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Homemade Meal Turkey & Pumpkin Stew Recipe for Dogs: A Nutritious and Delicious Meal

Homemade Meal Turkey & Pumpkin Stew  Recipe for Dogs: A Nutritious and Delicious Meal

There’s nothing more satisfying than cooking up a hearty, homemade meal for your furry best friend. If you’re looking for a wholesome, nutrient-packed dish that will make your pup's tail wag with joy, this Turkey & Pumpkin Stew is the perfect recipe!

Not only is this stew packed with protein from lean turkey, but it also includes vitamin-rich pumpkin, zucchini, and carrots to promote a healthy digestive system and a shiny coat. The best part? It’s easy to make, free of artificial ingredients, and made with love!


Why Your Dog Will Love This Turkey & Pumpkin Stew

Homemade dog food is an excellent way to ensure your pup gets the best quality ingredients while avoiding preservatives found in store-bought food. This Turkey & Pumpkin Stew is not only flavorful but also packed with essential nutrients.

Health Benefits of This Recipe:

Lean Protein from Turkey – Supports strong muscles and a healthy immune system.
Pumpkin – A great source of fiber, aiding digestion and promoting gut health.
Zucchini and Carrots – Rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals to keep your pup’s skin and coat healthy.
Low in Fat – Perfect for dogs on a healthy diet.
Hydrating & Easy to Digest – The stew consistency makes it ideal for dogs of all ages, from puppies to seniors.

Now, let’s get into the recipe!


Ingredients for Turkey & Pumpkin Stew

This recipe uses simple, dog-friendly ingredients that are easy to find.

You’ll Need:

  • 1 lb ground turkey (lean, no seasoning)
  • 1 cup pumpkin puree (plain, unsweetened – no added sugars or spices)
  • 1 small zucchini, diced
  • 1 carrot, diced
  • ½ cup green beans, chopped
  • 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth (or water for a lighter version)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking)
  • ½ teaspoon turmeric (optional, for anti-inflammatory benefits)
  • 1 tablespoon chopped parsley (optional, freshens breath & adds antioxidants)

Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Turkey & Pumpkin Stew

Step 1: Cook the Turkey

In a large pan or pot, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground turkey and cook until fully browned, breaking it up into small pieces with a spatula. Be sure to cook the turkey completely—no pink should remain.

Add the Vegetables

Once the turkey is cooked, add in the diced zucchini, carrots, and green beans. Stir them into the turkey and let them cook for about 3-4 minutes until they start to soften.

Pour in the Broth & Pumpkin

Next, add 2 cups of low-sodium chicken broth and 1 cup of pumpkin puree to the pot. Stir everything together well to ensure the pumpkin blends into the broth, creating a smooth consistency.

Simmer the Stew

Reduce the heat to low and let the stew simmer for about 15-20 minutes, allowing the vegetables to become tender and the flavors to meld together.

Add Final Touches

If you’re adding turmeric or parsley, stir them in during the last few minutes of cooking. These ingredients provide additional health benefits and a fresh flavor boost.

Cool & Serve

Once the stew is done cooking, remove it from the heat and allow it to cool to room temperature before serving it to your pup. Never serve hot food to your dog—it can burn their mouth.


How to Store & Serve the Stew

This Turkey & Pumpkin Stew can be made in batches and stored for later use.

Storage Tips:

  • Refrigerator – Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
  • Freezer – Freeze portions in freezer-safe containers or silicone molds for up to 3 months.

Serving Suggestions:

  • Serve warm or at room temperature over your dog’s regular kibble for extra flavor.
  • Use as a standalone meal for dogs on a homemade diet.
  • Add a small amount to frozen molds for a cool summer treat.

Customization & Substitutions

This recipe is super versatile. You can easily swap out ingredients based on your dog’s preferences or dietary needs.

  • Meat Alternatives – Swap turkey for lean ground chicken, beef, or even fish.
  • Veggies – Add sweet potatoes, peas, or spinach for additional nutrients.
  • Carb Addition – Mix in brown rice or quinoa for dogs who need extra energy.
  • Avoid These Ingredients – Do not add onions, garlic, or any seasoning like salt or pepper, as these can be harmful to dogs.

More Tips and Tricks for the Perfect Turkey & Pumpkin Stew for Dogs

Now that you’ve got the basics of this nutritious stew down, let’s dive deeper into serving sizes, ingredient benefits, and special dietary considerations for dogs with different needs.


How Much Stew Should You Feed Your Dog?

Portion sizes depend on your dog’s size, weight, and activity level. Here’s a general guideline:

  • Small dogs (under 20 lbs) – About ½ to 1 cup per meal
  • Medium dogs (20-50 lbs) – Around 1 to 2 cups per meal
  • Large dogs (50+ lbs) – Approximately 2 to 3 cups per meal

This stew can be served as a meal on its own or mixed with kibble for extra variety. If using it as a topper, reduce the amount accordingly so your dog doesn’t consume too many calories.


The Benefits of Each Ingredient in This Recipe

This Turkey & Pumpkin Stew isn’t just tasty—it’s designed to promote gut health, strong muscles, and overall well-being. Here’s how each ingredient plays a role:

1. Turkey (Lean Protein Source)

Turkey is a fantastic low-fat protein option for dogs, packed with amino acids that support muscle growth and energy levels. It’s also easier to digest than beef, making it a great option for dogs with sensitive stomachs.

