Dogs with allergies often struggle to find foods that don’t make them scratch, sneeze, or feel miserable. Many pet owners spend months trying different diets while their furry friends suffer through itchy skin and upset stomachs.
This liver and pumpkin blend tackles common food allergies while delivering powerful nutrients that dogs actually crave. The recipe uses simple, whole ingredients that work well for sensitive stomachs and picky eaters alike.
This post will show dog owners how to make this nutrient-packed meal at home. Readers will learn the exact recipe, portion sizes for different dog breeds, and storage tips to make meal prep easier.
Table of Contents
Quick Recipe
This simple recipe combines beef liver and pumpkin into a nutritious blend that dogs love. The preparation takes just 15 minutes and creates a freeze-friendly treat.
Ingredients
Fresh Ingredients:
- 1 pound beef liver (organic preferred)
- 2 cups fresh pumpkin puree
- 1/4 cup coconut oil
- 1 tablespoon raw honey
Optional Add-ins:
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 2 tablespoons bone broth
Pet parents should choose grass-fed liver when possible. The pumpkin must be plain and unsweetened.
Canned pumpkin works too, but fresh tastes better. Dogs seem to prefer the texture of homemade puree anyway.
Steps
Preparation:
- Cut liver into small chunks
- Steam pumpkin until soft (about 8 minutes)
- Let both ingredients cool completely
Blending Process:
- Add liver to food processor first
- Pulse until finely chopped
- Add pumpkin and blend until smooth
- Mix in coconut oil and honey
The mixture should look like thick baby food. Pour into ice cube trays for easy portions.
Freeze for 2 hours before serving. Each cube equals one serving for medium dogs.
Store frozen cubes in sealed bags for up to 3 months. Thaw individual portions as needed.
Benefits Of This Recipe
This liver and pumpkin blend delivers impressive nutritional value at a low cost per serving. Pet owners get maximum health benefits while spending less money than premium commercial foods.
Table – Cost & Calories Per Cup
| Ingredient | Cost Per Cup | Calories Per Cup |
|---|---|---|
| Raw Beef Liver | $2.25 | 185 |
| Pumpkin Puree | $0.75 | 83 |
| Combined Blend | $1.50 | 134 |
The math works out beautifully for budget-conscious pet parents. One cup of this homemade blend costs about half the price of premium canned food.
Dogs get 134 calories per cup without empty fillers. The calorie count stays low while nutrient density shoots through the roof.
Most commercial foods pack 400+ calories per cup with questionable ingredients. This recipe gives pets exactly what they need without the junk.
Health Advantages
Liver brings vitamin A levels that make carrots look like slackers. Dogs absorb these nutrients faster than synthetic vitamins in processed foods.
The iron content fights anemia better than expensive supplements. Pumpkin adds fiber that keeps digestive systems running smoothly.
This combo reduces allergic reactions in sensitive pets. Many dogs show improvement within two weeks of switching to this blend.
The natural enzymes in fresh liver help pets process nutrients more efficiently. Their coats get shinier and energy levels increase noticeably.
Pumpkin’s beta-carotene supports eye health and immune function. Together, these ingredients create a nutritional powerhouse that commercial foods can’t match.
Feeding Table For Different Sized Dogs & Breeds (2 Meals A Day)
Getting the right amount of liver and pumpkin blend can be tricky. Too little and your dog might give you the stink eye. Too much and they might turn into a furry tornado.
Small dogs need less food because they have tiny stomachs. Large dogs need more because they’re basically walking appetites with legs.
| Dog Weight | Morning Meal | Evening Meal | Daily Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5-10 lbs | 1/4 cup | 1/4 cup | 1/2 cup |
| 11-25 lbs | 1/2 cup | 1/2 cup | 1 cup |
| 26-50 lbs | 3/4 cup | 3/4 cup | 1.5 cups |
| 51-75 lbs | 1 cup | 1 cup | 2 cups |
| 76-100 lbs | 1.25 cups | 1.25 cups | 2.5 cups |
Active breeds like Border Collies might need a bit more. They burn calories like a sports car burns gas.
Lazy breeds like Bulldogs might need less. They save energy for important things like napping and snoring.
Puppies need more food per pound than adult dogs. They’re growing faster than weeds in spring.
Senior dogs often need less food. Their metabolism slows down like an old computer starting up.
Always split the daily amount into two meals. This helps prevent bloating and keeps energy levels steady throughout the day.
Variations
Different dogs need different approaches to get the most out of liver and pumpkin superblends. Age, size, health issues, and picky eating habits all change how much and what type works best.
Weight Loss
Chunky pups need a lighter touch with liver treats. The good news is pumpkin acts like a natural appetite suppressant.
Mix 1 tablespoon of pureed pumpkin with just 1 teaspoon of liver powder for dogs over 50 pounds. Smaller dogs get half that amount.
