Our furry friends deserve the best, and that starts with what’s in their bowl. Dr. Ruth Roberts, a renowned holistic veterinarian, has crafted a dog food recipe that prioritizes nutrition and wellness. This recipe isn’t just about feeding our dogs; it’s about supporting their overall health with wholesome, balanced ingredients.
Dr Ruth Roberts Dog Food Recipe
Dr. Ruth Roberts’ dog food recipe is a carefully crafted guide to preparing nutritious, balanced meals for our furry companions. Known for her expertise in holistic veterinary care, Dr. Roberts emphasizes using whole, high-quality ingredients to promote optimal health. Below, we’ve detailed the step-by-step process to create this recipe at home.
Ingredients
Here’s what we’ll need to prepare this recipe:
- 1 pound ground turkey or lean ground beef (substitute with ground chicken if preferred).
- 4 ounces fresh beef liver, finely chopped.
- 2 cups organic spinach, steamed or lightly cooked.
- 1 cup cooked carrots, finely chopped or mashed.
- 1 cup cooked squash, such as butternut or acorn, mashed.
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil.
- ½ teaspoon iodized salt or sea salt.
- 1 teaspoon ground turmeric.
- 1 capsule fish oil or 1 teaspoon fish oil liquid, to add omega-3 fatty acids.
- 2 calcium tablets, crushed or powdered (or 1 teaspoon ground eggshell powder).
Cooking Instructions
Follow these steps to prepare a healthy, homemade meal for your dog:
- Cook the turkey: Heat a large pan over medium heat. Add the ground turkey and sauté until fully cooked, ensuring there are no pink parts left. Stir frequently and break up the meat into small pieces.
- Prepare the liver: Add the finely chopped beef liver to the pan with the turkey. Cook for 2-3 minutes until it is evenly browned. Stir thoroughly to combine the meats.
- Add the vegetables: Incorporate the steamed spinach, cooked carrots, and mashed squash into the meat mixture. Stir well to evenly distribute the veggies with the protein.
- Mix in the coconut oil and turmeric: Once the mixture is heated through, stir in the coconut oil and turmeric. These ingredients are not only nutritious but also provide added flavor.
- Cool the mixture: Remove the pan from heat and let the mixture cool down to room temperature.
- Supplement with fish oil and calcium: Once the mixture is cool, add the crushed calcium tablets or eggshell powder and the fish oil. These should not be added while the food is hot, as heat can degrade their nutritional value. Stir thoroughly.
Serving Recommendations
Here is a guide to portioning based on your dog’s weight:
| Dog’s Weight (lbs) | Serving Size (per meal) |
|---|---|
| Under 10 lbs | ½ – ¾ cup |
| 10 – 25 lbs | 1 – 1½ cups |
| 25 – 50 lbs | 2 – 2½ cups |
| 50 lbs and above | 3 – 4 cups |
Divide the daily portion into two meals for optimal digestion.
Pro Tip: Prepare a larger batch of this recipe and store it in airtight containers. It can stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months. Always ensure the food is at room temperature before serving your dog.
This holistic dog food recipe harnesses the power of natural, fresh ingredients, offering a balanced and delicious way to keep our dogs happy and healthy.
Ingredients
Making Dr. Ruth Roberts’ Dog Food Recipe starts with selecting wholesome, fresh, and high-quality ingredients. Each component is carefully chosen to provide essential nutrients and promote our dogs’ overall health. Below, we break down the ingredients by type:
Proteins
- 1 lb ground turkey or lean beef, preferably organic and free of antibiotics or hormones.
- 2 oz fresh beef liver, chopped. This is a rich, natural source of iron and vitamins.
Vegetables
- 1 cup fresh organic spinach, washed and chopped.
- 1/2 cup cooked carrots, mashed or diced. Packed with beta-carotene, these support eye health.
Carbohydrates
- 1 cup cooked white rice or quinoa. These provide easily digestible energy for active dogs.
- 1/2 medium sweet potato, cooked and mashed. A powerhouse of vitamins, fiber, and energy.
Supplements
- 1 tbsp coconut oil for a shiny coat and skin nourishment.
- 1 tsp calcium powder or finely ground eggshells to promote bone health.
- 1/2 tsp iodized salt or kelp powder for iodine.
