The Working Dog Energy Matrix is a scientifically-balanced, nutrient-dense meal specifically formulated for active, working, herding, and service dogs who need sustained energy throughout their demanding days. This powerhouse recipe combines lean ground beef and turkey to deliver high-quality protein that supports muscle maintenance and recovery, while quinoa and sweet potato provide complex carbohydrates for steady, long-lasting energy release without the crashes associated with simple sugars.
What sets this recipe apart is its comprehensive nutritional profile designed with working dogs in mind. The addition of omega-3 rich fish oil supports joint health, cognitive function, and reduces inflammation—critical for dogs who are constantly on the move. Sweet potatoes provide beta-carotene and fiber for digestive health, while quinoa offers a complete amino acid profile and additional protein. The combination of beef liver adds essential vitamins A, B12, and iron, supporting everything from vision to red blood cell production.
This recipe is ideal for German Shepherds, Border Collies, Australian Shepherds, Belgian Malinois, Labrador Retrievers, and any other breeds engaged in police work, search and rescue, therapy work, herding, or competitive sports. The balanced macronutrient ratio ensures your working dog maintains optimal body condition and performance levels throughout their training and work schedules.
Perfect for batch cooking, this recipe yields multiple servings that can be portioned, refrigerated for up to 5 days, or frozen for up to 3 months. Each serving provides complete nutrition with the right balance of protein, healthy fats, and complex carbohydrates to keep your purpose-driven pup performing at their peak.
| 2 lbs | ground beef, lean (90/10) |
| 1 lb | ground turkey, lean |
| 8 oz | beef liver, diced into small pieces |
| 1.5 cups | quinoa, uncooked, rinsed |
| 2 lbs | sweet potato, peeled and diced into 1/2-inch cubes |
| 1 lb | carrots, peeled and diced |
| 2 cups | green beans, fresh or frozen, chopped |
| 2 cups | spinach, fresh, roughly chopped |
| 3 tbsp | fish oil, liquid omega-3 supplement |
| 2 tbsp | coconut oil |
| 6 cups | water |
Rinse the quinoa thoroughly in a fine-mesh strainer under cold running water for about 30 seconds to remove any bitter coating.
In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed quinoa and water or vegetable broth. Bring to a boil over high heat.
Once boiling, reduce heat to low, cover the skillet with a lid, and simmer for 15 minutes until quinoa is tender and liquid is absorbed.
Remove quinoa from heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork and spread on a baking sheet to cool completely.
While quinoa cooks, place the diced sweet potatoes and carrots in a large pot with the remaining 3 cups of water.
Bring vegetables to a boil over high heat, then reduce to medium and cook for 12-15 minutes until sweet potatoes are fork-tender.
Add the chopped green beans to the pot with sweet potato and carrots, and cook for an additional 5 minutes until green beans are tender but still slightly crisp.
Add the chopped spinach and cook for 1-2 minutes until wilted.
Drain the vegetables in a colander, reserving 1 cup of the cooking liquid, and set aside to cool slightly.
Heat coconut oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat until melted.
Add the ground beef and ground turkey to the skillet, breaking it up with a wooden spoon into small crumbles.
Cook the meat, stirring frequently, for 8-10 minutes until completely browned with no pink remaining.
Add the diced beef liver to the skillet with the cooked meat and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until liver is fully cooked through.
In a very large mixing bowl or clean pot, combine the cooked meat and liver mixture, cooked quinoa, and all cooked vegetables.
Add the reserved vegetable cooking liquid to the mixture and stir thoroughly to combine all ingredients evenly.
Allow the mixture to cool completely to room temperature, which will take approximately 30-45 minutes.
Once cooled, add the fish oil and mix thoroughly to distribute the omega-3 supplement throughout the food.
Portion the food into individual serving containers based on your dog's weight: approximately 1.5 cups per 25 lbs of body weight per day, divided into two meals.
Store portioned meals in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, or freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw frozen portions overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
