5 Homemade Dog Food Recipes for Pit Bulls
This recipe is a fun and delicious meal that your Pit Bull will love. It contains plenty of protein to keep their muscles strong. The balls of meat are also easy to chew up, making it an ideal dish for dogs of any age.
To ensure that your pooch gets all the vitamins and nutrients they need, you can add a range of vegetables to the dish and end up with the same tasty results. If you plan on preparing the meal ahead of time, throw the concoction in the freezer for later use before you cook the meat.
Ingredients
One of the best things about this particular recipe is its versatility. You can use ingredients that you already have and substitute specific items based on your dog’s preference. For example, you can swap out the brown rice for cooked lentils or quinoa.
All you really need to do make this dish is to combine the meat, eggs, rice, and vegetables in a large bowl. Shape the mixture into large balls and plop them onto a baking dish.
Cook the meatballs in an oven that’s preheated to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Leave the meatballs to cook for about 45 minutes or until they’re fully cooked inside.
At first glance, this meal looks like something made for humans. While it certainly can be eaten by humans, it’s specifically designed to take care of a Pit Bull’s appetite. It’s mostly comprised of chicken, which is a great protein source for dogs. It’s delicious, affordable, and adaptable.
This meal also contains a collection of healthy ingredients that your Pit Bull can benefit from. The cabbage and spinach will take care of their digestive tract while the apples give them some much-needed vitamins and antioxidants.
Ingredients
Before you start cooking, you should prepare the ingredients to ensure that they pass through your furry friend’s system without issues. Skin the apples and dice them up into small bite-sized pieces. It’s also important to remove all the seeds and the tough fibrous core.
When it comes to the chicken, you have many options. You can go with whole chicken or frozen breasts. If you opt to go with a whole chicken, you can leave the neck meat, heart, liver, and other healthy bits in the mixture. They’re full of nutrition and give the dish a boost of protein.
Simply chop up the chicken and remove any bones. Chicken bones are notorious for breaking up and causing abrasive damage in the digestive system.
Then, boil the chicken in a large pot until it’s almost cooked. Reduce the boil to a simmer and add the cabbage, spinach, and apples. Once the chicken is fully cooked and the greens are wilted, take the dish off the heat to cool. Then, stir in the eggs and olive oil. At this point, it’s ready for your pup to gobble up. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to five days.
Who doesn’t love a good bowl of chili? This recipe is excellent for Pit Bulls because of its high protein content. Not only does it have chicken, but it also has two types of beans.
The carrots are also beneficial because of the high levels of beta-carotene. It can help them maintain good ocular health.
If your dog needs a bit of extra Omega Fatty Acids for their coat, you can also throw in some fish oil for good measure.
Ingredients
First, prepare the chicken, beans, and carrots. Dice the carrots into small pieces that are easy to digest. If you purchased dry beans, soak them in water until they’re soft. If they’re canned, drain the excess liquid and give them a good rinse.
To prepare the chicken, slice off large pieces of fat and cut the breasts into cubes. In a large skillet, cook the chicken over medium-high heat until it’s no longer pink in the middle. Then, transfer the chicken to a large stockpot and add the rest of the ingredients.
Cook this mixture over medium heat until everything is heated through. Alternatively, you can cook this recipe in a slow cooker over low heat. Before you serve it to your dog, let it cool down completely.
What Human Foods Can Pitbulls Eat?
Many “people foods” are perfectly safe and healthy for Pitbulls to eat. Health benefits include maintaining a strong immune system, joint strength, allergy immunity, fighting cancer, a healthy coat, cleaner teeth, and fresher breath.
When we look at the history of pet food we mustn’t forget that dogs historically ate “people food” long before the invention of dog food. During dog domestication, they shared humans’ leftovers, such as potatoes and meat.
Here is a list of human foods Pitbulls like to eat:
Pitbulls can eat almonds as they are one of the non-toxic nuts, unlike macadamia or black walnuts. However, almonds pose a few risks in that they are an obstruction hazard as most dogs will not chew them properly and swallow them whole. They are also high in fat (although good fat) and can cause a stomach upset. A canine diet high in fat can lead to pancreatitis.
