I’ve encountered moments when my canine companion needed a little extra help to maintain a healthy weight—perhaps after an illness or simply due to a naturally lean frame.
One morning, while preparing a hearty meal for myself, I realized I could craft something equally nourishing and calorie-rich for my dog.
These Weight Gain Dog Food Recipes are the result, designed to pack in protein, fats, and carbs to support healthy weight gain. Featuring beef & rice bowl, protein-packed chicken & oatmeal, and fat-rich salmon & quinoa mix, these dishes offer robust nutrition for underweight pups.
If your dog could use a boost, these recipes provide a practical and wholesome solution. Let’s get cooking with purpose.
Why You’ll Love This Weight Gain Dog Food Delight
- Loaded with calorie-dense ingredients to promote healthy weight gain.
- Simple to prepare with nutrient-rich, everyday staples.
- Offers variety to keep meals appealing while adding pounds.
- Balances high protein and fats for energy and muscle support.
Weight Gain Dog Food Recipes
Below are three recipes crafted to help underweight dogs gain mass, with detailed steps for success. Each includes a table of ingredients for clarity.
High-Calorie Beef & Rice Bowl
| Ingredient | Description |
|---|---|
| 2 lbs ground beef (80/20) | High-fat beef for calorie density and protein. |
| 2 cups cooked brown rice | Quick-digesting carbs for energy and bulk. |
| 1 cup sweet potatoes, mashed | Adds carbs and vitamins for sustained energy. |
| ½ cup full-fat cottage cheese | Boosts calories with creamy fat and protein. |
| 2 tbsp olive oil or coconut oil | Provides healthy fats for weight gain. |
| 1 tbsp ground flaxseed | Offers omega-3s and extra calories. |
| 1 egg, cooked | Adds protein and fats for muscle support. |
Step 1: Cook the Beef
Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add 2 lbs ground beef (80/20). Cook for 10-12 minutes, breaking it apart with a spatula, until fully browned with no pink remaining. Stir occasionally—keep some fat in the pan for extra calories, draining only excess if pooling—and let cool slightly.
Step 2: Prepare the Brown Rice
Rinse 1 cup uncooked brown rice under cold water. In a medium saucepan, combine with 2 cups water, bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer covered for 12-15 minutes until tender. Fluff with a fork and let cool.
Step 3: Cook the Sweet Potatoes
Peel and chop 1-2 medium sweet potatoes (to yield 1 cup mashed). Place in a pot, cover with water, and boil for 10-15 minutes until soft. Drain, mash with a fork until smooth, and set aside to cool.
Step 4: Cook the Egg
Place 1 egg in a small pot, cover with water, and boil for 10 minutes until hard-boiled. Cool in cold water, peel, chop into small pieces, and set aside.
Step 5: Combine Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 lbs cooked beef, 2 cups cooked brown rice, 1 cup mashed sweet potatoes, ½ cup full-fat cottage cheese, 2 tbsp olive or coconut oil, 1 tbsp ground flaxseed, and the chopped egg. Stir thoroughly until evenly mixed, then let cool to room temperature.
Protein-Packed Chicken & Oatmeal
| Ingredient | Description |
|---|---|
| 2 lbs shredded chicken (dark meat) | High-protein, fatty cuts for calories and muscle. |
| 1 ½ cups cooked oatmeal | Comforting carbs for energy and weight gain. |
| ½ cup plain Greek yogurt | Adds fat, protein, and creaminess. |
| 1 tbsp peanut butter (no xylitol) | Boosts calories with a tasty fat source. |
| 2 tbsp fish oil or flaxseed oil | High-calorie fats for coat and energy. |
| ½ cup steamed carrots, mashed | Offers vitamins and a touch of sweetness. |
| 1 egg, raw or cooked | Extra protein and fats—raw if your dog tolerates it. |
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
Place 2 lbs dark meat chicken (thighs or drumsticks, skin-on for fat) in a large pot, cover with water, and bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Simmer for 20-25 minutes until fully cooked, then drain, cool slightly, and shred with two forks, keeping some skin for calories.
Step 2: Prepare the Oatmeal
Measure ¾ cup dry rolled oats and combine with 1 ½ cups water in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, and simmer for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thick. Let cool completely.
Step 3: Steam the Carrots
Peel and chop 1-2 medium carrots (to yield ½ cup mashed). Place in a steamer basket over boiling water, cover, and steam for 8-10 minutes until soft. Mash with a fork and cool.
Step 4: Cook the Egg
Boil 1 egg in water for 10 minutes, cool, peel, and chop. If using raw, set aside to add fresh—ensure it’s safe for your dog (consult your vet if unsure).
