Making homemade food for dogs doesn’t have to be complicated. In fact, this lamb dog food recipe keeps things simple, healthy, and full of all the good stuff dogs love. It’s especially great for dogs with sensitivities to more common proteins like chicken or beef, and it’s packed with whole ingredients that support health and energy.
This recipe uses ground lamb, veggies, and grains to give dogs a balanced meal — with no weird fillers or ingredients that are hard to pronounce. It’s great for batch prep and makes mealtime easy, especially when trying to keep things natural and nourishing for furry family members.
And if feeding a dog something fresh, warm, and homemade sounds like a win, this one’s worth a try.
What You’ll Need
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground lamb
- 1 cup cooked brown rice
- ½ cup chopped carrots
- ½ cup chopped green beans
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil
- 1 teaspoon turmeric (optional, but helpful for inflammation)
- 2 cups water
Pro Tips
1. Mix in slowly at first If switching from dry food or a different protein, mix this recipe into the current food over a few days. Sudden changes can be tough on digestion.
2. Swap veggies based on what’s in the fridge Chopped zucchini, peas, or pumpkin can work just as well if green beans or carrots aren’t available. Just make sure the veggies are safe for dogs.
3. Freeze in portions Save time during the week by dividing the cooked food into meal-sized portions and freezing what’s not needed right away.
4. Use a scale for accurate portions When it comes to homemade dog food, knowing how much to feed matters. Use a kitchen scale to help match portion sizes to your dog’s weight and activity level.
5. Keep a watch on how it’s received Pay attention to energy levels, coat shine, and digestion after feeding. These little signs will help guide whether anything needs adjusting.
Tools to Have on Hand
- Large skillet or nonstick pan
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Food storage containers
Ingredient Swaps & Variations
- Protein: Ground turkey, beef, or even venison can be used if lamb isn’t an option.
- Grains: Oats, quinoa, or white rice work well in place of brown rice.
- Vegetables: Butternut squash, spinach, or sweet potatoes can replace carrots or green beans.
- Oil: Olive oil or flaxseed oil can sub for coconut oil if needed.
Make-Ahead Notes
This recipe is easy to double or triple for batch cooking. Cook, cool, and store portions in freezer-safe containers. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving. It’s a great way to stay on top of mealtime without cooking daily.
How to Make It
1. Brown the lamb In a large skillet, heat coconut oil over medium heat. Add the ground lamb and cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks.
2. Add the veggies Stir in chopped carrots and green beans. Let them cook for about 5 minutes until they begin to soften.
3. Mix in rice, turmeric, and water Add in the cooked brown rice and turmeric, then pour in the water. Stir to combine everything well.
4. Let it simmer Lower the heat and simmer for about 15–20 minutes. This helps the flavors come together and softens the veggies even more.
5. Cool before serving Let the food cool completely before giving it to a dog. Store leftovers in the fridge or freezer for later meals.
Quick Nutritional Breakdown (Approximate per serving)
- Calories: 300
- Protein: 25g
- Fat: 15g
- Carbs: 20g
These numbers will vary slightly depending on brands used and exact measurements.
Leftovers & Storage Tips
- Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Keeps well for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before feeding.
- Serving tip: Warm it slightly before serving, but avoid making it too hot. A little warmth can help release the aroma and make it even more appealing.
FAQs
Can this be fed to puppies? Yes, but make sure the portions and nutrient balance are appropriate. Check with a vet for guidance on feeding growing pups.
Is turmeric safe for dogs? Yes, in small amounts. It can support joint health and reduce inflammation.
Can lamb be replaced with another meat? Absolutely. Ground turkey, beef, or venison work great for dogs who don’t need lamb.
How much should a dog eat? That depends on the dog’s size, age, and activity level. A vet or pet nutritionist can help set the right portion size.
Can this be the dog’s only food? It can be part of a homemade dog food plan, but it’s best to consult with a vet to make sure all nutritional needs are being met consistently.
Give it a Try
This lamb dog food recipe is a simple, nourishing way to treat dogs to real food made with care. It’s easy to adjust, great for batch cooking, and ideal for pet parents who want to feel good about every bowl that’s served.
Try it out, and if it ends up being a hit (and it probably will), feel free to drop a comment below with how it went or any helpful tips picked up along the way.
