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5 Homemade Weight Loss Dog Food Recipes: Vet Approved Tips

Jana Blagojevic

By Jana Blagojevic

Czech mountain dog having treats

Vet approved

Dr. Athena Gaffud Photo

Reviewed & Fact-Checked By

Dr. Athena Gaffud

Veterinarian, DVM

The information is current and up-to-date in accordance with the latest veterinarian research.

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Many dog owners across the US struggle with their dog’s weight and are trying to help their pets lose that weight. Before you start to panic or worry too much, try these homemade dog food choices, as they can help your pet healthily lose weight. They are all high in protein and low in fat or carbs, providing your dog with all the healthy nutrients they need.

Read the recipes we have listed for you below and try some of them out—you’ll surely notice an improvement!

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The 5 Homemade Weight Loss Dog Food Recipes

1. High-Protein, Low-Fat, Beef, and Cod Recipe

High-Protein, Low-Fat, Beef, and Cod Recipe
Photo Credit: thecaninehealthnut.com
Ingredients: Lean ground beef, beef liver, cod, bell pepper, pumpkin puree, walnut oil, vitamin supplements
Total prep time: 45 minutes–1 hour
Calories per recipe: 784 kcal
Fat: 19%
Protein: 60%
Carbohydrates: 21%

This high-protein, low-fat beef and cod homemade food is fantastic for your dogs, especially if you want them to lose weight. It has around 60% protein and other necessary nutrients to nourish your dog. While you may want to reduce carbs and fat, your dog’s diet must contain a certain amount of healthy fats and proteins to prevent nutrient deficiencies. The beef in this recipe contains beneficial vitamins and minerals such as zinc, iron, selenium, vitamins A, B, B12, and B6. The pumpkin puree is an excellent source of fiber, and the whole bell pepper contains vitamins C, B6, and K1.


2. Healthy, Low-Fat, Homemade Dog Food

Healthy, Low-Fat, Homemade Dog Food
Photo Credit: thealmondeater
Ingredients: Carrots, sweet potato, lentils, ground turkey or chicken, spinach, water
Total prep time: 30 minutes
Calories per recipe: 301 kcal
Fat: 37 g
Protein: 60%
Carbohydrates: 32 g

This healthy homemade meal will provide your dog with all the essential nutrients in a balanced amount to allow them to lose weight while staying healthy. The recipe contains plenty of animal-based protein, healthy fats, fiber for a healthy digestive tract, and vitamins. It is delicious too, so even the pickiest pups will adore this meal.

It takes only 30 minutes to prepare the entire meal, and you can make bigger batches and freeze them to save yourself some time.


3. Low-Carb Chicken Dog Biscuits

Low-Carb Chicken Dog Biscuits
Photo Credit: Pawsome Recipes
Ingredients: Ground chicken, egg, coconut flour, fresh parsley
Total prep time: 40 minutes
Calories per recipe: 40
Fat: 2%
Protein: 4%
Carbohydrates: 0%

Another fundamental food to consider is the treats you give to your puppy. Especially when your puppy is still growing, too many treats during training can quickly lead to weight gain. Finding the perfect treats that are both healthy for their bodies and delicious enough can be tricky, but with this low-carb recipe, you won’t have to search anymore. These chicken biscuits are incredibly healthy and only have four ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen.

The entire prep time takes about 40 minutes, and your puppy can enjoy these delicious treats right away.


4. Healthy High Animal-Protein Dog Food

Healthy High Animal-Protein Dog Food
Image Credit: Tasty Lowcarb
Ingredients: Ground beef, ground turkey, tuna, chicken gizzards, cottage cheese, eggs, rice, sweet potato, green peas, cauliflower, broccoli, apple, coconut oil
Total prep time: 1 hour
Calories per recipe: 132 kcal
Fat: 5.2 g
Protein: 12.7 g
Carbohydrates: 5.2 g

This homemade recipe is incredible for your furry friend because it contains all the best ingredients to keep them healthy. All the ingredients that go into making this recipe will ensure your dog gets enough protein, vitamins, and minerals while keeping the fat and carb level to a minimum. It is advisable to use calcium and vitamin supplements along with this recipe to make sure your dog has a balanced meal.


5. Low-Calorie Carrot Dog Treats

Low-Calorie Carrot Dog Treats
Image Credit: Wiggle Worthy
Ingredients: Whole wheat flour, carrots, egg white, bone broth, unsweetened applesauce, chia seeds
Total prep time: 2 hours
Calories per recipe: 125
Fat: 8 kcal
Protein: 0.8g
Carbohydrates: 1.5 g

Another excellent idea for low-calorie treats is these lovely carrot treats with only six ingredients. This recipe is filled with amazing vitamins and minerals that will benefit your dog’s mental and physical well-being. It contains vitamins A, C, and B3, along with zinc, iron, magnesium, calcium, and potassium. Following this recipe will give you around 125 treats, saving you a lot of time and money on buying commercial dog treats, and it is a much healthier alternative.

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Conclusion

After reading these amazing recipes, we encourage you to try some of them out. They require minimal time and effort and usually contain ingredients you already have in your kitchen. One thing is for sure—they are delicious! Your dogs will adore eating these homemade meals and hopefully lose weight while doing so.

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Featured Image Credit: angelbandala, Shutterstock

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