Best Home Cooked Dog Food: Healthy and Nutritious Recipes for Your Furry Friend

Feeding your furry friend with the right food is crucial for their overall health and wellbeing. While commercial dog food is readily available, some pet owners prefer to make their dog’s food at home. Home cooked dog food offers several benefits, including control over the ingredients, customization of the recipe, and assurance of freshness.

When it comes to home cooked dog food, there are several options to choose from, including raw food, cooked food, and a combination of both. However, making the right choice is essential to ensure that your dog gets all the necessary nutrients from their food. Factors such as age, breed, and health condition should be considered when choosing the type of home cooked dog food.

One critical thing to consider when making home cooked dog food is the balance of nutrients. Dogs require a balanced diet that includes protein, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins, and minerals. Ensuring that your dog’s food contains all the necessary nutrients can be challenging, but it is essential to avoid nutrient deficiencies or excesses that can lead to health problems.

In this article, we spent hours researching and testing various home cooked dog food recipes to identify the best ones that provide balanced nutrition for your furry friend. We also considered factors such as ingredients, preparation time, and cost to help you make an informed decision.

Best Home Cooked Dog Food

As pet owners, we want to ensure that our furry friends are receiving the best possible nutrition. While commercial dog food can be convenient, it can also contain additives and fillers that may not be the healthiest option for our pets. That’s why we’ve researched and tested the best home cooked dog food options available on Amazon. Our list includes a variety of recipes that are easy to make and provide essential nutrients for your dog’s overall health and well-being.

CESAR HOME DELIGHTS Soft Wet Dog Food Slow Cooked Chicken -amp; Vegetables Dinner and Beef Stew Variety Pack

If you’re looking for a complete and balanced meal for your dog that is both delicious and nutritious, then the CESAR HOME DELIGHTS Soft Wet Dog Food Slow Cooked Chicken -amp; Vegetables Dinner and Beef Stew Variety Pack is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• Made with real meat and poultry as the #1 ingredient
• Contains quality ingredients sourced from around the world
• Convenient and easy-to-use trays with peel-away freshness seals

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste or texture of the food
• May not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions or health issues
• Can be more expensive than other dog food options

We recently tried out the CESAR HOME DELIGHTS Soft Wet Dog Food Slow Cooked Chicken -amp; Vegetables Dinner and Beef Stew Variety Pack with our furry friend and were impressed with the quality of the ingredients and the convenience of the packaging. The trays are easy to use and the peel-away freshness seals ensure that the food stays fresh and tasty for longer.

One of the things we liked most about this dog food is that it is made with real meat and poultry as the #1 ingredient. This means that our dog was getting a complete and balanced meal that was both delicious and nutritious. We also appreciated that the ingredients were sourced from around the world, ensuring that our dog was getting the best quality food possible.

While our dog seemed to enjoy the taste and texture of the food, we do acknowledge that some dogs may not like it as much. Additionally, this dog food may not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions or health issues, so it’s important to consult with your veterinarian before making any changes to your dog’s diet.

Overall, we would definitely recommend the CESAR HOME DELIGHTS Soft Wet Dog Food Slow Cooked Chicken -amp; Vegetables Dinner and Beef Stew Variety Pack to any dog owner looking for a high-quality, convenient, and delicious dog food option for their furry friend.

Know Better for Dogs – Beef Recipe, RAW or Cooked Premix/Supplement for Making Homemade Dog Food, All Natural, Holistic Veterinarian Approved, Grain Free, No Artificial Additives

If you’re looking for a high-quality premix to make homemade dog food, Know Better for Dogs – Beef Recipe is an excellent choice.

Pros

• Made with 100% human-grade ingredients
• Suitable for all life stages and can be used with any kind of meat
• Grain-free, gluten-free, non-GMO, and free of fillers, preservatives, and by-products

Cons

• Expensive compared to other premixes
• The recipe may not be suitable for dogs with specific dietary needs
• The premix requires additional ingredients and preparation time

We’ve been using Know Better for Dogs for several months now, and our furry friend loves it. The premix is easy to use, and the recipe is simple to follow. We appreciate the fact that it’s made with human-grade ingredients and free of any harmful additives.

The premix is suitable for all life stages, so we don’t have to worry about switching to a different food as our dog grows older. We also like that we can use any kind of meat with the premix, which gives us more flexibility in our dog’s diet.

