31 Nutritious Homemade Dog Food Recipes for Small Dogs

Posted on October 7, 2025 by Maryann Desmond

Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just starting out in the kitchen, whipping up nutritious meals for your small dog can be both rewarding and fun. We’ve gathered 31 wholesome recipes that are easy to prepare, packed with healthy ingredients, and perfect for keeping your furry friend happy and healthy. Get ready to discover delicious homemade options that will have your pup’s tail wagging with every bite!

Chicken and Veggie Delight for Small Breeds

Chicken and Veggie Delight for Small Breeds
Gosh, who says small dogs can’t enjoy gourmet dining? We’re whipping up a Chicken and Veggie Delight that’ll have your petite pup doing happy dances—no fancy chef hat required, just lots of tail wags!

Ingredients

  • 1 cup boneless, skinless chicken breast, diced into ½-inch pieces (or substitute with lean turkey)
  • ½ cup carrots, finely grated (for easier digestion)
  • ½ cup green beans, trimmed and chopped into tiny bits (fresh or frozen both work)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil (or any pet-safe oil like coconut)
  • ¼ cup low-sodium chicken broth (ensure no onions or garlic)

Instructions

  1. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat (about 350°F) until it shimmers lightly.
  2. Add 1 cup diced chicken breast to the skillet, spreading pieces in a single layer to avoid steaming.
  3. Cook chicken for 5–7 minutes, flipping halfway, until internal temperature reaches 165°F and no pink remains.
  4. Tip: Use a meat thermometer for accuracy—undercooked poultry is a no-go for pups!
  5. Transfer cooked chicken to a plate, letting it rest for 2 minutes to retain juices.
  6. In the same skillet, add ½ cup grated carrots and ½ cup chopped green beans, stirring to coat with residual oil.
  7. Sauté veggies for 4–5 minutes until carrots soften and green beans turn bright green but still crisp-tender.
  8. Tip: Don’t overcook—crunchy veggies help clean your dog’s teeth naturally.
  9. Pour ¼ cup low-sodium chicken broth into the skillet, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom.
  10. Simmer mixture for 2–3 minutes until broth reduces by half, creating a light glaze.
  11. Return cooked chicken to the skillet, tossing gently to combine all ingredients evenly.
  12. Tip: Cool completely before serving—test a bite on your wrist to ensure it’s room temperature.
  13. Remove from heat and let mixture cool for 10–15 minutes until safe for your dog to eat.

Chunky yet tender, this delight balances savory chicken with subtle veggie sweetness. Serve it over kibble for a boost, or freeze portions in ice cube trays for quick, warm-weather treats—your small breed will lick the bowl clean!

Beef and Sweet Potato Medley for Tiny Tails

Beef and Sweet Potato Medley for Tiny Tails
Yowza, fellow pet parents! If your furry friend turns up their nose at ordinary kibble, this Beef and Sweet Potato Medley for Tiny Tails is about to become their new favorite gourmet experience. It’s a simple, wholesome dish that’ll have them wagging with joy from the first sniff to the last lick.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup lean ground beef (85/15 blend works great, or substitute with ground turkey)
  • 1 cup peeled, diced sweet potato (aim for ½-inch cubes for even cooking)
  • ½ cup low-sodium beef broth (or water in a pinch)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil (or any neutral oil like avocado or coconut oil)
  • 1 tsp dried parsley (optional, for a fresh herb kick)

Instructions

  1. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat until it shimmers, about 1 minute.
  2. Add 1 cup lean ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon into small crumbles.
  3. Cook the beef for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s fully browned and no pink remains.
  4. Tip: Use a slotted spoon to drain excess fat from the skillet for a leaner finish.
  5. Stir in 1 cup diced sweet potato and ½ cup low-sodium beef broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
  6. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat to low and cover the skillet with a lid.
  7. Simmer for 12–15 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender enough to pierce easily with a fork.
  8. Tip: If the liquid evaporates too quickly, add 1–2 tbsp of water to prevent sticking.
  9. Remove the skillet from heat and stir in 1 tsp dried parsley, if using, for a pop of color and freshness.
  10. Let the medley cool completely to room temperature before serving, about 20–25 minutes.
  11. Tip: Spread the mixture on a baking sheet to speed up cooling and avoid steam buildup.

