Inexpensive Homemade Dog Food using Beef Liver and Green Beans

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.

Has your dog been itching, losing hair, or behaving unusually? The store-bought kibble could be the cause of the problem, it is usually loaded with fillers and low-quality ingredients that not only trigger allergies but also make dogs lethargic.

Undoubtedly, you want the best for your dog, but quality dog food is not cheap. What if you can offer a healthy, tasty, and wallet-friendly meal right from your home without health problems?

Prepare yourself to make this simple and low-cost homemade recipe that will make your dog happy!

Recipe Overview

• This budget-friendly homemade dog food recipe features nutrient-dense beef liver and fiber-rich green beans.
• It’s perfect for dog owners looking to provide a wholesome meal without spending a fortune.
• It supports healthy digestion, a shiny coat, and sustained energy.
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Serving Size: Makes approximately 8 cups (enough for a medium-sized dog for 3-4 days).

Ingredients List

• 1 lb Beef Liver, raw (about $4.50)
• 2 cups Green Beans, fresh or frozen (about $2.00)
• 1 cup Brown Rice, uncooked (about $0.50)
• 4 cups Water (free)
• 1 tbsp Olive Oil or Coconut Oil (about $0.20)
• 1 tsp Turmeric Powder (about $0.10)
• 1/2 cup Carrots, chopped (about $0.30)
• 1/4 cup Parsley, fresh, chopped (about $0.25)

Total Estimated Cost: $8.05

Suitable Substitutions:

• Beef Liver: Chicken liver or turkey liver can be used. Just make sure the amount stays the same.
• Green Beans: Peas or broccoli florets are good alternatives.
• Brown Rice: White rice or quinoa can be substituted, but adjust cooking time as needed.
• Carrots: Sweet potato (cooked and mashed) works well.
• Olive Oil: Flaxseed oil is another healthy fat option.

Step-by-Step Instructions

• First, rinse the beef liver under cold water.
• Pat it dry with a paper towel.
• Then, carefully chop the liver into small, bite-sized pieces.
• It’s important to make them easy for your dog to eat.
• In a large pot, combine the brown rice and 4 cups of water.
• Bring this mixture to a boil.
• Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and most of the water is absorbed.
• Keep an eye on it to prevent burning.
• While the rice is cooking, heat the olive oil in a separate large skillet over medium heat.
• Add the chopped beef liver to the skillet.
• Cook the liver for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
• Make sure it’s fully browned on all sides.
• Next, add the green beans, chopped carrots, and turmeric powder to the skillet with the liver.
• Cook for another 5-8 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
• Stir everything together thoroughly.
• Once the rice is cooked, remove it from the heat.
• Stir in the fresh chopped parsley.
• Now, combine the cooked rice mixture with the liver and vegetable mixture in the large pot or a spacious bowl.
• Mix everything well to ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed.
• Let the food cool completely before serving it to your dog.
• This is very important to prevent burns.

Feeding Guidelines

• Small Dogs (under 20 lbs): Feed about 1/2 to 1 cup per day. For example, a Chihuahua might get 1/2 cup, while a Jack Russell Terrier might need 1 cup.
• Medium Dogs (20-50 lbs): Feed about 1.5 to 2.5 cups per day. A Beagle might get 1.5 cups, and a Border Collie could need 2.5 cups.
• Large Dogs (50-90 lbs): Feed about 3 to 4 cups per day. A Labrador Retriever might eat 3.5 cups, and a German Shepherd could need 4 cups.
• Giant Breeds (over 90 lbs): Feed 4.5+ cups per day, adjusting based on their size and activity.
• For very active dogs, you might need to increase portions slightly.
• Less active or senior dogs may need a bit less to avoid weight gain.
• Puppies and pregnant/nursing dogs have higher caloric needs; please consult your vet for precise amounts.
• It’s always best to talk to your veterinarian to get personalized feeding advice for your dog’s specific needs and health conditions.

Nutritional Benefits of the Recipe

• Beef Liver: This is a powerhouse of nutrients. It’s rich in iron, vitamin A, B vitamins (especially B12), and essential minerals like zinc and copper. These support energy levels, a healthy immune system, and good vision.
• Green Beans: A great source of dietary fiber, which aids digestion and promotes healthy bowel movements. They also provide vitamins K and C, and manganese, supporting bone health and antioxidant function.
• Brown Rice: Offers complex carbohydrates for sustained energy release. It also contains fiber, which helps with satiety and digestive health.
• Olive Oil/Coconut Oil: Provides healthy fats that contribute to a shiny coat and healthy skin. They also have anti-inflammatory properties.
• Turmeric: Known for its strong anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. It can help with joint health and overall wellness.
• Carrots: Packed with beta-carotene, which converts to vitamin A, essential for good vision and immune function. They also add fiber.
• Parsley: Acts as a natural breath freshener and provides vitamins K, A, and C, as well as antioxidants.

Storage and Serving Tips

• Once the food has cooled completely, transfer it to airtight containers.
• It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• For longer storage, you can freeze individual portions.
• Spoon the food into freezer-safe containers or even ice cube trays for smaller servings.
• It can be kept in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.
• To reheat frozen portions, simply transfer them to the refrigerator overnight or gently warm them in the microwave or on the stovetop.
• Make sure the food is fully thawed and warmed through.
• Always check that the food is not too hot before serving.
• You can serve this homemade dog food warm, at room temperature, or even mixed with your dog’s regular kibble to transition them gradually or add extra flavor.
• Some dogs enjoy a little warm water mixed in, especially if they are picky eaters.

Common Questions & Troubleshooting

Is this recipe complete and balanced for my dog?

While this recipe is packed with nutrients, it’s designed as a supplemental meal or a rotation option. For long-term, exclusive feeding, you might need to add a vet-approved vitamin and mineral supplement to ensure it’s fully balanced. Always talk to your vet about your dog’s dietary needs.

Can I make a big batch and store it?

Absolutely! This recipe is great for meal prepping. You can easily double or triple the ingredients and then follow the storage instructions for refrigerating or freezing portions. It saves a lot of time during the week.

My dog has allergies. How can I adapt this?

The substitutions section lists several options. If your dog is allergic to beef, chicken or turkey liver are good choices. For grain allergies, try quinoa instead of brown rice. If green beans are an issue, peas or broccoli can work. Always introduce new foods slowly and watch for any reactions.

What if my dog doesn’t like liver?

Some dogs are picky. You can try blending the cooked liver with some of the green beans and carrots into a paste, then mixing it thoroughly with the rice. This can help mask the texture while still providing the nutrients. Start with smaller amounts and gradually increase.

Can I add other vegetables?

Yes, many dog-safe vegetables can be added, such as cooked sweet potato, pumpkin (plain, not pie filling), or spinach. Avoid onions, garlic, grapes, and raisins, as these are toxic to dogs. Always research new ingredients before adding them.

Wrapping Up

Ready to make mealtime exciting and healthy for your pup? This homemade dog food recipe is a game-changer for their well-being and your wallet.

Pin this recipe to your Homemade Dog Food board for easy access and follow us for more pet-friendly tips!