However, Know Better for Dogs is more expensive than other premixes on the market. We also have to be careful about the additional ingredients we use in the recipe, as some dogs may have specific dietary needs. Additionally, the premix requires some preparation time, which may not be ideal for pet owners with busy schedules.

Overall, if you’re looking for a high-quality premix to make homemade dog food, Know Better for Dogs – Beef Recipe is an excellent choice. It’s made with all-natural, human-grade ingredients and is suitable for all life stages. Just be prepared to pay a bit more for this premium product.

“I and Love and You” Baked and Saucy Dry Dog Food with Gravy Coating, Beef and Sweet Potato Recipe, Grain Free, Coated in Bone Broth, Prebiotics and Probiotics, Real Meat, No Fillers, 4 lb Bag Beef and Sweet Potato 4 Pound (Pack of 1)

If you’re looking for a high-quality, nutritious dog food that can be served either wet or dry, then the “I and Love and You” Baked and Saucy Dry Dog Food with Gravy Coating, Beef and Sweet Potato Recipe, Grain Free, Coated in Bone Broth, Prebiotics and Probiotics, Real Meat, No Fillers, 4 lb Bag Beef and Sweet Potato 4 Pound (Pack of 1) is a great option to consider.

Pros

• The meat is the number one ingredient, making it a protein-packed meal that dogs will love.
• The food is grain-free, which can be beneficial for dogs with allergies or sensitivities to grains.
• The food is coated in savory bone broth, which adds flavor and moisture to the kibble.

Cons

• The food may be a bit pricey compared to other dog foods on the market.
• Some dogs may not like the texture of the kibble when it’s served wet.
• The food may not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions or health issues.

We’ve been using this dog food for a few weeks now, and we’ve been really impressed with the quality of the ingredients and the overall nutrition that it provides. Our dog loves the taste of the beef and sweet potato recipe, and we appreciate that the food is made with real meat and no fillers.

One of the things we love about this dog food is that it can be served wet or dry. When we add a bit of water to the kibble, it creates a delicious gravy that our dog can’t get enough of. We’ve also noticed that the bone broth coating on the kibble adds extra moisture and flavor, which makes mealtime even more enjoyable for our pup.

Another great thing about this dog food is that it’s grain-free. This is important for us because our dog has a sensitivity to grains, and we’ve noticed a significant improvement in his digestion since switching to this food. We also appreciate that the food is made with non-GMO produce and is free from corn, wheat, rice, soy, and oats.

Overall, we highly recommend the “I and Love and You” Baked and Saucy Dry Dog Food with Gravy Coating, Beef and Sweet Potato Recipe, Grain Free, Coated in Bone Broth, Prebiotics and Probiotics, Real Meat, No Fillers, 4 lb Bag Beef and Sweet Potato 4 Pound (Pack of 1) to anyone looking for a high-quality, nutritious dog food that their furry friend will love.

Rachael Ray Nutrish Gentle Digestion Premium Pate Wet Dog Food

We highly recommend Rachael Ray Nutrish Gentle Digestion Premium Pate Wet Dog Food for dogs who need a tasty and healthy meal that promotes good digestion.

Pros

• Made with real chicken, salmon, and veggies that dogs love
• Complete and balanced meal with added vitamins and minerals
• No artificial flavors or preservatives, no added corn, wheat, soy, or gluten

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the texture of the pate
• May not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions
• More expensive than some other wet dog food options

This premium paté dog food is made with real chicken, salmon, and veggies that you can see. Combined with pumpkin, brown rice, and added vitamins and minerals, it provides a tasty, complete, and balanced meal for adult dogs that helps promote healthy digestion. We love that there are no artificial flavors or preservatives, and no added corn, wheat, soy, or gluten.

One thing to note is that some dogs may not like the texture of the pate, so it may take some time to get them used to it. Additionally, if your dog has certain dietary restrictions, this product may not be suitable for them. While it is more expensive than some other wet dog food options, we believe that the quality of the ingredients justifies the price.

Overall, we highly recommend Rachael Ray Nutrish Gentle Digestion Premium Pate Wet Dog Food for dogs who need a tasty and healthy meal that promotes good digestion.

