Does your dog give you those judgmental looks when you pour the same kibble into their bowl every single day? They might be onto something.
This pork and broccoli bulk meal recipe gives dogs a nutritious break from boring commercial food while saving pet parents time and money. Making large batches means less daily prep work. Freezing portions keeps meals fresh for weeks.
This guide covers everything from the basic recipe to feeding amounts for different dog sizes. Pet owners will learn storage tricks, seasonal ingredient swaps, and how to switch their dog to homemade meals without upset stomachs. Even the pickiest eaters usually approve of this combo.
Table of Contents
Homemade Dog Food Disclaimer
Making dog food at home sounds fun until reality hits. Dogs need specific nutrients that humans often forget about.
This recipe is not a complete diet replacement. Dogs require vitamins and minerals that pork and broccoli alone cannot provide.
Pet owners should talk to their vet before switching to homemade meals. Vets know what dogs actually need to stay healthy.
Some dogs have allergies or health problems. What works for one dog might make another dog sick.
Important reminders:
- Always introduce new foods slowly
- Watch for upset stomachs or allergic reactions
- Keep portion sizes appropriate for the dog’s weight
- Store frozen meals properly to avoid bacteria
Dogs cannot tell their owners when they feel unwell from poor nutrition. Signs might not show up for weeks or months.
Professional pet nutritionists spend years learning about dog dietary needs. Home cooks should not assume they know everything about canine nutrition.
This recipe works best as an occasional treat or supplement. Dogs still need their regular balanced dog food for daily meals.
When in doubt, ask the vet. They would rather answer questions than treat sick dogs later.
Quick Recipe

This recipe uses simple ingredients you can find at most grocery stores and takes about 30 minutes to prepare. The cooking process is straightforward with basic boiling and mixing steps.
Ingredients
For the Base:
- 2 pounds ground pork (not the fancy stuff, regular will do)
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 2 cups brown rice
- 4 cups water
For Extra Nutrition:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 carrot, diced small
- 1/2 cup plain pumpkin puree
The pork should be lean but doesn’t need to be premium quality. Dogs aren’t food critics, after all.
Fresh broccoli works best, but frozen will work if that’s what’s available. Just make sure it’s plain broccoli without any fancy seasonings or butter.
Brown rice provides fiber and energy. White rice works too, but brown rice has more nutrients.
Steps
Prep Work:
- Cook brown rice in 4 cups water until tender (about 45 minutes)
- Chop broccoli into small, dog-friendly pieces
- Dice the carrot into tiny pieces
Cooking:
- Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat
- Add ground pork and cook until no pink remains
- Add diced carrot and cook for 3 minutes
- Steam broccoli until soft but not mushy (about 5 minutes)
Final Assembly: Mix cooked rice, pork, vegetables, and pumpkin puree in a large bowl. Let it cool completely before portioning into freezer bags.
Each portion should equal about one day’s worth of food for your dog’s size.
Benefits Of This Recipe
This pork and broccoli recipe saves money while providing extra nutrition for dogs. The meal delivers balanced calories and essential nutrients that support long-term health.
Table – Cost & Calories Per Cup
Serving Size | Cost Per Cup | Calories | Protein | Fat |
---|---|---|---|---|
1 cup | $0.75 | 285 | 18g | 12g |
2 cups | $1.50 | 570 | 36g | 24g |
3 cups | $2.25 | 855 | 54g | 36g |
Dogs get premium nutrition without the premium price tag. Commercial dog food costs about $2.50 per cup for similar quality.
The recipe feeds a 50-pound dog for three days at just $4.50. That’s cheaper than most humans spend on lunch.
Bulk preparation cuts costs even more. Making five batches at once reduces the price to $0.60 per cup.
Health Advantages
Pork provides complete amino acids that build strong muscles. Dogs need these proteins to maintain energy and repair tissue damage.
Broccoli delivers vitamin C and fiber without upsetting sensitive stomachs. The vegetable also contains antioxidants that fight cell damage.