Weight Management Tips:
- Replace 10% of regular kibble with the blend
- Feed 30 minutes before main meals
- Add extra water to increase fullness
The fiber in pumpkin helps dogs feel full longer. Meanwhile, the protein in liver keeps their metabolism humming along nicely.
Puppies
Baby dogs have tiny stomachs but huge appetites for trouble. Start with microscopic amounts of this power combo.
Puppies under 6 months should get no more than 1/4 teaspoon of liver powder mixed with pumpkin. Their digestive systems are still figuring things out.
Puppy Portions:
- 8-12 weeks: 1/8 teaspoon liver + 1 teaspoon pumpkin
- 3-6 months: 1/4 teaspoon liver + 2 teaspoons pumpkin
- 6+ months: Adult portions based on weight
Mix it into their puppy food rather than giving it as a treat. This prevents the little pirates from holding out for the good stuff and ignoring their regular meals.
Senior Dogs
Old dogs might move slower, but their taste buds still work perfectly fine. Senior pups often need extra nutrition support as their bodies get creakier.
Older dogs can handle slightly larger portions since their metabolism has slowed down. They also benefit from the extra vitamins that help with aging joints and organs.
Senior Adjustments:
- Increase liver portion by 25%
- Warm the mixture slightly for better smell
- Serve twice daily instead of once
The B vitamins in liver help keep senior brains sharp. Pumpkin’s gentle fiber prevents the digestive slowdown that comes with age.
Common Allergies
Dogs with chicken or beef allergies often do great with liver from other animals. Duck, lamb, or even rabbit liver work as alternatives.
Allergy-Safe Options:
| Common Allergy | Safe Liver Choice | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Chicken | Duck or turkey liver | Similar taste profile |
| Beef | Lamb or goat liver | Milder flavor |
| Multiple proteins | Single-source liver | Stick to one type |
Always introduce new liver sources slowly. Start with tiny amounts for three days before increasing the portion.
Pumpkin rarely causes allergies, making it perfect for sensitive stomachs. Some dogs with severe food issues can only handle this combo as their special treat.
Picky Eaters
Fussy dogs think they’re food critics with refined palates. In reality, they just know how to train their humans effectively.
Freeze-dried liver often works better than powder for drama queen dogs. The texture difference can fool them into thinking it’s something completely new and exciting.
Picky Eater Tricks:
- Warm the pumpkin slightly to release more smell
- Sprinkle liver powder on top instead of mixing it in
- Hand-feed the first few bites to make it seem special
Some dogs prefer their pumpkin and liver served separately. Give them options and let them choose their preferred eating style.
The strong liver smell usually wins over even the most stubborn food snobs.
Digestion
Dogs with upset stomachs need gentle introduction to this powerful combo. Both ingredients help digestion, but too much too fast can backfire.
Start with plain pumpkin for three days. Then add just a pinch of liver powder once their stomach settles down.
Digestive Support Schedule:
- Days 1-3: Pumpkin only
- Days 4-6: Add 1/4 normal liver amount
- Week 2: Increase to half portion
- Week 3+: Full portions if tolerated
Pumpkin’s soluble fiber helps firm up loose stools. The nutrients in liver support healthy gut bacteria growth.
Dogs recovering from stomach bugs should wait until they’re eating normally before starting the blend.
Joints
Creaky joints don’t get direct help from liver and pumpkin, but the nutrients support overall body health. Think of it as premium fuel for an older engine.
The iron in liver helps carry oxygen to stiff joints. B vitamins support nerve function that controls muscle movement around sore areas.
Joint Support Benefits:
- Better nutrient absorption means supplements work better
- Improved energy for gentle exercise
- Reduced inflammation from better overall health
Combine this blend with glucosamine supplements for maximum joint support. The liver helps the body absorb those joint supplements more effectively.
Dogs with arthritis often perk up after a few weeks of regular liver and pumpkin meals.
Skin & Coat
Dull coats and itchy skin often improve dramatically with liver’s vitamin boost. The results show up in about 6-8 weeks of consistent feeding.
Skin & Coat Timeline:
- Week 2: Less scratching
- Week 4: Shinier coat texture
- Week 6: New hair growth in thin spots
- Week 8: Full coat improvement visible
The vitamin A in liver supports healthy skin cell production. Iron helps carry oxygen to hair follicles for stronger, shinier fur.
Dogs with seasonal skin issues should start the blend 4 weeks before problem seasons begin. This gives their skin time to build up nutrients for protection.
Pumpkin’s beta-carotene adds extra skin-supporting vitamins to the mix.
Seasonal Switches
Dogs face different challenges as seasons change. Spring brings pollen that makes them sneeze and scratch. Summer heat can drain their energy fast.
Fall allergies hit when leaves start falling. Winter cold can make joints stiff and sore. Their bodies need different support throughout the year.
