There’s just something cozy and heartwarming about baking a homemade meatloaf. And when it’s made just for your dog? That tail-wagging happiness is the best reward of all! This pork and apple meatloaf is packed with wholesome ingredients and baked with love. It’s an easy, dog-friendly recipe you can feel good about serving any day of the week.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
There’s nothing quite like making a special homemade meal and watching your dog gobble it up with excitement. It’s a great way to show your pup some extra love. These are just some of the reasons this will be a go-to recipe:
Wholesome Ingredients – This meatloaf is made with real food. There’s no mystery meat, artificial preservatives, or additives here. Just good stuff your dog will devour.
Easy to Make – Just mix, press it into a loaf pan, and bake! It’s a no-fuss recipe that comes together quickly.
Simple to Customize – You can easily tweak this recipe to suit your dog’s tastes or dietary needs by swapping proteins or veggies.
Winning Flavor Combo – Pork and apple make a perfect pairing, combining savory and sweet in one bite. Dogs love it, and you might too!
Great for Fall – This is the ultimate autumn dog meal. Apples are in season, and the warm oven aromas will make your kitchen smell amazing.
Ingredients and What They Bring to the Meatloaf
This recipe uses just five simple ingredients that work together to create a balanced, tasty, and satisfying meal for your pup. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Ground Pork – A flavorful protein source that’s rich in essential amino acids and nutrients.
- Apple – Adds natural sweetness along with fiber and vitamin C.
- Carrots – A great source of beta-carotene and vitamin A.
- Eggs – Help bind the meatloaf together and add protein and healthy fats.
- Old-Fashioned Oats – Provide fiber and help hold the meatloaf’s texture without any need for flour or breadcrumbs.
Ingredient Substitutions
This recipe is super flexible, so feel free to make these simple swaps to better suit your dog’s diet or taste preferences:
- Pork – You can use ground chicken, turkey, or lamb instead.
- Apple – Pears are a great substitute if you’re out of apples or want to try something new.
- Carrots – Sweet potato, butternut squash, or pumpkin (cooked and diced or grated) are all great alternatives.
- Extra Veggies – Add a handful of chopped spinach, broccoli, green beans, or zucchini for more variety and nutrients.
How to Make Pork and Apple Meatloaf for Dogs
Making this meatloaf is a breeze! Here’s how to do it step-by-step:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F and grease an 8×4-inch loaf pan with olive oil or coconut oil.
- Shred the carrots if they aren’t pre-shredded. Peel, core, and chop the apple into small pieces.
- In a large bowl, combine the ground pork, chopped apple, shredded carrots, and eggs. Mix well. Add in the oats and stir to combine.
- Press the mixture into the prepared loaf pan. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until browned and the sides start to pull away from the pan.
- Let the meatloaf cool completely before slicing and serving.
Recipe Variations – Meatloaf Muffins and Cupcakes
Want to change it up? Try baking this recipe in a muffin tin for perfectly portioned servings!
- Muffins: Fill muffin cups about ¾ full and bake at 350°F for around 20 minutes.
- Mini Muffins: Use a mini muffin pan and bake for about 12 minutes. These are great for smaller dogs or training treats.
- Cupcakes: Make it fun by topping meatloaf muffins with plain mashed potatoes or mashed sweet potatoes as a dog-safe frosting.
How to Store the Meatloaf and How Long It Will Last
Store leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
For longer storage, freeze individual portions in a freezer-safe container or zip-top freezer bag. It’ll keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
You can warm it slightly in the microwave before giving it to your dog – just be sure it’s not too hot when served.
Is this recipe suitable for puppies?
The ingredients are generally safe for puppies, but because puppies have specific and more demanding nutritional requirements, it’s best to check with your vet before feeding this meatloaf to a puppy.
Can people eat this meatloaf?
Yes! All of the ingredients are safe for humans, too. Give it a try. Just keep in mind it’s not seasoned like regular meatloaf, so you might want to add a little salt, pepper, or other seasonings to your portion.
Disclaimer
I am not a veterinarian or a certified canine nutritionist. Always consult your veterinarian before feeding your dog homemade food to ensure it’s appropriate for their specific dietary needs.
Most homemade dog food requires added nutrients or supplements, which vary based on your dog’s size, breed, age, and health. Talk with your vet to determine what’s best for your dog.
More Dog Food Recipes
Want to make some other tasty meals for your dog? Try these recipes:
- Bison Meatballs
- Chicken Meatballs
- Ground Chicken Dog Food
- Pork Dog Food
- Turkey Meatloaf
- Tuna Casserole
Find lots of easy recipes for homemade dog food right here on Spoiled Hounds!
Pork and Apple Meatloaf for Dogs
Ingredients
- 1 apple
- 1/2 cup shredded carrots
- 1 pound ground pork
- 2 eggs
- 1 cup old-fashioned oats
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease an 8×4-inch loaf pan with olive oil or coconut oil.
- Peel, core, and chop the apple into small pieces. Shred carrots if not using pre-shredded.
- In a large bowl, combine ground pork, eggs, apple, and carrots. Once combined, add the oatmeal and mix in well.
- Press the mixture into the bottom of the greased loaf pan. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until browned and the mixture begins to pull away from the sides of the pan.
- Allow to cool completely before serving.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge.
Nutrition
Serving Amount
How much homemade dog food you give your dog can vary depending on many factors, including the dog’s size, activity level, and breed. A general guide is 1 cup for every 20 pounds of body weight, but then it goes down as the weight increases. Most dogs need 2-3% of their body weight in food daily.
Consult with your veterinarian to determine the amount based on your dog’s individual needs. Always start with small amounts when adding new foods to your dog’s diet to ensure your dog has no allergic or adverse reactions.
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