Step 5: Combine Ingredients
In a large bowl, mix 2 lbs shredded chicken, 1 ½ cups cooked oatmeal, ½ cup plain Greek yogurt, 1 tbsp peanut butter (xylitol-free), 2 tbsp fish or flaxseed oil, ½ cup mashed carrots, and the egg (raw or cooked). Stir until well blended, then cool to room temperature.
Fat-Rich Salmon & Quinoa Mix
| Ingredient | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 ½ lbs cooked salmon | Fatty fish rich in omega-3s for weight and health. |
| 1 ½ cups cooked quinoa | Nutrient-dense carbs for energy and bulk. |
| ½ cup plain pumpkin puree | Adds fiber and calories for digestion. |
| ½ cup full-fat goat’s milk or kefir | High-fat dairy for calories and probiotics. |
| 2 tbsp chia seeds | Calorie-packed seeds with omega-3s. |
| 1 tbsp coconut oil | Boosts fat content for energy and coat shine. |
| 1 egg, cooked | Adds protein and fats for muscle gain. |
Step 1: Cook the Salmon
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place 1 ½ lbs salmon in a baking dish, add a splash of water, and bake for 15-20 minutes until flaky. Cool, remove skin and bones, and flake into small pieces.
Step 2: Prepare the Quinoa
Rinse ¾ cup uncooked quinoa under cold water. In a saucepan, combine with 1 ½ cups water, bring to a boil, then simmer covered for 12-15 minutes until fluffy. Fluff and cool.
Step 3: Cook the Egg
Boil 1 egg in a small pot with water for 10 minutes, cool in cold water, peel, chop, and set aside.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
In a large bowl, mix 1 ½ lbs flaked salmon, 1 ½ cups cooked quinoa, ½ cup plain pumpkin puree, ½ cup full-fat goat’s milk or kefir, 2 tbsp chia seeds, 1 tbsp coconut oil, and the chopped egg. Stir until evenly combined, then let cool to room temperature.
Storage and Serving
Store each recipe in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, portion into freezer-safe bags and freeze for up to 2 months; thaw in the fridge overnight. Serve at room temperature, starting with ½ cup for small dogs, 1-2 cups for medium dogs, or 2-3 cups for large dogs, adjusted based on weight gain goals and vet advice.
Feeding Guidelines
These recipes are calorie-rich to support weight gain, providing 40-60% of daily calories depending on portion size. Introduce gradually over 7-10 days, mixing with current food, to avoid digestive upset. Consult your vet to determine your dog’s target weight and calorie needs—supplements like calcium may be required for balance.
Tips for Success
- Use fattier cuts (e.g., 80/20 beef, dark meat chicken) to maximize calories.
- Serve slightly warm (not hot) to enhance aroma and encourage eating.
- Monitor weight weekly and adjust portions with vet guidance.
- Add a splash of low-sodium broth if your dog needs extra enticement.
Substitutes and Variations
- Swap beef with ground pork (80/20) in the first recipe.
- Replace oatmeal with brown rice or mashed potatoes in the second.
- Use full-fat plain yogurt instead of goat’s milk in the third.
- Add 1 tbsp melted butter (unsalted) for extra fat in any recipe.
Benefits of the Ingredients
- Proteins (beef, chicken, salmon, eggs): Build muscle while adding calories.
- Carbs (rice, oatmeal, quinoa, sweet potato): Provide energy and bulk for weight gain.
- Fats (oils, dairy, chia): High-calorie sources for coat health and energy reserves.
- Veggies (pumpkin, carrots): Offer fiber and vitamins to support digestion.
FAQs
How do I know if my dog needs to gain weight?
Look for visible ribs or a tucked waist—consult your vet for an ideal weight target.
Can these be a full diet?
They’re calorie boosters; pair with kibble or vet-approved supplements for complete nutrition.
What if my dog won’t eat them?
Try warming slightly or adding a bit of wet food to enhance appeal.
Important Notes
- Protein: High levels (beef, chicken, salmon, eggs) support muscle growth and energy for weight gain.
- Carbohydrates: Calorie-dense grains and veggies (rice, oats, sweet potato) add bulk safely.
- Vegetables: Provide nutrients, but avoid toxic ones like onions or garlic.
- Fats: Extra fats (oils, dairy, chia) are key for calorie boosts—use generously but monitor.
- Supplements: These focus on calories—consult your vet for vitamins or minerals if used long-term.
Conclusion
These Weight Gain Dog Food Recipes offer a hearty, purposeful way to help your dog reach a healthy weight. I’ve found reassurance in preparing these nutrient-packed meals, and I hope you’ll see the same progress in your companion. Cook them up when your dog needs a lift, and enjoy the journey toward a stronger, happier pup—here’s to thriving together!