Homemade Slow Cooker Dog Food Recipe Using Beef And Sweet Potato Stew With Peas

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.

Are you tired of reading confusing ingredient lists on dog food bags? It’s tough to know what’s truly healthy for your best friend. Many commercial foods contain fillers or mystery meats.

But here’s an easy, wholesome solution you can make right at home.

Recipe Overview

• This homemade slow cooker dog food recipe makes feeding your dog simple.
• It’s packed with lean protein, healthy carbs, and essential vitamins.
• This recipe is great for dogs with sensitive stomachs or picky eaters.
• Prep time: 15 minutes.
• Cook time: 3-4 hours on high, or 6-8 hours on low.
• Serving size: Makes about 12-14 cups, enough for a medium dog for a week.

Ingredients List

• 2 lbs lean beef chuck, trimmed and cut into 1-inch cubes – Estimated cost: $12.00-$16.00
• 3 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced – Estimated cost: $3.00-$4.50
• 2 cups frozen peas – Estimated cost: $2.00-$3.00
• 6 cups low-sodium beef broth (ensure no onion or garlic) – Estimated cost: $4.00-$6.00
• 1 tablespoon olive oil – Estimated cost: $0.50
• (Optional) 1/2 cup cooked brown rice or quinoa, for mixing later – Estimated cost: $0.50-$1.00

Total Estimated Cost: $22.00-$31.00

Suitable substitutions: You can swap beef chuck for lean ground turkey or chicken breast. If your dog can’t have sweet potato, plain pumpkin puree (not pie filling) is a good alternative. Green beans can replace peas if needed.

Step-by-Step Instructions

• Step 1: Prep the Beef. Trim any excess fat from the beef chuck.
  Cut the beef into 1-inch pieces.
• Step 2: Brown the Beef (Optional but Recommended). Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  Brown the beef cubes on all sides for 2-3 minutes. This adds a richer flavor.
  You can skip this step if you’re short on time.
• Step 3: Load the Slow Cooker. Place the browned or raw beef cubes into the slow cooker.
  Add the diced sweet potatoes next.
• Step 4: Add Liquid. Pour the low-sodium beef broth over the ingredients in the slow cooker.
  Make sure the beef and sweet potatoes are mostly covered.
• Step 5: Cook. Cover the slow cooker with its lid.
  Cook on high for 3-4 hours, or on low for 6-8 hours. The beef should be tender enough to shred easily.
• Step 6: Add Peas. About 30 minutes before the cooking time ends, stir in the frozen peas.
  The peas will heat through and soften quickly.
• Step 7: Cool and Mash. Once cooked, let the mixture cool completely in the slow cooker.
  Use a fork or a potato masher to break up the beef and sweet potato into smaller, easily digestible pieces for your dog.
  You can mash it as smooth or leave it as chunky as your dog prefers.
• Step 8: Portion and Store. Divide the cooled dog food into meal-sized portions.
  Store immediately (details below).

Feeding Guidelines

• The amount of food your dog needs varies a lot. It depends on their size, age, and how active they are.
• A good starting point for homemade food is about 1/2 to 1 cup per 20 pounds of body weight daily. For example, a 40-pound dog might eat 1-2 cups.
• Puppies need more frequent meals and often more calories per pound of body weight. Senior dogs might need fewer calories.
• Highly active breeds like Border Collies will need more food than a less active breed like a Bulldog.
• It’s always a good idea to chat with your vet before changing your dog’s diet. They can give you personalized advice based on your dog’s specific needs.

Nutritional Benefits of the Recipe

• Lean Beef: This is a fantastic source of high-quality protein.
  Protein is super important for muscle growth, repair, and overall strength in dogs.
• Sweet Potatoes: These are packed with fiber, which helps with digestion.
  They also have vitamins A and C, which are great for vision and a strong immune system.
• Peas: Peas add even more vitamins, like K and B, and minerals.
  They are also a good source of dietary fiber.
• Overall Benefits: This stew supports a healthy gut because it’s easy to digest.
  It’s also free of common allergens often found in commercial dog foods.
  This means less itching and a happier tummy for your dog.

Storage and Serving Tips

• Once the food is completely cool, put it in airtight containers.
  It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days.
• For longer storage, freeze individual portions.
  It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
  Label the containers with the date.
• To serve, thaw frozen portions in the refrigerator overnight or gently reheat in the microwave.
  Make sure it’s just warm or at room temperature, never hot.
• You can serve this stew on its own.
  Or mix it with your dog’s regular kibble to add extra flavor and nutrients.
  Some dogs enjoy it with a sprinkle of cooked brown rice or quinoa.

Common Questions & Troubleshooting

Can I add other vegetables?

Yes, you can! Carrots, green beans, or spinach are all dog-safe and healthy additions. Just make sure to avoid onions, garlic, grapes, and raisins, as these are toxic to dogs.

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

This recipe is generally gentle on sensitive stomachs because it uses easily digestible ingredients. However, every dog is different. Introduce new foods slowly and watch for any digestive upset. A vet consultation is always best for sensitive dogs.

How do I know if my dog likes the new food?

Most dogs will gobble this up right away! Look for excitement at meal times and a clean bowl. If your dog hesitates, try mixing a small amount with their old food first and gradually increase the new food over a few days.

Is this recipe complete and balanced for long-term feeding?

While this recipe is packed with nutrients, it’s a good idea to consult with a veterinary nutritionist for a truly complete and balanced long-term diet plan. This recipe works great as a supplement to kibble, a meal rotation, or a special treat.

Wrapping Up

Making your dog’s food at home means knowing exactly what they eat. This beef and sweet potato stew is easy, healthy, and dogs love it.

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