Fresh ingredients beat processed kibble every time. Dogs digest whole foods more easily than mystery meat meals.
The recipe contains no artificial preservatives or fillers. Many commercial foods include corn and wheat that provide empty calories.
Freezing maintains nutritional value for up to three months. Dogs eat restaurant-quality meals even when owners forget to shop.
Homemade food lets owners control sodium levels. This helps dogs with heart conditions or kidney problems stay healthier longer.
Feeding Table For Different Sized Dogs & Breeds (2 Meals A Day)
Dogs come in all shapes and sizes, just like their appetites. A tiny Chihuahua needs way less food than a giant Great Dane. That’s just common sense.
The table below shows how much pork and broccoli meal to serve twice daily. Split the total amount between breakfast and dinner.
Important Feeding Disclaimer
The following feeding amounts are general guidelines only and should not replace professional veterinary advice. This pork and broccoli recipe is not a complete and balanced diet for dogs and should be used as a supplement or occasional meal, not the sole source of nutrition. Every dog has unique dietary needs depending on age, weight, activity level, and health conditions. Always consult your veterinarian before making changes to your dog’s regular diet.
Dog Size | Weight Range | Daily Amount | Per Meal |
---|---|---|---|
Small | 5-20 lbs | 1/2 – 1 cup | 1/4 – 1/2 cup |
Medium | 21-50 lbs | 1 – 2 cups | 1/2 – 1 cup |
Large | 51-80 lbs | 2 – 3 cups | 1 – 1.5 cups |
Extra Large | 81+ lbs | 3 – 4 cups | 1.5 – 2 cups |
Active dogs need more food than couch potato pups. Working breeds like Border Collies burn calories faster than lazy Bulldogs.
Puppies eat more per pound than adult dogs. Growing takes lots of energy. Senior dogs usually need less food since they move around less.
Watch your dog’s waistline. If they start looking like a furry balloon, cut back a little. If their ribs show too much, add more food.
Some dogs inhale their food in seconds. Others pick at their meals like picky restaurant critics.
Variations
This pork and broccoli recipe works for most dogs, but some pups need special tweaks. Dogs with weight issues, age differences, allergies, or health problems can still enjoy this meal with simple changes.
Weight Loss
Chunky dogs need fewer calories but still deserve tasty meals. Replace half the pork with lean ground turkey or chicken breast. These proteins have less fat but keep the flavor dogs love.
Add more broccoli and throw in some green beans or carrots. These veggies fill up hungry bellies without adding pounds. Dogs think they’re getting more food, but they’re really getting more fiber.
Portion Control Tips:
- Cut serving sizes by 20-25%
- Add extra water to make meals seem bigger
- Split daily food into 3 smaller meals instead of 2
Skip any added oils or fats. The natural fat in lean meat provides enough calories for weight loss while keeping taste buds happy.
Puppies
Growing puppies need more calories and nutrients than adult dogs. Their tiny bodies work overtime to build bones, muscles, and brains. This recipe needs some puppy power-ups.
Increase the pork portion by 25% for extra protein. Add a beaten egg to the mix for brain development. Puppies also need more calcium, so mix in some plain Greek yogurt.
Puppy Modifications:
- Chop ingredients smaller for tiny mouths
- Add sweet potato for easy-to-digest carbs
- Include fish oil for brain development
Feed puppies 3-4 times daily instead of twice. Their small stomachs can’t hold enough food for just two meals. Make sure the food is room temperature so it doesn’t shock their sensitive systems.
Senior Dogs
Old dogs might have trouble chewing or digesting regular food. Their bodies don’t work as hard as they used to. This recipe can help senior pups stay healthy and comfortable.
Cook everything until it’s very soft. Mash the broccoli well so it’s easier to swallow. Senior dogs also need fewer calories since they move around less.
Senior Dog Changes:
- Reduce portion sizes by 15-20%
- Add bone broth for extra flavor and hydration
- Include blueberries for antioxidants
Consider adding supplements like glucosamine for joint health. Many senior dogs have arthritis or other joint problems. The vet can suggest the right supplements to add to this recipe.