- Fish oil capsule (optional, depending on your dog’s needs) for essential omega-3 fatty acids.
| Ingredient Type | Items (Quantity) |
|---|---|
| Proteins | Ground turkey (1 lb), Beef liver (2 oz) |
| Vegetables | Spinach (1 cup), Cooked carrots (1/2 cup) |
| Carbohydrates | Cooked white rice (1 cup), Sweet potato (1/2 medium) |
| Supplements | Coconut oil (1 tbsp), Calcium powder (1 tsp), Iodized salt (1/2 tsp), Fish oil capsule (optional) |
Sticking to fresh, organic, and whole-food ingredients ensures that we’re feeding our dogs the best possible diet. Always consult with a veterinarian before introducing new foods or supplements into your pet’s diet.
Tools And Equipment
Creating Dr. Ruth Roberts’ Dog Food Recipe requires a few essential tools to make the preparation process smooth and efficient. Having the right tools ensures consistency, eases meal prep, and saves time. Below is a list of the tools and equipment we need, along with how they are used during cooking.
Required Tools and Their Functions
- Large Stockpot or Dutch Oven: For boiling and cooking ingredients like ground turkey, beef liver, and vegetables.
- Steamer Basket or Insert: Perfect for steaming vegetables like spinach and cooked carrots to retain their nutrients.
- Chopping Board and Knife: For efficiently cutting the vegetables like carrots and sweet potatoes into small, even pieces.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: To accurately measure ingredients such as coconut oil, calcium powder, and iodized salt.
- Food Scale: Necessary for portioning out exact quantities of proteins or carbohydrates to match your dog’s size and dietary needs.
- Mixing Bowl: To combine all ingredients evenly after cooking.
- Wooden Spoon or Spatula: For mixing cooked items thoroughly to ensure an even distribution of nutrients.
- Blender, Food Processor, or Fork: For mashing or pureeing ingredients like liver for better digestion and mixing consistency.
- Storage Containers (BPA-Free): Essential for storing batch-prepared meals in the refrigerator or freezer safely.
Equipment Optimization Tips
- Use a non-stick pot or stockpot when cooking proteins to prevent sticking while ensuring easy cleanup.
- Invest in an adjustable food scale to handle different ingredient weights precisely.
- Label storage containers with dates to track the batch and ensure your ingredients remain fresh.
Suggested Equipment and Quantities
| Tool/Equipment | Purpose | Tip for Use |
|---|---|---|
| Large Stockpot | Cooking proteins and vegetables | Use a pot with a sturdy base for even heating. |
| Steamer Basket | Steaming spinach or carrots | Opt for stainless steel for durability. |
| Chopping Board & Knife | Cutting vegetables into even pieces | Use separate boards for proteins and veggies. |
| Food Scale | Accurate portion control | Digital scales provide the most accuracy. |
| Measuring Cups/Spoons | Precise measurement of supplements and oils | Stick to stainless steel for easy cleaning. |
| Mixing Bowl | Combining ingredients post-cooking | Deep bowls prevent spills during mixing. |
| Blender/Food Processor | Mashing liver or sweet potatoes | A hand blender also works for small batches. |
| Storage Containers | Ideal for meal prep and freezing batches | Look for airtight, BPA-free options. |
With these handy tools and equipment, preparing and customizing meals for our beloved dogs becomes a simpler and more enjoyable task! Consistency in preparation and storage is key to achieving the right balance for this holistic recipe.
Directions
Let’s prepare Dr. Ruth Roberts’ Dog Food Recipe step-by-step to create a wholesome and well-balanced meal for our furry friends. Follow the instructions carefully for precise preparation.
Prep
- Measure Ingredients: Start by measuring all the ingredients listed:
- Protein: 1 lb of ground turkey or lean beef and 2 oz of beef liver (chopped finely).
- Vegetables: 1 cup organic spinach (finely chopped) and 1/2 cup cooked carrots (diced).
- Carbohydrates: 1 cup cooked white rice or quinoa and 1/2 cup mashed sweet potato.
- Fats and Supplements: 1 tbsp coconut oil, 1 tsp calcium powder, 1/4 tsp iodized salt, and optional fish oil as per vet recommendations.
For convenience, use a food scale and measuring spoons. This ensures we maintain the proper nutrient balance.
- Prepare Cooking Tools: Gather all the necessary tools:
- Large stockpot for cooking the proteins.
