Tuna & Spinach Stew Recipe for Dogs: A Nutritious and Delicious Meal

There’s nothing more rewarding than preparing a homemade meal for your beloved pup, knowing that every ingredient is chosen with care. If you’re looking for a nutritious, easy-to-make, and tail-waggingly delicious meal, this Tuna & Spinach Stew for Dogs is perfect!

Packed with lean protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and essential vitamins, this dish is gentle on digestion while supporting your dog’s skin, coat, and overall health. Whether your dog has dietary sensitivities or you simply want to upgrade their meals with wholesome, homemade goodness, this recipe is a fantastic choice.

So, let’s get cooking and treat your furry friend to something special!

Why This Tuna & Spinach Stew is Perfect for Dogs

Homemade dog food has a ton of benefits, from better ingredient control to avoiding artificial preservatives. Here’s why this recipe is particularly great:

High-quality protein – Tuna is an excellent lean protein source, helping to build and maintain muscle.
Rich in omega-3s – Supports a shiny coat, healthy skin, and joint health.
Nutrient-packed vegetables – Spinach and carrots provide essential vitamins like vitamin A, K, and iron.
Easily digestible – Brown rice offers fiber to support smooth digestion.
Simple and wholesome – No fillers, artificial additives, or preservatives—just real food for your pup.

Key Ingredients & Their Benefits

Before we start cooking, let’s take a closer look at the ingredients and why they’re fantastic for your dog’s diet:

1. Tuna (Canned in Water, Low Sodium)

Why It’s Great:

Provides lean protein to help maintain a healthy weight.
Contains omega-3 fatty acids to support heart, brain, and joint health.
Aids in reducing inflammation in dogs with arthritis or skin issues.

How to Choose:

Opt for tuna in water, not oil, as oil can be too rich for dogs.
Choose low-sodium or no-salt-added options to avoid excess salt intake.

2. Brown Rice

Why It’s Great:

A healthy, whole grain carbohydrate that provides long-lasting energy.
Aids in digestion and gut health due to its fiber content.
Gluten-free and generally well-tolerated by most dogs.

Alternatives:

If your pup has grain sensitivities, swap brown rice for quinoa or sweet potatoes.

3. Carrots

Why They’re Great:

Rich in vitamin A to support eye health and immune function.
Crunchy texture is great for dental health and can help reduce plaque buildup.
Naturally low in calories, making them a great addition to any diet.

How to Prepare:

Chop them into small, bite-sized pieces for easier digestion.
You can steam them slightly if your dog prefers softer textures.

4. Spinach

Why It’s Great:

Packed with iron, fiber, and antioxidants, which support overall health.
A great source of vitamin K, essential for strong bones.
Supports heart health and immune function.

Things to Keep in Mind:

While spinach is healthy, it contains oxalates, which in large amounts could impact kidney function.
This recipe uses a moderate amount, making it safe and beneficial for most dogs.

5. Low-Sodium Chicken or Vegetable Broth

Why It’s Great:

Adds flavor without the need for extra salt or seasonings.
Provides hydration, especially if your dog isn’t a big water drinker.
Helps make the meal more appealing, especially for picky eaters.

Homemade Option:

You can make homemade dog-friendly broth by simmering chicken bones with no onions, garlic, or salt for added nutrients.

6. Olive Oil

Why It’s Great:

Provides healthy fats for skin and coat health.
Contains antioxidants that help support overall well-being.
Helps boost energy levels, especially in active dogs.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Now that we know the benefits of each ingredient, let’s start making this delicious and healthy Tuna & Spinach Stew!

Ingredients You’ll Need:

2 cans of tuna in water (low sodium, no added oil)
1 cup cooked brown rice
½ cup chopped carrots
1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
2 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
1 tablespoon olive oil

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Cook brown rice according to package instructions if you haven’t already.
Chop carrots into small, bite-sized pieces.
Rinse and roughly chop fresh spinach into smaller pieces.

Step 2: Sauté the Carrots

Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
Add the chopped carrots and sauté for 3-5 minutes until slightly softened.

Step 3: Add Tuna & Broth

Open the cans of tuna, drain excess water, and add the tuna to the pot.
Stir gently to break up the tuna into smaller pieces.
Pour in 2 cups of low-sodium broth, bringing everything to a light simmer.

Step 4: Simmer & Add Spinach

Let the mixture simmer on low heat for 5-7 minutes to blend flavors.
Add in the chopped spinach and stir well.
Cook for 1-2 more minutes until the spinach wilts.

Step 5: Mix in the Brown Rice

Add cooked brown rice and stir to combine all ingredients.
Let everything heat through for another 2-3 minutes, then remove from heat.

Serving & Storage Tips

Serving Size:

Let the stew cool before serving.
Serve smaller portions for tiny dogs and larger portions for bigger breeds.

Storage:

Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freeze portions in freezer-safe bags for up to 1 month.

