Welcome to our guide on tasty and healthy meals for dogs of all ages! Whether your pup is a playful puppy or a wise senior, we'll show you how to choose the best food to keep them happy and healthy. Helping dogs thrive, one bowl at a time!

Dog sizes

In this section, we have tailored it to your dog's size and further information about foods they can't eat and how to control their weight properly. 

Small Breads 

At home recipes                                                        

Veggie and rice bowl

  • 1/4 cup cooked brown rice
  • 2 tablespoons cooked peas
  • 2 tablespoons finely diced carrots (steamed or boiled)
  • 1 tablespoon plain cooked chickpeas (mashed)
  • 1 teaspoon coconut oil

Benefits: High in fiber, vitamins, and plant-based protein. Perfect for small dogs who need a light, vegetarian meal.

 

Sweet potato and lentil mash

  • 1/4 cup cooked red lentils (well-rinsed and cooked soft)
  • 1/4 cup mashed sweet potato (cooked and peeled)
  • 1 teaspoon olive oil or coconut oil

Benefits: Easy to digest and rich in fiber, vitamins, and protein, making it great for small, active dogs.

 

Pumpkin and spinach bowl 

  • 1/4 cup cooked pumpkin (plain, not spiced)
  • 1 tablespoon finely chopped spinach (steamed)
  • 2 tablespoons cooked millet or brown rice
  • 1 teaspoon flaxseed oil

Benefits: High in fiber, antioxidants, and Omega-3s, supporting digestion and a shiny coat.

 

Chickpea and zucchini stew

  • 1/4 cup cooked chickpeas (mashed)
  • 2 tablespoons finely chopped zucchini (steamed or boiled)
  • 2 tablespoons cooked quinoa
  • 1 teaspoon olive oil

Benefits: A light yet protein-rich meal that’s perfect for small dogs with sensitive stomachs.

 

Chicken and rice delight 

  • 1/4 cup cooked chicken breast (shredded, unseasoned)
  • 1/4 cup cooked white rice or brown rice
  • 1 tablespoon steamed carrots (finely diced)

Benefits: A simple, protein-rich meal that's great for sensitive stomachs and can help with digestive issues.

 

Salmon and spinach  blend 

  • 1/4 cup cooked salmon (boneless, skinless, no seasoning)
  • 1 tablespoon steamed spinach (finely chopped)
  • 1/4 cup cooked quinoa

Benefits: High in Omega-3 fatty acids from the salmon, which is great for skin, coat, and joint health.

 

Turkey and veggie mix 

  • 1/4 cup cooked ground turkey (unseasoned)
  • 1/4 cup steamed broccoli (chopped)
  • 1 tablespoon cooked quinoa or rice

Benefits: Packed with protein, fiber, and essential vitamins to promote good digestion and overall health.

 

Beef and sweet potato mash

  • 1/4 cup lean ground beef (cooked, unseasoned)
  • 1/4 cup cooked sweet potato (mashed)
  • 1 tablespoon steamed peas (finely chopped)

Benefits: High in protein and fiber, this meal is excellent for small dogs who need a nutrient-dense meal.

 

Instructions 

  1. Combine the cooked brown rice, peas, carrots, and mashed chickpeas in a bowl.
  2. Stir in the coconut oil for added flavor and nutrition.
  3. Cool to room temperature before serving.

 

 

 

 

Instructions 

  1. Mix the cooked lentils and mashed sweet potato together in a bowl.
  2. Stir in the oil to add healthy fats.
  3. Serve at room temperature.

 

 

 

 

Instructions 

  1. Mix the pumpkin, spinach, and millet/rice together.
  2. Drizzle with flaxseed oil before serving.
  3. Ensure the dish is cooled before feeding.

 

 

 

Instructions 

  1. Combine the mashed chickpeas, zucchini, and quinoa in a bowl.
  2. Stir in the olive oil.
  3. Let cool before serving.

 

 

 

Instructions 

  1. Combine the shredded chicken, rice, and carrots in a bowl.
  2. Mix well to combine.
  3. Let cool to room temperature before serving.

 

 

 

 

Instructions 

  1. Cook the salmon and remove any bones and skin.
  2. Steam the spinach and cook the quinoa.
  3. Flake the salmon and mix it with spinach and quinoa in a bowl.
  4. Let cool before serving.

 

 

Instructions 

  1. Cook the ground turkey until fully browned and drain any excess fat.
  2. Steam the broccoli and cook the quinoa or rice.
  3. Mix the turkey, broccoli, and quinoa (or rice) together in a bowl.
  4. Cool before serving.

 

Instructions 

  1. Cook the ground beef until fully browned and drain any excess fat.
  2. Mash the cooked sweet potato.
  3. Combine the beef, sweet potato, and peas in a bowl and mix.
  4. Serve at room temperature.

