There’s nothing quite like seeing a happy tail wag when it’s mealtime, and this homemade dog mixed veggie meatloaf is a serious tail-wagger. It’s packed with lean protein, colorful veggies, and wholesome ingredients that pups genuinely love.
And for anyone who’s ever wanted to skip the mystery of store-bought dog food, this is the perfect recipe to try.
Great for weekly meal prep or an occasional treat, this loaf is super easy to make and stores like a dream. Plus, picky eaters? They don’t stand a chance against this one.
Let’s break it all down.
What You’ll Need
Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground turkey
- 1 cup finely chopped carrots
- 1 cup finely chopped broccoli
- ½ cup cooked brown rice
- 1 egg
- ¼ cup chopped parsley
- 1 tablespoon ground flaxseed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Tools to Grab
- Large mixing bowl
- Loaf pan (9×5 inch)
- Parchment paper
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Mixing spoon or spatula
- Oven
Pro Tips for Making It Just Right
- Chop everything small. Smaller pieces make everything more digestible and easier to mix evenly.
- Lean meat is key. Stick with lean ground turkey or beef to keep the fat low and the nutrition high.
- Stick to dog-safe ingredients. No onions, garlic, or seasonings — even if it’s tempting to zhuzh things up.
- Cool before slicing. The meatloaf sets better when cooled, and serving it cool is gentler on your dog’s tummy.
- Make it fun for kids. Let little helpers press the mixture into the pan or choose veggie combos — they’ll love being part of the prep!
Substitutions and Variations
- Different protein? Ground chicken or lean beef also work.
- Swap the veggies. Zucchini, green beans, or sweet potatoes are all solid picks.
- Grain-free version? Leave out the rice and add extra veggies or some rolled oats.
- No egg? Unsweetened applesauce or mashed banana can act as a binder instead.
Optional Make-Ahead Tips
Mix the ingredients and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking. Or go full prep mode: bake it, slice it, and freeze portions in individual bags for easy grab-and-serve meals.
How to Make Dog Veggie Meatloaf
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line the loaf pan with parchment paper.
- Mix everything in a large bowl until well combined.
- Press the mixture into the loaf pan evenly.
- Bake for 45 to 60 minutes, or until the internal temperature hits 165°F (74°C).
- Cool completely in the pan before removing and slicing.
- Portion and serve based on your dog’s size and dietary needs.
Nutrition Breakdown (Per Slice – Approximate)
- Calories: 150
- Protein: 18g
- Fat: 6g
- Carbs: 8g
- Fiber: 2g
Leftovers & Storage
Store cooled slices in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. For long-term use, freeze individual slices wrapped in parchment paper and placed in a zip-top freezer bag, they’ll last up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
FAQs
Can other veggies be used?
Definitely. Just stick to dog-safe ones. Peas, sweet potatoes, or green beans are great swaps.
Is beef okay instead of turkey?
Yes! Just choose lean beef to keep it easy on digestion and heart-healthy.
How much should dogs eat?
Portions vary based on size, age, and activity. Check with a vet to get the best serving size.
Can supplements be added?
Supplements are fine, but always confirm with a vet to make sure they’re needed and safe.
What if a dog is grain-free?
Skip the rice and use extra veggies or cooked lentils instead.
Time to Treat the Pup!
Making dog food at home can feel like a lot, but once this veggie meatloaf is in the oven, it’s clear how easy and rewarding it actually is. It’s healthy, made with love, and totally doable, even on a busy weeknight.
So give it a try, and don’t forget to leave a comment with any questions or thoughts after making it. Sharing the wins (and learning moments) helps everyone out, and keeps the tails wagging.