- Steamer basket for the vegetables.
- Chopping board to prepare ingredients.
- Mixing bowls and spatula for combining.
- Storage containers for leftovers or batch prep meals.
- Sanitize and Organize: Clean all tools thoroughly and create a clutter-free workspace to streamline the cooking process. This helps maintain freshness and hygiene while preparing the dog food.
Cook
Let’s bring Dr. Ruth Roberts’ dog food recipe to life with precise cooking steps. From preparing the protein sources to perfecting the vegetables and carbohydrates, each step ensures the healthiest meal for our furry friends.
Prepare Protein Source
- Brown the Ground Meat
- Place a large stockpot on medium heat.
- Add 2 lbs of ground turkey or lean beef to the pot.
- Cook thoroughly, stirring occasionally, until all the meat is browned and no pink remains (about 8-10 minutes).
- Prepare Beef Liver
- Rinse 4 oz fresh beef liver under cool water to remove impurities.
- Chop into small, evenly sized pieces.
- Add the chopped liver to the stockpot once the ground meat is almost done, and cook for an additional 3-5 minutes or until fully cooked.
Note: Be careful not to overcook the liver to preserve its nutrient quality.
| Meat Type | Cooking Time | Cooking Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Ground Turkey/Beef | 8-10 minutes (medium heat) | Stir occasionally for even cooking |
| Beef Liver | 3-5 minutes (added to meat) | Do not overcook to retain nutrients |
- Drain Excess Fat (if needed)
If the meat releases excess fat, carefully drain it but leave a small amount for flavor and moisture.
- Mix Thoroughly
Stir the meat and liver to evenly combine, making sure they are seasoned only with iodized salt as per the recipe. Avoid using any spices or seasonings harmful to dogs.
Cook Vegetables And Carbohydrates
- Steam the Vegetables
- Take 1 cup of organic spinach and roughly chop it. Prepare 1 cup of cooked carrots by peeling and slicing them into small pieces.
- Use a steamer basket placed inside a medium saucepan with 1-2 inches of water at the bottom.
- Steam the carrots first for about 5-7 minutes until tender but not mushy.
- Add the spinach during the last 2-3 minutes of steaming as it cooks very quickly.
- Prepare Sweet Potatoes or Quinoa
- For sweet potatoes, peel and dice 1 cup of sweet potatoes into small cubes. Boil in water for 10-12 minutes or until soft.
- If using quinoa or white rice, measure 1 cup and cook according to package instructions (typically simmering in water for 15 minutes for quinoa or 18 minutes for white rice).
| Vegetable/Carb | Cooking Time | Cooking Method |
|---|---|---|
| Carrots | 5-7 minutes | Steam |
| Spinach | 2-3 minutes (add later) | Steam |
| Sweet Potato | 10-12 minutes | Boil |
| Quinoa/White Rice | 15-18 minutes | Simmer in water |
- Combine and Cool
Mix cooked ingredients in a large mixing bowl. Allow everything to cool to room temperature before serving or storing. Cooling ensures safety and prevents burns while feeding.
By following these steps, we ensure every ingredient in the dog food recipe is cooked to perfection, enhancing both the nutritional value and appeal for our dogs.
Assemble
Now that we have prepared all of the individual components, it’s time to bring everything together for Dr. Ruth Roberts’ holistic dog food recipe. Assembling the food ensures even distribution of nutrients and flavor, creating a balanced and enjoyable meal for our furry friend.
Mix Cooked Ingredients
Using a large mixing bowl, we combine the fully cooked ground meat and beef liver. The meats should be evenly distributed to serve as the primary protein source.
Next, we add the steamed vegetables—organic spinach and cooked carrots. Carefully fold them into the meat mixture to avoid crushing. Then, stir in the cooked carbohydrates—either white rice, quinoa, or sweet potato. These ingredients provide essential energy sources for our dog.
To ensure proper distribution:
| Ingredient | Quantity Example (per batch) |
|---|---|
| Ground Meat | 2 lbs |
| Beef Liver | 4 oz |
| Spinach (steamed) | 1 cup |
| Carrots (cooked) | 1/2 cup |
| Quinoa/White Rice | 1 1/2 cups (cooked) |
Carefully mix until all components are evenly combined, maintaining a uniform texture through the entire mixture.
