Weekly Homemade Dog Food Meal Plan: Recipes + Shopping List

 

From Chaos to Calm: Simba’s Weekly Routine

Simba, a spirited Indie dog from Bhubaneswar, had a chaotic feeding schedule. His owner, Priya, juggled work, errands, and mealtimes—often tossing together whatever was available. Simba’s digestion suffered, stool became watery, and his energy fluctuated wildly.

When your beloved pet is not Okay, you know how it affects you energetically and emotionally. Same thing happened to Priya, and finally she realised that it's enough. 

One weekend, Priya sat down with a notebook and planned Simba’s meals for the week. She chose simple, nutritious recipes, prepped ingredients in batches, and created a shopping list. Within days, Simba’s stool normalized, his coat gleamed, and he waited patiently at mealtimes.

That one decision—to plan ahead—transformed their lives. This article helps you do the same: a full 7-day homemade dog food plan with recipes and a shopping list tailored for Indian kitchens and budgets.

Weekly Meal Plan Overview

This plan is designed for adult dogs (10–25 kg), with two meals per day. Recipes are balanced across protein, carbs, fiber, and healthy fats. You can adjust quantities based on your dog’s size and activity level.

        Day                Morning Meal                                            Evening Meal

    Monday        Chicken & Rice Bowl                    Pumpkin & Lentil Stew
    Tuesday        Egg & Oats Mash                         Fish & Sweet Potato Blend
    Wednesday   Paneer & Spinach Rice                Chicken Liver & Carrot Bowl
    Thursday        Moong Dal & Rice                     Scrambled Egg & Pumpkin
    Friday            Fish Scrap & Rice                        Paneer & Beetroot Mash
    Saturday        Chicken & Veggie Khichdi         Sweet Potato & Curd Bowl
    Sunday            Egg & Rice Bowl                        Chicken Neck Broth & Rice

Daily Recipes (14 Total)

Chicken & Rice Bowl

•     1 cup boiled rice
•     ½ cup shredded boiled chicken
•     ¼ cup carrots
•     1 tsp turmeric
•     1 tsp fish oil

Benefits: High protein, anti-inflammatory, easy digestion

Pumpkin & Lentil Stew

•     ½ cup mashed pumpkin
•     ½ cup cooked moong dal
•     ¼ cup peas
•     1 tsp curd

Benefits: Fiber-rich, vegetarian, gut-friendly

Egg & Oats Mash

•     2 scrambled eggs (no salt)
•     ½ cup cooked oats
•     ¼ cup spinach
•     1 tsp coconut oil

Benefits: Brain support, soft texture, omega fats

Fish & Sweet Potato Blend

•     ½ cup boneless cooked fish
•     ½ cup mashed sweet potato
•     ¼ cup beans
•     1 tsp flaxseed oil

Benefits: Omega-3s, joint support, tasty

Paneer & Spinach Rice

•     ½ cup homemade paneer
•     ½ cup rice
•     ¼ cup steamed spinach
•     1 tsp turmeric

Benefits: Calcium-rich, antioxidant boost

Chicken Liver & Carrot Bowl

•     ½ cup boiled chicken liver
•     ½ cup rice
•     ¼ cup carrots
•     1 tsp curd

Benefits: Iron-rich, immune support

Moong Dal & Rice

•     ½ cup cooked moong dal
•     ½ cup rice
•     ¼ cup pumpkin
•     1 tsp coconut oil

Benefits: Gentle vegetarian protein, easy digestion

Scrambled Egg & Pumpkin

•     2 scrambled eggs
•     ½ cup mashed pumpkin
•     ¼ cup peas
•     1 tsp fish oil

Benefits: Soft, aromatic, high in vitamin A

Fish Scrap & Rice

•     ½ cup fish scraps (boneless)
•     ½ cup rice
•     ¼ cup carrots
•     1 tsp flaxseed oil

