This flavorful Sweet Potato & Beef Power Bowl with Kidney Beans & Corn is a protein-packed and satisfying meal for your canine companion! Packed with lean beef, fiber-rich kidney beans, and colorful vegetables, it’s a delightful and nutritious option to keep your pup fueled throughout the day.
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: 1 hour (Moderate)
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Dietary Needs:
- Not recommended for dogs with allergies to beef, sweet potatoes, kidney beans, or corn.
Can this be fed daily?
Yes, this Sweet Potato & Beef Power Bowl can be fed daily to your adult dog as part of a balanced diet. However, it’s important to consider your dog’s individual needs and adjust the portion size accordingly.
Storage:
- Allow the power bowl mix to cool completely after preparation.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (Budget-friendly pantry staple)
- 1 pound lean ground beef (Protein source)
- 1 large sweet potato, peeled and diced (Rich in vitamins and fiber)
- 1 (15-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained (Adds flavor and liquid)
- 2 cups low-sodium beef broth (Adds flavor and moisture)
- 1 (15-ounce) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed (Fiber and protein source)
- 1 cup frozen corn (Fiber and vitamins)
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin (Aromatic spice with digestive benefits)
- ½ teaspoon dried parsley (Aromatic herb with digestive benefits)
Ratio (Estimated):
- Protein: 40% (primarily from beef and kidney beans)
- Carbs: 40% (primarily from sweet potato and corn)
- Vegetables: 20% (from tomatoes)
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet or pan over medium heat.
- Add ground beef and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
- Drain any excess grease from the pan.
- Add diced sweet potato, diced tomatoes (undrained), low-sodium beef broth, drained and rinsed kidney beans, frozen corn, ground cumin, and dried parsley.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 30 minutes, or until the sweet potato is tender.
- Remove from heat and let cool completely before serving to your dog.
Tips:
- Substitute ground turkey or chicken for beef if preferred. Ensure it is lean with minimal fat content.
- Ensure all vegetables are chopped into bite-sized pieces for easy chewing.
- 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.