IAMS Advanced Health Adult Healthy Digestion Dry Dog Food with Real Chicken

If you’re looking for a dry dog food that supports digestive health and is made with real chicken, IAMS Advanced Health Adult Healthy Digestion Dry Dog Food with Real Chicken is a great option.

Pros

• This formula is 100% complete and balanced, with essential nutrients to support your dog’s whole-body health.
• The natural fiber and prebiotics in this recipe support regularity and healthy stools, which can help your dog feel more comfortable and energetic.
• Made with real farm-raised chicken, this formula is free from wheat, artificial flavors, and artificial preservatives.

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste of this formula, so it’s important to introduce it gradually and monitor your dog’s reaction.
• This formula may not be appropriate for dogs with certain dietary restrictions or health conditions, so it’s important to consult with your veterinarian before making any changes to your dog’s diet.
• The trace amounts of wheat, artificial flavors, and artificial preservatives that may be present due to potential cross-contact during manufacturing may be a concern for some dog owners.

We recently tried IAMS Advanced Health Adult Healthy Digestion Dry Dog Food with Real Chicken for our dog, and we were pleased with the results. Our dog seemed to enjoy the taste of the food and was able to digest it easily. We also appreciated that the formula is made with real chicken and free from artificial ingredients. The natural fiber and prebiotics in this recipe seemed to support our dog’s digestive health, which was a great benefit. Overall, we would recommend this product to other dog owners who are looking for a dry dog food that supports digestive health and is made with real chicken.

IAMS Minichunks Adult Dry Dog Food Lamb -amp; Rice Recipe Dog Kibble, 30 lb. Bag Lamb,Rice 30 Pound (Pack of 1)

If you’re looking for a dog food that promotes healthy digestion and skin, coat, and muscle health, IAMS Minichunks Adult Dry Dog Food Lamb -amp; Rice Recipe Dog Kibble is worth considering.

Pros

• The first ingredient is real, premium lamb, providing high-quality protein.
• The tailored blend of wholesome fibers and prebiotics promotes healthy digestion.
• Omega-6 fatty acids promote skin and coat health.

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste or texture of the kibble.
• The large size of the kibble may be difficult for smaller dogs to chew.
• The low calorie content may not be suitable for dogs with high energy needs.

We recently tried IAMS Minichunks Adult Dry Dog Food Lamb -amp; Rice Recipe Dog Kibble for our dog, and overall, we were pleased with the results. Our dog seemed to enjoy the taste of the kibble, and we noticed an improvement in his digestion and coat health after a few weeks of use.

One of the standout features of this dog food is the first ingredient, which is real, premium lamb. This provides high-quality protein to help build strong muscles and support overall health. Additionally, the tailored blend of wholesome fibers and prebiotics promotes healthy digestion, which is essential for a happy, healthy dog.

We also appreciated the inclusion of omega-6 fatty acids, which promote skin and coat health. Our dog’s coat looked shinier and healthier after a few weeks of using this dog food.

However, we did notice a few potential drawbacks to this product. Some dogs may not enjoy the taste or texture of the kibble, and the large size of the kibble may be difficult for smaller dogs to chew. Additionally, the low calorie content may not be suitable for dogs with high energy needs.

Overall, we would recommend IAMS Minichunks Adult Dry Dog Food Lamb -amp; Rice Recipe Dog Kibble to dog owners looking for a high-quality dog food that promotes healthy digestion, skin and coat health, and muscle health.

Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Adult Grain-Free Wet Canned Dog Food, Reserve Sweet Potato -amp; Venison Recipe, 13 Ounce (Pack of 12)

If you are looking for a limited ingredient dog food that is grain-free and contains premium protein and carbohydrate sources, Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Adult Grain-Free Wet Canned Dog Food is an excellent option.

Pros

• Venison is the single animal protein source, providing essential protein and amino acids to help maintain strong muscles.
• Sweet potato is included as a grain-free source of fiber to help support digestive health.
• Formulated with nutritious ingredients such as pea protein, fish oil, and sweet potatoes, this recipe is complete and balanced with essential nutrients to help maintain your dog’s healthy immune system.

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste of venison.
• The texture of the canned food may not be appealing to some dogs.
• The price point may be higher than other dog food options.

We recently tried this canned dog food with our furry friend who has a sensitive stomach and skin issues. We were pleased to find that this limited ingredient formula did not cause any adverse reactions. Our dog seemed to enjoy the taste and texture of the food, and we noticed an improvement in his coat’s shininess and overall health.