Benefits: Budget-friendly, omega-rich

Paneer & Beetroot Mash

•     ½ cup paneer
•     ½ cup rice
•     ¼ cup boiled beetroot
•     1 tsp curd

Benefits: Antioxidants, calcium, gut support

Chicken & Veggie Khichdi

•     ½ cup rice
•     ½ cup shredded chicken
•     ¼ cup mixed veggies (carrot, beans)
•     1 tsp turmeric

Benefits: One-pot comfort meal, balanced nutrition

Sweet Potato & Curd Bowl

•     ½ cup mashed sweet potato
•     ½ cup rice
•     1 tsp curd
•     1 tsp coconut oil

Benefits: Cooling, probiotic, gentle on stomach

Egg & Rice Bowl

•     2 boiled eggs (chopped)
•     ½ cup rice
•     ¼ cup spinach
•     1 tsp turmeric

Benefits: Protein, iron, anti-inflammatory

Chicken Neck Broth & Rice

•     ½ cup rice
•     ½ cup chicken neck broth (strained)
•     ¼ cup pumpkin
•     1 tsp fish oil

Benefits: Collagen-rich, joint support, hydration

Weekly Shopping List (for 1 medium dog)

Proteins

•     Chicken (boneless + necks + liver): 2.5 kg
•     Eggs: 14
•     Fish scraps: 1 kg
•     Paneer: 500 g
•     Moong dal: 500 g

Carbs

•     Rice: 3 kg
•     Oats: 500 g
•     Sweet potatoes: 1 kg

Vegetables

•     Pumpkin: 1.5 kg
•     Carrots: 1 kg
•     Spinach: 500 g
•     Beans: 500 g
•     Peas: 500 g
•     Beetroot: 500 g
•     Mixed veggies (optional): 1 kg

Fats & Supplements

•     Coconut oil: 100 ml
•     Fish oil: 100 ml
•     Flaxseed oil: 100 ml
•     Turmeric powder: 50 g
•     Curd: 500 g
•     Salt: None (avoid for dogs)

Prep & Storage Tips

•     Cook in batches every 2–3 days
•     Store meals in airtight containers
•     Refrigerate for up to 3 days
•     Freeze for up to 2 weeks
•     Thaw in fridge—not at room temperature
•     Serve warm for better aroma and digestion

Vet-Approved Adjustments

•     Add calcium powder or crushed eggshells for bone support
•     Use turmeric and fish oil for joint health
•     Avoid onions, garlic, salt, and spicy ingredients
•     Adjust protein and fat for dogs with kidney or liver issues
•     Consult your vet before switching diets

Real Pet Parent Stories

“Planning meals saved me time and money. My Indie dog is healthier and happier.” — Neha, Cuttack

“We follow a weekly plan with chicken, dal, and veggies. Our Rajapalayam thrives!” — Arjun, Bhubaneswar

“Batch cooking and shopping lists changed everything. No more last-minute panic.” — Priya, Bengaluru

Emotional Benefits of Weekly Planning

Meal planning isn’t just practical—it’s emotional. It creates routine, reduces stress, and strengthens your bond with your dog. Watching your pet enjoy a meal you prepared with intention is deeply fulfilling. What else can be more fulfilling!

Dogs thrive on consistency. When they know mealtime is predictable, they feel secure. And when you know what to cook and shop for, you feel stress-free and empowered. This is like knowing the winning lottery ticket number before buy it.

This weekly plan is more than a schedule—it’s a rhythm of care.

Final Thoughts: Plan with Love, Feed with Purpose

When you plan to cook the meals of your pet at home, you commit enermous mount of time to your pet; and it's difficult to spare from your busy schedule. 

Homemade dog food doesn’t have to be chaotic or expensive. With a weekly plan, you save time, money, and emotional bandwidth. Your dog gets balanced nutrition, and you get peace of mind.

Simba’s story reminds us: a little planning goes a long way. Start your week with intention, and end it with a wagging tail.

Budget-Friendly Homemade Dog Food: Healthy Meals That Save Money

 

A Bowl of Hope: Chiku’s Journey from Scraps to Strength

Chiku, a lean and lively Indie pup from Bhubaneswar, was adopted by Ramesh during the lockdown. With income tight and groceries rationed, Ramesh couldn’t afford premium kibble. He started feeding Chiku leftover rice, boiled vegetables, and bits of egg. At first, he worried—was this enough? But Chiku thrived. His coat grew shinier, his energy soared, and his vet was impressed.

