Ever looked into those puppy eyes while you’re cooking and thought, “You deserve better than that boring kibble, don’t you?”
Yeah, I’ve been there too. Small dogs might be tiny, but their food needs? Big deal. They’ve got faster metabolisms, smaller stomachs, and let’s be real—higher standards than most humans when it comes to taste.
If you’ve got a Chihuahua, Yorkie, Maltese, or any other little ball of fur running around, homemade meals can be a total game-changer.
I started making homemade dog food years ago for my own small breed pup after realizing store-bought food often came with fillers and mystery ingredients.
The difference was night and day—shinier coat, more energy, and way fewer tummy troubles.
So, if you’re ready to level up your dog’s mealtime with simple, wholesome recipes, let’s get into 10 easy homemade dog foods for small breeds that are nutritious, vet-friendly, and ridiculously simple to whip up.
Table of Contents
Why Homemade Food Rocks for Small Breeds
Ever noticed how some small dogs turn their noses up at dry kibble? They’re not being dramatic (well, not just dramatic). Many small breeds deal with sensitive stomachs and dental issues, which makes softer, fresh food a much better choice.
Here’s why homemade meals can make a world of difference:
- Freshness matters: No preservatives or weird byproducts—just real food.
- Customizable nutrition: You control what goes in your dog’s bowl, so you can adjust for allergies, age, or energy level.
- Better portion control: Small dogs need smaller, nutrient-packed meals—not giant scoops of kibble.
- Improved digestion and coat: Balanced homemade food can do wonders for their gut health and skin.
FYI, homemade doesn’t mean complicated. Most of these recipes use simple ingredients you already have in your kitchen—stuff like chicken, rice, eggs, and veggies.
1. Chicken and Rice Comfort Bowl
Ah, the classic combo—chicken and rice is the go-to meal when your pup’s tummy feels off or you just want something gentle and nutritious.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup boneless, skinless chicken breast (cooked and shredded)
- ½ cup cooked white or brown rice
- ¼ cup chopped carrots
- ¼ cup peas
- 1 tsp olive oil
Instructions:
- Boil or steam the chicken until fully cooked, then shred it.
- Cook the rice separately until soft.
- Steam carrots and peas until tender.
- Mix everything together, drizzle with olive oil, and let it cool before serving.
Why it works: This recipe is super easy on digestion and ideal for dogs recovering from an upset stomach.
2. Beef and Sweet Potato Energy Bowl
Need something heartier? This one’s packed with iron and beta-carotene, great for small breeds with high energy levels.
Ingredients:
- ½ lb lean ground beef
- ½ cup mashed sweet potato
- ¼ cup diced green beans
- 1 tbsp bone broth
Instructions:
- Brown the beef in a skillet (no oil or seasoning).
- Add cooked sweet potatoes and green beans.
- Stir in the bone broth to add flavor and moisture.
Why it rocks: Small dogs get protein and fiber without heavy fillers. It’s a power meal for active pups who zoom around the house like they’re on espresso.
3. Turkey and Quinoa Protein Power-Up
Turkey is a lean, hypoallergenic protein that’s perfect for dogs with chicken sensitivities.
Ingredients:
- ½ lb ground turkey
- ½ cup cooked quinoa
- ¼ cup chopped spinach
- 1 egg
Instructions:
- Cook turkey in a skillet until browned.
- Add cooked quinoa and spinach.
- Crack the egg into the mix while it’s still warm, stirring until it’s lightly cooked.
Pro Tip: Quinoa adds plant-based protein and helps keep your dog full longer.
Personal note: My Yorkie, Milo, devours this one like it’s Thanksgiving dinner every single time.
4. Salmon and Brown Rice Omega Bowl
Ever wondered how to make your dog’s coat shiny enough to rival a shampoo commercial? Salmon’s your best friend.
Ingredients:
- ½ cup cooked salmon (no bones, no skin)
- ½ cup cooked brown rice
- ¼ cup chopped zucchini
- 1 tsp fish oil (optional for extra omega-3s)
Instructions:
- Cook salmon gently until flaky.
- Mix with cooked rice and zucchini.
- Add fish oil if desired.
Why it’s awesome: Omega-3 fatty acids help with dry skin, shedding, and inflammation. Great for older dogs too.
5. Egg and Veggie Breakfast Scramble
Who said breakfast is only for humans?
Ingredients:
- 2 eggs
- ¼ cup spinach
- ¼ cup finely diced carrots
- 1 tsp coconut oil
Instructions:
- Scramble eggs in coconut oil.
- Add spinach and carrots until soft.
- Cool before serving.
Why it’s perfect: Packed with protein and vitamins, it’s a great morning boost for small pups who wake up hungry.
And yes, it smells so good you might “accidentally” make extra for yourself. (Guilty.)
6. Chicken, Pumpkin, and Oats Dinner
This one’s a crowd-pleaser—especially if your dog struggles with digestion or soft stools. Pumpkin works wonders.
