I’ll never forget the day I switched my dog’s diet from store-bought kibble to homemade meals. After struggling with allergies, digestive issues, and lack of energy, I knew I had to find a healthier, fresher alternative. That’s when I discovered the power of homemade dog food, and this Beef & Carrot Stew became an instant favorite in my household.
This recipe is packed with protein, fiber, and essential vitamins that support your dog’s digestion, muscle growth, and overall health. It’s easy to make, free from preservatives, and made with wholesome ingredients you can trust. Whether you’re looking to supplement your pup’s diet or fully transition to homemade meals, this stew is a great place to start!
Why Homemade Dog Food?
Many pet owners are now choosing homemade meals over commercial dog food, and for good reason! Here’s why:
✔ No Artificial Additives – Free from preservatives, artificial flavors, and fillers.
✔ High-Quality Ingredients – You control what goes into your dog’s meal.
✔ Gentle on Sensitive Stomachs – Made with easily digestible, whole ingredients.
✔ Supports Skin & Coat Health – Healthy fats and lean protein promote a shiny coat.
✔ Customizable – Adjust ingredients based on your pup’s dietary needs.
Ingredients & Nutritional Benefits
This Beef & Carrot Stew is designed to be nutrient-rich and easy to digest, making it a perfect homemade meal for dogs.
Main Ingredients & Benefits
- 1 lb lean ground beef 🥩 – Provides high-quality protein for strong muscles.
- 3 cups water or low-sodium beef broth 🥣 – Keeps the stew hydrating and easy to digest.
- 1 cup carrots, chopped 🥕 – Full of vitamin A for healthy vision and immune support.
- ½ cup peas 🌱 – A great source of fiber and plant-based protein.
- ½ cup celery, chopped 🌿 – Helps with digestion and hydration.
- 1 tbsp olive oil (optional) 🫒 – Provides healthy fats for skin and coat health.
- 1 tbsp cooked brown rice or quinoa (optional) 🍚 – Adds fiber for digestion.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Making this dog-friendly stew is incredibly simple and takes less than 30 minutes.
Step 1: Cook the Beef
- Heat a large pot or skillet over medium heat.
- Add the lean ground beef, breaking it up into small pieces.
- Cook until fully browned, then drain any excess fat.
Step 2: Add the Vegetables
- Stir in the carrots, peas, and celery.
- Pour in 3 cups of water or low-sodium beef broth.
Step 3: Simmer the Stew
- Bring to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low.
- Let the stew simmer for 15-20 minutes until vegetables are soft.
Step 4: Final Touches
- Stir in the olive oil for healthy fats.
- Add cooked brown rice or quinoa if using.
Step 5: Cool & Serve
- Let the stew cool completely before serving.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Why This Stew is Great for Dogs
✔ Balanced Nutrition – Protein, fiber, and vitamins all in one meal.
✔ Easy to Digest – Soft textures make it gentle on sensitive stomachs.
✔ Customizable – Adjust ingredients for allergies or dietary needs.
✔ Cost-Effective – Healthier and more affordable than many store-bought foods.
Beef & Carrot Stew for Dogs – Part 2 🐶🥕
Now that you know how to make this nutritious homemade dog stew, let’s talk about how to customize the recipe, store it properly, and serve it based on your dog’s size and dietary needs. Whether you have a small breed, a senior dog, or a pup with allergies, this guide will help you make the most of this wholesome meal!
Ingredient Variations & Substitutions
One of the best things about homemade dog food is that you can easily adjust the ingredients to match your dog’s dietary needs and preferences.
1. Protein Alternatives 🥩
✔ Turkey or Chicken: Great for dogs with sensitive stomachs.
✔ Salmon or White Fish: Rich in omega-3s for a healthy coat.
✔ Lamb: Good for dogs with beef allergies.
2. Vegetable Substitutions 🥕🌿
✔ Green Beans: Low-calorie and high in fiber.
✔ Pumpkin: A great stomach-soothing ingredient for digestion.
✔ Zucchini or Sweet Potatoes: Adds natural sweetness and extra nutrients.
3. Grain-Free Option 🌾🚫
✔ Skip the brown rice or quinoa and add more veggies if your dog is on a grain-free diet.

How Much to Serve? Portioning Guide
The right portion size depends on your dog’s size, age, and activity level. Here’s a general guide:
🐶 Small Dogs (5-20 lbs) – ½ to ¾ cup per meal
🐕 Medium Dogs (20-50 lbs) – 1 to 1½ cups per meal
🐕🦺 Large Dogs (50-90 lbs) – 2 to 3 cups per meal
💡 Pro Tip: If using this stew as a topper for kibble, reduce the portion size by half.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigeration
✔ Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Freezing
✔ Portion the stew into individual servings and freeze for up to 2 months.
✔ Use freezer-safe containers or silicone molds for easy storage.
Reheating
✔ Warm a portion in the microwave for 20-30 seconds or on the stovetop over low heat.
✔ Always let it cool completely before serving!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I feed my dog homemade food every day?
Yes! But make sure their diet is nutritionally balanced. Consult your vet if switching to homemade meals permanently.
2. Is this stew safe for puppies?
Yes, but puppies need higher protein and fat. Consider adding an extra tablespoon of olive oil or cooked eggs for more calories.
3. Can I add supplements?
Yes! Many owners mix in fish oil, probiotics, or joint supplements for added benefits.
4. How do I transition my dog to homemade food?
Gradually mix the stew with their regular food over 5-7 days to prevent digestive upset.

Why This Recipe is a Must-Try!
✔ Nutritious, easy to digest, and packed with dog-friendly flavors.
✔ Simple to make with fresh, wholesome ingredients.
✔ Customizable for dogs of all sizes, ages, and dietary needs.
✔ A great way to supplement or replace processed dog food!
This Beef & Carrot Stew for Dogs is a delicious and healthy homemade meal your pup will love. 🐶✨ Save this recipe and give it a try today!
Would you like more homemade dog food recipes? Let me know! 😊
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Beef & Carrot Stew for Dogs – A Nutritious Homemade Meal
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4–6 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Beef & Carrot Stew for Dogs is a nutritious, homemade meal made with lean beef, carrots, peas, and a light broth. Packed with protein, fiber, and essential vitamins, this easy-to-make stew supports digestion, muscle growth, and overall canine health.
Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 3 cups water or low-sodium beef broth
- 1 cup carrots, chopped
- ½ cup peas
- ½ cup celery, chopped
- 1 tbsp olive oil (optional)
- 1 tbsp cooked brown rice or quinoa (optional)
Instructions
- Heat a large pot over medium heat and add the lean ground beef.
- Cook the beef until fully browned, breaking it up into small pieces. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Add the chopped carrots, peas, and celery to the pot.
- Pour in the water or low-sodium beef broth and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Reduce heat to low and let the stew cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Stir in the olive oil and cooked brown rice or quinoa, if using.
- Remove from heat and allow the stew to cool completely before serving.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
Notes
- Use lean meat to avoid excessive fat in your dog’s diet.
- For grain-free, skip the rice and add extra veggies.
- Always let the stew cool before serving to prevent burns.
- Portion based on your dog’s size and activity level.
- Consult your vet before making major dietary changes.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dog Food
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Pet-Friendly
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 80mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
Keywords: Beef & Carrot Stew for Dogs, homemade dog food, healthy dog meals, dog-friendly stew, easy dog food recipe, nutritious dog food