This colorful and protein-packed stir-fry is a delicious and nutritious meal for your dog! Made with lean chicken, fluffy quinoa, and a variety of fresh vegetables, this recipe is perfect for adult dogs looking for a tasty and satisfying dinner.
Suitability Information:
- Age: Adult Dogs (consult your veterinarian before feeding to puppies or senior dogs)
- Budget: Budget-Friendly
- Suitable for: All Dog Sizes (adjust portion size accordingly)
- Activity Level: All Activity Levels (adjust portion size accordingly)
- Cooking Time: 30 minutes (Easy)
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Dietary Needs: Not recommended for dogs with allergies to chicken or bell peppers.
Feeding: Can be Eaten Daily? Yes
This recipe provides a balanced meal and can be fed daily, but always adjust portion size based on your dog’s individual needs. Consult your veterinarian for specific recommendations.
Storage: Can be Made in Bulk? Yes
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Ingredients
- 1 cup cooked, boneless, skinless chicken breast (shredded)
- 1 cup cooked quinoa
- 1 cup chopped vegetables (broccoli, carrots, and bell peppers recommended)
- 1 tablespoon low-sodium soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon water (optional)
Ratio:
- Protein: 30%
- Carbs: 50%
- Vegetables: 20%
Instructions
- Heat sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
- Add shredded chicken and cook until heated through, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add chopped vegetables and stir-fry for 5-7 minutes, or until tender-crisp.
- Stir in cooked quinoa and soy sauce.
- If the mixture seems dry, add 1 tablespoon of water to create a light sauce.
- Heat through for an additional 1-2 minutes, or until everything is well combined.
- Let cool completely before serving to your dog.
Tips:
- You can use other dog-safe vegetables like green beans or zucchini.
- Ensure all vegetables are chopped into bite-sized pieces for easy chewing.
- Feel free to adjust the amount of vegetables based on your dog’s preferences.
- Monitor your dog for any signs of digestive upset after introducing a new food.
Portion Size
While online dog food calculators can be a starting point, determining the ideal portion size for your dog depends on several factors, making them less precise. Here’s a guide to help you estimate a good starting point:
- Dog’s Weight:
- Small Dogs (under 20 lbs): 1/2 to 1 cup per day.
- Medium Dogs (20-50 lbs): 1 to 2 cups per day.
- Large Dogs (50+ lbs): 2 to 3 cups per day (or more for giant breeds).
- Activity Level:
- Lazy Dogs: Start with the lower end of the recommendation for their weight.
- Active Dogs: Increase the portion size slightly.
- Training Dogs: Consider offering additional small meals or snacks throughout the day.
- Age:
- Puppies: Consult your veterinarian for specific feeding recommendations as puppies have different nutritional needs.
- Senior Dogs: You may need to adjust portion size based on their activity level and potential health concerns.
Remember: This is just a starting point. Monitor your dog’s weight and adjust the portion size as needed to maintain a healthy body condition. Here are some signs your dog might be getting too much or too little food:
- Overweight: Lethargy, difficulty exercising, excessive panting.
- Underweight: Visible ribs, excessive begging, loss of muscle mass.
Consult your veterinarian if you have any concerns about your dog’s weight or their individual dietary needs. They can provide personalized guidance based on your dog’s specific health and activity level.
Additional Tips:
- Monitor your dog’s weight regularly.
- Don’t free-feed your dog. This can lead to overeating.
- Feed your dog twice a day. Split the daily portion size into two meals.
- Measure the food using a measuring cup. Don’t rely on guesswork.
Important Note: This recipe is provided for informational purposes only. Always consult your veterinarian before introducing any new food to your dog’s diet, especially if they have any underlying health conditions.
