Homemade Dog Gravy Recipe

If you have a furry friend whose taste buds deserve a little love, this Homemade Dog Gravy is just what you need. It’s a delicious, wholesome, and nutritious sauce made from simple ingredients that enhance your dog’s meal, making it more flavorful and exciting. Packed with tender ground chicken, vibrant veggies, and a silky chicken stock base thickened to perfection, this gravy is both gentle on your pup’s tummy and a delightful treat to pour over their regular kibble or fresh food. Trust me, once you try making this at home, your dog’s mealtime will never be the same!

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this Homemade Dog Gravy lies in its straightforward but carefully chosen ingredients. Each item plays a vital role in building texture, nurturing nutrition, and creating that savory flavor your dog will eagerly lap up.

• Coconut Oil: Adds a healthy fat that’s great for your dog’s coat and digestion while preventing sticking in the pan.
• Ground Chicken: A lean protein source that cooks quickly and flavors the gravy beautifully.
• Chopped Carrots: Gives a subtle sweetness and adds gentle crunch if you prefer texture.
• Frozen Green Peas: Offers a pop of color and a fiber boost to aid digestion.
• Chicken Stock (without onions, garlic, or salt): The savory base that infuses moisture and deep flavor without any harmful ingredients.
• Cornstarch or Arrowroot Powder: Used to thicken the gravy smoothly, making it luscious and perfect to pour.
• Cold Water: Helps create the slurry with your starch for even thickening.

How to Make Homemade Dog Gravy

Step 1: Melt the Coconut Oil

Start by warming the coconut oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. This step is crucial because it creates the perfect non-stick surface and brings out the mild coconut aroma that your dog will find irresistible.

Step 2: Cook the Ground Chicken

Add the ground chicken to the warmed skillet. Stirring constantly, break up the meat as it browns and releases its rich flavor. Cooking the chicken thoroughly ensures it’s safe and tender in the final gravy.

Step 3: Add Stock and Veggies

Pour in the chicken stock, then add your chopped carrots and frozen green peas. Cover the skillet and lower the heat to a gentle simmer, letting those vegetables soften and the flavors meld beautifully for about 10 minutes.

Step 4: Set Aside the Chunky Bits

If you love a bit of texture in the gravy, scoop out about a cup of the cooked meat and vegetables and keep it aside. This helps create a delightful chunkiness that many dogs seem to adore.

Step 5: Prepare the Thickening Slurry

In a small bowl, combine your cornstarch or arrowroot powder with cold water, mixing until smooth. This slurry is what will transform your broth into a thick, luscious gravy.

Step 6: Thicken the Gravy

Slowly drizzle the slurry into the simmering skillet, constantly stirring as you go. This slow introduction prevents lumps from forming and ensures a smooth, velvety consistency.

Step 7: Cool the Gravy

Remove the skillet from heat and allow the gravy to cool to room temperature. This pause is necessary before blending, preserving the fresh flavors and avoiding any heat damage to your blender.

Step 8: Blend to Perfection

Transfer the mixture into a food processor or blender and pulse until completely smooth. This step creates a silky texture that coats your dog’s food wonderfully.

Step 9: Reincorporate Chunky Meat and Veggies

Return the reserved meat and vegetables to the blended gravy, giving the sauce a bit of body and keeping it interesting. This combo gives your dog an irresistible mouthfeel without sacrificing nutritious bites.

Step 10: Serve and Enjoy!

Pour the Homemade Dog Gravy generously over your pup’s usual meal. Watch their tail wag as this tasty addition turns every mouthful into a mealtime celebration.

How to Serve Homemade Dog Gravy

Garnishes

While dogs don’t need fancy garnishes, a sprinkle of finely chopped fresh parsley or a couple of unsalted, dehydrated sweet potato chips can make the presentation extra special and add variety to their diet.

Side Dishes

This gravy pairs wonderfully with your dog’s standard kibble or fresh homemade meals. It also complements soft foods like cooked rice, mashed sweet potato, or steamed pumpkin for a wholesome, complete meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Pour warm gravy over frozen treat molds to create savory ice cubes for hot days or mix it into homemade meatballs for an added juiciness that dogs find downright irresistible. You can even drizzle it over training treats to amp up excitement during practice sessions!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover Homemade Dog Gravy in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should stay fresh and safe for your pup for up to 3 days. Always give it a sniff and quick stir before serving to make sure it’s still perfect.

Freezing

If you want to prep in bulk, freeze the gravy in portion-sized containers or ice cube trays. This way, you can thaw just what you need without waste. Frozen gravy can last up to 3 months without losing its flavor or texture.

Reheating

Gently warm the gravy on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally. Avoid boiling to preserve nutrients and texture. Always check the temperature before serving to make sure it’s just right for your dog’s sensitive mouth.

FAQs

Can I use other meats instead of ground chicken?

Absolutely! Ground turkey, beef, or even lamb can be swapped in, as long as they are cooked thoroughly and free of seasoning harmful to dogs. Each protein will tweak the flavor profile slightly, but all are delicious.

Is cornstarch or arrowroot powder better for thickening?

Both work well, but arrowroot powder is a great option if you’re looking for a gluten-free and grain-free thickener. It also creates a slightly clearer sauce with a nice silky finish, which some pets may prefer.

My dog has food allergies; can I still make this gravy?

Yes, but make sure to substitute any ingredients your dog is sensitive to. For example, swap chicken for a safe protein, or eliminate peas if legumes don’t agree with your pup. Always consult with your vet if you’re uncertain.

Can I add salt or other seasonings to the gravy?

It’s best to avoid added salt, garlic, onions, or spices, as many can be toxic to dogs. The natural flavors of the ingredients are enough to entice your dog and keep mealtime healthy.

How much gravy should I serve my dog?

A couple of tablespoons over their regular meal is typically plenty, but adjust based on your dog’s size and preference. Remember, this is a supplement to their meal, not a replacement for balanced nutrition.

Final Thoughts

Whipping up a batch of this Homemade Dog Gravy is one of the simplest ways to show your furry friend some extra love. With its wholesome ingredients and rich flavor, it’s a little culinary hug that brightens up any dog’s day. So, go ahead and pour some of this tasty goodness over your pup’s food — they’ll thank you with happy licks and wagging tails!

Print