This is a must try recipe if you want to give your beloved dog food that they will adore without any fillers, healthy, and perfect for sensitive stomachs too. My Homemade Turkey and Rice Dog Food with Veggies will be an easy recipe for your furbaby you will come back to time and time again. As a dog mom, I’ve always believed our furry family members deserve the same care and attention we give the rest of the household—especially when it comes to food. My 10-year-old dog, Tanah, has been part of my life for over a decade, and she’s been with me through moves, both of my children, life changes, and countless everyday moments.
As she’s gotten older, I’ve noticed that she thrives best on a simple, wholesome diet with lean protein, gentle grains, and fresh vegetables. That’s what inspired me to start making homemade turkey and rice dog food with veggies. It’s nutritious, budget-friendly, and gives me peace of mind knowing exactly what’s in her bowl. If you’re looking for a dog food recipe that’s both healthy and delicious (and approved by even the pickiest pups), this is one you’ll want to keep on rotation.
What Is Homemade Turkey and Rice Dog Food with Veggies?
This recipe is a balanced, homemade dog food made with lean ground turkey, cooked brown rice, and fresh vegetables like zucchini, carrots, and spinach. It’s lightly cooked, easy to digest, and adaptable based on your dog’s dietary needs.
While not a replacement for professional veterinary advice, these ingredients are often recommended by vets for dogs with sensitive stomachs, mild food intolerances, or after recovering from illness. The combination of protein, fiber, and vitamins makes it a great occasional meal or even a long-term diet if approved by your vet.
When to Serve This to Your Dog
- As an everyday meal – With veterinary guidance, this recipe can be served daily as part of a balanced diet.
- For sensitive stomachs – Lean turkey and brown rice are gentle on digestion.
- During recovery – After illness or surgery, many vets suggest bland, home-cooked meals.
- As a topper – Mix with your dog’s kibble to boost nutrition and flavor.
- For picky eaters – Fresh ingredients can tempt even the most stubborn dogs to eat.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe (and Your Dog Will Too)
- Simple, wholesome ingredients you can find at any grocery store.
- Customizable based on your dog’s preferences and needs.
- Cost-effective compared to many premium commercial dog foods.
- Peace of mind knowing exactly what’s in your dog’s meal.
- Loved by dogs of all ages, from puppies to seniors like Tanah.
Ingredient Breakdown
Ground Turkey – Lean protein that’s low in fat and easy to digest. Go for 93% lean or leaner. Avoid pre-seasoned turkey, as added salt or spices can be harmful to dogs.
Brown Rice – Provides healthy carbs and fiber. Brown rice is more nutrient-dense than white rice, but either can be used for sensitive stomachs.
Zucchini – Low-calorie veggie packed with vitamin C and potassium. Always shred or finely chop for easier digestion.
Carrots – Rich in beta-carotene and fiber. Finely shred or dice to help with absorption.
Spinach – Offers iron, vitamin A, and antioxidants. Use in moderation, and always chop finely.
Water or Low-Sodium Broth (optional) – Helps keep the food moist and more appealing for dogs who prefer softer textures.
Variations
- Protein swap – Try ground chicken or lean beef instead of turkey.
- Grain-free option – Use quinoa or sweet potatoes instead of rice.
- Extra veggies – Add peas, green beans, or pumpkin (in small amounts).
- For more calories – Mix in a small amount of plain canned salmon or olive oil (if approved by your vet).
Troubleshooting
Dog won’t eat it? Try warming the food slightly to bring out the aroma, or add a splash of low-sodium chicken broth.
Too dry? Mix in extra cooked rice or a little water when reheating.
Dog needs softer food? Puree the veggies before cooking for a smoother texture.
Dog has allergies? Swap out any ingredient that triggers a reaction and replace it with a safe alternative.
Storage and Serving Tips
- Refrigerator – Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Freezer – Portion into freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 2 months.
- Serving temperature – Serve slightly warm or at room temperature. Avoid serving hot food to prevent burns.
- Portion size – Varies based on dog’s weight, age, and activity level. Your vet can help determine exact amounts.
Make-Ahead and Freezing Tips
I like to make a double batch for Tanah and freeze half in individual portions. This way, I always have a quick, healthy meal ready without cooking every day.
To freeze, let the food cool completely, then portion into labeled containers. Thaw overnight in the fridge and warm slightly before serving.
Lightened-Up Version
For dogs on a calorie-restricted diet:
- Use extra-lean turkey (99% lean).
- Stick to low-starch veggies like zucchini and spinach.
- Reduce rice by one-third and replace with steamed green beans for fiber.
Budget Breakdown
Here’s what this recipe cost me locally:
- 1 lb lean ground turkey – $4.50
- 1 cup uncooked brown rice – $0.60
- ½ cup shredded zucchini – $0.50
- ½ cup shredded carrot – $0.40
- 1 cup chopped spinach – $0.80
Total cost: $6.80 for about 8 cups of food.