Reheating:

Warm up in the microwave or on the stove, adding a little water if needed to bring back moisture.

How to Customize Tuna & Spinach Stew for Your Dog

While this recipe is already nutritious and well-balanced, you can easily adjust it to fit your dog’s dietary needs, taste preferences, or health conditions. Here are a few ways to modify it:

1. Swap Out the Carbohydrates

Some dogs have grain sensitivities or require alternative carb sources. If your pup falls into this category, try these substitutions:

Sweet potatoes – A great alternative to brown rice, packed with fiber and beta-carotene.
Quinoa – A gluten-free, high-protein grain that offers a light texture.
Pumpkin puree – Ideal for dogs with sensitive stomachs; also helps with digestion.

2. Boost the Protein

If you want to add more protein to your dog’s meal, try these options:

Shredded cooked chicken – Lean and easy to digest.
Scrambled eggs – A great source of additional protein and healthy fats.
Ground turkey or beef – Cooked without seasoning, this adds variety to your dog’s diet.

3. Add Extra Vegetables for More Nutrients

Vegetables provide fiber, vitamins, and minerals that support overall health. Here are a few dog-safe veggies to mix into this stew:

Green beans – Low in calories, high in fiber.
Zucchini – A hydrating and gentle veggie for digestion.
Peas – A good source of plant protein and fiber.

Make sure to chop vegetables into small, bite-sized pieces and cook them until soft to avoid choking hazards.

How Much Should You Feed Your Dog?

The right portion size depends on your dog’s weight, activity level, and overall health. Below is a general feeding guideline for this stew:

Dog's Weight	Serving Size (Per Meal)
Under 10 lbs	¼ - ½ cup
10 - 25 lbs	½ - 1 cup
25 - 50 lbs	1 - 2 cups
50 - 75 lbs	2 - 3 cups
75+ lbs	3+ cups

These are general recommendations, so be sure to monitor your dog’s weight and adjust portions as needed.

Can This Recipe Be Used as a Complete Meal?

This Tuna & Spinach Stew is nutritious, but it should be part of a balanced diet rather than the sole source of nutrition. Dogs require a variety of proteins, healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals to stay healthy. Here’s how you can balance this meal properly:

Include a variety of proteins – Rotate between tuna, chicken, beef, or eggs.
Incorporate calcium sources – If your dog isn’t getting enough calcium, consider adding ground eggshells or a vet-approved calcium supplement.
Add omega-3 fatty acids – Tuna provides some, but you can boost healthy fats with a little fish oil.

If you plan to transition your dog to homemade food completely, consult a veterinarian to ensure they’re getting all necessary nutrients.

Storage and Meal Prep Tips

Homemade dog food is best when prepared fresh, but meal prepping in advance can save time. Here’s how to store and preserve this stew:

Short-Term Storage (Refrigeration)

Store in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheat in the microwave or stovetop before serving, adding a little water or broth if needed.

Long-Term Storage (Freezing)

Freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 1 month.
Label with dates so you know when to use them.
Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Common Questions About Tuna & Spinach Stew for Dogs

1. Can I Use Fresh Tuna Instead of Canned?

Yes! Fresh tuna is a great option, but it should be fully cooked before serving. Avoid using raw fish, as it can carry bacteria and parasites that might be harmful to dogs.

2. Is Spinach Safe for Dogs?

Yes, but in moderation. Spinach contains oxalates, which in very large amounts could contribute to kidney issues. However, in small portions, it provides iron, fiber, and antioxidants, making it a great addition to their diet.

3. Can I Use Chicken Instead of Tuna?

Absolutely! If your dog doesn’t like fish or has an allergy, substitute shredded cooked chicken for an equally nutritious alternative.

4. Can Puppies Eat This Stew?

Yes, but with modifications. Puppies have higher protein and calorie needs, so you may want to:

Add more protein (chicken, turkey, or eggs).
Ensure the veggies are soft and finely chopped to prevent choking.
Consult your vet to make sure the meal supports your puppy’s growth and development.

More Homemade Dog Recipes to Try

Looking for more healthy dog-friendly recipes? Try these next:

Blueberry Pumpkin and Oatmeal Chews for Dogs – A great soft treat for digestion and joint health.
Homemade Peanut Butter for Dogs – A simple and safe peanut butter recipe.
Pumpkin Pupsicles for Dogs – A cooling treat perfect for summer!

For even more inspiration, follow our Pinterest page for delicious homemade dog food ideas!

Final Thoughts

Making homemade meals for your dog is one of the best ways to ensure they’re eating nutritious, high-quality ingredients. This Tuna & Spinach Stew is a great addition to their diet, offering lean protein, healthy fats, and fiber for a balanced and satisfying meal.

Have you tried this recipe? Let us know how your pup liked it! We'd love to hear your experiences and see your homemade dog food creations.

Happy cooking, and give your pup some extra belly rubs from us