Things You Can Cook for a Dog With Beef

Aside from throwing a steak on the barbecue -- which your dog would love -- making homemade dog food with beef is not much different from cooking meals for yourself. Beef is a good source of protein and, when combined with various vegetables and other ingredients, can create tasty meals or treats for your pooch.

Meatloaf is a favorite for many people, and your dog would be more than happy to share with you. Bear in mind, the added spices in some meatloaf dishes may not be the best option for him. However, a doggie meatloaf is simple to make and will allow you to dine together. A basic meatloaf contains ground beef, an egg and bread crumbs. Instead of breadcrumbs, substitute rolled oats and follow your favorite recipe. Just leave the seasonings out.

The same idea goes along with beef stew. Take out the seasonings and mix the beef with vegetables and rice for a balanced meal. In a slow cooker, combine 2 cups of water, 1 cup of rice and 1 pound of beef cut into bite-sized pieces. Add some chopped carrots, green beans or sweet potatoes and cook on low for 8 hours. This is a meal you can cook and share with your dog. Feel free to add a little salt and pepper to your serving, but leave it out of his.

Cheeseburger treats create a doggie burger that tastes like your hamburger but offers your dog a crunchy treat as well as a source of protein. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Brown 1 pound of ground beef and drain the fat. In a large bowl, mix 2 cups of whole-wheat flour, ground beef and 1 cup of shredded cheese. Add an egg, 6 ounces of tomato paste and 3/4 cup water. Mix until everything is blended. Make small, palm-sized 1/4-inch patties out of the mixture and place on a baking sheet covered with parchment paper. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes. Remove from the oven and transfer to a wire cooling rack.

Before changing your dog’s food, consult a veterinarian or canine nutritionist. If this is going to be your dog’s primary diet, it is essential to make sure you're serving him a balanced diet that includes all the nutrients he needs. Many of your favorite beef recipes will work for dogs with just a few changes. Spices like salt and pepper are not necessary. Too much salt is not good for your dog. Do not use garlic and onions, which can be toxic to dogs. If your dog suffers from wheat allergies, substitute rolled oats or rice flour in recipes that call for flour.