Ingredients:
- ½ cup shredded cooked chicken
- ¼ cup pure pumpkin puree
- ¼ cup cooked oats
- 1 tsp flaxseed
Instructions:
- Combine all ingredients in a bowl.
- Stir until fully mixed and serve at room temperature.
Why it helps: Pumpkin adds fiber, oats keep them full, and flaxseed supports a shiny coat.
7. Mini Meatballs for Small Breeds
Who doesn’t love meatballs? These bite-sized treats make portioning super easy.
Ingredients:
- ½ lb lean ground chicken or turkey
- ¼ cup shredded carrot
- ¼ cup rolled oats
- 1 egg
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Mix everything together and roll into tiny balls.
- Bake for 20 minutes until golden.
Why dogs love it: Easy to chew, great texture, and can double as a healthy training treat.
Storage tip: Keep them in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze in small batches.
8. Lamb and Brown Rice Delight
Lamb is rich, flavorful, and often a great choice for picky eaters or allergy-prone dogs.
Ingredients:
- ½ lb ground lamb
- ½ cup cooked brown rice
- ¼ cup chopped carrots
- 1 tsp olive oil
Instructions:
- Brown the lamb in a skillet.
- Add cooked rice and veggies.
- Drizzle with olive oil for a glossy finish.
Why it’s great: Provides healthy fats, iron, and tons of flavor for fussy eaters.
9. Sardine Superfood Mix
Yeah, sardines might sound weird—but trust me, dogs love them, and they’re a nutrient powerhouse.
Ingredients:
- 1 can sardines in water (no salt added)
- ½ cup cooked rice
- ¼ cup peas
- ¼ cup spinach
Instructions:
- Mash sardines with a fork.
- Mix with rice and steamed veggies.
Why it’s a hit: Sardines pack calcium, omega-3s, and protein—all great for joints and coat health.
Quick FYI: Make sure you don’t go overboard—too many sardines can up their sodium intake.
10. Crockpot Chicken Stew
This one’s for lazy days when you want to dump everything into a slow cooker and let it work its magic.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup diced chicken breast
- ½ cup chopped carrots
- ½ cup peas
- ¼ cup brown rice
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
Instructions:
- Add everything to your crockpot.
- Cook on low for 4–5 hours.
- Cool, portion, and serve.
Why it’s genius: It’s warm, hearty, and smells amazing—your dog might just start guarding the kitchen.
Tips for Feeding Small Breeds
Making homemade dog food is the easy part. Feeding it right? That’s where you need a little know-how.
1. Portion Control: Small dogs need fewer calories, but they burn energy fast. A general rule: ¼ to ½ cup per meal, twice a day, depending on weight and activity.
2. Avoid These Ingredients:
- Onions and garlic (toxic)
- Grapes and raisins (also toxic)
- Too much salt or sugar
- Seasonings or sauces meant for humans
3. Balance is key: Homemade food should be nutrient-balanced. For long-term feeding, talk to your vet about adding supplements like calcium or a canine multivitamin.
4. Storage: Most meals last 3–4 days in the fridge or up to 3 months in the freezer. Portion them out in ziplock bags or silicone molds for easy reheating.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Let’s be honest—we all want to spoil our dogs. But sometimes that love leads to rookie mistakes like:
- Overfeeding: Small dogs can gain weight faster than you think.
- Skipping nutrients: Not adding calcium or fatty acids.
- Using the wrong oil: Avoid butter or margarine—stick to olive, coconut, or fish oil.
- Not rotating recipes: Dogs need variety just like we do.
FAQs
Q: Can I replace rice with something else?
Absolutely. Try quinoa, barley, or even oats for more variety.
Q: How do I know if my dog’s meal is balanced?
If your dog’s coat is shiny, poop looks healthy, and energy is steady—you’re on the right track. But for long-term feeding, consult your vet or a canine nutritionist.
Q: Can I season my dog’s food?
Nope. No salt, no spices. Your dog’s taste buds work differently—they don’t need the same flavor boosts we do.
Conclusion
So there you have it—10 easy homemade dog foods for small breeds that even the pickiest pups will love. Making dog food at home doesn’t have to be some Pinterest-level project. It’s about knowing what goes into your dog’s bowl, keeping it simple, and watching them thrive.
Honestly, once you start, you’ll never look at canned food the same way again. You’ll feel good knowing you’re giving your furry best friend meals that are fresh, balanced, and made with love (and maybe a little leftover chicken).
Now, go grab a pot, your favorite pup-approved ingredients, and whip up something that’ll make your dog wag their tail like it’s payday.
Because let’s face it—you can’t buy happiness, but you can cook it.
I’m Pallab Kishore, the owner of Little Pets Realm — an animal lover and pet care enthusiast sharing easy tips, healthy recipes, and honest advice to help every small pet live a happy, healthy, tail-wagging life.