Ready for the tail-wagging finale? This medley boasts a tender, chunky texture that’s easy on tiny jaws, with the natural sweetness of potatoes balancing the savory beef. Serve it over their usual kibble for a gourmet upgrade, or stuff it into a puzzle toy to turn mealtime into a fun, engaging game.

Turkey and Brown Rice Bowl for Petite Canines

Turkey and Brown Rice Bowl for Petite Canines
Let’s face it, our tiny canine companions deserve more than just kibble—they’re basically four-legged food critics with fur coats and zero patience for bland meals. This turkey and brown rice bowl is about to become your petite pup’s new favorite gourmet experience, proving that good things do indeed come in small (and deliciously wag-worthy) packages.

Ingredients

– 1 cup cooked brown rice (cooled completely, or substitute with quinoa)
– 1/2 lb ground turkey (93% lean works best, or ground chicken as alternative)
– 1/2 cup finely chopped carrots (about 2 medium carrots, peeled)
– 1/4 cup frozen peas (thawed, or green beans chopped small)
– 1 tbsp olive oil (or any neutral oil like coconut)
– 1/4 cup low-sodium chicken broth (or water if preferred)

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a medium skillet over medium heat until it shimmers slightly.
2. Add ground turkey to the skillet, breaking it into small crumbles with a wooden spoon as it cooks.
3. Cook turkey for 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently, until no pink remains and it reaches 165°F internally.
4. Add chopped carrots to the skillet and cook for 3 minutes until they begin to soften slightly.
5. Pour in chicken broth and scrape any browned bits from the bottom of the pan—this adds extra flavor!
6. Stir in thawed peas and cook for 2 minutes until heated through.
7. Remove skillet from heat and let mixture cool for 5 minutes to prevent rice from becoming mushy.
8. Gently fold in cooled brown rice until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
9. Transfer mixture to a large bowl and let cool completely to room temperature before serving.

Zesty doesn’t even begin to describe how your pup will react to this textured masterpiece! The tender turkey crumbles play perfectly against the chewy brown rice, while the carrots add just enough crunch to keep things interesting. Try serving it in a puzzle feeder for mental stimulation, or mix a spoonful with their regular kibble for a gourmet upgrade that’ll have them doing happy spins before you can say ‘second helping’!

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Fish and Quinoa Feast for Small Paws

Fish and Quinoa Feast for Small Paws

Oh, the eternal struggle of finding something both nutritious and delicious for our four-legged friends—until now! This Fish and Quinoa Feast for Small Paws is here to save the day, turning mealtime from a sniff-and-walk-away affair into a tail-wagging celebration. Who knew your pup could be a gourmet food critic?

Ingredients

  • 1 cup white quinoa, rinsed well (or swap for brown quinoa for extra fiber)
  • 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth (or water if you’re out)
  • 1 lb white fish fillets, like cod or tilapia, skinless and deboned
  • 1 tbsp olive oil (or any neutral oil you have on hand)
  • 1/2 cup finely chopped carrots (about 1 medium carrot)
  • 1/4 cup frozen peas, thawed (no need to cook separately)

Instructions

  1. Rinse 1 cup of white quinoa under cold water in a fine-mesh strainer for 1 minute to remove any bitterness.
  2. Combine the rinsed quinoa and 2 cups of low-sodium chicken broth in a medium saucepan over high heat.
  3. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan, and simmer for 15 minutes until the quinoa is fluffy and the liquid is absorbed.
  4. Remove the saucepan from the heat, fluff the quinoa with a fork, and let it sit covered for 5 minutes to steam further. Tip: Don’t peek while simmering—it lets steam escape and can make the quinoa gummy!
  5. While the quinoa rests, pat the 1 lb of white fish fillets dry with paper towels to ensure a nice sear.
  6. Heat 1 tbsp of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it shimmers, about 1–2 minutes.
  7. Place the fish fillets in the skillet and cook for 4–5 minutes per side until the flesh is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
  8. Transfer the cooked fish to a plate and use two forks to shred it into small, bite-sized pieces, checking for any hidden bones. Tip: Let the fish cool slightly before shredding to avoid burning your fingers!
  9. Add the 1/2 cup of finely chopped carrots to the same skillet and sauté over medium heat for 3–4 minutes until slightly softened.
  10. Stir in the 1/4 cup of thawed frozen peas and cook for 1 more minute just to warm through. Tip: Sautéing the carrots first brings out their natural sweetness, which pups adore.
  11. Combine the shredded fish, cooked quinoa, and vegetable mixture in a large bowl, mixing gently until evenly distributed.
  12. Let the feast cool completely to room temperature before serving, about 20–30 minutes, to avoid any tummy troubles.