One thing to note is that the venison flavor may not be appealing to all dogs. Additionally, the texture of the canned food may not be as enjoyable as other dog food options. However, we believe that the benefits of this limited ingredient formula outweigh any potential cons.

Overall, we highly recommend Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Adult Grain-Free Wet Canned Dog Food for pet owners looking for a high-quality, limited ingredient dog food option that supports digestive health and a shiny coat.

IAMS Healthy Aging Adult Dry Dog Food for Mature and Senior Dogs with Real Chicken

If you’re looking for a dry dog food that’s formulated specifically for senior dogs, IAMS Healthy Aging Adult Dry Dog Food with Real Chicken is a solid choice.

Pros

• The first ingredient is real, farm-raised chicken, which provides a good source of protein for your dog’s muscles.
• This kibble is tailored to meet the specific nutritional needs of senior dogs, with a balance of key nutrients to support healthy bones and joints.
• The blend of fiber and prebiotics promotes healthy digestion, which can be especially important for older dogs.

Cons

• While this dog food is complete and balanced, it may not be the best choice for dogs with specific dietary needs.
• Some dog owners may find the kibble to be too large or hard for their dog to chew, especially if their dog has dental issues.
• The price point may be higher than some other dog food brands, especially if you’re looking for a larger bag.

We’ve been using IAMS Healthy Aging Adult Dry Dog Food with Real Chicken for our senior dog for a few months now, and we’ve been happy with the results. Our dog seems to enjoy the taste of the kibble, and we’ve noticed that her coat looks shinier and healthier since we switched to this food.

One thing we appreciate about this dog food is that it’s tailored specifically to meet the nutritional needs of senior dogs. We like that the first ingredient is real chicken, which provides a good source of protein for our dog’s muscles. We’ve also noticed that our dog seems to have more energy since we switched to this food, which we attribute to the balance of key nutrients that support healthy bones and joints.

While we haven’t had any issues with the kibble being too large or hard for our dog to chew, we can see how this might be a concern for some dog owners, especially if their dog has dental issues. Additionally, while this dog food is complete and balanced, it may not be the best choice for dogs with specific dietary needs.

Overall, we would recommend IAMS Healthy Aging Adult Dry Dog Food with Real Chicken to other dog owners who are looking for a high-quality dry dog food that’s tailored specifically to meet the nutritional needs of senior dogs. While the price point may be higher than some other dog food brands, we feel that the quality of the ingredients and the benefits to our dog’s health are worth it.

Salutem Vita – Freshpet Select Fresh from The Kitchen Home Cooked Chicken Recipe for Dogs, 1.75 Lb – Pack of 3

If you’re looking for a fresh and natural home cooked dog food, Salutem Vita’s Freshpet Select Fresh from The Kitchen Home Cooked Chicken Recipe for Dogs might be a great option for you. We’ve tried it out and here’s what we found:

Pros

• The food is made with fresh ingredients sourced locally in the USA, which is great for those who want to support local businesses and want to know where their dog’s food comes from.
• The resealable meals make it easy to store and keep the food fresh, and the packaging is recyclable which is a plus for environmentally conscious pet owners.
• The food is complete and balanced, providing all the essential nutrients your dog needs to stay healthy.

Cons

• The food must be used within 7 days of opening, which means you’ll need to make sure your dog eats it quickly to avoid waste.
• It’s a bit on the pricey side compared to some other dog foods on the market, so it might not be the best option for those on a tight budget.
• Some dogs might not like the taste or texture of the food, so it might take some trial and error to see if it’s a good fit for your pup.

In our experience, the Freshpet Select Fresh from The Kitchen Home Cooked Chicken Recipe for Dogs is a great option for those who want to feed their dogs a fresh and natural diet. The food is made with high-quality ingredients and is complete and balanced, making it a convenient option for busy pet owners. However, the price point might be a bit high for some, and it’s important to make sure your dog likes the taste and texture before committing to buying it regularly.

Cesar Home Delights Hearty Chicken -amp; Noodle Dinner in Sauce

If you’re looking for a convenient and tasty wet dog food option, Cesar Home Delights Hearty Chicken -amp; Noodle Dinner in Sauce is worth considering.

