Turkey & Oat Slow Cooker Dog Food Recipe For Busy Dog Parents

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.

Sick of not knowing what’s actually in your dog’s food? All those weird ingredients you can’t even say out loud, plus the never-ending tummy troubles.

Yeah, it gets old fast.

Your dog shouldn’t have to settle for mystery meat and empty fillers. Their health matters, plain and simple. So here’s an easy, honest homemade slow cooker dog food recipe that lets you take charge.

Recipe Overview

• This slow cooker recipe makes meal prep easy for busy dog parents.
• It provides a balanced, nutritious meal rich in protein, fiber, and essential nutrients.
• Prep time: 15 minutes.
• Cook time: 3-4 hours on high or 6-8 hours on low.
• Serving size: Approximately 10-12 cups, enough for a medium dog for about a week.

Ingredients List

• 1.5 lbs ground turkey (93% lean): Estimated cost $7.50.
• 2 cups rolled oats (not instant): Estimated cost $1.00.
• 2 cups chopped sweet potatoes: Estimated cost $1.50.
• 1 cup chopped carrots: Estimated cost $0.75.
• 1 cup chopped green beans: Estimated cost $1.25.
• 4 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth: Estimated cost $2.00.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: Estimated cost $0.50.
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for fresh breath): Estimated cost $0.50.
• 1 multi-vitamin and mineral supplement for dogs (crush and add after cooking): Estimated cost $0.75 per serving (based on a 30-day supply).

Total estimated cost: $15.75

Substitutions: You can swap ground turkey for lean ground chicken or beef. If you don’t have sweet potatoes, pumpkin or butternut squash work well. Green beans can be replaced with peas or spinach.

Step-by-Step Instructions

• Brown the ground turkey in a skillet over medium heat. Make sure it’s cooked through, then drain any excess fat.
• Add the cooked turkey to your slow cooker.
• Next, add the rolled oats, chopped sweet potatoes, carrots, and green beans to the slow cooker.
• Pour in the low-sodium broth and olive oil. Give everything a good stir to mix it all together.
• Cover the slow cooker and cook on high for 3-4 hours, or on low for 6-8 hours. The vegetables should be tender.
• Once cooked, remove the slow cooker pot and let the food cool completely before serving.
• Before serving, stir in the fresh parsley if using. If adding a canine vitamin and mineral supplement, crush the tablet and mix it thoroughly into the cooled food.

Feeding Guidelines

• For small dogs (10-20 lbs): Feed about 1/2 to 1 cup per day.
• For medium dogs (25-50 lbs): Feed about 1.5 to 2.5 cups per day.
• For large dogs (50-90 lbs): Feed about 3 to 4.5 cups per day.
• These amounts are general. Active dogs, puppies, and pregnant or nursing dogs might need more food. Senior dogs or less active dogs might need less.
• Always talk to your vet to get exact feeding advice for your dog’s specific needs and health condition.

Nutritional Benefits of the Recipe

• Ground turkey is a lean, high-quality protein source, great for building and repairing muscles. It provides essential amino acids.
• Rolled oats offer complex carbohydrates for sustained energy and are a good source of soluble fiber, which helps digestion and supports healthy gut bacteria. They are also suitable for dogs with wheat sensitivities.
• Sweet potatoes are packed with fiber, beta-carotene (Vitamin A), and other essential vitamins like C and B6. They support eye health and immune function.
• Carrots provide Vitamin A, K, and B6, and are great for vision and dental health.
• Green beans are low in calories and high in vitamins K, C, and manganese, supporting bone health and immunity.
• Olive oil adds healthy fats, including Omega-6, which are important for skin and coat health, and also aids in nutrient absorption.
• Adding a canine vitamin and mineral supplement ensures your dog gets a complete and balanced diet, covering essential vitamins like D, E, B-complex, and minerals like calcium, phosphorus, iron, and zinc.

Storage and Serving Tips

• This homemade dog food stays fresh in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.
• For longer storage, divide the cooled food into individual portions or freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months.
• Thaw frozen portions in the refrigerator overnight or gently reheat in the microwave, ensuring it’s not too hot before serving.
• You can serve this food warm, at room temperature, or mix it with your dog’s regular kibble to ease the transition.

Common Questions & Troubleshooting

Can I use instant oats?

No, stick to rolled oats. Instant oats are more processed and might not offer the same nutritional benefits or digestive support.

My dog has allergies, what can I change?

If your dog is allergic to turkey, try lean ground lamb or a novel protein like venison. For specific vegetable allergies, check with your vet for suitable alternatives.

Do I really need a supplement?

Yes, for a complete and balanced diet, a canine vitamin and mineral supplement is strongly recommended. This recipe provides good whole foods, but a supplement ensures all required nutrients are met.

Wrapping Up

Making your dog’s food from scratch is a rewarding way to ensure they get healthy, wholesome meals. This slow cooker recipe simplifies the process, giving you peace of mind and your furry friend a meal they’ll love. Feeling inspired? Pin this recipe to your Homemade Dog Food board for easy access and follow us for more pet-friendly tips!