Incorporate Supplements
Once the base ingredients are thoroughly combined, we add the supplements to enhance the nutritional value of the recipe. Measure each supplement carefully using spoons or scales to maintain the recommended quantities.
- Coconut oil: Add 2 tablespoons for its rich fatty acids and shine to the meal.
- Calcium powder: Sprinkle 1 teaspoon to support bone health.
- Iodized salt: Incorporate 1/4 teaspoon to maintain balanced electrolytes.
- Optional: Add 1 capsule of fish oil (opened and drizzled) for an omega-3 boost.
Gently fold these into the food, ensuring they bond well with the other ingredients. This step ensures uniform nutrient distribution throughout every bite.
Cool The Food
Allow the assembled dog food mixture to cool completely before portioning. Spreading the mixture out on a clean baking sheet or keeping the mixing bowl uncovered can speed up cooling. Cooling avoids any risk of burns when feeding and helps preserve the meal’s freshness when storing.
Once cooled, divide the food into individual portions based on your dog’s size and daily calorie requirements. Store portions in airtight containers to maintain freshness and nutritional integrity. For larger batches, keep the next few days’ portions refrigerated and freeze the rest in clearly labeled containers for easy thawing later.
Storage Instructions
Proper storage of Dr. Ruth Roberts’ dog food recipe is essential to maintain its freshness and retain its nutritional benefits. Once we’ve prepared this wholesome meal, here’s how we can store it to ensure it stays safe and ready to serve:
1. Cooling the Food
After mixing and assembling the cooked components with the supplements:
- Let the dog food cool completely at room temperature before transferring it to storage containers.
- Avoid sealing hot food in airtight containers to prevent moisture buildup, which may lead to spoilage.
2. Use Airtight Containers
- Portion the dog food based on your dog’s daily serving needs.
- Store portions in BPA-free, airtight containers or resealable freezer-safe bags to protect against freezer burn and contamination.
3. Refrigerator Storage
For short-term storage, keep the food in the refrigerator. It can remain fresh for 3 to 4 days if stored properly. Mark the date of preparation to track its usability.
4. Freezer Storage
For larger batches or long-term use:
- Transfer portions of the cooled food into freezer-safe bags or containers.
- Freeze the food in single-meal servings to simplify thawing.
- This recipe can stay fresh in the freezer for up to 3 months while retaining its nutritional value.
| Storage Location | Storage Duration | Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerator | 3-4 days | Use airtight containers and label the date. |
| Freezer | Up to 3 months | Portion meals and freeze in dated packages. |
5. Thawing Instructions
When ready to feed frozen food:
- Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight for safe defrosting.
- To serve at room temperature, warm the thawed portion slightly by placing it in a bowl of warm water or microwaving it on low power for a few seconds. Ensure it does not overheat, as hot food may lose nutrients or make it unappealing to your dog.
6. Avoiding Spoilage
Keep an eye on signs of spoilage, such as:
- Off-putting odor
- Appearance of mold
- Discoloration
If anything seems off, discard the food immediately to protect your dog’s health.
Storing Dr. Ruth Roberts’ dog food recipe properly not only preserves its quality but also ensures that our furry friends get the same fresh, nutritious meal every time.
Tips For Success
Creating Dr. Ruth Roberts’ Dog Food Recipe at home can be a rewarding experience for both you and your dog. These tips will help ensure that your preparation and customization process run smoothly while maximizing nutritional benefits.
Customizing The Recipe For Your Dog
Every dog is unique, so it is important to adapt this recipe to meet your pet’s specific nutritional needs and preferences.
- Consult Your Veterinarian: Always consult with your vet before introducing any new ingredients or supplements into your dog’s diet, especially if your dog has allergies, sensitivities, or medical conditions.
- Protein Preference: Substitute ground turkey or lean beef with other lean proteins your dog enjoys, such as ground chicken or lamb, as long as they fit into your dog’s nutritional plan.
- Vegetable Variety: If your dog dislikes spinach or cooked carrots, feel free to incorporate dog-safe vegetables like green beans, broccoli, or zucchini. Ensure they are steamed or cooked.
- Grain-Free Option: For dogs with grain sensitivities, replace white rice with a grain-free option like quinoa or cooked sweet potato as the carbohydrate source.
- Supplement Adjustments: Stick to the recommended supplements such as calcium powder, iodized salt, and coconut oil, but you can include optional fish oil for omega-3 benefits if approved by your vet.