Ramesh began experimenting with bulk ingredients, seasonal produce, and simple recipes. What started as a necessity became a ritual of love and creativity. Chiku’s meals were fresh, balanced, and cost less than half of commercial dog food.

This story isn’t rare. With a little planning, homemade dog food can be both nutritious and budget-friendly. Let’s explore how to feed your dog well—without draining your wallet.

Why Homemade Dog Food Saves Money

Commercial dog food costs can range from ₹1,200 to ₹3,000 per month depending on brand and dog size. Homemade meals, when planned smartly, can cost ₹800–₹1,500/month—a savings of up to 50%.

Key Savings Areas:

•     Bulk buying staples (rice, lentils, eggs)
•     Using seasonal vegetables
•     Repurposing leftovers
•     Avoiding packaging and brand markups
•     Reducing vet bills through better nutrition

Core Ingredients for Budget-Friendly Dog Meals

These ingredients are affordable, widely available, and nutritionally valuable:

Proteins:

•     Eggs (₹5–₹7 each)
•     Chicken necks, liver, gizzard (₹80–₹120/kg)
•     Fish scraps (₹100–₹150/kg)
•     Cottage cheese/paneer (homemade)
•     Lentils (dal)

Carbs:

•     Rice (₹40–₹60/kg)
•     Oats (₹80–₹100/kg)
•     Sweet potatoes (₹30–₹50/kg)

Veggies:

•     Carrots, pumpkin, spinach, beans (seasonal)
•     Cabbage, peas, beetroot

Fats:

•     Coconut oil, fish oil (small quantities)

Supplements:

•     Eggshell powder (DIY calcium)
•     Turmeric (anti-inflammatory)
•     Probiotics (curd/yogurt)

5 Budget-Friendly Homemade Dog Food Recipes

These recipes are simple, nutritious, and cost-effective.

1. Chicken & Rice Basic Bowl

Ingredients:

•     1 cup boiled rice
•     ½ cup boiled chicken necks/liver
•     ¼ cup carrots
•     1 tsp turmeric

Cost: ₹25–₹30 per serving Benefits: High protein, easy digestion

2. Egg & Oats Morning Mix

Ingredients:

•     2 scrambled eggs
•     ½ cup cooked oats
•     ¼ cup spinach
•     1 tsp coconut oil

Cost: ₹20–₹25 per serving Benefits: Rich in protein and omega fats

3. Sweet Potato & Lentil Stew

Ingredients:

•     ½ cup mashed sweet potato
•     ½ cup cooked moong dal
•     ¼ cup peas
•     1 tsp curd

Cost: ₹15–₹20 per serving Benefits: Vegetarian, fiber-rich

4. Fish Scrap & Rice Bowl

Ingredients:

•     ½ cup fish scraps (boneless)
•     ½ cup rice
•     ¼ cup pumpkin
•     1 tsp flaxseed oil

Cost: ₹25–₹30 per serving Benefits: Omega-3s for coat and joints

5. Paneer & Veggie Mash

Ingredients:

•     ½ cup homemade paneer
•     ½ cup rice
•     ¼ cup beetroot and beans
•     1 tsp turmeric

Cost: ₹20–₹25 per serving Benefits: Calcium-rich, antioxidant support

How to Cut Cost Without Compromising Nutrition

1. Buy in Bulk

•     Purchase rice, oats, and lentils in 5–10 kg bags
•     Freeze meat portions to avoid spoilage

2. Use Seasonal Produce

•     Carrots in winter, pumpkin in monsoon, spinach in summer
•     Cheaper and fresher than off-season veggies

3. Repurpose Leftovers

•     Use leftover rice, boiled veggies, or meat scraps
•     Avoid spicy, salty, or oily human food

