Table of Contents
Disclaimer
This homemade dog food recipe is intended for intermittent or supplemental feeding only. It meets AAFCO’s minimal nutrient requirements for adult dog maintenance when used short‑term or as a topper, not as a complete and balanced diet.
Always consult your veterinarian before making dietary changes, especially for dogs with medical conditions, allergies, or unique nutritional needs.
A Stew Worth Sitting For
Finding a healthy meal your dog actually wants to eat can feel like trying to get a toddler to love broccoli. You want something wholesome, simple, and tail‑wag‑worthy — and that’s where this Pumpkin & Chicken Stew for Dogs comes in.
It’s hearty, smells amazing, and sneaks in fiber, lean protein, and gentle nutrients that support digestion and weight management. Plus, it’s ready in about 20 minutes — faster than most delivery orders (and definitely healthier).
🦴 Ingredients
Makes about 6 cups (enough for 2–3 days for a medium dog)
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Boneless, skinless chicken thighs | 1 lb |
| Pumpkin purée (plain, unsweetened) | 1 cup |
| Carrots, chopped | 1 cup |
| Green beans, chopped | 1 cup |
| Low‑sodium chicken broth or water | 2 cups |
| Brown rice (cooked) | ½ cup |
| Ground flaxseed | 1 tbsp |
| Olive oil or salmon oil | 1 tsp (added after cooking) |
No onions, garlic, salt, or heavy seasonings — just dog‑friendly goodness.
👩🍳 Cooking Instructions
- Prep the ingredients. Chop the chicken and vegetables into bite‑sized pieces.
- Add to pot. Combine chicken, pumpkin, carrots, green beans, rice, and broth in an Instant Pot or saucepan.
- Cook.
- Instant Pot: High pressure for 15 minutes, quick release.
- Stovetop: Simmer gently for 25–30 minutes until chicken is fully cooked and veggies are soft.
- Cool and finish. Let the stew cool completely, then stir in ground flaxseed and oil.
- Serve. Portion according to your dog’s size (see chart below). Store leftovers in the fridge or freezer.
🍽 Portion Guide
| Dog Weight | Approx. Calories Needed/Day* | Stew Calories per Cup | Cups per Day (Split into 2 Meals) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10 lbs | 200–250 | 180 | 1–1¼ cups |
| 25 lbs | 500–600 | 180 | 2½–3 cups |
| 50 lbs | 900–1,000 | 180 | 5–5½ cups |
| 75 lbs | 1,200–1,400 | 180 | 6½–7½ cups |
*Calorie needs vary by activity level and metabolism. Start low and adjust based on body condition.
🧊 Batch Cooking & Convenience Tips
- Canned vs. fresh: Canned pumpkin and frozen veggies work perfectly — no judgment from your dog.
- Instant or precooked options: Use precooked brown rice or shredded rotisserie‑style chicken (unseasoned) to cut prep time.
- Freezing: Portion into freezer‑safe containers or silicone molds. Freeze up to 3 months.
- Fridge life: Keeps for 3–4 days in an airtight container.
- Reheating: Warm gently and add a splash of water or broth if it thickens. Always serve at room temperature — no hot mouths, please.
🌿 Why These Ingredients Work
- Chicken: Lean protein that supports muscle maintenance and energy.
- Pumpkin: Naturally high in fiber and beta‑carotene — helps digestion and keeps stools regular.
- Carrots: Crunchy source of vitamin A and antioxidants for eye and immune health.
- Green beans: Low in calories, high in fiber — perfect for weight control.
- Brown rice: Gentle carbohydrate for steady energy.
- Flaxseed: Adds omega‑3s for joint and coat health.
- Olive or salmon oil: Supports skin, coat, and heart health.
📊 Nutrient Overview (Approximate per 1 Cup Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 180 kcal |
| Protein | 22 g |
| Fat | 6 g |
| Fiber | 5 g |
| Moisture | 70% |
| Vitamin A | High (from pumpkin & carrots) |
| Omega‑3s | Moderate (from flaxseed/oil) |
Values are estimates and can vary by ingredient brands.
🐕 Feeding Tips for Multi‑Dog Homes
- Small dogs: Serve smaller, more frequent meals — they burn energy fast.
- Large dogs: Divide portions evenly across two meals to avoid bloating.
- Different ages or activity levels: Active or younger dogs may need up to 20% more food. Senior or sedentary dogs may need 10–20% less.
- Label containers: Write each dog’s name and portion size on freezer bags to avoid mix‑ups during busy mornings.
❓ Common Questions
Can this help with diarrhea or constipation?
Yes — pumpkin’s fiber works both ways. It can firm up loose stools and soften hard ones. If issues persist more than 48 hours, call your vet.
Can dogs eat pumpkin every day?
They can, in moderation. Too much fiber can cause gas or bloating, so keep pumpkin under 10% of total calories.
Can I overfeed this stew?
Absolutely. Even healthy food adds calories. Monitor your dog’s waistline — you should feel ribs without pressing hard.
Can I swap chicken for another protein?
Yes! Turkey, lean beef, or white fish all work. Adjust cooking time as needed and skip any bones or skin.
🐾 Final Thoughts
Homemade dog food doesn’t have to be complicated — or expensive. This Pumpkin & Chicken Stew gives your pup a warm, nourishing meal that smells like comfort and tastes like love (judging by the empty bowl).
It’s simple, freezer‑friendly, and flexible enough for every season. Whether you’re topping kibble or serving it solo for a few days, this stew is a wholesome way to show your dog just how much they mean to you — one spoonful at a time.
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.
