DIY Homemade Dog Food

Name: Homemade Dog Food with Turkey and Vegetables
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 1 1/2 cups brown rice; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 3 pounds ground turkey; 3 cups baby spinach (chopped); 2 carrots (shredded); 1 zucchini (shredded); 1/2 cup peas (canned or frozen)

CookOS may earn a commission from Instacart orders.

This homemade dog food combines lean ground turkey, brown rice, and fresh spinach, carrots, zucchini, and peas to create a wholesome, budget-friendly alternative to commercial kibble that keeps your dog healthy and fit.

Total

55 min

Servings

8

Difficulty

Easy

Recipe Source

View original recipe

From Damn Delicious · by Chungah

Ingredients

Check what you already have. We'll leave it off your shopping list.

7 Ingredients

Powered by Instacart

Prices vary by store

^*Service fees apply. Instacart^® and the Instacart logo are registered trademarks of Maplebear Inc. d/b/a Instacart.

CookOS may earn a commission from Instacart orders.

Instructions

1
In a large saucepan of 3 cups water, cook rice according to package instructions; set aside.
2
Heat olive oil in a large stockpot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add ground turkey and cook until browned, about 3-5 minutes, making sure to crumble the turkey as it cooks.
3
Stir in spinach, carrots, zucchini, peas and brown rice until the spinach has wilted and the mixture is heated through, about 3-5 minutes.
4
Let cool completely.

Was this recipe helpful?

Tips & Notes

Pro tips

Cook brown rice until fully tender and let cool completely before mixing with other ingredients to prevent the meat from cooking further.
Finely chop or shred all vegetables to improve digestibility and prevent choking hazards.
Divide cooled food into daily or weekly portions before freezing to make meal prep quick and reduce food waste.
Monitor your dog's coat, energy, and digestion after introducing homemade food—adjust vegetable ratios if your dog experiences digestive upset.

Substitutions

Ground turkey → ground beef, ground chicken, or ground lamb (1:1 ratio)
Brown rice → white rice, sweet potato, or oats (use same volume, adjust cooking time as needed)
Baby spinach → kale or other leafy greens (finely chopped)
Carrots and zucchini → green beans, pumpkin puree, or broccoli (shredded or chopped fine)

Storage & make-ahead

Refrigerate in an airtight container for 3–4 days or freeze in daily portions for up to 3 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.

Common Questions

Is this recipe nutritionally complete for dogs?

This recipe provides quality protein, carbs, and vegetables, but consult your veterinarian to ensure it meets your dog's specific nutritional requirements, including vitamins and minerals.

How long does homemade dog food last in the refrigerator?

Store in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days in the refrigerator, or freeze in portions for up to 3 months.

Can I substitute the ground turkey?

Yes, ground beef, ground chicken, or ground lamb work well as 1:1 swaps for ground turkey.

How much should I feed my dog per day?

Portion size depends on your dog's age, weight, and activity level—typically 1–2 cups daily for a medium dog. Consult your vet for personalized guidance.