If the family dog is giving side-eye to that dry kibble again, this fresh pork and apple dog food might be exactly what’s needed to turn things around.
This recipe is simple, wholesome, and packed with ingredients even picky eaters can get behind. Lean pork gives it the protein punch, apples add natural sweetness (without the added junk), and a blend of veggies and oats rounds it all out with fiber and slow-burning energy. It’s like a hearty stew, but built for four legs instead of two.
Great for batch cooking, easy to freeze, and surprisingly affordable. Plus, the house smells amazing while it’s cooking — which is a bonus.
Let’s break it down…
What You’ll Need
- 2 lbs lean ground pork
- 1 large apple, cored and chopped (no seeds)
- 1 large sweet potato, peeled and diced
- 1 cup chopped green beans
- 1 cup peas (fresh or frozen)
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 2½ cups water
- 1 tbsp ground flaxseed (optional, for added fiber)
- 1 tbsp salmon oil (optional, for healthy fats)
Pro Tips
- Always core and deseed apples – apple seeds contain cyanide, which isn’t dog-friendly. Stick with the flesh only.
- Dice veggies small – smaller pieces are easier to digest, especially for smaller dogs or those with dental issues.
- Start with a half-and-half blend – mixing this food with the usual kibble for the first week helps prevent digestive upsets.
- Freeze in single portions – makes weekday feeding a breeze and reduces waste.
- Get the vet’s thumbs-up – a quick nutrition chat ensures the recipe meets the dog’s unique health needs.
Tools You’ll Need
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Spatula or wooden spoon
- Airtight containers (freezer-safe recommended)
Substitutions & Variations
- Swap pork for ground turkey or chicken if needed — just make sure it’s lean
- No sweet potatoes? Try pumpkin or butternut squash for similar fiber and texture
- Go grain-free by skipping the oats and adding extra veggies like chopped zucchini or spinach
- Add a protein topper like a scrambled egg or a spoonful of cottage cheese for bonus nutrients
Make Ahead Tips
- This dog food stores well in the freezer.
- Freeze individual servings in small containers or freezer bags.
- Thaw in the fridge overnight or gently reheat with a splash of warm water.
How to Make It
- In a large pot over medium heat, cook the ground pork until no longer pink. Drain excess fat.
- Add diced sweet potatoes, peas, green beans, and water. Stir well and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat and let simmer for about 20 minutes, until the veggies are tender.
- Stir in chopped apples, oats, and flaxseed. Let cook for another 5 minutes.
- Remove from heat and let cool completely.
- Stir in the salmon oil once cooled, if using.
- Portion into storage containers and refrigerate or freeze.
Extra Details That Make a Difference
Approximate nutrition per 1 cup serving:
- 250 calories
- 20g protein
- 10g fat
- 15g carbs
- 3g fiber
Low-fat adjustment: Swap in ground turkey breast and reduce or skip the salmon oil. Allergy-friendly option: Go grain-free for dogs with oat sensitivities. Perfect pairings: Add a spoonful of plain yogurt for gut health or top with chopped boiled egg for added protein. Speed tip: Use frozen veggies and pre-ground meat to cut prep time in half.
Leftovers & Storage Tips
- Keep in the fridge in airtight containers for up to 5 days.
- Freeze for up to 3 months — ideal for meal prepping.
- For serving, thaw in the fridge overnight or reheat gently with warm water. Never microwave directly from frozen.
FAQ
Is garlic safe for dogs? Nope — skip it. Garlic is toxic to dogs, even in small amounts.
Can this replace regular kibble entirely? It can, but make sure it’s nutritionally balanced for long-term feeding. A quick vet consult is a smart move.
How much should be fed per day? That depends on the dog’s weight, age, and activity level. Start with ½ to 1 cup per 25 lbs of body weight, and adjust from there.
Can this be served cold? Yes, but many dogs prefer it slightly warmed. Just be sure it’s not too hot.
What’s the best way to portion and store? Use freezer-safe containers in 1-meal or 1-day portions. Label with the date for easy rotation.
Wrap Up
That’s the scoop on making a fresh, homemade pork and apple dog food that’s healthy, hearty, and pup-approved. Great way to upgrade the daily bowl without relying on store-bought options that are loaded with fillers and preservatives.
Give it a try, and drop a comment below with how it went. Questions, tweaks, and stories about four-legged taste-testers are always welcome.