Nonetheless, almonds are a nutritious protein food, high in several vitamins and minerals, including vitamin B2 and E, magnesium, phosphorous, manganese, antioxidants, and fiber. They can reduce the risk of heart disease and support gut health.
Should you let your Pittie eat one or two almonds, feed sparingly, and the healthiest are the raw and unsalted varieties.
Pitbulls can eat apples. They are a good source of fiber, calcium, and vitamins A and C, essential for maintaining healthy bones and tissue. Most dogs like the crunchy texture and the sweet taste of apples, which helps keep their teeth clean and freshens their breath.
Cut the apple into small pieces. You can leave the skin on but don’t feed the seeds or cores.
Pitbulls can eat apricots. They are rich in vitamins A, C, and E, potassium, and beta-carotene and are high in antioxidants. They are a good source of fiber, are excellent for promoting eye health, protecting against disease and cancer, and boosting skin and coat health.
It is safe to feed the fleshy fruit; however, don’t give the pit, leaves, or stem as they contain cyanide which can be toxic if consumed in large amounts. Your Pitbull will relish a few small bites once in a while but don’t overdo it as apricots are high in fiber and sugar, and too much fiber can lead to a tummy upset.
Dried apricots are generally safe too. However, ensure they have been de-stoned, and check for added sugar and preservatives.
HEY! ARE YOU LOOKING FOR A DOG FOOD THAT’S HEALTHY FOR EVERY BELLY?
Then you’ll love OLLIE DOG FOOD. Try Ollie’s FRESH-COOKED, HEALTHY, DELIVERED dog food with a cool 70% off first box offer.
Pitbulls can eat artichoke. It is packed with nutrients, including vitamin C, folic acid, magnesium, niacin, fiber, and antioxidants. It is also low in fat, sodium, and cholesterol. Pitbulls can benefit from this vegetable as it defends against illness and protects the immune system.
However, only feed your Pittie a tiny portion, cut into bite-sized chunks, and feed slowly to avoid choking or digestive blockages. You can give it raw, and your bestie will get the maximum nutrients this way.
Pitbulls can eat asparagus. It’s healthy and nutritious for your dog and contains vitamins K, A, B1, B2, C, and E, which all improve your dog’s health. It also has folate, calcium, phosphorus, iron, manganese, potassium, and antioxidants that help flush out toxins from the bloodstream.
Asparagus is high in fiber which aids digestion and is low in calories and fat. Ensure to feed your Pitbull cooked asparagus as the stalks can be pretty tough to chew, but don’t overcook it as it loses a lot of the nutrients.
Sometimes asparagus can make urine smell unpleasant, so it’s something to think about if your Pitbull is not yet fully house trained.
Pitbulls can eat bananas. They are an excellent snack for your dog with lots of health benefits. Bananas are high in potassium, supporting kidney and heart functions, and high in vitamins, biotin, fiber, and copper. Most dogs enjoy them, and they make a motivating treat.
However, bananas are high in sugar, so feed sparingly and don’t feed the peel as it’s hard for your dog to digest. They’re perfect for giving your Pittie a bite or two while on a long hike as they provide a quick energy boost.
Pitbulls can eat beef, and it is an excellent source of protein to provide the energy they need. Beef also contains essential fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals to give your dog healthy joints, muscles, skin, and a shiny, healthy coat. Ensure all beef is lean and free from salt and seasoning.
You should cook all meats you give your Pitbull unless he is used to consuming a raw diet. A few shredded pieces of beef always go down a treat and can be part of your dog’s nutritious and well-balanced diet.
Pitbulls can eat beets. They are an excellent addition to your dog’s diet and provide tons of nutrients. Beets contain an abundance of fiber, vitamins, and minerals. They are good for your dog’s digestive system and immune system or if your Pittie is anemic due to their high iron content.
However, as beets are quite acidic, you should feed sparingly. You can give them raw or cooked. Beets are often found in dog food, and my bestie’s food contains a small number of beets. However, don’t give your Pitbull canned beets as they have too much salt.
Pitbulls can eat bell peppers. They are great for your dog’s immune system and are a good source of vitamin A, essential for your dog’s skin, coat, and eyes. They also contain other essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants and act as an anti-inflammatory, good for arthritic dogs.
