should be completely dry and brittle. When you try to bend a piece, it should snap cleanly. If it’s still pliable or feels soft, it needs more time in the dehydrator.

Is this recipe suitable for puppies?

While the ingredients are safe, puppies have higher nutritional demands for growth. Consult your vet to ensure this recipe, potentially with added supplements, meets their specific needs.

Wrapping Up

Making your own dehydrated dog food means giving your furry friend delicious, wholesome meals you can trust. It’s a simple way to boost their health and happiness.

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