2. Pumpkin (Aids Digestion & Gut Health)

Pumpkin is loaded with fiber, vitamin A, and antioxidants. It helps regulate digestion, making it a perfect ingredient for dogs that suffer from diarrhea or constipation. Just be sure to use plain, unsweetened pumpkin puree—not pumpkin pie filling, which contains sugar and spices that can be harmful to dogs.

3. Zucchini (Packed with Vitamins & Minerals)

Zucchini is a low-calorie vegetable full of vitamin C, B6, and magnesium, all of which support a healthy immune system. It also has a high water content, helping to keep your dog hydrated.

4. Carrots (Great for Vision & Immune Health)

Carrots are rich in beta-carotene, which promotes good eyesight. They also have a satisfying crunch that helps clean teeth naturally, reducing plaque buildup.

5. Green Beans (Low-Calorie Fiber Source)

Green beans are an excellent source of fiber that helps dogs feel full without extra calories. They’re also packed with iron, calcium, and vitamin K for strong bones.

6. Chicken Broth (Adds Hydration & Flavor)

Low-sodium chicken broth enhances the flavor of the stew while keeping it hydrating and easy to digest. Always opt for a low-sodium version or make your own broth at home to avoid added salt and preservatives.

7. Turmeric (Natural Anti-Inflammatory Booster)

Turmeric is optional, but it’s a great addition for dogs with arthritis, allergies, or inflammation issues. It contains curcumin, a compound known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

8. Parsley (Freshens Breath & Adds Nutrients)

Adding a little fresh parsley helps freshen your dog’s breath while providing vitamin C, A, and iron. Make sure to use flat-leaf parsley, not curly parsley, as the latter can be toxic in large amounts.


Adapting the Recipe for Special Dietary Needs

Every dog is different, and some may require adjustments to this recipe based on their health needs.

For Dogs with Food Allergies

  • Swap turkey for chicken, beef, or fish, depending on what your dog tolerates best.
  • If your dog is allergic to grains, this stew is naturally grain-free, making it a great choice.

For Senior Dogs

  • Older dogs may have trouble chewing, so you can blend the stew into a soft puree or mash the ingredients with a fork.
  • Increase the broth for a soup-like consistency, making it easier to eat.

For Overweight Dogs

  • Reduce the olive oil to cut down on fat.
  • Increase green beans for extra fiber, which helps dogs feel fuller without adding extra calories.

For Puppies

  • Puppies need more protein and healthy fats for growth, so you can add a spoonful of homemade peanut butter for extra nutrients. If you’re looking for a great peanut butter recipe, check out Homemade Peanut Butter for Dogs.

Other Homemade Dog Recipes to Try

If your dog loves this stew, you might want to try other homemade, nutritious recipes that provide variety in their diet. Here are a few delicious options:

You can also find more homemade dog treat recipes on Pinterest.


Final Thoughts: A Nutritious Meal Your Dog Will Love

Making homemade meals for your dog is one of the best ways to control their diet, ensure high-quality ingredients, and show them love through food. This Turkey & Pumpkin Stew is a great balance of protein, fiber, and hydration, making it an excellent option for a complete meal or a meal topper.

If you give this recipe a try, let us know how your dog enjoys it. Cooking for your pet can be a fun and rewarding experience, and with a little creativity, you can whip up meals that are just as healthy as they are delicious.

For more homemade dog food and treat recipes, visit https://mydogrecipe.com/ and start exploring!

Print

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Homemade Meal Turkey & Pumpkin Stew Recipe for Dogs A Nutritious and Delicious Meal

Homemade Meal Turkey & Pumpkin Stew Recipe for Dogs: A Nutritious and Delicious Meal


  • Author: mydogrecipe
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Low Fat

Description

Turkey & Pumpkin Stew for Dogs is a healthy, homemade meal packed with lean protein, fiber, and essential nutrients. Perfect for all dog breeds, this easy recipe supports digestion, muscle health, and a shiny coat.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb ground turkey (lean, no seasoning)
  • 1 cup pumpkin puree (plain, unsweetened)
  • 1 small zucchini, diced
  • 1 carrot, diced
  • ½ cup green beans, chopped
  • 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • ½ tsp turmeric (optional)
  • 1 tbsp chopped parsley (optional)

Instructions

  1. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
  2. Add ground turkey and cook until fully browned, breaking it into small pieces.
  3. Stir in diced zucchini, carrots, and green beans, cooking for 3-4 minutes until slightly softened.
  4. Add low-sodium chicken broth and pumpkin puree, stirring well to combine.
  5. Reduce heat to low and let the stew simmer for 15-20 minutes until vegetables are tender.
  6. Stir in turmeric and parsley during the last few minutes of cooking (if using).
  7. Remove from heat and allow to cool to room temperature before serving.

Notes

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
  • Freeze portions for up to 3 months for easy meal prep.
  • Serve warm or at room temperature over kibble or as a standalone meal.
  • Do not add onions, garlic, salt, or any seasoning, as these can be harmful to dogs.
  • For senior dogs or puppies, mash the stew or blend for a softer texture.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Dog Food
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Homemade Dog Food

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup
  • Calories: 120
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 40mg
  • Fat: 4g
  • Saturated Fat: 1g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 3g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 8g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 14g
  • Cholesterol: 35mg

Keywords: Turkey & Pumpkin Stew for Dogs, homemade dog food, healthy dog meal, dog-friendly stew, pumpkin recipe for dogs, easy dog food recipe

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