Bell peppers are extremely low in calories and can be given in moderation as an alternative healthy treat. When preparing, remove the seeds and stems to avoid indigestion.
You can feed bell peppers raw. However, your Pitbull may find the skin tough to chew, so it would be better to steam or mash them for easier digestion.
Pitbulls can eat blackberries, and they offer incredible health benefits. Blackberries contain many valuable antioxidants that prevent or slow down damage to cells and strengthen the immune system. They are full of vitamin C and fiber and are low in sugar, making them kind to teeth.
Blackberries are ideal for sharing with your Pittie in the summer. Though some dogs may not quite like their taste, others love them. Frozen blackberries can also be a welcome treat in hot weather and help cool your Pitbull down, keeping him hydrated.
Pitbulls can eat blueberries, and they pack a punch for nutritional value. As a superfood rich in antioxidants, they prevent cell and tissue damage. Blueberries are also a great source of vitamin C, K, and fiber. They lower the risk of heart disease and cancer and are anti-inflammatory.
Blueberries are an excellent snack for your Pitbull to use as training treats or sprinkle on their food. They are low in calories and at 85% water, they add hydration benefits. They are also lower in sugar than many other fruits, making them kinder to your dog’s teeth.
By the way – if you’re considering buying something for your dog, check out my favorite gear below. Also, check out the 70% off your first box at Ollie!
Pitbulls can eat bread safely as long as it’s plain white or brown. However, feed bread sparingly as it is high in carbohydrates and calories, low in fiber, vitamins, and minerals, and has little nutritional value. Also, ensure your dog isn’t sensitive to wheat.
Warning! Don’t let your Pittie eat uncooked yeast dough if you make bread at home. It can rise in the stomach, causing life-threatening problems, from bloat (GDV) to alcohol toxicosis from the fermented yeast.
Moldy bread can also cause aflatoxicosis in dogs, as highlighted in this study of Rottweilers who had ingested moldy bread. In this unfortunate case, 3 of the 10 dogs affected (from the same household) sadly died.
Pitbulls can eat broccoli, and it is considered one of the safest veggies for dogs. It’s high in fiber, vitamins K and C, folic acid, and minerals. Broccoli is excellent for the immune system, protects against heart disease, and helps maintain healthy skin and bone.
You can feed broccoli cooked or raw but if you provide the stalks, ensure you cut them into small pieces.
The only drawback is the florets contain a chemical that can cause gastric irritation resulting in significant gas in some Pitties. Experiment first – as it could be pretty unpleasant for everyone!
Pitbulls can eat brussels sprouts, and they are surprisingly healthy for dogs. They are loaded with nutrients, vitamins, and antioxidants, and contain vitamin K, which helps the blood clot properly, builds bones, and protects the heart. They are high in fiber, low in calories, and contain no sugar.
If you give them to your Pittie, it’s best to steam or boil them (steaming preserves the most significant nutrients). Don’t give them raw as they are too hard for your dog to digest. Remember, too, that they create a lot of gas as a cruciferous veggie, so you might have to deal with smelly flatulence.
Pitbulls can eat cabbage. It is full of nutrients, especially vitamins B1, B6, C, and K, which fight disease and support the digestive and immune systems. It is rich in fiber and essential minerals such as potassium and manganese and is high in antioxidants that aid in preventing diseases.
Pitties can eat all types of cabbage, including savoy, red, and bok choy. Cabbage comes with the same gassy warning as broccoli and Brussels sprouts, so I’d feed very sparingly if I were you! Ensure the cabbage is cooked as it will be easier to chew and digest.
Pitbulls can eat cantaloupe. It is an excellent superfood full of dietary fiber, vitamins, niacin, folate, and potassium. It is also high in antioxidant qualities to promote healthy cell function and help to reduce the risk of serious diseases such as cancer and arthritis.
Cantaloupe is low in calories, and as it is high in water content (90%), it makes a nice and refreshing treat for your Pitbull. It is, however, high in natural sugars, so only feed one or two pieces and remember to remove the seeds and rind.