Light and fluffy quinoa pairs perfectly with tender, flaky fish, while the carrots and peas add a subtle crunch and sweetness. Serve it as a standalone meal or mix a spoonful into your dog’s kibble for a gourmet upgrade—either way, those paws will be prancing with joy!

Lamb and Carrot Casserole for Little Companions

Lamb and Carrot Casserole for Little Companions
Naturally, our furry friends deserve more than just kibble—this lamb and carrot casserole is the cozy, tail-wagging dinner they’ve been dreaming of! Packed with wholesome goodness and easy to whip up, it’s the perfect way to spoil your pup without a fuss. Let’s get cooking for those four-legged food critics!

Ingredients

– 1 lb ground lamb (or lean ground beef for variety)
– 2 cups chopped carrots, about 1/4-inch pieces (for quick softening)
– 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth (or water in a pinch)
– 1 tbsp olive oil (or any neutral oil like canola)
– 1/2 cup plain, cooked brown rice (cooled, for easy digestion)

Instructions

1. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat until it shimmers, about 1 minute.
2. Add 1 lb ground lamb to the skillet and cook for 5–7 minutes, breaking it into small crumbles with a spatula until no pink remains.
3. Stir in 2 cups chopped carrots and sauté for 3–4 minutes until they brighten in color and soften slightly.
4. Pour in 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth, bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for 10 minutes until carrots are fork-tender.
5. Preheat your oven to 350°F while the mixture simmers for even baking later.
6. Remove the skillet from heat and mix in 1/2 cup plain, cooked brown rice until fully combined.
7. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15 minutes until the top is lightly golden and the casserole bubbles at the edges.
8. Let the casserole cool completely on a wire rack for about 20–30 minutes before serving to avoid burns.

Perfectly tender and savory, this casserole boasts a soft, chunky texture that’s easy for pups to devour, with carrots adding a subtle sweetness. Serve it scooped over their regular kibble for a gourmet twist, or freeze portions for busy days—your dog will be begging for seconds!

Poultry and Pumpkin Morsels for Miniature Dogs

Poultry and Pumpkin Morsels for Miniature Dogs
Aren’t we all just looking for ways to spoil our furry little overlords? These poultry and pumpkin morsels are about to make you the ultimate dog-parent hero, turning ordinary treat time into a tail-wagging celebration that’ll have your miniature canine convinced you attended culinary school just for them.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup cooked chicken breast, shredded (or turkey for variety)
  • 1/2 cup pure pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
  • 1 cup whole wheat flour (or oat flour for sensitive tummies)
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (or coconut oil for extra shine)
  • 1/4 cup low-sodium chicken broth (water works in a pinch)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Combine the shredded chicken and pumpkin puree in a large mixing bowl until well incorporated.
  3. Crack the egg into the mixture and stir vigorously until the egg is fully distributed—this acts as your binding agent for perfect texture.
  4. Drizzle in the olive oil while continuously mixing to ensure even coating throughout the dough.
  5. Gradually add the whole wheat flour in three additions, stirring between each to prevent clumping and achieve smooth consistency.
  6. Pour in the chicken broth slowly, mixing until the dough comes together in a slightly sticky but manageable ball.
  7. Roll the dough into 1/2-inch balls and place them 1 inch apart on your prepared baking sheet—this spacing allows for even browning and crisp edges.
  8. Bake for 18-22 minutes until the morsels are firm to the touch and display golden-brown bottoms when lifted with a spatula.
  9. Transfer the treats to a wire cooling rack and let them cool completely for about 45 minutes—this step is crucial for achieving that satisfying crunch.

