As someone who values the care that goes into a home-cooked meal, I’ve often wondered how to bring that same thoughtfulness to my dog’s daily diet. One day, tired of the monotony of store-bought kibble, I set out to create a dry dog food that’s both nutritious and tailored to my pup’s needs.
So I made a homemade dog kibble with a blend of turkey, grains, and vegetables, baked to a satisfying crunch. If you’re looking to craft a wholesome, shelf-stable food for your dog, this recipe offers a practical and rewarding alternative. Let’s make this nourishing kibble together.
Why You’ll Love This Homemade Dog Kibble
- Packed with protein, fiber, and healthy fats for balanced nutrition.
- Simple to prepare with everyday ingredients you can trust.
- Offers a crunchy texture dogs enjoy, mimicking commercial kibble.
- Customizable and free of preservatives for a natural diet boost.
Homemade Dry Dog Food Recipe
This recipe creates a batch of dry, kibble-style dog food, ideal for daily feeding or as a supplement to your dog’s diet. Below is the ingredient table followed by detailed steps to ensure a crunchy, well-formed result.
| Ingredient | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 cup brown rice, cooked | Provides digestible carbs and energy. |
| ½ cup lentils, cooked | Adds plant-based protein and fiber for digestion. |
| ½ cup oats | Offers hearty texture and fiber for firmness. |
| 1 medium carrot, finely chopped or grated | Supplies vitamins and a subtle sweetness. |
| 1 small sweet potato, peeled and grated | Rich in carbs and beta-carotene for health. |
| 1 small apple, peeled, cored, and grated | Adds natural sweetness and fiber (no seeds). |
| 1 lb ground turkey, cooked and crumbled | Lean protein for muscle support and flavor. |
| 1 egg | Binds the mixture and adds protein. |
| ¼ cup chickpea flour or oat flour | Helps form kibble shapes with extra nutrition. |
| ¼ cup olive oil | Provides healthy fats for coat and energy. |
| 1 ¼ tbsp curly parsley, finely chopped | Freshens breath and adds vitamins. |
| 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, finely chopped | Enhances flavor and offers antioxidants. |
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Turkey
Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add 1 lb ground turkey. Cook for 10-12 minutes, breaking it apart with a spatula, until fully browned with no pink remaining. Drain excess fat into a container to reduce moisture, then let cool and crumble into small pieces.
Step 2: Prepare the Grains
In a medium saucepan, cook 1 cup brown rice (½ cup uncooked with 1 cup water) for 40-45 minutes until tender, then cool. Separately, cook ½ cup lentils (¼ cup dry with ¾ cup water) for 20-25 minutes until soft but not mushy, then drain and cool.
Step 3: Prep the Vegetables and Fruit
Peel and grate 1 medium carrot (200g), 1 small sweet potato (150g), and 1 small apple (peeled and cored) using a fine grater or food processor—small pieces ensure even mixing and drying. Finely chop 1 ¼ tbsp parsley and 2 sprigs fresh rosemary with a sharp knife.
Step 4: Mix the Base Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled turkey, cooked brown rice, cooked lentils, ½ cup oats (uncooked), grated carrot, grated sweet potato, grated apple, parsley, and rosemary. Stir with a sturdy spoon until evenly distributed—the mixture will be chunky at this stage.
Step 5: Form the Dough
Add 1 egg, ¼ cup chickpea flour or oat flour, and ¼ cup olive oil to the bowl. Mix thoroughly until it forms a thick, dough-like consistency—slightly sticky but firm enough to hold shape. If too dry, add a splash of water; if too wet, sprinkle in more flour.
Step 6: Shape the Kibble
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to ¼-inch thickness and cut into tiny squares (½-inch) with a knife or pizza cutter. Alternatively, pinch off small pieces and roll into kibble-sized balls, flattening slightly. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spaced about ½-inch apart.
Step 7: Bake the Kibble
Bake at 350°F for 30-40 minutes, until the pieces are firm and lightly golden—check at 30 minutes to avoid overcooking. Lower the oven to 200°F (95°C) and bake for an additional 2-3 hours, until fully dried and crunchy. Flip the pieces halfway through the low-heat phase for even drying.
Step 8: Cool Completely
Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the kibble cool on a wire rack for 1-2 hours until completely dry and at room temperature—proper cooling prevents moisture buildup and ensures shelf stability.
Storage and Serving
Store the kibble in an airtight container in a cool, dry place for up to 1 month, or refrigerate for up to 2 months. For longer storage, freeze in portions for up to 6 months; thaw before serving. Serve as a full meal—about ½ cup for small dogs, 1-2 cups for medium dogs, 2-3 cups for large dogs—adjusted to your dog’s size and caloric needs, or mix with commercial kibble.
Feeding Guidelines
This dry food can provide 50-100% of daily calories, depending on portion size and your dog’s needs—consult your vet to determine exact amounts for weight maintenance or gain. Introduce over 7-10 days, mixing with current food, to ease digestion. It’s nutrient-rich but may need supplements (e.g., calcium) for complete balance if used exclusively.
Tips for Success
- Cook ingredients ahead to reduce moisture—wet dough won’t dry properly.
- Use a food processor for finer grating if shaping small kibble is tricky.
- Test a small batch first to perfect size and crunch for your dog.
- Store in small batches to maintain freshness and crunchiness.
Substitutes and Variations
- Swap turkey with ground chicken or beef (lean cuts for less fat).
- Replace chickpea flour with whole wheat flour if gluten isn’t a concern.
- Use grated zucchini instead of carrots for variety (squeeze out excess water).
- Add 1 tsp ground turmeric for anti-inflammatory benefits.
Benefits of the Ingredients
- Turkey: Lean protein for muscle health and energy.
- Brown Rice, Lentils, Oats: Digestible carbs and fiber for sustained energy.
- Carrot, Sweet Potato, Apple: Rich in vitamins and fiber for digestion.
- Egg & Olive Oil: Add protein and healthy fats for coat and binding.
- Parsley & Rosemary: Freshen breath and offer antioxidants.
FAQs
Can this replace store-bought kibble?
Yes, with vet approval—may need supplements for long-term use.
Why isn’t my kibble crunchy?
Ensure low moisture (pre-cook ingredients) and extend drying time if needed.
Can I skip the herbs?
Yes, they’re optional—omit if your dog prefers a plainer taste.
Important Notes
- Protein: Turkey and egg provide protein—essential for daily nutrition.
- Carbohydrates: Grains and veggies offer energy—balanced for activity.
- Vegetables: Carrot, sweet potato, and apple add nutrients—avoid toxic ones like onions.
- Fats: Olive oil supplies healthy fats—moderate for calorie control.
- Supplements: May need calcium or vitamins for complete diet—consult your vet.
Conclusion
This Homemade Dry Dog Food brings a sense of purpose and care to your dog’s meals. I’ve found fulfillment in crafting this kibble, knowing it’s made with love and quality, and I hope you’ll share that satisfaction. Prepare a batch when you’re ready to take charge of your pup’s nutrition, and enjoy the peace of mind it brings—here’s to healthy, happy dining!