Pitbulls can eat carrots. They are an excellent snack to feed your dog, either cooked or raw. They are low in fat and contain high amounts of fiber and potassium. They also contain beta-carotene, which produces vitamin A, which is good for healthy eyes, bones, and the immune system.
Either raw or frozen carrots are great to give your puppy while teething. Raw carrots help clean your dog’s teeth, and frozen carrots support dental health by gently scraping the teeth and removing plaque.
Pitbulls can eat cashews as they are one of the safer nontoxic nuts. They are high in protein, fiber, and heart-healthy monounsaturated fats. They contain immune-boosting nutrients such as magnesium and zinc and are high in copper, which is good for bones and joints.
However, there are some guidelines to follow. Only feed as an occasional snack, ensure cashews are free of salt and do not feed the chocolate-coated variety. Both chocolate and salt are highly toxic to dogs if ingested in large amounts. You should always supervise your Pitbull when giving nuts, as you would a child.
As cashews are high in fat, save them for an extra special treat, as too much fat can cause an upset stomach and lead to pancreatitis.
Pitbulls can eat cauliflower, which is well known for its nutritional qualities. It’s full of vitamins, minerals, and soluble fiber and is good for your dog’s vision, blood, muscles, and immune system. It may also reduce inflammation and help prevent cancer.
Like other cruciferous vegetables, cauliflower causes a lot of flatulence, so feed sparingly or get your gas mask on! Cook the cauliflower first as it helps with digestion. I have to admit, I don’t give my dog cauliflower, Brussels sprouts, broccoli, or cabbage, as I’d rather not suffer the smelly after-effects!
Pitbulls can eat celery. It contains vitamins A, C, and K, folate, potassium, and manganese, and is an excellent fiber source. These first-class nutrients are needed to promote a healthy heart and even fight cancer. As celery is low in calories and fat, it is often recommended as a weight-loss treat.
Celery is good for your Pitbull to crunch on and can even freshen up doggy breath. Its high water content helps to keep your dog hydrated. As an extra special treat, dip the celery in some peanut butter.
Pitbulls can eat cheese. Cheese (including cottage cheese) is a protein-packed treat full of nutrients, including calcium, zinc, phosphorus, vitamins A and B12, and essential fatty acids. However, it is high in calories and fat, so you should only feed in moderation.
Cheese, such as cheddar, Swiss, Monterey Jack, and parmesan, can be used as high-value training treats that your Pittie will love. And, if your dog needs to swallow a pill – conceal it in some cheese!
I love to feed small pieces of cheddar cheese to my dog for a well-deserved treat, but some dogs may be unable to tolerate it due to the lactose, so you will need to see how your dog goes.
Warning! Never give your Pitbull blue-veined cheese such as Stilton or Roquefort and other “moldy” cheese as the mold produces a mycotoxin that is toxic to dogs.
Pitbulls can eat chicken, and as a high-protein food, it provides your dog with lots of energy. It’s also a great source of Omega-6 fatty acids, which are good for the skin and coat. Chicken also contains glucosamine for healthy bones and contains essential amino acids.
Make sure the chicken is plain and avoid the skin as this is high in fat. Don’t feed raw chicken due to the risk of salmonella – unless your Pittie is used to a raw diet or you buy specially prepared raw food.
Never feed cooked chicken bones as these are fragile and can break in your Pitties mouth, causing nasty injuries. They can also cause your dog to choke.
Chicken is commonly used in dog foods and when I add pieces of leftover roast chicken to my dog’s bowl – it certainly doesn’t last long!
Pitbulls can eat coconut, and it is an excellent human food to feed your dog. It contains abundant antioxidants to support the immune system, reduce inflammation, and help prevent viruses. Your dog’s skin and coat will also benefit from coconut oil.
You can try feeding your Pitbull a small piece of raw coconut meat (remove the shell) or dried flakes, but remember, too much may cause an upset stomach, loose stools, or diarrhea.
Pitbulls can eat corn, and it is perfectly safe to eat off the cob. Although starchy, corn can provide your dog with fiber, vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and linoleic acid. Corn is, therefore, a good source of energy and provides growth. It maintains a healthy coat and skin and is good for the immune system.
However, as corn is high in carbohydrates, you should only feed a small amount. Also, do not feed the cob as this is a choking risk, and avoid canned corn as it’s usually high in sodium.