Common Allergies
Some dogs can’t eat pork without getting itchy or sick. Food allergies make life miserable for dogs and their humans. This recipe can work with different proteins.
Replace pork with novel proteins like duck, venison, or rabbit. These meats are less likely to cause allergic reactions. Some dogs are also allergic to chicken and beef.
Allergy-Friendly Swaps:
- Pork substitute: Duck, venison, or rabbit
- Broccoli substitute: Zucchini or green beans
- Add: Limited ingredient approach
Test new proteins slowly by mixing small amounts with the dog’s current food. Watch for symptoms like itching, ear infections, or upset stomachs. Keep a food diary to track which ingredients cause problems.
Picky Eaters
Some dogs turn their noses up at healthy food like spoiled royalty. These finicky eaters need extra convincing to try new recipes. A few tricks can make this meal irresistible.
Cook the pork in bone broth instead of water for extra smell and taste. Sprinkle a tiny bit of parmesan cheese on top. The smell alone will make most dogs drool.
Picky Eater Tricks:
- Warm the food to release more smells
- Mix in a spoonful of wet dog food
- Add freeze-dried liver powder
Start by mixing just a tablespoon of the new recipe with their regular food. Gradually increase the new food while decreasing the old food over a week. Most picky dogs give in when they realize the new food tastes better.
Digestion
Dogs with sensitive stomachs need gentle ingredients that won’t cause gas or diarrhea. This recipe can be modified to be easier on delicate digestive systems.
Steam the broccoli until it’s very soft and easy to digest. Remove the tough stems that might cause gas. Add plain pumpkin puree to help with both diarrhea and constipation.
Digestive Health Additions:
- Plain pumpkin puree (2 tablespoons per serving)
- Cooked white rice for binding
- Probiotics for gut health
Cook the pork well-done to kill any bacteria that might upset sensitive stomachs. Let the food cool completely before serving. Hot food can make digestive problems worse.
Joints
Dogs with arthritis or hip problems need extra help staying mobile. This recipe can include ingredients that support joint health and reduce inflammation.
Add turmeric powder to the recipe for its anti-inflammatory properties. Fish oil provides omega-3 fatty acids that help reduce joint pain. Both ingredients taste mild enough that most dogs don’t mind them.
Joint-Supporting Additions:
- Turmeric: 1/4 teaspoon per serving
- Fish oil: Follow bottle instructions
- Bone broth: Replace water for cooking
Consider adding glucosamine and chondroitin supplements if the vet recommends them. These supplements help rebuild cartilage in damaged joints. Mix them into the food so the dog doesn’t notice.
Skin & Coat
Dogs with dull coats or itchy skin often need better nutrition. This recipe can be modified to promote healthy skin and shiny fur from the inside out.
Add salmon oil or flaxseed oil for omega fatty acids. These healthy fats make coats shiny and reduce skin inflammation. Start with small amounts since too much oil can cause stomach upset.
Skin & Coat Boosters:
- Salmon oil: 1/2 teaspoon per 20 pounds of dog
- Egg yolk: Once weekly for shine
- Coconut oil: 1/4 teaspoon per serving
Include foods rich in zinc like pumpkin seeds (ground up). Zinc deficiency causes skin problems and poor coat quality. Sweet potato also provides beta-carotene for healthy skin cell production.
Seasonal Switches
Dogs get bored with the same meals just like humans do. Smart pet parents swap ingredients based on what’s fresh and cheap at the store.
Spring brings tender asparagus and green beans. These veggies work great instead of broccoli when Fido needs a change.
Summer means zucchini and yellow squash take over. Dogs love these mild flavors, and they’re usually dirt cheap at farmers markets.
Fall pumpkin makes dogs go crazy with excitement. Sweet potatoes also work well and give the meal a orange makeover that looks fancy.
