I’ve been making homemade dog food for my pups for a while now, and this
crockpot chicken dog food recipe
quickly became a household favorite. It’s simple, requires only 5 natural ingredients, and is gentle on their digestion. Plus, it’s vet-approved, so you can feel confident feeding this to your furry friend.
Ingredients (5 Simple Ingredients)
- Boneless, skinless chicken thighs (about 500g) – packed with lean protein
- Carrots (1 cup, chopped) – supports eye health and immune function
- Sweet potato (1 cup, diced) – great source of fiber and vitamins
- Brown rice (1/2 cup, rinsed) – provides energy and aids digestion
- Water or low-sodium chicken broth (2 cups) – keeps everything moist and flavorful
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Place the chicken thighs at the bottom of your crockpot, trimming any excess fat.
Step 2: Add chopped carrots, diced sweet potatoes, and rinsed brown rice on top of the chicken.
Step 3: Pour in 2 cups of water or low-sodium chicken broth, making sure the ingredients are covered.
Step 4: Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The chicken should be tender enough to shred easily.
Step 5: Once cooled, shred the chicken with a fork and mix everything together thoroughly. Portion the food and store leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for longer storage.
Feeding Tips
- Start by mixing this homemade meal with your dog’s regular kibble to ease the transition.
- Feed 1/2 cup per 10 pounds of body weight, divided into two meals daily.
- Make sure the food is at room temperature before serving to avoid upsetting their stomach.
FAQ
Q1: Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, but chicken thighs tend to be juicier and more flavorful for dogs.
Q2: Is this recipe safe for puppies?
This recipe is best suited for adult dogs. Puppies require specific nutrients and should be fed recipes tailored to their growth needs.
Q3: Can I substitute the brown rice for quinoa?
Quinoa is a great grain-free alternative, but ensure it’s well rinsed and fully cooked to avoid digestive upset.
Q4: Can I add any seasoning?
No seasoning is necessary or recommended. Dogs do not need salt, garlic, or onion, and these can be harmful.
Which Dogs Is This Recipe Best For?
Suitable for:
- Adult dogs of all breeds and sizes
- Dogs with sensitive stomachs needing gentle, digestible food
- Dogs requiring limited ingredient diets
Not suitable for:
- Puppies under 6 months old
- Dogs with chicken allergies
- Dogs on strict veterinary diets
If you’ve made it this far, thank you for caring so deeply about what goes into your dog’s bowl. At PawPrinted, we believe every pup deserves meals made with love, not fillers—and you’re already doing something amazing by choosing homemade.
Tried this recipe? We’d love to hear how your dog liked it! Did they lick the bowl clean? Did you tweak an ingredient? Share your experience in the comments or tag us on Pinterest—your story could inspire another pet parent.
If you found this helpful, don’t forget to share it with a fellow dog lover—because when we care together, our pups thrive together.
From our kitchen to yours—thank you for being part of the PawPrinted family.
