Homemade Dry Dog Food Recipe using Pork & Barley Squares

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.

Our dogs​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌ are our family members, and every one of us would want them to live a happy and healthy life. But with commercial dog food being mostly heavily processed, it becomes quite difficult to figure out what is actually best for our canine companions.

You might even be concerned about secret fillers and unhealthy additives. The good news is, it doesn’t have to be riddled with complexity to serve tasty and healthy meals to your dog.

Here is an easy and healthy homemade dry dog food recipe that you can prepare in your own ​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌kitchen.

Recipe Overview

• This homemade pork and barley dog food recipe creates hearty, chewable squares.
• It’s packed with lean protein, healthy complex carbs, and essential nutrients.
• Perfect for adult dogs needing a balanced, digestible meal.
• Prep time: 20 minutes
• Cook time: 45 minutes
• Serving size: Approximately 15-20 squares, depending on cut size.

Ingredients List

• Lean Ground Pork (90% lean or higher), 1.5 lbs: $7.50
• Pearled Barley, 1 cup dry: $1.00
• Carrots, 2 large, finely grated: $0.80
• Green Beans, 1 cup fresh or frozen (thawed): $1.20
• Spinach, 1 cup fresh, finely chopped: $0.70
• Chicken or Beef Broth (low sodium, dog-safe), 2 cups: $1.50
• Eggs, 2 large: $0.50
• Olive Oil, 1 tablespoon: $0.20
• Flaxseed Meal, 2 tablespoons: $0.40
• Calcium Carbonate Supplement, 1/2 teaspoon: $0.30
• Total Estimated Cost: $14.10

Substitutions: You can swap ground pork for ground turkey or lean ground beef. If your dog can’t have barley, try brown rice or oats. For vegetables, feel free to use peas or broccoli in moderation. Always introduce new ingredients slowly to check for sensitivities.

Step-by-Step Instructions

• First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Line a 9×13 inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides.
• Next, cook the pearled barley. Follow package directions, usually simmering 1 cup of barley in 3 cups of water or broth for about 25-30 minutes until tender.
• While the barley cooks, brown the ground pork in a large skillet over medium heat.
• Make sure to break it up as it cooks.
• Once cooked through, drain any excess fat.
• After that, add the grated carrots, green beans, and chopped spinach to the skillet with the pork.
• Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are slightly softened.
• Now, in a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pork and vegetable mixture with the cooked barley.
• Add the low-sodium broth, eggs, olive oil, flaxseed meal, and calcium carbonate supplement.
• Stir everything together until it’s well combined.
• Press the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
• Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is lightly golden and the mixture is firm.
• Let it cool completely in the dish before cutting into squares.

Feeding Guidelines

• For small dogs (10-20 lbs), offer 1-2 squares per day.
• Medium dogs (25-50 lbs) can have 3-4 squares daily.
• Large dogs (55-90 lbs) might need 5-7 squares a day.
• Adjust portions based on your dog’s activity level; very active dogs may need more.
• Puppies and pregnant or nursing dogs have higher caloric and nutritional needs. This recipe may need additional supplementation or be combined with a puppy-specific diet.
• Senior dogs might benefit from slightly smaller, easier-to-chew portions.
• Always consult your veterinarian for personalized feeding advice, especially for dogs with specific health conditions or dietary needs.

Nutritional Benefits of the Recipe

• Lean Ground Pork: This is a fantastic source of high-quality protein, essential for muscle maintenance and overall health. It provides necessary amino acids.
• Pearled Barley: A complex carbohydrate that offers sustained energy and contains both soluble and insoluble fiber. This helps with healthy digestion.
• Carrots: Rich in Beta-carotene, which converts to Vitamin A, supporting vision and immune function. They also add fiber.
• Green Beans: These are low in calories but high in vitamins K, C, and A, as well as fiber. They are good for a healthy metabolism.
• Spinach: Packed with iron, Vitamin K, and antioxidants. Spinach helps with bone health and can reduce inflammation.
• Eggs: A complete protein source, providing all essential amino acids. They are great for skin and coat health.
• Olive Oil: Offers healthy monounsaturated fats and antioxidants. It supports skin and coat health.
• Flaxseed Meal: An excellent source of Omega-3 fatty acids. This helps with brain function and can reduce inflammation.
• Calcium Carbonate: Added to ensure a balanced calcium-to-phosphorus ratio, which is crucial for strong bones and teeth in homemade diets.

Storage and Serving Tips

• Store leftover squares in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• For longer storage, freeze individual squares on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Frozen squares can last up to 2-3 months.
• Thaw frozen portions in the refrigerator overnight or gently reheat in the microwave until just warm.
• Serve the food at room temperature or slightly warm.
• You can offer these squares as a complete meal or mix them with your dog’s regular kibble for an added nutritional boost.

Common Questions & Troubleshooting

How can I ensure this recipe is nutritionally complete for my dog long-term?

While this recipe is balanced for many adult dogs, consistently feeding a homemade diet requires careful attention. Talk to your vet or a veterinary nutritionist. They might suggest specific supplements to ensure all essential vitamins and minerals are met for your dog’s unique needs.

My dog has allergies. What substitutions are safe?

If your dog is allergic to pork, switch to turkey or lamb. For grain allergies, use cooked sweet potato or oats instead of barley. Always introduce new ingredients slowly and watch for any adverse reactions.

Can puppies eat this food?

Puppies have different nutritional requirements for growth. This recipe might be suitable for an adult dog, but it won’t fully meet a puppy’s intense need for calories, protein, and specific nutrient ratios. Consult your vet about modifying this for a puppy or using a puppy-specific formula.

How do I know if my dog is getting enough fiber?

The barley, carrots, green beans, and spinach in this recipe provide a good amount of fiber. Signs of adequate fiber include firm, well-formed stools. If your dog has loose stools or seems constipated, consult your vet; they might suggest adding more fiber-rich vegetables.

Wrapping Up

Making your dog’s food at home is a rewarding way to ensure they get fresh, wholesome meals. This Pork & Barley Squares recipe is simple, nutritious, and a real crowd-pleaser for any canine companion. Your dog will love it, and you’ll love knowing exactly what they’re eating.

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