Homemade Dog Food (Chicken and Rice Dog Food)

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As a pet parent, I love making homemade dog food because it gives me peace of mind knowing exactly what my pup is eating. This simple recipe uses real, human grade ingredients like chicken, brown rice, and vegetables to create a balanced meal my dog truly enjoys. It is easy to prepare, budget friendly, and completely free from unnecessary fillers or artificial ingredients.

Homemade dog food with ground chicken rice, carrots, and spinach in a white bowl on a wooden tray.

My dog goes absolutely bonkers for this homemade dog food. When he came home from the dog sitters with an upset stomach, this was his go-to meal until his tummy got on track. After that, he gave me a serious side-eye when I tried to give him his usual kibble. Needless to say, he no longer gets the store bought dog food. This recipe provides a balanced mix of quality protein, whole grains, and fresh vegetables that help keep him healthy and energized. It’s simple, cost-effective, and a cleaner option compared to processed kibble.

I cannot stress this enough. Before you introduce your dog to any type of new food, you should always check with your vet.

Why This Homemade Dog Food Is A Favorite With Pet Parents

Made with simple, human-grade ingredients. This recipe uses real, recognizable ingredients so you know exactly what you are feeding your dog and feel confident about every meal.

Quick and easy for busy days. It is a straightforward homemade dog food recipe with simple steps, making it manageable even when your schedule is packed.

Gentle chicken and rice base. The combination of chicken and rice is easy to digest and works well for many dogs, including those with sensitive stomachs.

Perfect for batch cooking. You can make a large batch and store leftovers, saving time and simplifying mealtime throughout the week.

Customizable for your pup. This recipe is easy to adjust based on your dog’s taste or dietary needs, making it a versatile option for a variety of pups.

While your pup enjoys this homemade dog food, you can also spoil them with other pet-friendly favorites. Some of my top snacks include Homemade Peanut Butter Dog Treats, refreshing Frozen Dog Treats, and fun Dog Cupcakes for special occasions or just because.

Key Ingredients

Below is a quick rundown of the ingredients used in this recipe. Full measurements are listed in the recipe card.

Brown rice: White rice is also safe for pups and easy for doggie digestion. It cooks faster, usually in about 20 minutes, so adjust the cooking time if you make the swap.
Lean ground chicken: Chicken is safe for dogs as long as it is fully cooked and unseasoned. Drain any excess fat and check for bones before serving. You can also use lean ground turkey or lean ground beef.
Spinach: Spinach is safe in moderation. Large amounts are not recommended because it contains oxalates, which can affect dogs with kidney issues. The amount in this recipe is moderate and safe for most healthy dogs.
Carrot: Carrots are nutritious and easy for dogs to digest, providing vitamin A and fiber.
Zucchini: Other squash varieties can be substituted depending on what your dog likes or what you have on hand.

Just like humans, every dog is different, so this is not meant to be a one-pup-fits-all recipe.

Always check with your veterinarian before introducing new foods into your dog’s diet.

Recipe Variations

Low fat option: Use extra lean ground chicken or lean ground turkey and drain any excess fat after cooking.

Sensitive stomach version: Make your homemade dogfood with chicken only and stick to white rice, skipping vegetables until your dog adjusts.

High fiber boost: Add extra carrots or pumpkin puree to support healthy digestion.

Vegetable rotation: Rotate vegetables weekly rather than mixing many at once to help identify sensitivities.

Smaller dog friendly texture: Mash the finished food slightly or pulse briefly in a food processor for easier eating.

Chunkier texture for larger dogs: Leave vegetables more intact if your dog prefers a heartier texture.

Short term bland diet: Use only chicken and rice for dogs recovering from stomach upset, then gradually reintroduce vegetables.

Dog eating homemade dog food from a white bowl.

How to Make Homemade Dog Food

Cook the rice: In a large pot, combine water and brown rice. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat, cover, and simmer until the rice is fully cooked and soft.
Cook the chicken: In a large skillet, brown the ground chicken over medium heat until it is no longer pink.
Add the vegetables: Stir in the spinach, carrot, and zucchini. Cook until the veggies are softened.
Combine: Mix the cooked rice with the chicken and vegetable mixture until well combined.
Cool: Let the food cool completely before serving it to your dog or storing it for later.

Recipe Tips

Check with your veterinarian: Always consult your vet before adding any new foods to your dog’s diet, especially if your dog has allergies.
Cool before serving: Let the homemade dog food cool completely to prevent burns.
Keep it plain: Avoid salt, oil, or seasonings; simple, wholesome ingredients are best for dogs with sensitive stomachs or allergies.
Prep vegetables carefully: Chop or shred vegetables like carrots, zucchini, or spinach for easier digestion.
Transition gradually: Mix homemade dog food with your dog’s current meals to avoid stomach upset.
Watch portion sizes: Adjust servings based on your dog’s size, age, and activity, and check with your vet.

Wooden spoon scooping homemade dog food with rice, turkey, and vegetables.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I feed my dog homemade dog food every day?

Yes, you can, but it needs to be balanced for your dog’s size, age, and health. Always check with your vet before feeding homemade food long term.

How much homemade dog food should I feed my dog?

Portion sizes depend on your dog’s weight, age, and activity level. Your vet can help you figure out the right amount for your pup.

Is this homemade dog food safe for puppies?

Puppies have special nutritional needs. Always talk with your veterinarian before feeding homemade food to puppies.

Can I switch my dog from kibble to homemade food right away?

It’s best to switch gradually. Mix small amounts of homemade food with your dog’s current food over several days to avoid stomach upset.

Can I substitute other vegetables?

Yes, as long as they are safe for dogs. Good options include carrots, green beans, zucchini, yellow squash, butternut squash, sweet potatoes, peas, and pumpkin puree. Broccoli and kale are also safe, but best served in small amounts as a treats. Avoid onions, garlic, leeks, chives, and mushrooms.

Is this a complete and balanced dog food?

This recipe is a healthy homemade option, but may not meet all of your dog’s long-term nutritional needs. Dogs need nutrients like calcium and certain vitamins and minerals, which may require supplements. Always consult your veterinarian if you plan to feed homemade food regularly.

Make Ahead & Storage Instructions

Prepare in advance: You can make this homemade dog food ahead of time and portion it for several days or even weeks.
Refrigerate properly: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator within 2 hours of cooking. They will stay fresh in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Serve safely: Let the food reach room temperature before serving. Avoid microwaving until hot.
Freeze for later: Freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 6 months, so healthy meals are always ready when you need them.

Skillet of homemade dog food with turkey, rice, and vegetables.

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If you’ve tried this or any other recipe on my website, please leave a star rating and let me know how it turned out in the comments below.

4.59 from 29 votes