Velvety soft with a subtle crunch, these morsels deliver savory poultry notes balanced by pumpkin’s gentle sweetness. Try crumbling them over your pup’s regular kibble for an instant dinner upgrade, or hide them in puzzle toys to turn snack time into brain-boosting fun that’ll keep those tiny paws busy.

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Duck and Oatmeal Stew for Small Stomachs

Duck and Oatmeal Stew for Small Stomachs
Nourishing your tummy doesn’t have to be boring, folks! This duck and oatmeal stew is here to rescue sensitive stomachs with a cozy hug in a bowl—think comfort food that won’t stage a rebellion in your gut. Let’s dive into this belly-friendly feast that’s as witty as it is wholesome.

Ingredients

– 1 lb duck breast, skin-on (for crispy goodness, or sub chicken thighs)
– 1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats (not instant, for better texture)
– 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth (or veggie broth for a twist)
– 1 medium carrot, diced (about ½ cup, for a sweet crunch)
– 1 celery stalk, diced (about ½ cup, adds freshness)
– 1 small onion, finely chopped (about ½ cup, or use shallots for mildness)
– 2 tbsp olive oil (or any neutral oil like avocado)
– 1 tsp dried thyme (or fresh if you’re fancy)
– ½ tsp salt (adjust to taste, but go light for sensitive tummies)
– ¼ tsp black pepper (optional, skip if spices bother you)

Instructions

1. Pat the duck breast dry with paper towels to ensure crispy skin when searing.
2. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat until it shimmers, about 1 minute.
3. Place the duck breast skin-side down in the pot and cook for 5–7 minutes until the skin is golden brown and crispy.
4. Flip the duck breast and cook for another 3 minutes to brown the other side, then transfer it to a plate.
5. Tip: Pour off excess duck fat from the pot, leaving about 1 tablespoon to sauté veggies for extra flavor.
6. Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil to the pot and sauté the onion, carrot, and celery for 4–5 minutes until softened.
7. Stir in the rolled oats and toast them for 2 minutes to enhance their nutty taste.
8. Pour in the chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the pot to lift any browned bits for a richer stew.
9. Add the dried thyme, salt, and black pepper (if using), then bring the mixture to a boil.
10. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
11. Tip: Check the oats at 10 minutes; if they’re too thick, add a splash of broth for your preferred consistency.
12. While the stew simmers, slice the cooked duck breast into thin strips.
13. Stir the duck strips into the stew and cook for another 2–3 minutes to warm through.
14. Tip: Let the stew rest off the heat for 5 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld beautifully.
15. Serve the stew hot in bowls, garnished with extra thyme if desired.

Soothing and subtly savory, this stew boasts a creamy oatmeal base that cradles tender duck bites like a culinary lullaby. Slurp it up on a chilly evening, or get creative by topping it with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of color—it’s the gentle giant your stomach will thank you for.

Salmon and Spinach Patty for Small Snouts

Salmon and Spinach Patty for Small Snouts
Tired of your furry food critic turning up their nose at dinner? This salmon and spinach patty is about to become the Michelin-starred meal in your small snout’s culinary world—no tiny beret required.

Ingredients

– 1 cup cooked salmon, flaked (canned works great, just drain well)
– 1/2 cup fresh spinach, finely chopped (pack it lightly)
– 1/4 cup plain breadcrumbs (or panko for extra crunch)
– 1 large egg, beaten (the glue that holds it all together)
– 2 tbsp olive oil (or any neutral oil for frying)
– 1/4 tsp garlic powder (optional but adds nice flavor)

Instructions

1. Place the flaked salmon in a medium mixing bowl, breaking up any large chunks with a fork.
2. Add the finely chopped spinach to the bowl with the salmon.
3. Sprinkle the breadcrumbs evenly over the salmon and spinach mixture.
4. Pour the beaten egg into the bowl—this will bind everything together beautifully.
5. Add the garlic powder if using, distributing it throughout the mixture.
6. Mix all ingredients thoroughly with your hands until well combined and the mixture holds together when pressed.
7. Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions and shape each into a 1/2-inch thick patty.
8. Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat (350°F if you’re using a thermometer) until shimmering.
9. Carefully place the patties in the hot skillet, leaving space between them for even cooking.
10. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the bottom develops a golden-brown crust.
11. Flip each patty using a spatula and cook for another 3-4 minutes on the second side.
12. Transfer the cooked patties to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
13. Let the patties cool completely before serving to your eager eater.

