Homemade Slow Cooker Dog Food Recipe Using Chicken And Zucchini With Quinoa

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.

Seriously, who doesn’t love their dog like family, right? And oftentimes, store-bought dog food just doesn’t feel right. Who wants to feed unknown stuff to our family?

It can be hard to know what’s really in there, and some dogs struggle with sensitivities or allergies.

Thinking about all those mystery ingredients can be stressful for any dog parent. What if you could make something truly wholesome, packed with goodness, and totally safe for your furry friend?

Well, you can. We’re here to show you how to easily make a delicious, nutritious meal your dog will adore.

Recipe Overview

• This homemade slow cooker dog food recipe takes minimal effort. It uses simple ingredients you likely have.
• It’s a fantastic way to control what your dog eats. This recipe is great for sensitive stomachs.
• Prep time: 15 minutes
• Cook time: 4-6 hours (low setting)
• Serving size: Approximately 10-14 servings (for a medium-sized dog)

Ingredients List

• 4-5 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 2 lbs) – Cost: $8-$12
• 4 cups chicken broth (low sodium, no onion/garlic) – Cost: $3-$5
• 1 cup quinoa, rinsed – Cost: $2-$4
• 2 medium zucchinis, chopped – Cost: $1-$2
• 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped – Cost: $0.50-$1
• 1 sweet potato, peeled and chopped – Cost: $1-$2
• 1/2 cup green beans, trimmed – Cost: $1-$2
• 2 tablespoons olive oil – Cost: $0.20-$0.50
• Optional: 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish and digestion) – Cost: $0.50-$1

Total estimated cost: $17.20 – $27.50

Suitable substitutions:

• Chicken can be swapped with lean ground turkey or beef.
• Zucchini can be replaced with pumpkin or butternut squash (ensure seeds are removed).
• Quinoa can be substituted with brown rice or oats (adjust liquid if needed).

Step-by-Step Instructions

• First, prepare your vegetables. Wash and chop the zucchinis, carrots, sweet potato, and green beans into small, bite-sized pieces. This helps them cook evenly.
• Next, rinse your quinoa thoroughly under cold water. This removes any bitter coating.
• Place the chicken breasts at the bottom of your slow cooker.
• Add the chopped sweet potato, carrots, zucchini, and green beans over the chicken.
• Pour in the rinsed quinoa and then the chicken broth. Make sure the ingredients are mostly submerged.
• Drizzle the olive oil over everything. This adds healthy fats.
• Cover the slow cooker and cook on the low setting for 4-6 hours. The chicken should be very tender and easy to shred.
• Once cooked, carefully remove the chicken breasts from the slow cooker.
• Shred the chicken using two forks or chop it into small pieces.
• Stir the shredded chicken back into the slow cooker with the vegetables and quinoa. Mix everything together well.
• If using, stir in the fresh parsley now.
• Let the mixture cool completely before serving or storing. It will thicken as it cools.

Feeding Guidelines

• Portion sizes depend on your dog’s weight, age, and activity level. Always start small.
• For small dogs (10-20 lbs), a good starting point is 1/2 to 1 cup per day.
• Medium dogs (25-50 lbs) might need 1.5 to 2.5 cups daily.
• Large dogs (55-90 lbs) could eat 3 to 4.5 cups per day.
• Very active dogs or puppies may require more calories. Less active or senior dogs might need less.
• You can split the daily amount into two meals.
• Always talk to your veterinarian before making significant changes to your dog’s diet. They can give tailored advice.

Nutritional Benefits of the Recipe

• Chicken is an excellent source of lean protein. It helps build and maintain strong muscles.
• Quinoa is a complete protein, meaning it contains all essential amino acids. It’s also high in fiber for healthy digestion.
• Zucchini provides vitamins C and A, and it’s low in calories. It also adds hydration.
• Carrots are packed with beta-carotene, which supports eye health. They’re also a good source of fiber.
• Sweet potatoes offer complex carbohydrates for energy. They also provide vitamins A and C, and potassium.
• Green beans are low in calories and provide vitamins K and C. They are a good source of fiber.
• Olive oil provides healthy fats. These support skin and coat health.

Storage and Serving Tips

• Once cooled, store the dog food in airtight containers in the refrigerator.
• It stays fresh for about 3-4 days when refrigerated.
• For longer storage, you can freeze individual portions. Use freezer-safe bags or containers.
• Frozen food can last for up to 3 months.
• Thaw frozen portions in the refrigerator overnight or gently warm them.
• Serve the food at room temperature or slightly warmed. Your dog might enjoy it more that way.
• You can serve this as a standalone meal or mix it with your dog’s regular kibble. This helps with the transition.

Common Questions & Troubleshooting

What if my dog doesn’t like it?

Some dogs can be picky. Try mixing a small amount with their regular food first. Gradually increase the homemade food portion over a few days.

Can I add other vegetables?

Yes, absolutely. Dog-safe vegetables like peas, spinach, or broccoli are good choices. Always check if a vegetable is safe for dogs before adding it.

Is this recipe balanced for long-term feeding?

While this recipe is nutritious, it’s best to consult with your vet or a canine nutritionist for a truly balanced long-term diet. They can help ensure all nutrient requirements are met.

My dog has allergies, what can I do?

If your dog has specific allergies, use the substitution suggestions. For example, if they’re allergic to chicken, use turkey. Always introduce new ingredients slowly.

How do I know if my dog is eating enough?

Monitor your dog’s weight and energy levels. If they seem too thin or low on energy, they might need more food. If they gain too much weight, cut back slightly.

Wrapping Up

Making your dog’s food at home is a wonderful way to show them extra love and care. This slow cooker recipe is easy, wholesome, and a great alternative to commercial foods. Your furry friend will love this fresh, delicious meal.

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