 

Food tips 

  • Portion Size: Small dogs usually need about 1/4 to 1/2 cup of food per meal, depending on their weight, age, and activity level.
  • Frequency: Feed small dogs 2-3 smaller meals per day to match their metabolism.
  • Supplements: Consider adding a small amount of calcium (like crushed eggshells) or a vet-approved multivitamin to ensure they’re getting all essential nutrients.

Storage Tips

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Freeze portions for longer storage (up to a month).
  • Always reheat lightly and let food cool to room temperature before serving.

Medium Breads 

At home recipes       

Lentil and brown rice stew

  • 1/2 cup cooked lentils (soft, well-rinsed)
  • 1/2 cup cooked brown rice
  • 1/4 cup cooked carrots (chopped)
  • 1 teaspoon flaxseed oil or coconut oil

Benefits: A vegetarian, fiber-rich meal that supports digestion and energy needs.

 

Chickpea and sweet potato mash 

  • 1/2 cup cooked chickpeas (mashed)
  • 1/2 cup cooked sweet potato (mashed)
  • 1/4 cup cooked peas
  • 1 teaspoon coconut oil

Benefits: A vegetarian meal packed with fiber, protein, and healthy carbs.

 

Oatmeal and banana breakfast

  • 1/2 cup cooked oats (plain, no sugar or milk)
  • 1/4 banana (mashed)
  • 1 teaspoon unsweetened peanut butter (xylitol-free)

Benefits: A light, energy-boosting breakfast that's great for dogs with moderate activity levels.

 

Chicken and sweet potato bowl

  • 1/2 cup cooked chicken breast (shredded, unseasoned)
  • 1/2 cup cooked sweet potato (mashed)
  • 1/4 cup cooked green beans (chopped)
  • 1 teaspoon olive oil

Benefits: High in protein and healthy carbs, great for active medium-sized dogs.

 

Turkey and veggie stew 

  • 1/2 cup cooked ground turkey (unseasoned)
  • 1/4 cup cooked quinoa
  • 1/4 cup steamed broccoli (chopped)
  • 1/4 cup cooked zucchini (diced)

Benefits: High in lean protein and antioxidants, supporting strong muscles and immune health.

 

Beef and sweet potato mash 

  • 1/2 cup lean ground beef (cooked, unseasoned)
  • 1/2 cup cooked sweet potato (mashed)
  • 1/4 cup steamed peas (finely chopped)

Benefits: Packed with protein and fiber, this meal helps with digestion and provides energy for active dogs.

 

Salmon and pumpkin bowl

  • 1/2 cup cooked salmon (boneless, skinless, no seasoning)
  • 1/2 cup cooked pumpkin (plain, not spiced)
  • 1/4 cup cooked green beans (chopped)

Benefits: Rich in Omega-3 fatty acids from salmon, which help promote a shiny coat and joint health.

 

Lamb and rice meal

  • 1/2 cup cooked ground lamb (unseasoned)
  • 1/2 cup cooked brown rice
  • 1/4 cup cooked spinach (chopped)
  • 1 tablespoon flaxseed oil

Benefits: Lamb is a great protein option for dogs with sensitivities, and the spinach provides essential vitamins and minerals.

 

Instructions 

  1. Mix the cooked lentils, rice, and carrots in a bowl.
  2. Stir in the flaxseed oil.
  3. Serve at room temperature.

 

 

 

Instructions 

  1. Combine the mashed chickpeas, sweet potato, and peas.
  2. Mix in the coconut oil for extra flavor and nutrients.
  3. Let cool before feeding.

 

 

Instructions 

  1. Combine the cooked oats, mashed banana, and peanut butter in a bowl.
  2. Let cool and serve.

 

 

 

Instructions 

  1. Combine the shredded chicken, mashed sweet potato, and green beans in a bowl.
  2. Stir in olive oil for healthy fats.
  3. Cool to room temperature before serving.

 

 

 

 

Instructions 

  1. Cook the ground turkey thoroughly.
  2. Steam the broccoli and zucchini, then cook the quinoa.
  3. Combine the turkey, quinoa, and vegetables in a bowl.
  4. Let it cool before serving.

 

Instructions 

  1. Cook the ground beef until browned and drain any excess fat.
  2. Mash the cooked sweet potato.
  3. Combine the beef, sweet potato, and peas in a bowl.
  4. Let it cool to room temperature before serving.

 

Instructions 

  1. Cook the salmon, remove the skin and bones, and flake it.
  2. Steam or cook the green beans.
  3. Mix the salmon, pumpkin, and green beans in a bowl.
  4. Let cool before serving.

 

 

Instructions 

  1. Cook the lamb until browned and drain excess fat.
  2. Cook the brown rice and steam the spinach.
  3. Combine the lamb, rice, and spinach in a bowl.
  4. Drizzle with flaxseed oil for added nutrients and Omega-3 fatty acids.
  5. Let cool before serving.