Your kitchen will smell like a five-star fish joint, and these golden patties offer the perfect balance of flaky salmon and tender spinach. Serve them whole for bigger snouts or crumble over your pet’s regular kibble for a gourmet upgrade—either way, prepare for some serious tail-wagging appreciation.

Egg and Kale Scramble for Tiny Tummies

Egg and Kale Scramble for Tiny Tummies
Yikes, mornings with little ones can be chaos, but this scramble is your superhero in disguise—turning frantic breakfasts into fun, nutritious wins that even the pickiest tiny critics will devour.

Ingredients

  • 2 large eggs (or swap for egg whites if preferred)
  • 1 cup chopped kale, packed (stems removed for tenderness)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil (or any neutral oil like avocado)
  • 2 tbsp whole milk (for fluffiness, or use water)
  • 1 tbsp unsalted butter (adds richness, optional)
  • Pinch of salt (adjust based on toddler’s needs)

Instructions

  1. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat (around 325°F) for 1 minute until shimmering.
  2. Add 1 cup chopped kale and sauté for 3–4 minutes, stirring often, until leaves are wilted and bright green.
  3. Crack 2 large eggs into a small bowl, then whisk vigorously with 2 tbsp whole milk until fully combined and frothy.
  4. Pour the egg mixture directly over the wilted kale in the skillet.
  5. Let eggs set undisturbed for 30 seconds to form a soft bottom layer.
  6. Gently push cooked edges toward the center with a spatula every 20 seconds for 2–3 minutes until eggs are softly set but still moist.
  7. Fold in 1 tbsp unsalted butter off-heat, stirring until melted and creamy.
  8. Sprinkle a pinch of salt evenly over the scramble, then serve immediately.

Delightfully fluffy with buttery richness, this scramble pairs kale’s mild earthiness with creamy eggs—try serving it in fun silicone cups or rolled into whole-wheat tortillas for a handheld breakfast adventure.

Pork and Apple Mash for Little Chowhounds

Pork and Apple Mash for Little Chowhounds
Kiddos turning up their noses at dinner again? This pork and apple mash is about to become your secret weapon for transforming picky eaters into enthusiastic little chowhounds with minimal fuss and maximum flavor payoff.

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Ingredients

– 1 lb ground pork (or ground turkey for a lighter option)
– 2 medium apples, peeled and diced (Granny Smith work beautifully)
– 1 cup mashed potatoes (freshly made or quality prepared)
– 1/2 cup chicken broth (low sodium preferred)
– 1 tbsp olive oil (or any neutral oil)
– 1/4 tsp cinnamon (just a whisper for warmth)
– Pinch of salt (adjust based on your broth’s saltiness)

Instructions

1. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until it shimmers.
2. Add 1 pound of ground pork to the skillet, breaking it into small crumbles with a wooden spoon.
3. Cook the pork for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until no pink remains and it’s lightly browned.
4. Stir in 2 diced apples and 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon, coating everything evenly.
5. Pour in 1/2 cup chicken broth, scraping any browned bits from the skillet bottom for extra flavor.
6. Reduce heat to low, cover the skillet, and simmer for 8-10 minutes until apples are tender when pierced with a fork.
7. Gently fold in 1 cup mashed potatoes until fully incorporated and heated through.
8. Season with a pinch of salt, tasting before adding more since broths vary in saltiness.
9. Remove from heat and let rest for 2 minutes to allow flavors to meld.

The result is a wonderfully textured mash where sweet apple chunks play against savory pork in a cozy potato blanket. Try serving it in mini ramekins for fun individual portions, or spread it on toast points for a playful twist that’ll have tiny hands reaching for more.

Rabbit and Pea Porridge for Small Eaters

Rabbit and Pea Porridge for Small Eaters
Aren’t you tired of the same old chicken and rice routine for your tiny human? Let’s hop into something delightfully different that’ll have even the pickiest toddler doing a happy dance at the dinner table. This rabbit and pea porridge transforms ordinary mealtime into a whimsical adventure that’s both nutritious and downright delicious.

