Homemade Dog Food For Large Breeds (Recipe)

The Recipe: Homemade Dog Food for Large Breeds

This recipe is designed to meet the unique needs of large dogs.

It’s simple, affordable, and packed with everything your dog needs to thrive.

Ingredients

Lean Protein (1–1.5 lbs):
- Chicken thighs, ground turkey, or lean beef (support muscle growth and repair).
Carbohydrates (1–1.5 cups cooked):
- Brown rice, oatmeal, or sweet potatoes (provide energy and fiber).
Vegetables (1 cup cooked and chopped):
- Broccoli, carrots, or spinach (loaded with vitamins and antioxidants).
Healthy Fat (1 tablespoon):
- Fish oil, coconut oil, or olive oil (important for joint health and a shiny coat).
Calcium Source:
- Crushed eggshells (1 tsp per meal) or a vet-approved calcium supplement. They are for strong bones and teeth.
Optional Additives:
- 1 tablespoon of plain, unsweetened yogurt (for probiotics and gut health).
- A pinch of turmeric (reduces inflammation and supports joint).

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Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Protein

Cook chicken, turkey, or beef in a skillet or boil until fully done.
Avoid adding oils, spices, or seasonings.

Step 2: Prepare the Carbohydrates

Cook brown rice, oatmeal, or sweet potatoes until soft.
Let them cool before mixing with other ingredients.

Step 3: Steam the Vegetables

Lightly steam broccoli, carrots, or spinach to retain their nutrients.
Chop finely to make them easier for your dog to digest.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Mix the cooked protein, carbs, and vegetables in a large bowl.

Step 5: Add Healthy Fats and Calcium

Stir in the fish oil, coconut oil, or olive oil along with the crushed eggshells or calcium supplement.

Step 6: Cool and Serve

Allow the food to cool completely before serving.
Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze portions for up to 3 months.

Why This Recipe is Perfect for Large Breeds

Large breeds are not just big—they’re unique.

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This recipe is tailored to support their size, energy levels, and overall health.

Muscle Growth and Maintenance: High protein helps build bigger muscles and keeps them strong.
Joint Support: Healthy fats, like fish oil, help prevent joint issues. These include arthritis and hip dysplasia.
Calorie Control: Large dogs need high-energy meals to stay active. But, avoid overeating to prevent obesity and joint strain.
Bone Health: Calcium is vital for strong bones and teeth. This is especially true for large breeds, as their size puts extra pressure on their skeleton.

Fun Fact: Great Danes grow so quickly during their first year that they can gain up to 5 pounds per week!

Benefits of Homemade Dog Food

Why should you switch to homemade meals for your dog?

Here are the benefits:

No Fillers or Preservatives: Many dog foods use cheap fillers, like corn or wheat. They have little nutritional value. Homemade food uses fresh, whole ingredients.
Customizable: Tailor meals to your dog’s breed, size, and health needs. Got a picky eater? Adjust the recipe!
Superior Quality: You control every ingredient. No mystery meat or unnecessary additives.
Healthier for Joints and Bones: Homemade recipes provide your dog with key nutrients, like calcium and omega-3s. They support your dog’s large frame.
Affordable: High-quality commercial food costs a fortune. Homemade food can save money while offering better nutrition.

Reading tip: 17 Worst Dog Food Brands In 2025 (Avoid #3 At All Times)

Cost Breakdown: Affordable and Healthy

Here’s how this recipe compares to store-bought food:

Homemade Food:

Chicken (1–1.5 lbs): ~$5–$7
Brown rice (1–1.5 cups cooked): ~$1–$2
Vegetables (1 cup): ~$1
Total per meal: ~$7–$10

Store-Bought Food:

High-quality brands for large breeds cost about $10–$15 per meal.

The Verdict: Homemade food is healthier and cheaper. This is true for large, hungry breeds!

Fun Facts About Large Dogs

Let’s dive into some fascinating facts about large breeds:

Fast Growth: Large breeds grow quickly, so good nutrition is key in their first year.
Joint Sensitivity: Breeds like Labradors and German Shepherds have joint issues. So, omega-3s are crucial.
Slower Metabolism: Large dogs burn fewer calories per pound than smaller dogs, which is why portion control is so important.
Shorter Lifespans: Most large breeds live 8–12 years, making a healthy diet critical for maximizing their quality of life.

Fun Fact: Newfoundland is not just big—it’s an amazing swimmer!

They were bred to rescue people from the water and can swim up to 2 miles without stopping.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Large Dog Food

Homemade food is fantastic, but there are some mistakes to watch out for:

Skipping Calcium: Without calcium, large dogs are at risk of weak bones and fractures. Always include a calcium source.
Using Unsafe Ingredients: Avoid foods toxic to dogs, like onions, garlic, chocolate, grapes, raisins, and xylitol.
Overfeeding: Big dogs can gain weight fast. This can strain their joints and cause health issues. Portion control is critical.
Imbalanced Meals: Ensure the recipe has the right mix of protein, fats, and carbs to meet their needs.
Not Consulting a Vet: Always check with your vet. They can confirm the recipe is suitable for your dog’s age, weight, and health.

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How to Transition Your Large Dog to Homemade Food

Switching to homemade food?

Do it gradually to avoid upsetting their stomach.

Here’s how:

Start Slow: Mix 25% homemade food with 75% of their current food. Slowly increase the homemade portion over 7–10 days.
Monitor Their Reaction: Watch for signs of digestive upset (e.g., loose stools or vomiting). If this happens, slow the transition.
Stick to a Schedule: Feed your dog at the same times every day to help their digestion adjust.
Portion Control: Start with small portions. Adjust based on their weight and activity level.

Pro Tip: Always provide fresh water, especially during dietary changes.

Signs Your Dog Loves the Recipe

How can you tell if your dog is enjoying their new meals?

Look for these signs:

Excitement at Mealtime: A wagging tail and eager eating show they’re thrilled!
Healthy Weight: Maintaining a steady weight is a good indicator of balanced nutrition.
Glossy Coat: A shiny, soft coat signals they’re getting enough healthy fats.
Energy Levels: A happy, playful dog is a well-fed dog.
Firm Stools: Consistent, firm stools mean the recipe agrees with their digestion.

Recommended Read: 13 Toxic Foods for Dogs (Avoid #9 Like The Plague!)

Conclusion

Homemade dog food for your large breed is more than just feeding them.

It’s about giving them the best life possible.

This recipe is simple, cheap, and full of fresh, healthy ingredients.

They meet your dog’s unique needs.

Try it today and see your dog thrive with every bite.

Your gentle giant deserves the best, and this recipe delivers exactly that!

⚠️ Quiz: The #1 Dog Food To AVOID (causes weight gain, saps energy & harms your dog’s gut)

A: Chicken
B: Beef
C: Pork
D: Fish
E: Vegetables

Make your selection above or click here to skip straight to the answer.

==> Click Here To Discover #1 Dog Food To Avoid