 

Food Tips 

  • Portion Size: Medium dogs typically need 1-1.5 cups of food per meal, depending on their weight, age, and activity level.
  • Frequency: Feed medium dogs 2 meals per day to maintain a steady energy level.
  • Supplements: Add a vet-approved multivitamin or a small amount of calcium (like crushed eggshells) for complete nutrition.

Storage Tips

  • Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
  • Freezing: Portion meals into freezer-safe containers for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
  • Reheating: Warm food slightly and ensure it’s cooled to room temperature before serving.

Large Breads 

At home recipes       

Sweet potato and quinoa bowl

  • 1 cup cooked sweet potato (mashed)
  • 1/2 cup cooked quinoa
  • 1/2 cup steamed broccoli (chopped)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

Benefits: This meal is packed with fiber from sweet potatoes and quinoa, supporting digestion while providing essential vitamins and minerals for large dogs.

 

 

Broccoli and cauliflower mash 

  • 1 cup steamed broccoli (chopped)
  • 1 cup steamed cauliflower (chopped)
  • 1/2 cup cooked quinoa
  • 1 tablespoon flaxseed oil

Benefits: This mash is high in fiber and antioxidants, supporting the immune system and promoting healthy digestion.

 

Pea and carrot power bowl

  • 1 cup steamed peas
  • 1/2 cup cooked carrots (diced)
  • 1/2 cup cooked barley
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

Benefits: Peas are an excellent source of protein and fiber, while barley provides a digestible, energy-boosting carbohydrate.

 

Lentil and sweet potato mash

  • 1 cup cooked lentils (soft and well-rinsed)
  • 1 cup mashed sweet potato (cooked and peeled)
  • 1/2 cup steamed peas
  • 1 teaspoon flaxseed oil

Benefits: A vegetarian, fiber-rich meal that supports healthy digestion and energy levels.

 

Turkey and pumpkin mix 

  • 1 cup cooked ground turkey (unseasoned)
  • 1 cup plain canned pumpkin (not spiced)
  • 1/2 cup cooked zucchini (diced)
  • 1 teaspoon olive oil

Benefits: Lean and digestible, perfect for large dogs with sensitive stomachs.

 

Salmon and quinoa power bowl

  • 1 cup cooked salmon (boneless, skinless, no seasoning)
  • 1 cup cooked quinoa
  • 1/2 cup steamed spinach (chopped)
  • 1 teaspoon coconut oil

Benefits: Rich in Omega-3 fatty acids, protein, and essential vitamins for skin, coat, and joint health.

 

Beef and brown rice stew 

  • 1 cup lean ground beef (cooked, unseasoned)
  • 1 cup cooked brown rice
  • 1/2 cup cooked carrots (diced)
  • 1 teaspoon flaxseed oil

Benefits: Packed with protein, healthy fats, and energy-rich carbs for large, energetic dogs.

 

Chicken and veggie bowl

  • 1 cup cooked chicken breast (shredded, unseasoned)
  • 1 cup cooked sweet potato (mashed)
  • 1/2 cup steamed green beans (chopped)
  • 1 teaspoon olive oil

Benefits: High in protein and healthy carbs, making it ideal for active large dogs.

 

Instructions 

  1. Cook the sweet potato and mash it until smooth.
  2. Cook the quinoa according to package instructions.
  3. Steam the broccoli and chop it finely.
  4. Combine the mashed sweet potato, quinoa, and broccoli in a bowl.
  5. Drizzle olive oil for added healthy fats and mix everything together.
  6. Let cool to room temperature before serving.

 

Instructions 

  1. Steam the broccoli and cauliflower until tender.
  2. Cook the quinoa according to package directions.
  3. Mash the broccoli and cauliflower together.
  4. Add the cooked quinoa and stir in flaxseed oil.
  5. Let it cool to room temperature before serving.

 

 

Instructions 

  1. Steam the peas and carrots until soft.
  2. Cook the barley according to package directions.
  3. Combine the peas, carrots, and barley in a large bowl.
  4. Stir in the olive oil for healthy fats.
  5. Let it cool before serving.

 

Instructions 

  1. Combine the lentils, mashed sweet potato, and peas in a bowl.
  2. Stir in the flaxseed oil for added nutrition.
  3. Serve at room temperature.

 

 

 

Instructions 

  1. Mix the ground turkey, pumpkin, and zucchini in a large bowl.
  2. Add olive oil and combine well.
  3. Let the meal cool before serving.

 

 

Instructions 

  1. Combine the salmon, quinoa, and spinach in a large bowl.
  2. Stir in the coconut oil.
  3. Cool to room temperature before feeding.