That’s less than $0.90 per cup—much cheaper than most store-bought premium dog food.
Beginner Mistakes to Avoid
- Using seasoned meat – Spices, garlic, or onions can be toxic to dogs.
- Serving too hot – Always let it cool before feeding.
- Skipping veggie prep – Large chunks can be harder for dogs to digest.
- Not checking with your vet – Always ensure homemade meals meet your dog’s nutritional needs.
My Personal Kitchen Notes
Tanah has always been a good eater, but as she’s aged, she’s become a little more particular. This turkey and rice dog food is one meal she never turns down. I love watching her excitement when I bring out a fresh batch—it’s tail wags and happy paws every time.
Making it myself also means I can control the freshness and quality of every ingredient. I know she’s getting lean protein, healthy carbs, and vitamins in every bite. And the best part? It’s easy enough to throw together while I’m prepping dinner for the family.
What Makes This Different from Other Homemade Dog Food Recipes
There are a lot of homemade dog food recipes out there, but this turkey and rice version stands apart for a few key reasons:
- Balanced simplicity – Many recipes overload on either protein or carbs, but this one keeps the ratio even, making it gentle on digestion while still satisfying.
- Senior-dog friendly – Lean ground turkey, soft-cooked rice, and finely shredded vegetables are easy for older dogs like my 10-year-old Tanah to chew and digest.
- Fresh vegetables only – No frozen blends with hidden seasoning or sodium. Every ingredient is fresh and prepared specifically with dogs in mind.
- Budget-friendly – At under $1 per cup, it’s more affordable than most premium store-bought dog foods while being just as wholesome.
- Flexible for sensitivities – Can be adapted for grain-free diets, allergy-friendly needs, or higher calorie requirements with minimal changes.
Meal Prep & Portioning Guide for Different Dog Sizes
Portion size depends on your dog’s age, weight, and activity level, but here’s a general starting point you can discuss with your vet:
- Small dogs (10–20 lbs) – ½ to 1 cup per day, split into two meals
- Medium dogs (20–50 lbs) – 1½ to 3 cups per day, split into two meals
- Large dogs (50–80 lbs) – 3 to 4½ cups per day, split into two meals
- Extra-large dogs (80+ lbs) – 4½ to 6 cups per day, split into two meals
Meal prep tips:
- Make a double batch and freeze in daily portions for easy thawing.
- Label containers with your dog’s name and portion size to avoid mix-ups.
- If feeding more than one dog, portion their meals ahead of time to prevent overfeeding.
Protein Swaps & Dietary Adjustments
This recipe is built around turkey, rice, and vegetables, but you can adjust it to suit your dog’s health needs or preferences:
- Protein swaps – Ground chicken, lean beef, ground lamb, or cooked white fish (deboned)
- Grain-free option – Replace rice with cooked quinoa, sweet potato, or butternut squash
- Lower-fat version – Use 99% lean ground turkey or ground chicken breast
- Higher-fat version – Add a teaspoon of olive oil or coconut oil per serving (if approved by your vet)
- Vegetable swaps – Green beans, peas, or pumpkin can replace or supplement the zucchini and spinach
- Sensitive stomach adjustment – Use white rice instead of brown, and stick to a single, mild vegetable like carrot
Always make changes gradually to avoid upsetting your dog’s digestion, and check with your vet before making significant adjustments to your dog’s diet.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use white rice instead of brown rice?
Yes. White rice is easier to digest and may be better for dogs with very sensitive stomachs.
Can I add supplements to this recipe?
Yes, but check with your vet first. You may need to add calcium or omega-3 supplements if feeding long-term.
How much should I feed my dog?
Portion size depends on your dog’s size, age, and activity. Your vet can give the best guidance for your dog’s needs.
Can I use frozen vegetables?
Yes, just make sure they don’t contain added salt or seasonings.
How long can I store it in the freezer?
Up to 2 months in airtight containers.
Final Thoughts
Homemade turkey and rice dog food with veggies is a wholesome, easy-to-make meal that your dog will love. It’s fresh, budget-friendly, and adaptable for dogs with different dietary needs.
For me, making Tanah’s food is just one more way I can give back to her after all the love and loyalty she’s given me. Whether you’re trying to help your dog feel their best or just want to know exactly what they’re eating, this recipe is a great place to start.
More Dog Recipes
Homemade Turkey and Rice Dog Food
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 1 cup uncooked brown rice
- 1/2 cup shredded zucchini
- 1/2 cup shredded carrot
- 1 cup chopped spinach
Instructions
- Cook brown rice according to package instructions and set aside.
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground turkey over medium heat until fully browned and cooked through.
- Add the shredded zucchini, carrot, and chopped spinach to the pot. Stir and cook for 2–3 minutes until softened.
- Stir in the cooked brown rice and combine until everything is evenly mixed and heated through.
- Let cool completely before serving to your dog. Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze in portions for later use.
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