Deer Meat Dog Food Recipe – Homemade

Making the deer meat dog food recipe has been a fulfilling and thoughtful experience for me. I wanted something wholesome and nourishing for my dog, and using fresh ingredients gave me confidence in every step.

The scent of cooked venison and vegetables filled the kitchen, and it felt good knowing exactly what was going into my dog’s bowl. Seeing my dog enjoy the meal made it all worthwhile.

This recipe uses venison as the main ingredient, along with sweet potatoes, Brussels sprouts, cranberries, and essential nutrients to create a balanced and healthy homemade meal.

Can I Make Dog Food With Deer Meat?

Yes, you can make dog food with deer meat, and it’s actually a healthy option for many dogs. Deer meat (venison) is a lean, high-protein source that’s rich in essential nutrients and lowers in fat than traditional meats like beef or pork.

It’s especially beneficial for dogs with food allergies or sensitivities, as venison is considered a novel protein.

How To Prepare Deer Meat Dog Food Recipe?

Recipe Info

Preparation Time: 20 minutes

Cooking Time: 30 minutes

Total Time: 50 minutes

Course: Main meal (dog food)

Difficulty: Easy

Cuisine: Pet Cuisine / Homemade Dog Food

Calories (approx.): 290 kcal per 8 oz (based on ingredients, will vary)

Yield: 9 cups (varies slightly depending on moisture loss)

Kitchen Utensils

• Large pot or saucepan
• Steamer basket (optional)
• Large mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Food processor or knife (for chopping veggies)
• Airtight storage containers

Ingredients

• 1 lb (454 g) ground venison – lean, no additives
• 3 lbs 2 oz (1.42 kg) sweet potatoes – peeled and cubed
• 15 oz (425 g) Brussels sprouts – finely chopped
• 2.5 oz (71 g) cranberries – unsweetened, fresh or frozen, finely chopped
• 2½ tbsp DIY canine nutrient blend – AAFCO-compliant (follow vet-recommended formula)
• 4.25 oz (120 mL) safflobwer oil – rich in omega-6 fatty acids
• 1 tsp fish oil – source of omega-3 fatty acids

Instructions

1. Cook the sweet potatoes:

Place cubed sweet potatoes in a large pot with water. Bring to a boil and simmer for 15–20 minutes until soft. Drain and mash lightly. Alternatively, steam them until tender.

2. Brown the venison:

In a separate pan, cook ground venison over medium heat until fully browned. Do not add any salt, seasoning, or oil.

3. Prepare the veggies:

Finely chop Brussels sprouts and cranberries (use a food processor for speed). Lightly steam Brussels sprouts if preferred for easier digestion.

4. Combine ingredients:

In a large mixing bowl, combine mashed sweet potatoes, cooked venison, chopped Brussels sprouts, and cranberries.

5. Add oils and supplements:

Once slightly cooled, stir in safflower oil, fish oil, and the DIY canine nutrient blend. Mix thoroughly to evenly distribute nutrients.

6. Cool and store:

Let the mixture cool completely. Portion into daily servings and store in airtight containers. Refrigerate for up to 3–4 days or freeze for up to 2 months.

Special Notes

❖ Serving Size: Adjust the portion size based on your dog’s weight, age, and activity level. It’s always best to consult with your veterinarian for personalized feeding recommendations.

❖ Introducing New Foods: When introducing this homemade meal to your dog’s diet, start with small portions and gradually increase to monitor for any adverse reactions or allergies.

Why Choose Deer Meat Dog Food Recipe

Choosing a deer meat dog food recipe is a smart option for pet owners looking to provide a high-quality, hypoallergenic protein source.

Venison is lean, highly digestible, and less likely to trigger food sensitivities compared to common meats like chicken or beef.

Combined with nutrient-rich vegetables and healthy oils, this recipe supports your dog’s overall well-being from digestion and immune function to skin and coat health.

It’s a wholesome, natural choice that lets you take control of your dog’s nutrition.

Why Homemade Is Healthier

Homemade dog food is often healthier because it allows you to control the quality and source of every ingredient.

Unlike many commercial brands, which may include fillers, preservatives, and low-quality meat by-products, homemade meals can be made with fresh, whole foods tailored to your dog’s specific nutritional needs.

This can lead to better digestion, healthier skin and coat, increased energy, and fewer allergic reactions. Plus, it gives pet owners peace of mind knowing exactly what their dog is eating.

Benefits of Deer Meat Dog Food Recipe

1. Lean Protein Source:

Venison is a high-quality, lean protein that supports muscle development and overall health without excess fat—ideal for dogs with weight issues or sensitivities to fattier meats.

2. Hypoallergenic Alternative:

Deer meat is considered a novel protein, making it a great option for dogs with food allergies or sensitivities to common proteins like chicken or beef.

3. Rich in Nutrients:

Venison contains essential vitamins and minerals such as B vitamins, zinc, and iron, which support energy production, immune health, and red blood cell function.

4. Digestive Support:

Ingredients like sweet potatoes and Brussels sprouts provide dietary fiber, which aids digestion and helps maintain regular bowel movements.

5. Antioxidant-Rich:

Cranberries are a natural source of antioxidants that help support urinary tract health and fight inflammation.

6. Balanced Fats:

The addition of safflower and fish oils ensures a healthy balance of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, promoting a shiny coat, healthy skin, and joint health.

7. Customizable & Fresh:

Homemade preparation ensures fresh, preservative-free food that can be tailored to your dog’s age, weight, and health needs.

Is Deer Meat Good For Dog Food?

Yes, deer meat (venison) is very good for dog food. It’s a lean, high-protein meat that’s rich in nutrients like iron, zinc, and B vitamins, which are essential for your dog’s energy, immune function, and overall health.

Because it’s a novel protein, venison is also a great choice for dogs with food allergies or sensitivities to more common meats like chicken or beef.

Its low fat content makes it ideal for dogs that need to maintain a healthy weight. Just be sure it’s cooked properly and balanced with other ingredients to meet your dog’s complete nutritional needs.

How To Store Leftovers

To store leftovers of homemade deer meat dog food, let the food cool completely after cooking. Then, portion it into airtight containers to maintain freshness.

You can keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze individual portions in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 2 months.

Thaw frozen servings in the refrigerator overnight before feeding, and never leave homemade dog food at room temperature for more than 2 hours to prevent spoilage.

Conclusion

My dogs truly enjoyed this deer meat dog food recipe, and it was wonderful to see them excited about their meals. The fresh, wholesome ingredients made a noticeable difference in their energy and happiness.

I hope you try making this recipe soon for your dogs and experience the same satisfaction and joy that comes from feeding them something healthy and homemade. It’s a great way to show care and provide nourishing food they will love.