 

 

 

 

Instructions 

  1. Mix the ground beef, brown rice, and carrots in a bowl.
  2. Add the flaxseed oil for Omega-3 fatty acids.
  3. Let cool before serving.

 

 

 

Instructions 

  1. Combine the shredded chicken, mashed sweet potato, and green beans in a large bowl.
  2. Stir in the olive oil for added nutrients and flavor.
  3. Let cool to room temperature before serving.

 

Food Tips 

  • Portion Size: Large dogs typically need 2-3 cups of food per meal, depending on their weight, activity level, and age.
  • Frequency: Feed large dogs 2 meals per day to prevent overeating or bloating.
  • Supplements: Add calcium (e.g., ground eggshell powder) and a vet-approved multivitamin to ensure a balanced diet.

Storage Tips

  • Refrigeration: Store meals in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days.
  • Freezing: Freeze portions in individual containers for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge.
  • Reheating: Warm food slightly, then let cool to room temperature before serving.

Foods not to eat 

Understanding what your pets can and can't eat is key to keeping them healthy and happy let’s explore which foods are safe and which ones to avoid to ensure their well being!

 

Chocolate

Onions and Garlic

Grapes and Raisins

Xylitol ( sugar substitute )

Alcohol

Caffeine

Macadamia Nuts

Raw or Undercooked Meat, Eggs, or Fish

Avocado

Cooked Bones

Dough ( Raw Bread Dough )

Dairy Products

Chives

Sweeteners

Salt

Citrus

Nutmeg

Rhubarb ( Leaves )

Tomatoes (Unripe or Green)

Potatoes ( Raw potatoes and potato skins )

Mustard Seeds

Candied or Sugar-Coated Fruit

Peach and Plum Pits

Artificial Sweeteners 

Chili Peppers

 

If your dog eats something toxic, watch for signs like vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, seizures, changes in behavior, excess drooling, or even just a lack of appetite. If you're ever in doubt, it's important to contact your veterinarian immediately.

Weight control 

In order to control the weight of your pet in a healthy way you must first think about the age and breed of your dog and base your information off of that. This section will help you to understand how age is relevant, the signs of if your dog is overweight or underweight, and the proper foods to balance. 

Puppies

Puppies need constant feeding with a higher nutrition and calorie intake to balance their rapid growth, this means: 

  • Feed 5-6% of their growing body weight daily
  • Divide into multiple meals (3-4 times per day)
  • Use puppy-specific formulas until grown into near adulthood 

Adult Dogs

Once they grow out of puppyhood and into adulthood their nutrition amount stabilizes and feeding is less consistent, it then changes to: 

  • Feed 2-3% of their ideal body weight daily
  • Typically split into two meals per day
  • Adjust based on activity level and body condition

Senior Dogs

Older dogs have lower energy requirements as they do less activities so possible dietary changes may need to happen such as: 

  • Reduce calorie intake to prevent weight gain
  • Small to medium breeds are considered seniors around 7 years old
  • Large breeds may reach senior status as early as 5 years old

 

Overweight or Underweight 

It is important to understand that there could be a multitude of different reasons why your dog is over or under the usual weight range for their age and breed. If they are overweight, it could be that they are overfeeding, it's a problem of lack of exercise, based on the medications they are taking, as well as an issue of diet quality. But it could also be possible. that it isn’t about any of that but instead about genetics or medical conditions they may face. If they are underweight, it could be that they are consuming an insufficient diet portion, have poor quality food, have dental problems that make it hard to eat, or have malabsorption and malnutrition problems. But again, it could be none and, instead, things like parasites, medical conditions, stress or anxiety, or even environmental factors. By environmental factor, it would be that they are experiencing constant and prolonged cold, which will increase energy demands. 

There are many clear ways to tell if your dog is overweight such as:

  • Less walking around / exercise 
  • Change in body shape (rounder)
  • Abdominal sagging 
  • Lack of self-grooming
  • Tight collar 

If your dog shows any signs of this there are many foods to help including: 

  • Fiber-rich ingredients (vegetables or whole grains)
  • Lean meats (chicken breast, turkey, or fish)
  • Vegetables (broccoli, carrots, green beans, or spinach)
  • Complex carbohydrates (brown rice or oats)
  • Porton control 

And with your dog being underweight you may see signs such at:

  • Visible bones (ribs, spine, hip bones, etc.)
  • Lack of muscle mass
  • Tucked-in abdominal (dependent on bread this can be normal)
  • Protruding (easily felt) bones

If your dog shows any signs of this there are many foods to help including: 

  • Protein-rich foods (cottage cheese, eggs, or meats)
  • Healthy fats (Peanut butter, fish oil, coconut oil)
  • Carbohydrates  (sweet potatoes, pumpkin, oats, or brown rice)
  • Supplements (if these don’t work or you would like a fast fix you can always try dog supplements for weight gain)