This specially formulated puppy meal is designed to fuel the incredible growth and boundless energy of young, active dogs. Packed with lean chicken breast as the primary protein source, this recipe delivers the essential amino acids puppies need for healthy muscle development and tissue repair during their critical growth phases. The complete protein from chicken supports everything from building strong muscles to developing a healthy immune system.
Quinoa serves as the perfect grain choice for growing athletes, providing all nine essential amino acids along with important minerals like iron, magnesium, and phosphorus that support bone development. Unlike many grains, quinoa is easily digestible for puppies and provides sustained energy without causing digestive upset. The addition of nutrient-dense pumpkin offers both soluble and insoluble fiber for optimal digestive health, while its rich beta-carotene content supports eye development and immune function.
This balanced formula follows the optimal nutritional ratio for growing puppies, with protein comprising approximately 45% of the recipe, vegetables making up 35%, and wholesome grains contributing 20%. The addition of fish oil provides omega-3 fatty acids crucial for brain development and a shiny coat, while carrots add extra vitamins and a satisfying crunch. Each ingredient is carefully selected to be gentle on developing digestive systems while providing maximum nutritional benefit.
Perfect for puppies aged 8 weeks to 12 months and young adult dogs with high activity levels, this meal can be batch-cooked and portioned for the week ahead. The recipe yields approximately 8 cups, providing several days of nutritious meals depending on your puppy's size. Always consult with your veterinarian about portion sizes and ensure this homemade diet is supplemented appropriately with calcium and other essential vitamins for complete nutrition during growth stages.
| 2 lbs | chicken breast, boneless, skinless, cut into 1-inch cubes |
| 1 cup | quinoa, uncooked, rinsed |
| 1.5 cups | pumpkin puree, plain, unsweetened (not pie filling) |
| 2 cups | carrots, peeled and diced small |
| 1 cup | green beans, fresh or frozen, chopped |
| 2 tbsp | fish oil |
| 3 cups | water, for cooking |
| 1 tbsp | coconut oil, for cooking |
Rinse the quinoa thoroughly under cold water using a fine-mesh strainer to remove any bitter coating. Drain well and set aside.
Heat coconut oil in a large Dutch oven or soup pot over medium-high heat until shimmering.
Add the cubed chicken breast to the pot and cook, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is white on all sides and mostly cooked through, about 8-10 minutes.
Add the diced carrots to the pot with the chicken and stir to combine. Cook for 3 minutes to begin softening the carrots.
Add the rinsed quinoa and 3 cups of water to the pot. Stir everything together and bring to a boil over high heat.
Once boiling, reduce heat to low, cover with a lid, and simmer for 15 minutes until the quinoa is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
Add the chopped green beans to the pot, stir gently, cover again, and cook for an additional 5 minutes until the beans are tender.
Remove the pot from heat and let it cool for 5 minutes. Then add the pumpkin puree and stir thoroughly to combine all ingredients into a uniform mixture.
Allow the mixture to cool to room temperature, then add the fish oil and stir well to distribute evenly throughout the food.
Once completely cooled, portion the food into meal-sized containers. Serve approximately 1/2 cup per 10 lbs of puppy body weight per meal, divided into 3-4 meals daily for puppies under 6 months, or 2 meals daily for older puppies.