Pros

• Real poultry is the #1 ingredient, providing a complete and balanced meal for your dog.
• Made in the USA with high-quality ingredients from around the world.
• Convenient trays with easy, peel-away seals make mealtime easy and mess-free.

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste or texture of the food.
• Contains carrageenan, which some pet owners avoid due to potential health concerns.
• Not suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions or allergies.

We recently tried this product with our furry friend and were impressed with the high-quality ingredients and ease of use. The chicken and noodle dinner in sauce smelled like real food and our dog seemed to enjoy the taste.

The convenient trays with easy-to-peel seals made mealtime a breeze and reduced messes. We appreciated that the food was made in the USA with high-quality ingredients from around the world.

However, we did notice that some dogs may not like the taste or texture of the food, so it’s important to monitor your dog’s reaction. Additionally, the food contains carrageenan, which some pet owners avoid due to potential health concerns. It’s also not suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions or allergies.

Overall, if you’re looking for a convenient and tasty wet dog food option, Cesar Home Delights Hearty Chicken -amp; Noodle Dinner in Sauce is definitely worth a try.

Buying Guide

When it comes to feeding our furry friends, it’s important to choose the best home-cooked dog food that meets their nutritional needs. Here are some important features to consider when selecting the right product:

Ingredients

The first thing to look for in home-cooked dog food is the quality of ingredients. Ensure that the recipe includes high-quality proteins, such as chicken, beef, or fish. Vegetables and fruits should also be included to provide essential vitamins and minerals. Avoid recipes that contain fillers, artificial preservatives, and additives.

Nutritional Value

The nutritional value of the dog food is also an essential factor to consider. The recipe should provide the right balance of proteins, fats, and carbohydrates. It should also contain essential vitamins and minerals, such as calcium, phosphorus, and iron. A balanced diet will help maintain your dog’s health and prevent health issues.

Age and Breed

Different breeds and ages of dogs have different nutritional requirements. Ensure that the recipe you select meets the specific nutritional needs of your dog. For example, puppies require more protein and fat than adult dogs. Large breeds also require a different diet than small breeds.

Preparation and Storage

The preparation and storage of the dog food are also important factors to consider. Ensure that the recipe is easy to prepare and store. Some recipes require refrigeration or freezing, while others can be stored at room temperature. Consider the time and effort required to prepare the food and whether it fits into your lifestyle.

By considering these factors, you can choose the best home-cooked dog food that meets your dog’s nutritional needs. Always consult with your veterinarian before making any significant changes to your dog’s diet.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some vet-approved recipes for homemade dog food?

There are many vet-approved recipes for homemade dog food that you can find online or in books. Some popular options include recipes that use lean meats like chicken or turkey, along with vegetables like carrots and green beans. It’s important to make sure that any recipe you use is balanced and meets your dog’s nutritional needs.

How can I ensure my homemade dog food is nutritionally complete?

To ensure that your homemade dog food is nutritionally complete, it’s important to consult with a veterinarian or a veterinary nutritionist. They can help you determine the appropriate balance of protein, fat, and carbohydrates, as well as the necessary vitamins and minerals. You can also use commercial supplements to ensure that your dog is getting all the nutrients they need.

What are some cost-effective options for making dog food at home?

Making dog food at home can be cost-effective if you use ingredients that are in season or on sale. You can also buy in bulk and freeze portions for later use. Using cheaper cuts of meat, like chicken thighs or beef liver, can also help keep costs down.

Can you suggest simple recipes for homemade dog food?

There are many simple recipes for homemade dog food that you can find online or in books. Some popular options include recipes that use ground turkey or beef, along with brown rice and vegetables like sweet potatoes and green beans. It’s important to make sure that any recipe you use is balanced and meets your dog’s nutritional needs.

What is the recommended food ratio for preparing homemade dog food?

The recommended food ratio for preparing homemade dog food is 50% protein, 25% vegetables, and 25% grains. However, this can vary depending on your dog’s specific nutritional needs. It’s important to consult with a veterinarian or a veterinary nutritionist to determine the appropriate ratio for your dog.

Which ingredients are essential for a balanced homemade dog food diet?

A balanced homemade dog food diet should include high-quality protein sources like lean meats, eggs, and dairy products. It should also include a variety of vegetables and fruits for vitamins and minerals, as well as grains or carbohydrates for energy. It’s important to avoid ingredients that are toxic to dogs, like chocolate, onions, and garlic.