Venison Dog Food

As soon as your pup smells this meal, they will come running! This venison dog food is a wholesome dish that features tender deer meat, sorghum, and a medley of vegetables.

If you’re looking for the perfect homemade dog food recipe, you just found it! It’s great for pampering your pooch with nutritious and tasty homemade food. It’s made with dog-safe ingredients and packed with flavors your pup will love.

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Why You’ll Love This Venison Dog Food Recipe

There are so many reasons you’ll love this simple (and nutritious) recipe. For one thing, it is a great way to use wild game. Do you have a deer hunter in the family? Add the deer meat to your dog’s meals.

Dog owners, you will also appreciate that this wholesome recipe doesn’t have any added ingredients commonly found in commercial dog food. It’s made with real vegetables and meat. The ingredients are so good for your dog because they aren’t over-processed.

Finally, you can make it in two different ways. Make it in a slow cooker or save time and use the Instant Pot.

Benefits of Venison for Dogs

Venison isn’t just a tasty change for your dog’s meal plan – it’s also packed with great benefits! Whether your pup is a picky eater or you’re looking for a leaner protein option, venison could be just what they need.

Great for Allergies or Food Sensitivities: If your dog has trouble digesting common proteins like chicken or beef, venison can be a perfect alternative. It’s considered a novel protein, which means it’s less likely to trigger food allergies.

Lean and Low in Fat: Venison is a lean meat, making it a fantastic choice for dogs that need to watch their waistline or stay in tip-top shape. It’s high in protein but low in fat, so your pup gets all the muscle-building goodness without the extra calories.

Rich in Nutrients: Venison provides essential nutrients like B vitamins, zinc, and iron – all great for maintaining energy levels, supporting a healthy immune system, and keeping your dog’s coat shiny and strong.

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.

Ingredients

This venison dog food recipe is made with simple, nutritious ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need with a closer look at each one and why they’re a great addition to your dog’s bowl.

• Venison: The star of this dish!
• Sorghum: A nutrient-dense whole grain that provides fiber and energy. Sorghum is gluten-free and adds a hearty boost of carbohydrates to keep your dog full and satisfied.
• Potato: A good source of vitamins B6 and C, as well as potassium. Potatoes are gentle on the tummy and provide an easily digestible source of energy for your dog to stay active and playful.
• Broccoli: Full of vitamins A, C, and K, along with fiber. Broccoli supports your dog’s overall health – from their immune system to their skin and coat.
• Carrots: Full of beta-carotene, they are great for eye health and bring in a touch of natural sweetness that most dogs love.
• Water: The liquid for cooking.

Ingredient Notes and Substitutions

• Venison – I used backstrap but you can use any of the meat cuts.
• Sorghum – You can substitute it with brown rice or white rice.
• Potato – You can substitute it with sweet potatoes, pumpkin, butternut squash, or other winter squash.
• Veggies – You can substitute the broccoli and carrots with any dog-safe vegetable. Green beans and Brussels sprouts are a good choice.
• Fats – Stir in a tablespoon or two of coconut oil for additional fat.

How to Make Dog Food with Venison

Making your own dog food is easier than you might think! With just a little prep, you can cook up a wholesome meal that will have your dog’s tail wagging. Whether you prefer the speed of an Instant Pot or the “set it and forget it” convenience of a slow cooker, both methods are straightforward.

Instant Pot Method

1. Cut the raw meat into bite-sized cubes. Chop the broccoli, slice the carrots, and cube the potato.
2. Place the sorghum and water at the bottom of the Instant Pot. Layer the venison, carrots, potato, and broccoli on top.
3. Secure the lid on the Instant Pot and set it to manual high for 30 minutes. Once the cycle is done, let it naturally release the pressure for 30 minutes.
4. Allow the food to cool completely before serving it to your furry friend.

Slow Cooker Method

1. Cut the raw meat into bite-sized pieces. Chop the broccoli, slice the carrots, and cube the potato.
2. Place the sorghum and water in the bottom of the slow cooker. Layer the venison, carrots, potato, and broccoli on top.
3. Cook for 4 hours on high or 6-8 hours on low.
4. Once done, let the food cool completely before feeding it to your dog.

Serving Size

How much homemade food you give your dog can vary depending on many factors including the dog’s size, activity level, and breed. An active breed needs more food. A small dog needs less food than a large dog. A good guide is 1 cup for every 20 pounds of body weight.

How to Store Homemade Dog Food and How Long It Lasts

Place the cooled food in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. It will last up to 4 days.

For longer storage, place individual portions in freezer-safe containers or plastic freezer bags and freeze them for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the fridge overnight.

Can people eat this homemade dog food?

Yes, they sure can! It will be bland since it doesn’t have any seasonings but you can always season your serving. Give it a try and you may want to eat it for your own meal too.

More Great Recipes for Homemade Dog Food

• Chicken and Rice Dog Food
• Duck Dog Food
• Ground Beef Dog Food
• Salmon Dog Food
• Turkey and Pumpkin Dog Food
• Venison Dog Jerky

Find lots of easy dog food recipes right here on Spoiled Hounds!