Although it’s not the best choice of vegetable for your Pitbull (I’m sure you’ve noticed it tends to pass through the gut pretty much intact), it’s a good choice if your pup needs a quick energy boost during periods of high exercise.
Pitbulls can eat cranberries. They contain vitamin C, fiber, and manganese and have anti-inflammatory properties, and can boost the immune system. Cranberries are good for the heart, help maintain a healthy bladder, and they’re good to give to your dog if he has a water infection.
You can feed cranberries raw, cooked, or dried but avoid cranberry juice as it contains too much sugar, which can upset your dog’s stomach. Additionally, sugar is not good for the teeth. Also, you might find that your Pitbull doesn’t like the tart taste.
Pitbulls can eat cucumber, and it offers lots of nutritional value. Cucumber contains calcium, magnesium, copper, and potassium and is loaded with vitamins K, C, and B1. As it is 96% water, it makes your dog a healthy, low-fat, and refreshing treat.
Slice the cucumber or cut it into diced pieces for your Pittie to enjoy this crunchy hydrating treat. If your dog is overweight, cucumber makes a great alternative to store-bought treats and will help to keep the pounds off.
Pitbulls can eat dates. They make an excellent snack as they are low in fat and contain vitamins A, B6, and C. They also contain fiber and are full of minerals, such as iron and calcium. Dates are good for your dog’s heart and immune system. They are, however, high in sugar, so only feed them sparingly.
Dates are the perfect treat if your Pitbull needs a quick energy boost during intense exercise and are an excellent alternative to store-bought treats. Make sure you remove the stone before eating, as it can cause choking or gastrointestinal blockage.
Pitbulls can eat eggplant. It’s a good source of fiber, which is vital for healthy digestion. Eggplant also contains many vitamins and minerals, including B6, C, K, potassium, calcium, zinc, phosphorus, and magnesium. It can protect your dog from chronic diseases.
Experiment first with a small amount of eggplant to see how your Pitbull handles it, as some dogs can be sensitive or allergic to it.
It also contains a small amount of solanine (toxic to dogs in high concentrations) and oxalates, which can be harmful if your Pittie suffers from arthritis or kidney problems.
Before giving eggplant to your Pittie, cook it first, as the raw flavor is not very nice and challenging to digest. It can be grilled, roasted, or baked and feed in small bite-sized chunks. Do NOT feed the leaves as they contain more concentrated amounts of solanine.
Pitbulls can eat eggs, and they are one of the safe, healthy human foods for dogs. Eggs are an excellent source of protein and are loaded with vitamins, minerals, amino acids, and fatty acids. All of these nutrients support your Pitties coat and skin.
It’s best to cook eggs first before feeding as there is a risk of salmonella in raw eggs – although this risk is low, and many owners provide their dog’s raw eggs.
Nonetheless, you can further minimize this risk by using free-range eggs and storing them in a cool, dry place.
Eggs have the perfect balance of nutrients. Notwithstanding the controversy around eggs decades ago, scientists have since concluded that their high levels of dietary cholesterol are not associated with heart disease and that saturated fat has a far more significant effect on blood cholesterol levels.
Pitbulls can eat green beans. They are highly nutritious, good for overall health, contain many vital vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and fiber, and are low in calories.
Being high in water content, they are hydrating and are the perfect treat for Pitbulls who need to lose weight.
It’s best to cut green beans into small pieces to prevent choking and aid digestion. You can feed them raw or frozen, and they make tasty toppers for your Pittie’s food. You can also give canned green beans to your dog as long as they don’t contain salt or other additives.
Pitbulls can eat honey. Although high in natural sugar, honey provides an abundance of essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that provide many health benefits, such as reducing inflammation, boosting the immune system, supporting bone health, and promoting muscle development.
Raw honey has natural anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. A recent study on medical-grade honey for antibiotic-resistant infections suggests that it should be considered a treatment for infections combined with antibiotics, although more studies are required.
Too much honey can cause sickness and diarrhea, so I suggest no more than a small teaspoonful either added to their food or simply let them lick it off the spoon. Be mindful that it is high in natural sugar and therefore unkind to teeth, so you may want to brush your pup’s teeth afterward.