4. Make Your Own Supplements

•     Grind eggshells for calcium
•     Use curd for probiotics
•     Add turmeric and coconut oil for immunity

5. Cook in Batches

•     Prepare 3–5 days’ worth of meals
•     Store in fridge or freezer in labeled containers

6. Use One-Pot Recipes

•     Save gas, time, and cleanup
•     Combine rice, dal, veggies, and meat in a pressure cooker

How to Make Home-Cooked Food Interesting for Your Dog

Dogs love variety and texture. Here’s how to keep meals exciting:

1. Rotate Proteins

•     Alternate between chicken, eggs, fish, and paneer

2. Add Aroma

•     Use turmeric, coconut oil, or curd for scent and flavor

3. Play with Texture

•     Mix mashed, shredded, and chunky ingredients

4. Serve Warm

•     Slightly warm food enhances aroma and appeal

5. Use Feeding Rituals

•     Serve in a dedicated bowl
•     Add a sprinkle of love (and fish oil!)

Storage & Safety Tips

•     Refrigerate meals for up to 3 days
•     Freeze for up to 2 weeks
•     Thaw in fridge—not at room temperature
•     Avoid raw bones and spicy leftovers

Vet Insights: What Experts Say

•     Homemade food is safe if balanced and hygienic
•     Budget meals can meet nutritional needs with smart planning
•     Regular vet checkups are essential
•     Supplements may be needed for calcium and omega-3s

Smart Ingredient Swaps for Cost-Efficient Nutrition

Feeding your dog well doesn’t mean buying exotic ingredients. With smart swaps, you can maintain nutritional balance while cutting costs. For example, instead of expensive meats like lamb or turkey, use chicken necks, liver, or gizzard—rich in protein and iron, yet far cheaper. Replace quinoa with rice or oats, which are gentle on digestion and budget-friendly.

Vegetables like carrots, pumpkin, and spinach offer fiber and vitamins without straining your wallet. If paneer is too pricey, try homemade curd or boiled eggs for calcium and protein. Even moong dal can be a great plant-based protein source for vegetarian days.

For fats, skip imported oils and use coconut oil or fish scraps for omega-3s. You can also make eggshell powder at home for calcium, saving on supplements. These swaps don’t compromise on quality—they simply reflect smart, local choices.

By embracing regional ingredients and seasonal produce, you create meals that are not only affordable but also culturally aligned and emotionally satisfying. Your dog gets the nutrition they need, and you keep your budget intact.

Emotional Benefits of Cooking for Your Dog

Beyond cost and nutrition, homemade dog food offers something priceless: emotional connection. Cooking for your dog becomes a ritual of care, a daily act of love. You notice their preferences—how they wag for pumpkin, or nuzzle you when they smell chicken boiling. These moments deepen your bond.

Dogs thrive on routine and attention. When they see you preparing their meal, they feel secure and valued. It’s not just food—it’s trust. This emotional nourishment often translates into better behavior, reduced anxiety, and stronger companionship.

For pet parents on a budget, this connection is even more meaningful. You’re not just saving money—you’re investing time and heart. Watching your dog grow healthy on meals you crafted is deeply rewarding.

In a world of packaged solutions, homemade food is a return to authenticity. It reminds us that wellness isn’t bought—it’s built, one bowl at a time. And for your dog, that bowl is filled not just with nutrients, but with your love.

Real Pet Parent Stories

•     “We feed our Indie dog rice, eggs, and veggies. He’s healthy and we save ₹1,000/month.” — Neha, Cuttack 
• “Sweet potato and dal stew is our go-to. Our Rajapalayam pup loves it!” — Arjun, Bhubaneswar
• “Homemade food helped our Beagle’s digestion—and it’s cheaper than kibble.” — Priya, Kolkata

Final Thoughts: Nourish with Heart, Save with Smarts

Feeding your dog doesn’t have to be expensive. With a little creativity and planning, you can serve meals that are nutritious, delicious, and budget-friendly. Chiku’s journey proves that love and intention matter more than labels and price tags.

Start small. Cook with care. And remember—every rupee saved is a step toward a healthier, happier pup.