Homemade Dog Food Recipes Using Indian Ingredients: Nutritious, Easy & Affordable
- Blog
If you’re reading this, chances are your dog is more than just a pet. They’re family. And when it comes to family, we want to feed them well—not just fill their bowl, but nourish their body and soul. That’s exactly why so many Indian pet parents are now ditching overpriced kibble and turning to something better, simpler, and fresher: homemade dog food.
The best part? You don’t need fancy ingredients, exotic meats, or imported supplements. You can cook wholesome, balanced meals using common Indian ingredients already in your kitchen.
This guide walks you through why homemade dog food makes sense, what you should include (and avoid), and three easy recipes your dog will absolutely love.
Why Homemade Dog Food Makes a Difference
Think about it: we don’t eat out of packets every day. So why should your dog?
Homemade dog food gives you complete control over what your dog eats. No hidden preservatives, no mystery meat, no artificial colors. Just real food. You can tailor it to your dog’s age, breed, allergies, and lifestyle.
It’s also:
- Budget-friendly (especially compared to premium dog food brands)
- Digestive-friendly for dogs with sensitive stomachs
- A chance to bond with your pet through cooking and care
Of course, balance is key—just like with human diets.
What Indian Ingredients Are Safe and Nutritious for Dogs?
You’d be surprised how many Indian kitchen staples are great for dogs.
- Rice (white or brown): gentle on the stomach, a reliable energy source
- Moong dal (yellow lentils): high in protein and very digestible
- Chicken (boiled, boneless): lean protein your dog will go wild for
- Carrot, pumpkin, sweet potato: rich in fiber and vitamins
- Eggs (boiled or lightly scrambled): protein-packed and tasty
- Coconut oil or ghee: healthy fats in moderation
- Curd (plain dahi): probiotic support (a few spoons only)
- Peas, spinach, beans: iron, fiber, antioxidants (well-cooked only)
- Turmeric: a pinch goes a long way as an anti-inflammatory booster
These ingredients form the base of many balanced meals, and they’re already in your kitchen.
Ingredients to Avoid – Very Important
Not all “human food” is dog-safe. In fact, some ingredients in Indian cooking can be toxic to dogs, even in small amounts.
Please avoid:
- Onion, garlic, hing (asafoetida)
- All spices (chili powder, masalas, salt)
- Chocolate, caffeine, raisins, grapes
- Leftover oily or spicy human food
- Cooked bones (they splinter and can injure)
When cooking for your dog, always skip the tadka—no onion, no garlic, no masala. Keep it clean and simple.
3 Homemade Dog Food Recipes (Using Indian Ingredients)
1. Chicken & Rice Bowl – A Classic Favorite
This one’s a staple in dog kitchens across India.
What you’ll need:
- 1 cup boiled rice
- 1 cup shredded boiled chicken (no bones)
- 1/4 cup boiled peas and carrots
- A teaspoon of coconut oil or ghee (optional)
How to make it:
Mix everything together and serve at room temperature. Dogs love it, and it gives a solid balance of protein and carbohydrates.
2. Moong Dal & Veggie Khichdi – For Sensitive Tummies
Perfect for days when your dog needs something gentle or is recovering from an upset stomach.
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup moong dal
- 1/2 cup rice
- 1/2 cup chopped pumpkin or carrots
- A pinch of turmeric
- 2 cups water
Preparation:
Cook like regular khichdi—no salt, no spices. Once soft, mash lightly and let it cool. It’s easy to digest and full of nutrients.
3. Egg & Spinach Bhurji – A Protein-Rich Boost
Eggs are an easy win, and spinach adds a vitamin kick.
Ingredients:
- 2 eggs
- 1 tsp ghee
- A handful of finely chopped spinach
How to prepare:
Scramble the eggs with ghee, stir in the spinach just before they’re done. Let it cool and serve with a side of rice or oats.
How Much Should You Feed?
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. A dog’s food needs depend on their weight, breed, age, and activity level. A good rule of thumb:
- Small dogs (5–10kg): 1–1.5 cups/day
- Medium dogs (10–20kg): 2–3 cups/day
- Large dogs (20kg+): 3.5–4.5 cups/day
Split it into two meals—morning and evening—and always provide fresh water.
If you’re unsure, your veterinarian or a pet nutritionist can help you build a custom meal plan.
Do You Need Supplements?
Homemade food can sometimes lack certain micronutrients. For long-term feeding, you might need to add:
- Calcium (crushed eggshell powder)
- Fish oil (for Omega-3s)
- Multivitamins (on vet recommendation)
Never guess the dosage. Too much of a supplement can be harmful. Always check with your vet.
Final Thoughts
Cooking for your dog doesn’t need to be complicated. With a little care and the right ingredients, you can serve nutritious, homemade meals using simple Indian staples. Not only will your dog thrive physically—they’ll love you even more for the effort.
No preservatives. No hidden ingredients. Just fresh, wholesome food—made with love.
And if you have extra, consider sharing with community dogs or streeties near your area. A warm bowl of khichdi on a cold day might mean the world to a dog without a home.
Want to Support Street Dogs Too?
Organizations like K9 Safe Animal work across India to feed, rescue, and rehabilitate stray dogs. You can donate, volunteer, or even prepare extra homemade meals and coordinate with their team to distribute food to the dogs that need it most.
Good nutrition shouldn’t be a luxury—for your pet or for those still looking for a home.