Note: Remember, personalization should always maintain the balance of proteins, carbohydrates, fats, and essential nutrients to avoid deficiencies.
Measuring Portion Sizes
Accurately portioning the food is crucial for maintaining your dog’s health. Incorrect serving sizes may lead to overeating or undernourishment.
Recommended Feeding Portions
The amount to feed your dog varies depending on factors such as weight, age, and activity level. Below is a general guideline for daily portions:
| Dog Weight | Daily Serving Size |
|---|---|
| Under 10 lbs | 1/2 to 3/4 cup |
| 10–25 lbs | 3/4 to 1 1/2 cups |
| 25–50 lbs | 1 1/2 to 3 cups |
| Over 50 lbs | 3 to 6 cups |
- Weigh Your Ingredients: Use a food scale to ensure component accuracy when combining the recipe.
- Adjust for Activity Levels: Highly active dogs may need larger portions for energy, while less active dogs may require smaller servings.
- Track Weight: Regularly monitor your dog’s weight to assess if the serving sizes are appropriate. Adjust accordingly to avoid overfeeding.
Tip: Divide the daily portion into two or three smaller meals to maintain steady energy levels throughout the day.
By following these tips, we can ensure that preparing and serving Dr. Ruth Roberts’ Dog Food Recipe becomes an effective and enjoyable way to support our dog’s health and well-being.
Conclusion
Dr. Ruth Roberts’ dog food recipe offers a thoughtful approach to nourishing our furry companions with fresh, wholesome ingredients. By taking the time to prepare these meals at home, we can ensure our dogs receive the balanced nutrition they deserve while fostering their overall health and happiness. This recipe not only simplifies the process but also allows us to tailor meals to meet individual needs, creating a more personalized dining experience for our pets.
With the right tools, quality ingredients, and a little preparation, we can turn mealtime into a meaningful way to show our love and care. Let’s embrace this opportunity to prioritize our dog’s well-being and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with knowing exactly what’s in their bowl.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Why is homemade dog food better than store-bought food?
Homemade dog food allows you to control the quality and freshness of ingredients, ensuring your dog gets a balanced and nutritious diet free from unnecessary additives, preservatives, or low-quality fillers. It also allows you to cater to your dog’s specific dietary needs.
2. What are the key ingredients in Dr. Ruth Roberts’ dog food recipe?
The recipe includes ground turkey or lean beef, fresh beef liver, organic spinach, cooked carrots, cooked white rice or quinoa, sweet potato, coconut oil, calcium powder, iodized salt, and optional fish oil for added nutritional value.
3. How do I know the proper portion size for my dog?
Portion sizes depend on your dog’s weight, age, and activity level. As a general rule, consult your veterinarian for specific recommendations tailored to your dog’s individual needs.
4. Can I substitute ingredients in Dr. Roberts’ recipe?
Yes, you can substitute ingredients based on your dog’s preferences or allergies. For example, you can use chicken instead of turkey or add different vegetables like green beans. Always consult your veterinarian before making significant changes.
5. How should I store homemade dog food?
Cool the food completely before storing it in BPA-free airtight containers. Keep portions in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days or freeze them for longer storage. Always thaw frozen food in the refrigerator to maintain freshness.
6. What tools and equipment do I need to prepare the recipe?
You’ll need a large stockpot, steamer basket, chopping board, measuring cups, food scale, mixing bowl, and BPA-free containers. These tools help ensure accurate measurements and preparation ease.
7. Can I prepare the recipe in large batches?
Yes, preparing the recipe in large batches is recommended as it saves time and ensures consistency. Store the extra portions appropriately in airtight containers for future use.
8. Should I consult my veterinarian before introducing this recipe?
Absolutely. Consulting your veterinarian ensures the recipe aligns with your dog’s unique health requirements, especially if your dog has specific medical conditions or dietary restrictions.
9. Is this recipe suitable for all dog breeds?
Yes, but adjustments may be necessary based on the dog’s size, age, and activity level. Always discuss any new diet plan with your veterinarian for breed-specific recommendations.
10. Can supplements be omitted from the recipe?
Some supplements, like calcium powder or fish oil, play a critical role in providing essential nutrients. Omitting them may create nutritional gaps, so it’s best to include them or discuss alternatives with your veterinarian.