Homemade Slow Cooker Dog Food Recipe Using Turkey And Spinach With Brown Rice

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 guessing what’s in your dog’s food? Do you worry about hidden ingredients or the impact of highly processed kibble on their health?

It’s such a common concern for many dog owners, and seeing your furry friend struggle with sensitivities or allergies is heartbreaking.

But what if you could easily make a healthy, wholesome meal right in your own kitchen? I’m here to show you how to do just that, creating a delicious and nutritious slow cooker meal your dog will love, and you’ll feel good about.

Recipe Overview

• This homemade slow cooker dog food recipe with turkey, spinach, and brown rice is simple to make.
• It’s designed to be gentle on sensitive stomachs and provides a balanced meal.
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 3-4 hours on High or 6-8 hours on Low
• Serving Size: Makes approximately 10-12 cups, suitable for a week’s worth of meals for a medium-sized dog.

Ingredients List

• 1.5 lbs ground turkey (93% lean): Estimated Cost $6.00-$8.00
• 2 cups cooked brown rice (or 1 cup dry brown rice): Estimated Cost $0.50-$1.00
• 10 oz fresh spinach: Estimated Cost $2.50-$3.50
• 1 cup chopped carrots: Estimated Cost $0.50-$0.75
• 1 cup chopped green beans: Estimated Cost $1.00-$1.50
• 1 sweet potato, peeled and diced: Estimated Cost $1.00-$1.50
• 4 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth: Estimated Cost $1.50-$2.50
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (optional, for cooking turkey): Estimated Cost $0.10-$0.20
• Total Estimated Cost: $13.10-$18.95

Suitable Substitutions: You can swap ground turkey for ground chicken or lean ground beef. Brown rice can be replaced with cooked quinoa or rolled oats (ensure they are plain and unsweetened). Feel free to use other dog-safe vegetables like peas, pumpkin, or broccoli in moderation.

Step-by-Step Instructions

• First, brown the ground turkey in a skillet with a little olive oil, if using. This step helps break up the meat. Drain any excess fat.
• Next, add the browned turkey to your slow cooker.
• Then, add the cooked brown rice, fresh spinach, chopped carrots, chopped green beans, and diced sweet potato into the slow cooker.
• Pour in the low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth. Make sure everything is mostly covered by the liquid.
• Stir all the ingredients gently to combine them well.
• Cover the slow cooker with its lid.
• Cook on the “Low” setting for 6-8 hours, or on the “High” setting for 3-4 hours. The vegetables should be very tender, and the meat thoroughly cooked.
• Once cooked, let the mixture cool completely before serving or storing.
• Before serving, you can mash the mixture slightly with a fork or potato masher if your dog prefers a smoother texture. This is especially good for older dogs or those with dental issues.

Feeding Guidelines

• The amount of food your dog needs depends on their size, age, activity level, and metabolism.
• As a general rule, feed approximately 1/2 cup to 1 cup per 20 pounds of body weight per day.
• For small dogs (under 20 lbs), start with 1/2 to 1 cup daily, split into two meals.
• Medium dogs (20-50 lbs) might need 1 to 2 cups per day.
• Large dogs (50-90 lbs) could eat 2 to 3 cups per day.
• Very active dogs or puppies might need more, while senior dogs or less active ones might need less.
• Always consult your veterinarian for personalized feeding recommendations, especially if your dog has specific health conditions.

Nutritional Benefits of the Recipe

• Ground Turkey: This is a lean protein source, great for building and maintaining muscle mass. It’s also easy to digest for many dogs.
• Brown Rice: Provides complex carbohydrates for sustained energy. It’s also a good source of fiber, which helps with digestion.
• Spinach: Packed with vitamins K, A, and C, as well as iron and antioxidants. It supports bone health, vision, and the immune system.
• Carrots: A fantastic source of beta-carotene, which is converted to Vitamin A in the body, supporting good vision and immune function. They also offer fiber.
• Green Beans: Low in calories and high in vitamins K, C, and A. They provide fiber, supporting a healthy digestive system.
• Sweet Potato: An excellent source of dietary fiber, vitamins B6, C, and D, and beta-carotene. It’s gentle on the stomach and promotes digestive health.
• Overall, this recipe provides a balanced mix of protein, fiber, essential vitamins, and minerals, promoting healthy digestion, a shiny coat, and sustained energy levels.

Storage and Serving Tips

• Store any leftover food in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• For longer storage, divide the cooled food into individual serving portions and freeze for up to 2-3 months.
• When ready to serve from frozen, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight or gently reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop.
• Always ensure the food is cooled to room temperature before serving to your dog.
• You can serve this food as a complete meal, or mix it with your dog’s regular kibble to enhance flavor and add nutrients.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this recipe for puppies?

Yes, you can. But puppies have different nutritional needs. It’s always best to talk to your vet before making homemade food a primary part of a puppy’s diet.

Is it safe to feed my dog raw turkey?

No, it’s not. All meat in this recipe, especially turkey, must be fully cooked to kill bacteria like salmonella. This keeps your dog safe.

Can I add supplements to this recipe?

Yes, but be careful. It’s best to discuss any supplements, like a multivitamin or calcium, with your vet. They can help you make sure your dog gets the right balance of nutrients.

What if my dog doesn’t like spinach or green beans?

That’s fine. You can easily swap them out for other dog-safe vegetables. Think about using peas, pumpkin, or zucchini instead. Just make sure whatever you choose is safe for dogs.

How can I tell if the brown rice is fully cooked?

The brown rice should be soft and tender, not crunchy. If you’re cooking it separately before adding it to the slow cooker, follow the package instructions for thorough cooking.

My dog has a chicken allergy. Can I still use this recipe?

Absolutely. The recipe uses turkey, which is a great alternative. For the broth, just make sure to use a low-sodium vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to avoid any allergic reactions.

Can I use white rice instead of brown rice?

Yes, you can. White rice is okay for dogs, especially if they have an upset stomach. But brown rice has more fiber and nutrients. So, brown rice is usually a better long-term choice for regular feeding.

Wrapping Up

Feeling inspired? Your dog will thank you for this delicious, homemade meal. Pin this recipe to your Homemade Dog Food board for easy access and follow us for more pet-friendly tips!