When the temperature drops and your canine companion needs extra warmth and energy, this Cold Weather Warming Stew delivers comfort in every bowl. Built on a foundation of nutrient-rich bone broth, this hearty stew combines tender chunks of grass-fed beef with naturally sweet potatoes that provide slow-burning carbohydrates to keep your dog energized during cold winter days and long outdoor adventures.
This recipe was specifically designed with cold-climate dogs in mind, whether they're working breeds in snowy conditions, outdoor enthusiasts who love winter hikes, or any pup who needs extra calories to maintain body heat during frigid weather. The bone broth base provides essential minerals, collagen for joint health, and deep, savory flavors that dogs find irresistible. Sweet potatoes offer beta-carotene, fiber, and vitamins that support immune function—crucial during harsh weather when dogs' bodies work harder to stay warm.
The addition of carrots and green beans provides antioxidants and fiber, while a touch of coconut oil delivers medium-chain fatty acids that support metabolism and provide quick energy. Brown rice rounds out the meal with additional complex carbohydrates, making this a complete, balanced dinner that's perfect for batch cooking. Prepare a large pot on Sunday, and you'll have warming meals ready for your best friend all week long.
This stew is particularly beneficial for active dogs, outdoor working breeds, senior dogs who feel the cold more acutely, and any pup recovering from illness who needs easily digestible, nutrient-dense meals. The rich aroma and hearty texture make it appealing even to picky eaters, while the warming properties help maintain optimal body temperature and energy levels throughout the coldest months.
| 2 lbs | beef stew meat, cut into 1-inch cubes |
| 8 cups | bone broth, low-sodium, dog-safe |
| 3 cups | sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed |
| 2 cups | carrots, peeled and sliced |
| 1.5 cups | green beans, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces |
| 1 cup | brown rice, uncooked |
| 2 tbsp | coconut oil |
| 1 tbsp | dried parsley, dog-safe, no seasoning blends (optional) |
| 2 cups | water, as needed for consistency |
Gather all ingredients and prepare your workspace. Wash and peel sweet potatoes and carrots, then cube the sweet potatoes into 1-inch pieces and slice the carrots into rounds.
Trim the green beans and cut them into 1-inch pieces. Cut the beef stew meat into uniform 1-inch cubes if not already done.
Heat coconut oil in a large Dutch oven or soup pot over medium-high heat until shimmering.
Add the beef cubes to the pot in a single layer and brown on all sides, about 8-10 minutes total. Work in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding.
Pour in the bone broth and water, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Bring to a boil over high heat.
Add the brown rice to the pot and stir to combine with the liquid and beef.
Reduce heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
Add the cubed sweet potatoes and sliced carrots to the pot. Stir well to distribute vegetables evenly throughout the stew.
Continue simmering covered for another 30 minutes, stirring every 10 minutes, until sweet potatoes are tender and easily pierced with a fork.
Add the green beans and optional parsley to the pot. Stir to combine and simmer uncovered for an additional 10 minutes until green beans are tender.
Remove from heat and allow the stew to cool completely before serving. The stew will thicken as it cools. If too thick, add a splash of water or bone broth.
Portion the stew based on your dog's weight: serve 1 cup per 20 lbs of body weight per meal. Store remaining portions in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, or freeze in individual portions for up to 3 months.