Spring Season:
- More pollen in the air
- Itchy skin and watery eyes
- Need extra immune support
Summer Season:
- Hot weather stress
- Less appetite from heat
- Require cooling nutrients
The liver and pumpkin blend works differently each season. Spring allergies get calmed by the liver’s natural antihistamines. Summer heat gets balanced by pumpkin’s cooling properties.
Fall brings new allergens like mold and dust. The blend helps filter these irritants through liver support. Dogs stay more comfortable during leaf season.
Winter months are tough on older dogs. Their joints ache more when it gets cold. Pumpkin provides anti-inflammatory help that eases stiff muscles.
Year-Round Benefits:
- Steady immune system support
- Better digestion in all weather
- Consistent energy levels
- Reduced seasonal symptoms
Smart pet parents switch feeding amounts based on seasons. More blend during high allergy times helps dogs cope better. Less during mild weather keeps things balanced.
The beauty of this superblend is its flexibility. Dogs get what they need when they need it most. Their bodies stay ready for whatever Mother Nature throws their way.
Storage Advice
Proper storage keeps liver and pumpkin superblend fresh and safe. Pet owners need to follow simple rules to avoid spoiled food.
Dry powder blends should stay in cool, dry places. Keep the container sealed tight after each use. Moisture turns powder into clumpy mess that dogs won’t touch.
Store opened containers in the refrigerator for up to 30 days. The cold keeps nutrients from breaking down. It also stops bacteria from having a party in the food.
Frozen portions last up to 6 months in the freezer. Write dates on containers because memory fails everyone. No one wants to play guessing games with pet food dates.
| Storage Type | Location | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Dry powder | Cool, dry pantry | 12 months unopened |
| Opened container | Refrigerator | 30 days |
| Frozen portions | Freezer | 6 months |
Never store the blend in direct sunlight. Heat destroys vitamins faster than a toddler destroys a clean room.
Check for weird smells before serving. Fresh liver blend smells earthy. Spoiled blend smells like regret and vet bills.
Keep storage containers clean and dry. Wash them between refills. Old food residue creates perfect spots for mold to grow.
Store the blend away from other pet foods. This prevents cross-contamination. It also keeps the dog from getting confused about meal time.
Batch Cooking Tips
Making liver and pumpkin superblend doesn’t have to be a daily chore. Smart cooks prepare big batches to save time and sanity.
Start with the right tools. A food processor makes quick work of blending. Large mixing bowls prevent messy countertops.
Cook enough liver for the whole week. Most dogs won’t complain about eating the same thing daily. They’re not food critics.
| Batch Size | Servings | Storage Time |
|---|---|---|
| Small | 3-5 meals | 3 days |
| Medium | 7-10 meals | 5 days |
| Large | 14+ meals | 1 week |
Freeze portions in ice cube trays. Each cube becomes a perfect single serving. Pop them out and store in freezer bags.
Label everything with dates. Future you will thank present you for this simple step.
Cook pumpkin in large batches too. Roast whole pumpkins when they’re cheap in fall. Scoop out the flesh and freeze it in portions.
Steam cooking works best for liver. It keeps more nutrients than other methods. Plus it smells less awful than pan frying.
Prep vegetables all at once. Wash, chop, and portion everything. Store each ingredient separately until mixing time.
Double or triple recipes without fear. The blend keeps well in the fridge for up to five days. Frozen portions last three months.
Make mixing day easier by having all ingredients ready. Line up containers like a meal prep assembly line.
Transitioning Steps
Dogs need time to adjust to new foods. Their stomachs can get upset if owners switch too fast.
Week 1: Start Small Mix 25% liver and pumpkin blend with 75% old food. This lets their digestive system get used to the new taste.
Week 2: Half and Half Use equal amounts of both foods. Most dogs handle this step well. Some might still turn their nose up at dinner time.
Week 3: Almost There Feed 75% new blend and 25% old food. Dogs usually stop giving their owners the “what is this stuff” look by now.
Week 4: Full Switch Serve 100% liver and pumpkin blend. Most dogs are happy campers at this point.
| Week | New Food | Old Food |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | 25% | 75% |
| 2 | 50% | 50% |
| 3 | 75% | 25% |
| 4 | 100% | 0% |
Some dogs need extra time. Picky eaters might take 6-8 weeks to fully switch.
Watch for loose stools or stomach upset. If these happen, slow down the process. Going back a step won’t hurt anything.
Tip: Mix the foods well so dogs can’t pick around the new stuff.
My name is Danny Jackson and I’m the CEO and Chief Editor behind Petloverguy.com. After spending a decade working with vets and private clients as an animal behavioral and nutritional specialist I co-founded Pet Lover Guy to help other pet parents learn how to interact with, and make the most of the time that they spend with their adopted and rescued best pet friends.
Working with Ella, our chihuahua rescue, we seek to help all dog and cat lovers have the happiest life possible.
