Dog

Puppy Growth Formula

General

Ingredients

  • 1 lb ground chicken thigh (skinless, boneless)
  • 1/2 cup brown rice (uncooked)
  • 1/2 cup sweet potato (peeled, diced)
  • 1/4 cup carrots (finely chopped)
  • 1/4 cup green beans (chopped)
  • 2 tbsp chicken liver
  • 1 tbsp sardines (canned in water, drained)
  • 1 tbsp ground eggshell
  • 1 tsp sunflower oil
  • 1/2 cup water or low-sodium chicken broth

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Cook brown rice according to package directions using water or broth
  2. Steam sweet potato until very soft, about 15 minutes
  3. In a large skillet, cook ground chicken over medium heat until no pink remains
  4. Add chopped carrots and green beans to chicken, cook 5 minutes until tender
  5. Finely chop chicken liver and sardines, add to mixture
  6. Combine all cooked ingredients in large bowl
  7. Grind eggshell into fine powder using coffee grinder or mortar and pestle
  8. Add eggshell powder and sunflower oil to mixture, stir thoroughly
  9. Mash sweet potato and mix throughout until uniform consistency
  10. Cool completely before serving

💊 Required Supplements

Add per 5 lbs of prepared food: 1/4 tsp calcium carbonate (if not using eggshell), 1/8 tsp iodized salt, 100 IU vitamin E (dry powder), 50mg B-complex (crushed tablet), 1/4 tsp zinc methionine (15mg elemental zinc), 25mg iron (ferrous sulfate). For puppies under 6 months: add 100mg DHA from fish oil per 5 lbs food. Mix supplements into food immediately before serving.

Nutritional Analysis

1 cup (for 15lb puppy)
Calories380 kcal
Protein32g (38% DM)
Fat14g (18% DM)
Carbohydrates28g (35% DM)
Fiber3g (4% DM)
Moisture70%
Calcium1.25% DM
Phosphorus0.95% 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 meets AAFCO nutrient profiles for growth and reproduction when supplements are included. The 1.3:1 calcium:phosphorus ratio supports proper skeletal development. DHA from sardines and fish oil supplement promotes brain and eye development. High-quality animal protein from chicken and liver supports muscle growth. Monitor puppy weight weekly and adjust portions to maintain ideal body condition score of 4-5/9. Consult veterinarian before making any recipe modifications.

🧊 Safety & Storage

Refrigerate in airtight containers for up to 4 days. Freeze individual portions in ice cube trays for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in refrigerator. Never leave at room temperature over 2 hours. Wash all surfaces and utensils with hot soapy water. Always use fresh eggshells, washed and baked at 250°F for 10 minutes before grinding.

⚠️ Recipe Drift Warning

Do not substitute ground beef for chicken without adjusting calcium (beef is high phosphorus). Do not use white rice instead of brown without adding 1/4 tsp kelp powder for trace minerals. Never omit eggshell or calcium supplement - puppies require precise 1.2-1.5:1 calcium:phosphorus ratio for proper bone development. Do not add onions, garlic, grapes, or xylitol-containing ingredients.

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

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