Pitbulls can eat honeydew melon, and it offers many benefits, including dietary fiber, vitamins B6, C, K, folate, calcium, magnesium, and potassium. Health benefits include improved digestion, reducing high blood pressure, good eye health, and maintaining healthy bones and skin.
Feed honeydew melon sparingly as it’s high in natural sugar, but it gives your dog a quick energy boost when they need it. Comprising 90% water, it is naturally hydrating and delicious in warm weather.
When giving honeydew to your Pittie, cut it into bite-sized pieces after removing the seeds and rind. You can even freeze melon and serve it as a refreshing treat.
Pitbulls can eat kiwi fruit. Kiwi is loaded with vitamin C and potassium. It is high in fiber, contains vitamins K, E, and calcium, and is filled with antioxidants. Kiwi provides excellent nutritional benefits, including healthy skin and circulatory system, bone density, and muscle growth.
Although kiwi flesh is safe to eat, the high fiber content may disagree with your Pitbull and cause gastrointestinal issues due to its laxative effect, so feed sparingly.
Remove the skin as it’s difficult to chew and digest. It also guards against choking – and never give kiwi fruit whole. Remove the seeds and cut them into small slices.
Pitbulls can eat lettuce. It’s 90% water, and all varieties are safe for dogs to eat. However, due to its high water content, the nutritional value of lettuce is low. Still, it does contain vitamins A, C, and K, beta-carotene, antioxidants, calcium, potassium, folate, and fiber.
Lettuces’ health benefits include supporting metabolism, bones, teeth, and eyes, reducing inflammation, and fighting disease. Its low-calorie content makes it a good snack for overweight dogs.
You must ensure lettuce is washed thoroughly before feeding it to your Pitbull. It’s also better to chop it up rather than give a whole leaf which will be hard to digest. And of course, no dressings!
Pitbulls can eat mango. This wholesome tropical fruit is an excellent nutritious treat containing vitamins A, B6, C, and E; however, they have a lot of sugar, so you need to consider this before feeding mango to your dog. They are also high in fiber which most canines aren’t used to, so feed mango sparingly.
Mangos are popular in the summer and are good to give your Pittie as an energizing snack. Although the skin and flesh are pretty safe for your bestie, the skin may be hard to digest.
Mango pits contain traces of toxic cyanide and are a choking hazard, and could cause a blockage in your dog’s digestive system, so avoid it at all costs.
Pitbulls can drink milk in small quantities. Milk contains high amounts of calcium, which is excellent for healthy teeth and bones. It’s also fortified with vitamin D and contains potassium (good for the heart), essential amino acids, nourishing vitamins, minerals, and healthy Omega-3 fatty acids.
However, as in all dairy foods, there’s a risk your pooch can’t tolerate the lactose (sugar) it contains, which overindulgence can result in an upset stomach and diarrhea.
For most dogs, though, a few tablespoons of either cow’s milk or goat’s milk are safe, enjoyable foods.
Pitbulls can eat mushrooms, except wild mushrooms. Store-bought mushrooms are perfectly safe for your dog and support liver and kidney function, prevent infections and disease, and boost the immune system.
Mushrooms are rich in proteins, healthy fats, antioxidants (that prevent free radical cell damage), vitamins (folic acid, B, C, and D), and minerals (zinc, potassium, phosphorus, and selenium).
The best mushrooms are organic (free of pesticides). Popular safe varieties include white button mushrooms and Portobello, sold in grocery stores and supermarkets. Feed raw or cooked, and without salt or other seasonings.
Pitbulls can eat nectarines, peaches, plums, and persimmons. All these stone fruits are a good source of beta-carotene and vitamin A, which help maintain healthy skin, teeth, and bones. They also contain fiber for healthy digestion and potassium, which is good for heart and kidney disorders.
They are, however, prett
MY HOMEMADE & HEALTHY DOG FOOD RECIPE | COOKING FOR MY PITBULL
We independently research, test, review, and recommend the best products—learn more about our process. If you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission.
By clicking “Accept All Cookies”, you agree to the storing of cookies on your device to enhance site navigation, analyze site usage, and assist in our marketing efforts.