Slow Cooker Homemade Chicken & Quinoa Dog Food Recipe Vet Approved
(23 Reviews)
This recipe comes from the kitchen of one of our passionate community members Angela. She has a cute golden retriever named Goose who she started cooking homemade dog food for and has never looked back. This recipe is our first slow cooker recipe. Slow cooking locks in nutrients and is an easy way to prep - put all your ingredients in and let them slowly cook. You can also slow-cook quite large batches if you have a larger dog. This recipe was reviewed by our very own nutritionist & vet who made some tweaks. We also have two options using our nutrient mix and the other DIY nutrients to ensure the recipe is complete & balanced.
Slow Cooker Homemade Chicken & Quinoa Dog Food Recipe Vet Approved
Category
Homemade Dog Food
Servings
16 Meals for 15 lbs Dog
Prep Time
10 minutes
Cook Time
8 hours
Calories
3208
Formulated for Adult Maintenance
Makes 7 lbs, 3173 grams, ~15 cups, 3208 calories
For accurate nutrition use a scale and measure out ingredients in grams. To see the complete nutritionally information & feeding guide Click here
Angela Misa
Ingredients
2,000g or 4.4 lb of Skinless Boneless Chicken Breast
150g or 5.3 oz (~3/4 Cup) of Quinoa
300g or 10 oz of (~2 cups) Sweet Potato
240g or 8.5 oz of (~1 cup ) Bone Broth (No Onion)
200g or 7 oz (~3 cups) of Kale
150g or 5.3 oz (~2 cups)of Broccoli
53g or 1.8 oz (~½ Cup) Wheat Germ
-
80g or or 1.9 oz ⅓ Cup Dog Child Nutrient Mix or Whole Food Mix Below
15g or 0.52 oz (2 ½ tbsp) of Freeze Dried Beef Liver Ground into Powder
7.5g or 0.3 oz (1 tbsp) Ground Turmeric
15g or 0.52 oz (2 ½ tbsp) Egg Shell Powder
7.5g or 0.3 oz (1 tbsp) Ground Ginger
-
4g or 0.14 oz (~¾ tsp) Salmon Oil
1.2g or 0.04 oz (~1 tsp) Dried Kelp
0.15g or (~1 tbsp) Wheat Germ Oil
Whole Food Mix (If not using Essential Nutrient Mix)
Directions
Cook Chicken. Put chicken breast in slow cooker with bone broth and add enough water to cover. Cook on low for 4 hours.
Chop up Vegetables. Blend all the vegetables in a food processor to easily chop them up
Cook Vegetables. Add your vegetables, quinoa & wheat germ into the crockpot. Mix well. Top up water if needed. Cook on low for another 4 hours
Mix in Nutrients. Mix in Dog Child Nutrient Mix or Whole Food Mix
Cool and serve to your pup!
Recipe Note
Storage:
Store recipe in the fridge for up to 3 day or up to 3 months in the freezer
Can cook on stove top low or in oven covered low if do not have a slow cooker.
Frequently Asked Questions About Homemade Chicken Dog Food Recipes Vet Approved
Is homemade chicken dog food healthier than store-bought food?
Many loving dog parents and veterinarians agree that homemade chicken dog food, when made according to a vet-approved recipe, can offer a healthier alternative to store-bought options. This is because you are using fresh whole ingredients rather than processed pre made food. Plus you have complete control over the quality and source of ingredients, ensuring your dog receives a balanced and nutritious meal. Feeding fresh food has been shown to have a number of health benefits including being better for gut health.
How do I ensure the homemade chicken dog food is nutritionally balanced?
To make sure your homemade chicken dog food is nutritionally balanced, you should follow recipes that have been approved by veterinarians or canine nutritionists. These recipes consider the appropriate proportions of protein, fat, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals your dog needs. Additionally, if your dog has a health condition please reach out to us to book a consult to ensure you have the appropriate recipes for your dog's particular health issues.
Can I feed my dog chicken every day?
Yes, chicken can be a part of your dog’s daily meal as it is a good source of protein, essential vitamins, and minerals. However, it's important to vary your dog’s diet with other protein sources and nutrients to ensure a well-rounded intake. Variety is the spice of life when it comes to home cooking for your dog. Always remember to cook the chicken thoroughly (without any seasoning) to prevent any risk of bacterial infections like salmonella. Also, ensure the chicken is free from bones as bones can pose a choking hazard.
What ingredients should I avoid including in homemade chicken dog food?
When preparing homemade chicken dog food, avoid ingredients that are toxic or harmful to dogs. These include onions, grapes, raisins, chocolate, and foods containing xylitol.
How much homemade chicken dog food should I feed my dog?
The amount of homemade chicken dog food you should feed your dog depends on various factors, including your dog’s size, age, activity level, and overall health. It's best to consult with a veterinarian to determine the exact portion sizes tailored to your dog’s nutritional needs and to maintain an ideal weight.
Can I prepare the food in bulk and store it?
Yes, preparing homemade chicken dog food in bulk can save time and ensure you always have a healthy meal on hand for your dog. You can store portions in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to three days or freeze them for longer-term storage.
How do I transition my dog from store-bought to homemade dog food?
Transitioning your dog to a new diet should be done gradually over a period of 7-10 days. Start by mixing a small amount of the homemade chicken dog food with their current food, gradually increasing the homemade food portion and decreasing the store-bought food each day. This slow transition helps prevent digestive issues and helps your dog adjust to the new diet.
How will I know if the homemade diet suits my dog?
Observe your dog’s health and behavior closely. Signs that the homemade diet is beneficial include a shiny coat, healthy skin, good energy levels, and consistent, healthy bowel movements. If you notice any negative changes, such as digestive issues, allergies, or weight loss, consult your veterinarian or book in with our nutritionist.