Sweet potatoes are an excellent source of nutrition for dogs. On a quest for a healthier lifestyle, many people are choosing sweet potatoes over their white counterparts. This homemade stew for dogs includes sweet potatoes and beef, but you could substitute a different protein source if necessary.
Making homemade dog food is more time-consuming than serving kibble, but the benefits definitely outweigh this drawback. You can use the highest quality ingredients that you can afford. You can also cater the recipes to your dog's individual nutritional needs and taste preferences.
For example, you can substitute chicken or venison for the beef in this recipe. You could also use any other dog-friendly fruits/vegetables of your choosing. Broccoli, peas, squash, or blueberries would all be good substitutes for the vegetables in this recipe.
You'll want to keep the sweet potatoes though because they're a superfood for your pup! They are high in fiber, which supports a healthy digestive tract. They are also high in beta carotene, Vitamins A, C, and B6, iron, potassium, and calcium.
Beef and Sweet Potato Homemade Stew for Dogs
Ingredients
- 1 lb. cubed stew beef
- 1 tbsp. coconut oil
- 1/2 cup chopped carrots
- 1/2 cup chopped green beans
- 1 large sweet potato
- 2 tbsp. all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup water
Directions
Microwave the sweet potato until tender. If you prefer, you can bake it instead. Cut the stew meat into smaller pieces, if necessary.
In a large skillet, brown the stew meat in the coconut oil over medium heat. While the meat is cooking, chop the sweet potato into pieces that are appropriately sized for your dog. Once brown, remove the beef and set aside – leaving the drippings in the skillet.
Add the flour and water to the skillet with the beef drippings. Stir continuously until a thick gravy forms. Add more water if necessary.
Add the sweet potato, carrots, green beans, and beef to the gravy. Cover and simmer on low heat until the vegetables are tender (about 15 minutes). Once cool, you can serve this homemade stew for dogs.
I recommend feeding about 1/2 cup of food for every 20-25 pounds of body weight. This is just a guideline. Some dogs, like working dogs and very active breeds, will need more calories than this. Lazier pets and senior dogs may not need as many.
It's best to consult your veterinarian about the appropriate serving size for your dog. They will also help you evaluate the recipe to make sure it will meet your dog's unique nutritional needs. If necessary, they will assist you in choosing the best supplements and/or multivitamins to add.
You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. You can also prepare this food in bulk and store leftovers in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months.
READ NEXT: White Potatoes In Homemade Dog Food Recipes
