Dog

Beef & Pumpkin Stew

Digestive Health

Ingredients

  • 1 lb lean ground beef (90% lean)
  • 1 cup canned pumpkin puree (100% pumpkin, not pie filling)
  • 1 cup brown rice
  • 1 cup chopped carrots
  • 1 cup chopped green beans
  • 4 cups low-sodium beef broth
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1/2 cup chopped spinach
  • 1/4 cup chopped parsley

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. In a large pot, brown the lean ground beef over medium heat, breaking it into small crumbles, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat.
  2. Add the brown rice, carrots, green beans, and low-sodium beef broth to the pot. Stir to combine.
  3. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 25-30 minutes until rice is tender and vegetables are soft.
  4. Remove from heat and stir in the pumpkin puree, olive oil, spinach, and parsley until well combined.
  5. Let the stew cool completely to room temperature before serving to your dog.
  6. Portion into meal-sized servings and store in airtight containers.

💊 Required Supplements

Add per 4 cups of finished stew: 1/2 teaspoon calcium carbonate powder (provides ~600mg calcium), 1/4 teaspoon iodized salt, 1/2 teaspoon fish oil (providing ~500mg EPA/DHA), and 1/4 teaspoon zinc gluconate powder (providing ~15mg zinc). Mix thoroughly into each serving before feeding.

Nutritional Analysis

1 cup (for 25lb dog)
Calories420 kcal
Protein26g (32% DM)
Fat14g (17% DM)
Carbohydrates36g (44% DM)
Fiber5g (6% DM)
Moisture72%
Calcium1.1% DM
Phosphorus0.8% DM
Ca:P Ratio1.4:1
DM = Dry Matter basis. Values are approximate and may vary based on ingredient sourcing and preparation methods.
This recipe provides a moderate protein level appropriate for senior dogs, with added pumpkin and fiber to support digestive health. The calcium-to-phosphorus ratio of 1.4:1 meets NRC guidelines for adult and senior dogs. Fat content is controlled for weight management in less active seniors. Supplementation with fish oil supports joint health and cognitive function in aging dogs. This recipe is formulated to meet AAFCO nutrient profiles for adult maintenance when supplements are added as directed. Always consult your veterinarian to confirm this recipe meets your individual dog's needs, especially if your senior dog has kidney disease, which may require phosphorus restriction.

🧊 Safety & Storage

Refrigerate portions in airtight containers for up to 5 days, or freeze individual servings in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw frozen portions overnight in the refrigerator. Always serve at room temperature or slightly warm—never hot. Wash hands and all surfaces thoroughly after handling raw beef. Discard any uneaten food left out for more than 2 hours.

⚠️ Recipe Drift Warning

Do NOT substitute pumpkin with pumpkin pie filling (contains toxic xylitol and spices). Do NOT use onion, garlic, or leeks—these are toxic to dogs. Do NOT swap beef broth for regular broth containing onion powder. Do NOT omit the calcium supplement—this recipe is calcium-deficient without it. Do NOT use raw or undercooked beef. Consult your veterinarian before substituting any ingredient, as even small changes can unbalance this carefully formulated recipe.

⚕️ Always consult your veterinarian before changing your pet's diet.

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