There’s nothing quite like a warm, hearty meatloaf fresh out of the oven. And guess what? Your furry friend can enjoy one too! I’ve been making this homemade meatloaf for dogs for years, and my pup absolutely loves it. It’s packed with wholesome ingredients, easy to make, and perfect for meal prep. Whether you’re looking to add variety to your dog’s diet or just want to treat them to something special, this recipe is a must-try!
Why Your Dog Will Love This Recipe
This dog-friendly meatloaf is made with lean ground beef, nutrient-rich veggies, and healthy oats—no harmful ingredients, just pure goodness. It’s free from onions, garlic, and seasonings that aren’t safe for dogs. Plus, it’s super simple to whip up, making it a great option for busy pet parents.
How to Make Homemade Meatloaf for Dogs
Recipe Overview
◇ Prep Time: 10 minutes
◇ Cook Time: 40 minutes
◇ Total Time: 50 minutes
◇ Cuisine: Dog-Friendly
◇ Course: Main Meal or Treat
◇ Difficulty: Easy
◇ Yield: 6–8 servings
◇ Calories per Serving: Approx. 180 kcal
Ingredients
◇ 1 cup old-fashioned oats
◇ 2 eggs
◇ 1 pound lean ground beef
◇ 1/2 cup green peas (fresh or frozen)
◇ 1/2 cup diced sweet potato
◇ 1/4 cup chopped fresh curly parsley
Ingredient Notes
◇ Lean Ground Beef: A great protein source, but you can also swap it for ground turkey or chicken.
◇ Old-Fashioned Oats: Helps with digestion and adds fiber.
◇ Sweet Potato: Rich in vitamins A and C, plus fiber for gut health.
◇ Green Peas: Loaded with vitamins and minerals, but avoid canned peas with added salt.
◇ Eggs: A natural binder and an excellent source of protein.
◇ Parsley: Freshens breath and provides extra nutrients.
Instructions
◇ Preheat Your Oven: Set it to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking dish with parchment paper.
◇ Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine all ingredients. Mix well until everything is evenly incorporated.
◇ Shape the Meatloaf: Form the mixture into a loaf shape and place it in the baking dish.
◇ Bake: Cook for about 40 minutes or until the meatloaf is fully cooked through.
◇ Cool & Serve: Allow the meatloaf to cool completely before slicing it into portions for your pup.
Tips and Variations
◇ Swap the Protein: Try ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
◇ Add More Veggies: Carrots, zucchini, or spinach work well.
◇ Make It Grain-Free: Replace oats with mashed chickpeas or pumpkin puree.
◇ Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
Expert Tips & Troubleshooting
◇ Meatloaf Falling Apart? Make sure you’re using enough eggs to bind the ingredients together.
◇ Too Dry? Add a little water or low-sodium bone broth to the mixture.
◇ Want Smaller Portions? Bake in muffin tins for easy grab-and-go servings.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the meatloaf as a standalone meal or mix it with your dog’s regular kibble for extra flavor. You can also crumble it over rice for a special treat!
FAQ
How do you make meatloaf for dogs?
Making dog-friendly meatloaf is easy! Just mix lean ground meat with dog-safe veggies, oats, and eggs, then bake until fully cooked.
Is it okay to give dogs meatloaf?
Yes, as long as it’s made with dog-safe ingredients! Avoid onions, garlic, excessive salt, and seasonings.
What meat is best for homemade dog food?
Lean meats like beef, turkey, chicken, and even fish work well.
What are the main ingredients in meatloaf?
For dogs, a simple combination of meat, eggs, veggies, and oats makes a balanced and nutritious meal.
Conclusion
I’d love to hear how your pup enjoys this! Try it out and let me know in the comments or tag me in your dog’s food photos. Happy cooking!
Homemade Meatloaf for Dogs
Ingredients
- ◇ 1 cup old-fashioned oats
- ◇ 2 eggs
- ◇ 1 pound lean ground beef
- ◇ 1/2 cup green peas fresh or frozen
- ◇ 1/2 cup diced sweet potato
- ◇ 1/4 cup chopped fresh curly parsley
Instructions
- ◇ Preheat Your Oven: Set it to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking dish with parchment paper.
- ◇ Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine all ingredients. Mix well until everything is evenly incorporated.
- ◇ Shape the Meatloaf: Form the mixture into a loaf shape and place it in the baking dish.
- ◇ Bake: Cook for about 40 minutes or until the meatloaf is fully cooked through.
- ◇ Cool & Serve: Allow the meatloaf to cool completely before slicing it into portions for your pup.
