For this slow cooker beef stew, all you have to do is add the ingredients listed above to the slow cooker and turn it on. Most slow cookers are programmable, but if yours isn’t you’ll have to keep an eye on the time. This meal should cook on low for about 6 hours.

If you work outside the home, this recipe is a great alternative to meals that you have to fix daily. You can put the ingredients in the slow cooker before you leave for work, and by the time you get home Fido’s food will be ready. Plus, you can make the food in bulk so you only have to cook once a week or so.

You can serve this food to your dog as soon as it has cooled. 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 you dog. They will also help you evaluate meal to make sure it will meet your pet’s unique nutritional needs. If necessary, they will assist you in choosing the best supplements and/or multivitamins to add.