Some days, store-bought dog food just won’t cut it. Maybe you’re looking for something healthier, more nutritious, or just tastier for your best friend. I’ve been there too.
That’s how this Beef and Rice Dog Food Recipe was born—out of a desire to feed Snickers something truly wholesome, balanced, and delicious.
Packed with lean ground beef, hearty brown rice, nutritious veggies, and real beef bones, this recipe feels like a warm hug in a bowl.
It’s comforting. Nutritious. Tail-waggingly good. And—bonus—it’s easy to make in big batches, saving you time and money.
Let’s cook.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Homemade comfort: Fresh, nutrient-rich ingredients
- Balanced nutrition: Protein, fiber, healthy carbs, and veggies
- Affordable & easy prep: Great for batch cooking
- Customizable: Easily tailored for dietary needs
Homemade Beef and Rice Dog Food Recipe
| Ingredient | Purpose / Benefit |
|---|---|
| 2 lbs ground beef | Quality protein, supports muscle health |
| 4 cups uncooked brown rice | Healthy fiber, steady energy release |
| 1 lb assorted beef bones (shin, shank, short ribs, marrow bones) | Adds flavor, nutrients, and minerals |
| 1 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped | Adds flavor, antioxidant properties, digestive support |
| 1 cup carrots, chopped | Rich in beta-carotene, fiber, promotes healthy eyesight |
| 1½ cups fresh spinach, chopped | Vitamins A, C, K, antioxidants, fiber, immune support |
| 1 (13.5 oz) can spinach, drained | Extra fiber and vitamins, easy nutrient boost |
| 1 (15 oz) can pumpkin puree | Digestive health, fiber, nutrient-rich |
| 6 cups water (or more as needed) | Hydration and cooking base |
| 5 large eggs | Essential amino acids, protein, coat & skin health |
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Brown the Ground Beef
In a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat, lightly brown the ground beef, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain excess fat to keep the meal lean and healthy.
2. Add Beef Bones & Water
Place the beef bones into the pot with the browned beef. Add 6 cups of water (you may need slightly more later) and bring to a gentle boil. Lower heat and simmer uncovered for about 20–30 minutes to create a flavorful broth.
3. Add Brown Rice & Rosemary
Stir in the uncooked brown rice and chopped rosemary. Allow the rice to simmer gently, partially covered, for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally and checking the water level. Add more water if needed, ensuring the rice cooks evenly and doesn’t stick to the bottom.
4. Add Veggies & Pumpkin
Add the chopped carrots, fresh spinach, canned spinach (drained), and pumpkin puree to the pot. Stir thoroughly. Cook for an additional 10–15 minutes, until the carrots are tender and the mixture thickens slightly.
5. Cook the Eggs
In a separate pan, scramble the 5 eggs lightly until just set. Stir cooked eggs gently into the main pot. Eggs provide extra protein and beneficial nutrients.
6. Remove Bones & Cool
Carefully remove the beef bones from the pot, checking that no small fragments remain. Allow the food to cool to room temperature before serving.
Crockpot Preparation Method
1. Brown Ground Beef
Briefly brown the beef in a skillet for about 5–7 minutes. Drain excess fat.
2. Combine Ingredients
Transfer the browned beef into your crockpot. Add all ingredients (except eggs) at once—beef bones, rice, veggies, pumpkin, rosemary, and water.
3. Cook on Low
Cover and cook on LOW heat for 6–7 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours, until rice and carrots are tender.
4. Add Cooked Eggs
Near the end, scramble eggs separately in a skillet, then stir gently into the crockpot mixture.
5. Remove Bones and Cool
Remove bones, allow food to cool fully, and serve or store as described below.
Storage & Shelf Life
Allow cooked food to cool fully. Transfer portions into airtight containers. Refrigerate for up to 5 days, or freeze in clearly labeled, freezer-safe containers for 2–3 months.
When serving from frozen, thaw overnight in the fridge or reheat gently on the stove, adding water or broth if needed.
Feeding Guidelines
This homemade beef and rice dog food provides excellent nutrition, but portion control is important to keep your dog healthy. The ideal serving size will depend on factors such as your dog’s size, age, weight, and activity level.
As a general rule, dogs typically require approximately ½ to 1 cup of food per 10 pounds of body weight per day. For example, a small dog weighing about 20 pounds may need around 1–2 cups per day, while a medium dog (around 50 pounds) typically needs between 2½–4 cups daily. Larger or very active dogs may require a bit more.
Monitor your dog’s weight and adjust portions accordingly. If you’re planning to use this as your dog’s primary diet, it’s a good idea to discuss your feeding plan with your veterinarian to ensure your pup gets all the nutrients they need.
Customization Tips
- Substitute beef with ground turkey, chicken, or lean lamb if preferred.
- Swap brown rice with quinoa or sweet potato for grain-free needs.
- Mix in additional veggies like peas, zucchini, or green beans for variety.
- Include supplements such as fish oil for added omega-3 fatty acids and coat health.
Benefits of the Ingredients
- Ground Beef & Beef Bones: Provide essential proteins, minerals, and collagen beneficial for joint, muscle, and overall health.
- Brown Rice: Excellent source of dietary fiber and steady energy.
- Rosemary: Contains antioxidants; supports digestion and immune health.
- Carrots: Boost vision and immunity with high beta-carotene and fiber.
- Spinach: Offers powerful antioxidants, vitamins A, C, K, and essential minerals for balanced health.
- Pumpkin Puree: Supports digestive health, loaded with fiber and vitamins.
- Eggs: Deliver complete proteins, essential amino acids, and promote skin and coat health.
FAQs
Are bones safe for my dog?
Yes, as long as they’re large and removed after cooking. Never leave small fragments, as they may splinter and cause issues.
Can I use white rice instead of brown rice?
Yes, but brown rice is easier on tumiies and it has more fiber and nutrients, making it a healthier choice.
Can I skip the rosemary?
Absolutely. Rosemary is optional but adds beneficial antioxidants and flavor.
Final Thoughts
This Homemade Beef and Rice Dog Food Recipe truly checks every box. Nutritionally balanced, packed with wholesome ingredients, and delicious enough that Snickers waits impatiently by the stove every single time. It feels good to serve your dog real food, made by you, from scratch.
Give it a try. Your dog’s wagging tail and empty bowl will thank you.