Season | Best Veggie Swaps | Why Dogs Love Them |
---|---|---|
Spring | Asparagus, green beans | Crunchy texture |
Summer | Zucchini, yellow squash | Mild taste |
Fall | Pumpkin, sweet potato | Sweet flavor |
Winter | Carrots, parsnips | Hearty feel |
Winter calls for heartier root vegetables. Carrots and parsnips give meals a stick-to-your-ribs feeling that helps dogs stay warm.
The pork stays the same year-round because dogs never get tired of meat. They’re not that picky about protein sources.
Pro tip: Buy vegetables when they’re in season and on sale. Freeze extra portions to use later when prices go up.
Some dogs have strong opinions about texture changes. Start with small amounts of new vegetables mixed with familiar ones.
Storage Advice
Freezer space is about to become precious real estate. This bulk meal takes up room, so clear out those mystery containers from 2023.
Portion the food before freezing. Use ice cube trays, muffin tins, or freezer bags. Individual servings make life easier when hungry dogs start giving the stink eye.
Label everything with dates. That unmarked container might be dog food or last month’s soup experiment. Nobody wants to play freezer roulette.
Container Type | Best For | Storage Time |
---|---|---|
Ice cube trays | Small dogs | 3 months |
Muffin tins | Medium dogs | 3 months |
Freezer bags | Large batches | 3 months |
Frozen meals last three months in the freezer. After that, they won’t hurt the dog but might taste like freezer burn disappointment.
Thaw portions safely in the fridge overnight. Microwaving works for impatient pet parents, but let it cool completely. Dogs don’t need lava-hot broccoli.
Never refreeze thawed portions. Once it’s out, it’s out for good.
Keep some portions in the fridge for immediate use. They stay fresh for three days. Any longer and the dog might judge the smell.
Store containers flat when possible. This saves space and prevents freezer Tetris disasters at 6 AM when breakfast is needed immediately.
Batch Cooking Tips
Making large batches of dog food saves time and keeps dogs happy. Pet owners can cook several days’ worth of meals at once.
Cook in big pots to make more servings. A large stockpot works better than small pans. Dogs don’t complain about portion sizes like humans do.
Use a kitchen scale to measure ingredients. This keeps each batch the same. Dogs notice when their dinner tastes different.
Prep vegetables first before cooking meat. Wash and chop broccoli while the pork cooks. Multi-tasking makes cooking faster.
- Cook pork thoroughly to 160°F
- Steam broccoli until soft
- Mix ingredients when cool
- Divide into serving sizes
Cool food completely before freezing. Hot food creates ice crystals that make meals mushy. Nobody wants to serve their dog soggy dinner.
Label containers with dates. Use a permanent marker that won’t wash off. Dogs can’t read calendars, but owners need to track freshness.
Freeze meals in single servings. This makes thawing easier. Pet owners won’t have to defrost a week’s worth of food for one meal.
Store frozen meals for up to three months. Write the date clearly on each container. Dogs don’t care about expiration dates, but their stomachs do.
Clean cooking tools right away. Pork grease gets stubborn when it cools. Future cooking sessions will thank you.
Transitioning Steps
Switching a dog’s food is like asking them to trade their favorite toy for vegetables. It takes patience.
Start slow with the new pork and broccoli meal. Dogs need time to adjust to new flavors and ingredients.
Week 1: Mix 25% new food with 75% old food. The dog might give suspicious looks at their bowl.
Week 2: Change to 50% new food and 50% old food. Some dogs act like food critics during this phase.
Week 3: Serve 75% new food with 25% old food. Most dogs accept the change by now.
Week 4: Feed 100% of the new pork and broccoli recipe. Victory tastes like success and smells like dog breath.
Watch for stomach upset during the switch. Loose stools or vomiting means the change is happening too fast.
Some picky eaters need longer transition periods. These drama queens might need six weeks instead of four.
Signs of successful transition:
- Normal bowel movements
- Good appetite
- Happy tail wagging at meal time
- No stomach gurgling sounds
If the dog refuses to eat after three days, slow down the process. Going back a step is better than having a hungry, grumpy dog.
Keep the old food handy until the transition is complete. Running out halfway through creates unnecessary stress for everyone involved.
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.