Homemade Dog Food: Chicken & Veggie Delight

Who says you can't cook tasty homemade meals for your furry friend? When made right, dog-friendly recipes can provide a nutritious and flavoursome alternative to store-bought pet food. This easy chicken & veggie delight is a great example: chock-full of protein, fiber, and key vitamins and minerals.

A Complete and Balanced Meal

The combination of ingredients like chicken, vegetables, and oats makes this recipe a complete and balanced meal for dogs. Here's a breakdown of the nutritional benefits:

Chicken - An excellent source of lean protein that provides amino acids for building and maintaining your dog's muscles. Skinless chicken breast is lower in fat compared to other parts.

French Beans - Packed with vitamin C, potassium, and fiber to aid digestion. Low calorie, so good for weight management.

Carrots - Full of vitamin A for healthy eyes and skin. Their fiber promotes good bowel movements.

Broccoli - Provides vitamin K for proper blood clotting. Also contains vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants.

Oats - Great source of B vitamins, iron, and zinc for overall wellness. Oats give a boost of slow-burning carbs for energy.

Chicken broth - Adds flavour and moisture. Provides electrolytes like sodium and potassium. Better than plain water!

Balancing all these ingredients ensures your dog gets optimum protein, essential fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals in one yummy recipe.

Step-By-Step Recipe for Chicken & Veggie Delight

Ingredients:

• 4 skinless chicken breasts, diced
• 1⁄2 cup French beans (chopped)
• 1⁄2 cup carrots (chopped)
• 1⁄2 cup broccoli (chopped)
• 1⁄2 cup rolled oats

• 4 cups chicken stock

  
  

Method:

1. Start by thoroughly washing the chicken breasts and removing any excess fat or skin. Chop the chicken breasts into small, bite-sized pieces.

   
   

2. In a non-stick pan, cook the diced chicken on medium flame until completely done. The chicken pieces should no longer be pink in colour. You can use coconut oil if the chicken starts sticking to your pan.

   
   

3. Now, take a pressure cooker and add the cooked chicken pieces, French beans, carrots, broccoli, rolled oats and chicken stock.

   
   

4. Pressure cook for 2 whistles or until the vegetables are tender. Open the lid carefully.

   
   

5. Allow the chicken veggie mix to cool down before serving your furry friend.

   
   

6. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

   
   

This easy one-pot meal is packed with protein and fiber to promote overall health and digestion in dogs. The combination of chicken and vegetables provides a nutritious, home-cooked dinner they'll love! Adjust portions as per your doggo's size and appetite.

Other Nutrition Tips for Dogs

When cooking for your doggo or choosing commercial food, keep these nutrition tips in mind:

• Choose whole foods over processed whenever possible - whole meats, vegetables, grains rather than by-products.

  
  

• Look for food labeled "complete and balanced" indicating it meets dogs' nutritional needs.

  
  

• Pick an appropriate food type - puppy, adult, senior dog, based on your dog's stage of life.

  
  

• Feed 2 or 3 meals at consistent times to create a routine and avoid bloat.

  
  

• Ensure access to fresh water at all times to aid food digestion and overall health.

  
  

• Monitor portion sizes carefully to avoid under or overfeeding. Follow feeding guidelines based on weight.

  
  

• Introduce new foods gradually to check for allergies or intolerance.

  
  

• Include omega fatty acids like fish oil to nourish skin and coat health.

  
  

• Try adding supplements if your dog has certain deficiencies. But consult a vet first.

  
  

• Avoid overly fatty foods that can cause pancreatitis. Bones may also splinter and pose a choking hazard.

  
  
• Work in fruits and veggies for extra vitamins, minerals and fiber. In moderation.