9 Nutritious DIY Dog Kibble Anyone Can Make Below $15

As a passionate animal lover with a house full of pets—dogs, cats, and rabbits—I’m always thinking about their well-being, especially when it comes to what they eat. We all want the best for our pets, right? For me, it’s more than just giving them food—it’s about making sure they’re getting something nutritious, wholesome, and made with love. That’s when I started experimenting with DIY dog kibble.

Making your own dog kibble might sound daunting at first, but trust me, it’s way easier than you think. Not only is it simple, but it also lets you control what goes into your dog’s food—no mystery ingredients or preservatives. Plus, there’s something satisfying about watching your dog devour something you made yourself!

Why Homemade Kibble Is Better Than Commercial Kibble?

We’ve all been there—standing in the pet food aisle, staring at dozens of different kibble options, all promising to be the best for your dog. But let’s be honest: most commercial kibble is full of fillers, artificial preservatives, and ingredients you can barely pronounce. That’s one of the main reasons I decided to try my hand at making homemade kibble. It’s healthier, more transparent, and much more budget-friendly than buying the pricey, “premium” brands. Plus, I love knowing exactly what my dogs are eating.

When you make kibble at home, you can customize it to fit your dog’s specific needs. If they have allergies or sensitivities, you can easily tweak the ingredients. You can also add more protein, healthier fats, or any of the vitamins and minerals that might be missing from commercial options. And guess what? It’s often cheaper in the long run because you’re not paying for packaging and marketing—just the good stuff your pup actually needs.

DIY Dog Kibble: Step by Step Recipe

Making dog kibble at home isn’t as complicated as it might sound. Here’s a simple step-by-step guide to get you started:

Materials Needed

• 1 pound of lean meat (chicken, turkey, or beef): $4–$8
• 1 cup of cooked brown rice or oats: $1–$2
• 1 cup of finely chopped veggies (carrots, peas, spinach): $1–$3
• 2 eggs: $0.50–$1
• 1 tablespoon of olive oil or coconut oil: $1
• Fish oil or flaxseed oil (optional for added omega-3s): $5–$8
• A food processor or blender: Already have this!

The total cost for a batch of homemade kibble can range from $8 to $15, depending on the ingredients you choose and what you already have in your pantry.

Phase 1: Preparing the Ingredients

Start by cooking your lean meat in a little bit of oil (just enough to prevent sticking). Once cooked, let it cool and then pulse it in a food processor or blender until it’s finely ground. You want a consistency that will mix well with the other ingredients.

In a separate pot, cook your grains. Brown rice or oats work well as a base, but you could also try quinoa or barley if your dog prefers. Once they’re cooked, set them aside to cool. For the veggies, steam or lightly cook them to make them easier to digest, then finely chop or blend them.

Phase 2: Mixing the Ingredients

Now, combine your meat, grains, and veggies in a large mixing bowl. Crack the eggs into the mixture and stir them in—they’ll act as a binder when the kibble bakes. Add a tablespoon of olive or coconut oil for healthy fats, and if you want an extra boost, add a teaspoon of fish oil or flaxseed oil for omega-3 fatty acids.

Phase 3: Baking the Kibble

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the mixture onto a baking sheet in a thin, even layer. Bake for about 45 minutes, checking halfway through to stir or flip the kibble. You want it to dry out and become crunchy. Once baked, let it cool completely before breaking it into small, bite-sized pieces.

Store the kibble in an airtight container. It should last for up to two weeks in the fridge, or you can freeze portions to extend its shelf life even further.

8 Easy DIY Dog Kibble Recipes

Now that you know the basics, here are some fun and easy variations of DIY dog kibble that you can try. Each recipe is customizable, budget-friendly, and packed with nutrients.

1. Chicken & Sweet Potato Kibble

This recipe combines lean chicken with sweet potatoes, which are full of fiber and vitamins. Simply replace the rice in the base recipe with mashed sweet potatoes. Sweet potatoes are gentle on the digestive system and add a natural sweetness that most dogs love. Cost: Around $8.

2. Beef & Barley Kibble

For a heartier meal, use lean ground beef and barley. Barley is a great alternative to rice and is high in fiber. This recipe is perfect for active dogs who need a little more energy in their diet. The beef provides protein, while the barley keeps them full. Cost: Around $10.

3. Turkey & Pumpkin Kibble

Turkey is a lean protein that’s easy to digest, and when paired with pumpkin, it creates a kibble that’s perfect for dogs with sensitive stomachs. Pumpkin is rich in fiber and helps regulate digestion. Just substitute pumpkin puree for the veggies in the base recipe. Cost: Around $9.

4. Salmon & Quinoa Kibble

If you want to give your dog a boost of omega-3s, this salmon and quinoa recipe is perfect. Salmon is great for skin and coat health, while quinoa is a protein-rich grain that’s easy to digest. This kibble has a bit of a “gourmet” feel, but it’s still budget-friendly. Cost: Around $12.

5. Lamb & Brown Rice Kibble

Lamb is a flavorful protein that’s great for dogs who might have allergies to more common meats like chicken or beef. Pair it with brown rice for a filling, nutritious kibble. Lamb can be a bit more expensive, but it’s a great treat for special occasions. Cost: Around $12–$15.

6. Vegetarian Lentil & Carrot Kibble

For dogs who don’t need as much meat in their diet, this vegetarian option uses lentils for protein and carrots for added fiber and vitamins. Lentils are affordable and packed with protein, making them a great base for vegetarian kibble. Cost: Around $6.

7. Duck & Oat Kibble

Duck is a rich, flavorful meat that’s perfect for dogs who love variety in their diet. Oats provide a hearty, fiber-rich base that keeps them full and energized. This is a great option for dogs with allergies or sensitivities to common proteins. Cost: Around $10–$12.

8. Pork & Spinach Kibble

Pork is a less common protein in dog food, but it’s affordable and tasty. Paired with spinach, which is rich in vitamins and minerals, this kibble is a nutritional powerhouse. Just be sure to use lean cuts of pork to avoid too much fat. Cost: Around $8.

FAQs

1. How long does homemade kibble last?

Homemade kibble can last up to two weeks when stored in an airtight container in the fridge. For longer storage, freeze it in portions and thaw as needed.

2. Is homemade kibble nutritionally balanced?

Homemade kibble can be nutritionally balanced if you use a variety of ingredients. It’s important to rotate proteins, grains, and veggies to ensure your dog is getting all the nutrients they need. You can also consult with your vet to make sure the recipe meets your dog’s specific dietary requirements.

3. Can I use these recipes for other pets, like cats or rabbits?

These recipes are specifically designed for dogs, but you can adjust some of the ingredients for other pets. Always check with your vet before introducing any new food to your other pets, especially cats and rabbits, as their nutritional needs are different.

4. Can I add supplements to homemade kibble?

Yes! You can add fish oil, joint supplements, or any other vet-recommended supplements to your homemade kibble. Just be sure to follow the dosage instructions carefully.

Making your own dog kibble is not only a fun and rewarding project, but it’s also a great way to give your dog fresh, wholesome food that you can feel good about. Whether you’re trying a classic chicken and rice recipe or something more adventurous like salmon and quinoa, your dog will love the homemade goodness. Plus, it’s budget-friendly and healthier than most store-bought options. So go ahead, grab those ingredients, and start cooking up some love for your dog!