Help your dog embrace their inner hunter with this wholesome Homemade Rabbit Dog Food! It’s packed with high-protein rabbit meat, healthy vegetables, and simple, dog-safe ingredients.
Whether your dog has sensitivities to common proteins or you’re looking to spoil them with a gourmet meal, this recipe is an easy way to show them some extra love.
Why You and Your Dog Will Love This Recipe
Do you enjoy making food for your dog? I do! I love using whole, real food and then watching them gobble it down. Here are a few reasons both you and your fur baby will love this rabbit dog food recipe.
Easy to make. With three cooking methods to choose from, you can easily fit this recipe into your routine. Whether you want to slow cook it all day or get it done quickly in the Instant Pot, it’s up to you.
Simple ingredients. Every ingredient is wholesome and dog-safe. No fillers or preservatives – just real food. Plus it’s grain-free and gluten-free.
Made 3 ways. Whether you love using your oven, slow cooker, or Instant Pot, this recipe works for you!
Customizable for picky pups. You can switch up the protein, veggies, or even the starch to suit your dog’s preferences or dietary needs.
Benefits of Rabbit for Dogs
Is rabbit good meat to give dogs? Yes, it sure is.
Rabbit is a lean, high-protein meat that’s rich in essential nutrients like iron, zinc, and vitamin B12, which help support muscle development, energy levels, and overall health. It’s a great alternative for dogs with sensitivities to more common proteins like chicken or beef. Plus, it’s low in fat, making it a heart-healthy option for your furry friend.
Ingredients
It only takes a few ingredients to make this recipe. Here’s what you’ll need.
- Rabbit meat: The star of the dish!
- Potato: A source of energy and easily digestible carbohydrates.
- Green beans: A low-calorie vegetable packed with fiber, vitamins, and minerals.
- Water: Helps keep the meal moist and ensures everything cooks evenly.
Ingredient Notes and Substitutions
This recipe is flexible and can be adjusted based on what you have on hand or your dog’s needs:
- Protein swaps: You can use beef, bison, lamb, venison, chicken, or turkey instead of rabbit.
- Starch swaps: Sweet potato or butternut squash are great substitutes for potatoes.
- Veggie swaps: Carrots, peas, broccoli, or zucchini can be used instead of green beans.
Where to get rabbit for dog food: You can order it from a butcher or online. It’s also commonly found in Asian supermarkets.
How to Make Rabbit Dog Food
Making rabbit dog food is a simple process. Here’s what to do for each method of cooking it:
Instant Pot Method
- Cut the rabbit into bite-sized pieces. Peel and cut the potato into small cubes.
- Place the rabbit, potatoes, and water in the Instant Pot. Secure the lid and set it to high pressure for 15 minutes. Let the pressure release naturally.
- Stir in the green beans, replace the lid, and cook on high pressure for another 5–10 minutes. Quick release the pressure.
Oven Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F. Cut the rabbit into bite-sized pieces. Peel and cube the potato.
- Place the rabbit, potatoes, and water in a casserole dish. Cover with a lid or aluminum foil.
- Bake for 1.5 to 2 hours. Remove from the oven, stir in the green beans, and place back in the oven for another 10 minutes.
Slow Cooker Method
- Cut the rabbit into bite-sized pieces. Peel and cut the potato into small cubes.
- Place the rabbit, potatoes, and water in the slow cooker. Cook on LOW for 6 hours.
- Stir in the green beans and cook for an additional 10 minutes.
No matter which way you prepare it, always allow homemade dog food to cool completely before serving it to your dog.
Serving Size
The amount of homemade dog food you give your pup depends on factors like their size, activity level, and breed. A general guide is 1 cup of food per 20 pounds of body weight per day.
As always, start with small amounts when introducing new foods to ensure your dog doesn’t have any allergic or adverse reactions. Consult your veterinarian if you’re unsure about portion sizes.
How to Store Homemade Dog Food and How Long It Will Last
You can either store the food in the fridge or freezer. Here’s how long it will last in both.
Refrigerator: Store the cooled food in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer: Portion the food into freezer-safe containers or bags and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
Serving tip: You can warm the food slightly in the microwave, but avoid serving it hot.
Can people eat this?
Yes! All the ingredients are safe for human consumption. While it’s made with your dog in mind, you can give it a taste with a little seasoning like salt and pepper. It might even become a tasty meal for you, too!
Disclaimer
Please note that I am not a veterinarian or canine nutritionist. Before starting your dog on homemade food, consult with your veterinarian to ensure it meets their specific dietary needs. This recipe is nutritious and safe but is not intended to be a complete meal replacement. It lacks certain essential vitamins and nutrients that dogs require for a balanced diet.
Transitioning to homemade food will likely necessitate additional nutrient supplements. Always speak with your veterinarian to determine the appropriate foods and supplements for your dog’s breed, weight, age, and health requirements.
More Dog Food Recipes
Do you want to make some more tasty food for your dog? Try these recipes:
Find lots of easy recipes for dog food right here on Spoiled Hounds!
Be sure to check out my rabbit dog treats recipe too!
Rabbit Dog Food
Ingredients
- 1 pound rabbit meat
- 1 large potato
- 2 cups water
- 1 cup frozen green beans
Instructions
Instant Pot
- Cut the rabbit into bite-sized pieces. Peel and cut the potato into small cubes.
- Place the rabbit, 1 cup of cubed potatoes, and water in the Instant Pot. Secure the lid on and set to high pressure for 15 minutes. Allow the pressure to release naturally.
- Stir in the green beans, replace the lid, and cook on high pressure for 5-10 minutes. Quick release the pressure. Allow to cool completely before serving.
Oven
- Preheat the oven to 350°F. Cut the rabbit into bite-sized Pieces. Peel and cut the potato into small cubes.
- Place rabbit, 1 cup of potatoes, and water in a casserole dish. Cover the dish with a lid or aluminum foil.
- Bake for 1.5 to 2 hours. Remove from the oven and stir in the green beans. Place back in the oven for 10 minutes. Allow to cool completely before serving.
Slow Cooker
- Cut the rabbit into bite-sized pieces. Peel and cut the potato into small cubes.
- Place rabbit, 1 cup of potatoes, and water in the slow cooker. Slow cook on LOW for 6 hours. Stir in the green beans and cook for 10 minutes. Allow to cool completely before serving.
Leave a Reply