Ingredients

– 1 lb boneless rabbit meat, cut into ½-inch cubes (or substitute chicken thighs)
– 1 cup frozen peas (thawed for quicker cooking)
– ¾ cup white rice (short-grain works best for creaminess)
– 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth (homemade adds extra flavor)
– 1 small yellow onion, finely diced (about ½ cup)
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter (or olive oil for dairy-free)
– ½ tsp dried thyme (fresh thyme sprigs work too)
– ¼ tsp black pepper (adjust based on child’s preference)
– ¼ tsp salt (add more after cooking if needed)

Instructions

1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat until it bubbles gently.
2. Add diced onion and cook for 4-5 minutes until translucent but not browned.
3. Add rabbit cubes and cook for 6-7 minutes, turning occasionally until lightly browned on all sides.
4. Stir in rice and coat thoroughly with the butter and onion mixture.
5. Pour in chicken broth and add thyme, pepper, and salt.
6. Bring to a boil, then immediately reduce heat to low and cover the pot.
7. Simmer for 25 minutes, resisting the urge to peek—this keeps the steam trapped for perfect rice.
8. Remove lid and stir in thawed peas.
9. Cook uncovered for 3-4 minutes until peas are bright green and tender.
10. Remove from heat and let stand for 5 minutes to thicken slightly.
11. Mash lightly with a fork for younger eaters or leave chunky for toddlers.

Zesty yet comforting, this porridge achieves a creamy texture that clings perfectly to spoons while the sweet peas pop against the mild rabbit. Try serving it in colorful divided plates with a side of roasted carrot sticks for dipping, or mix in a spoonful of applesauce for an unexpected sweet twist that’ll have them asking for seconds.

Venison and Blueberry Bake for Tiny Treats

Venison and Blueberry Bake for Tiny Treats
Brace yourselves, flavor adventurers! This isn’t your grandma’s casserole—unless your grandma hunts her own dinner and pairs it with forest jewels. We’re taking wild venison on a sweet-tart joyride with blueberries in a bake that’ll make your taste buds do a happy dance.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb ground venison (or lean beef if venison isn’t available)
  • 2 cups fresh blueberries (frozen work too, no need to thaw)
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (panko for extra crunch)
  • 1/4 cup maple syrup (the real stuff, not pancake glue)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil (or any neutral oil)
  • 1 small onion, finely diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup whole milk

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F and grease an 8×8 inch baking dish with olive oil.
  2. Heat remaining olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it shimmers.
  3. Add diced onion and cook for 4-5 minutes until translucent, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
  4. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant—your kitchen should smell amazing now.
  5. Add ground venison, breaking it up with a wooden spoon, and cook for 6-7 minutes until no pink remains.
  6. Sprinkle in dried thyme, salt, and black pepper, stirring to distribute evenly.
  7. Remove skillet from heat and let the mixture cool for 5 minutes—this prevents scrambled eggs in the next step.
  8. In a large bowl, whisk eggs and whole milk until fully combined and slightly frothy.
  9. Stir the cooled venison mixture into the egg mixture until well incorporated.
  10. Gently fold in fresh blueberries, being careful not to crush them—we want juicy bursts, not purple mush.
  11. Transfer the mixture to your prepared baking dish and press into an even layer.
  12. Drizzle maple syrup evenly over the top, creating sweet pockets throughout.
  13. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the surface, covering completely.
  14. Top with breadcrumbs for that golden, crispy finish everyone fights over.
  15. Bake at 375°F for 25-30 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and the edges are golden brown.
  16. Let rest for 10 minutes before serving—this allows the flavors to settle and prevents a volcanic cheese burn.

Outrageously delicious doesn’t begin to cover it! The savory venison creates this rich, gamey base that plays perfectly against the blueberry’s sweet-tart pop, while the cheesy crust adds that satisfying crunch. Serve these tiny treats in muffin tins for portable perfection, or scoop over creamy polenta for a comfort food upgrade that’ll have everyone begging for seconds.

Conclusion

Ready to treat your furry friend? These 31 nutritious recipes make it easy to prepare wholesome meals your small dog will love. We hope you try some of these dishes and share which ones become your pup’s favorites in the comments below. Don’t forget to pin this article on Pinterest so other pet parents can discover these healthy homemade options too!

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