If you’ve ever glanced at the ingredients list on commercial dog food, you might have wondered what some of those unpronounceable words even mean. Many pet parents are now turning to homemade dog food as a healthier, fresher, and more transparent option. And guess what? You don’t need to be a chef to whip up meals your pup will love—your slow cooker can do most of the work for you.
In this guide, we’ll show you how to make homemade dog food in the crockpot, explain the benefits, and give you a go-to recipe that’s easy, affordable, and packed with nutrients.
🐶 Why Make Homemade Dog Food?
Feeding your dog homemade meals gives you full control over:
- Ingredients and freshness
- Portion size
- Allergies and sensitivities
- Nutrient balance when properly planned
According to the American Kennel Club (AKC), dogs thrive on diets made from wholesome, simple ingredients—real meat, vegetables, and whole grains—as long as they’re nutritionally balanced.
🍲 Benefits of Crockpot Cooking for Dogs
- Set it and forget it: Save time with a hands-off cooking method.
- Even heat: Slow cooking preserves nutrients without overcooking.
- Customizable: Easily adapt to your dog’s preferences or dietary needs.
- Meal prepping: Cook large batches and freeze portions.
🐾 Vet-Approved Crockpot Dog Food Recipe
Note: Always consult your vet before switching your dog’s diet to ensure it meets their specific nutritional needs.
📋 Ingredients:
- 2 ½ lbs ground turkey or chicken
- 1 ½ cups brown rice, uncooked
- 1 (15 oz) can of kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 ½ cups chopped carrots
- 1 ½ cups chopped sweet potato (peeled)
- ½ cup peas (fresh or frozen)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cups water or low-sodium chicken broth
🧑🍳 Instructions:
- Place all ingredients into your crockpot in the order listed.
- Stir well to combine and evenly distribute ingredients.
- Set crockpot to low and cook for 6–8 hours or on high for 4 hours.
- Stir occasionally if you’re home, to help even cooking.
- Let it cool completely before serving to your dog.
- Store in airtight containers in the fridge (up to 4 days) or freeze in individual portions (up to 2 months).
🧠 Tips to Keep It Balanced
While this crockpot recipe is healthy and simple, dogs need specific nutrients to thrive. Here’s how to improve balance:
- Add dog-safe supplements like fish oil (for omega-3), bone meal (for calcium), and taurine if needed.
- Rotate proteins weekly—turkey, beef, chicken, lamb—for variety.
- Include organ meats occasionally for a natural source of vitamins and minerals.
- Avoid toxic ingredients like onions, garlic, grapes, raisins, and excessive salt.
❄️ Storage & Meal Planning Tips
- Divide meals into daily portions.
- Use silicone molds or freezer-safe bags to portion and freeze.
- Thaw overnight in the fridge or warm gently (not hot!) before serving.
📌 Frequently Asked Questions
🤔 Is homemade dog food better than kibble?
It can be—if it’s nutritionally balanced. Many dog owners report better coat condition, fewer allergies, and improved energy levels after switching to homemade meals.
🐕 Can I feed this to my puppy?
Only if approved by your vet or a pet nutritionist. Puppies have specific nutritional requirements for growth.
🥩 Can I switch the meat?
Yes! Ground beef, lean lamb, or shredded chicken can all work. Stick to lean meats and cook thoroughly.
🐶 Final Thoughts
Making homemade dog food in the crockpot is a smart and simple way to give your pup meals you can trust. With the right balance of protein, carbs, and veggies, it can support everything from shiny fur to healthy digestion.
Your dog deserves real food—and it’s never been easier to give it to them.
