Dog

Beef & Pumpkin Stew

Digestive Health

Ingredients

  • 1 lb lean ground beef (90% lean)
  • 1 cup canned pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
  • 1 cup brown rice, uncooked
  • 1 cup carrots, diced
  • 1 cup green beans, chopped
  • 4 cups low-sodium beef broth
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1/2 cup zucchini, diced
  • 1/4 cup parsley, chopped

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. In a large pot, brown the ground beef over medium heat, breaking it into small crumbles.
  2. Drain excess fat from the beef and set aside.
  3. In the same pot, add olive oil and sauté carrots and green beans for 5 minutes until slightly tender.
  4. Add the brown rice and beef broth to the pot and bring to a boil.
  5. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes until rice is cooked.
  6. Add the cooked beef, pumpkin puree, and zucchini to the pot.
  7. Stir well and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes until heated through.
  8. Remove from heat and let cool completely before serving.
  9. Stir in fresh parsley just before serving for added flavor and nutrients.
  10. Portion into airtight containers and refrigerate or freeze as needed.

💊 Required Supplements

Add the following per 2-cup serving: 1/2 teaspoon fish oil (providing approximately 500mg combined EPA/DHA), 1/4 teaspoon calcium carbonate powder (providing approximately 500mg calcium), and a complete canine vitamin-mineral supplement according to manufacturer's instructions for senior dogs (typically 1 chew or 1/2 teaspoon powder). Consult your veterinarian for exact dosages based on your dog's specific weight and health needs.

Nutritional Analysis

1.5 cups (for 25lb senior dog)
Calories380 kcal
Protein24g (32% DM)
Fat14g (18% DM)
Carbohydrates36g (42% DM)
Fiber6g (8% DM)
Moisture70%
Calcium1.1% DM
Phosphorus0.85% DM
Ca:P Ratio1.3:1
DM = Dry Matter basis. Values are approximate and may vary based on ingredient sourcing and preparation methods.
This recipe provides moderate protein levels appropriate for senior dogs while maintaining adequate fiber content for digestive health. The pumpkin adds soluble fiber that helps regulate bowel movements. The calcium-to-phosphorus ratio of 1.3:1 meets NRC requirements for adult dogs. This recipe is not complete and balanced on its own and requires the specified supplements. Always consult with your veterinarian before switching to a homemade diet, especially for senior dogs with existing health conditions.

🧊 Safety & Storage

Store in refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze individual portions for up to 3 months. Always serve at room temperature or slightly warm, never hot. Wash all produce thoroughly before use. Use only low-sodium or homemade broth without onion or garlic, as these are toxic to dogs. Discard any uneaten food after 2 hours at room temperature.

⚠️ Recipe Drift Warning

Do NOT substitute pumpkin with pumpkin pie filling, which contains toxic spices and excess sugar. Do NOT replace beef broth with store-bought versions containing onion, garlic, or excessive sodium. Do NOT use white rice as a substitute for brown rice without adjusting cooking time and liquid ratios. Do NOT add salt, seasonings, or cooking wine. Do NOT substitute ground beef with fattier cuts without adjusting portion sizes, as excess fat can cause pancreatitis in senior dogs.

⚕️ Always consult your veterinarian before changing your pet's diet.

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